As I was heading out to pick raspberries this afternoon, I discovered mushrooms growing in the yard. I took a tour, and found three different kinds! So I snapped a few pictures, and decided to do a little research. Wow, did I learn a few interesting things…where was I in Biology class?? Continue reading Mushrooms or Toadstools?
The wild black raspberries growing in our backyard don’t need any help from us. They’re quite independent, spreading out a bit more and producing a slightly larger crop every year. This year we may get enough to try a jam recipe!
The thing is, the berries aren’t all ready for picking at the same time. Some are black and juicy, some smaller and bright red, and some are smaller still, mostly green with barely a hint of red showing. Continue reading Crop Development
Meet the beautiful barberry bush, popular with landscapers for its striking reddish leaves and year-round hardiness. This bush grows near a corner of our house, but I admit that it has not been near and dear to my heart! Continue reading Barbs or Blossoms?
Phlox is my favorite spring flower! Its bright happy colors spread to cover the area surrounding it, sometimes even draping over rock walls. You can barely even see the green leaves under all of those flowers packed in together! It reminds me of the verse that says, “Love covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Peter 4:8). Continue reading You’re My Favorite!
What do you see? Come a little closer!
Hmmm…more than moss and bricks….come a little closer!
Do you see the beauty now? The mossy brick walkway creates a charming view, but there’s much more to be discovered the closer you get. The details are striking!
As I sit in the hospital waiting for news from the surgeon operating on my son, I am reminded of the verse that says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). Coming closer to God opens my eyes to more of who He is, and calms my heart to trust him with my circumstances. I am so thankful for His calming presence right now!
Are you facing a daunting situation? It is not insurmountable for God, nor has it taken Him by surprise. He is fully capable of carrying you through it. He has promised, “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
You are never alone! Come a little closer….
Lauri Hawley 