by Carole Duff | Jun 26, 2023 | Faith, Nature, Writing and Reading |
I aspire to be a good gardener, growing herbs, vegetables, trees, shrubs, and flowers—but often fall short. Plants die or out-compete others, are overtaken by weeds, and suffer from heat, cold, lack of rain or too much. Although the forces of nature are out of our...
by Carole Duff | Jun 19, 2023 | Faith, Nature, Writing and Reading |
We’ve had a lot of sunshine for the past several weeks here at Vanaprastha. Though the days have been pleasant, we pray for rain. Metaphorically speaking, it might seem strange to wish for something that can cause gloom or pour down destruction. But without the grace...
by Carole Duff | Jun 5, 2023 | Faith, Nature, Writing and Reading |
A quick glance at the pictures our landscaper sent, and I knew I’d be moving wood for at least a month. One log per day. Chores are not quick The logs were from a tree that went down over the trail up the mountain behind our house and from trees that were also in...
by Carole Duff | Apr 17, 2023 | Faith, Writing and Reading |
It’s not difficult to realize—to become fully aware of the fact—that the Lord is causing something desired or anticipated to happen. Last week’s manifestations have spread to cranberry viburnum, fleabane, and phlox. Seeing trees and flowers realize their true selves...
by Carole Duff | Mar 20, 2023 | Faith, Writing and Reading |
A story has to have a central narrative and a moral or a point. A plant’s life story Despite this morning’s chill, one brave little Virginia Bluebell lifted its head, craving the warmth of the sun. Spring has arrived early here at Vanaprastha. Daffodils, vinca, and...
by Carole Duff | Jan 9, 2023 | Faith, Writing and Reading |
Yesterday at church, we celebrated Epiphany, a commemoration of the coming of the Magi as the first manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles. The Magi were the “three kings” who came from the east, following the star and bringing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh....
