A Time for Stillness...

Death is a part of life, a transition that inevitably affects every living thing. Nature takes it in stride as if it were a change of season. But then, isn't it? What affects us most when a loved one passes is not so much the change of season or their death but the ultimate loss. Not being able to see them, talk to them, embrace them seems like a harsh ending of sorts, almost a punishment. On this earth, we live so much in the physical realm, in the senses. These senses make us feel alive and connected. When we are unable to use those senses to connect to another, it feels like some kind of abandonment. Memories are all that is left. Sometimes, in my dreams, I take hold of a visiting angel's wing and travel to that place far away in the misty ether where loved ones go in their change of season. Being in their presence, seeing their smiles, is enough to calm my stirring heart, if only for a night.

Mourning a Loss...

© copyright 2013 Michelle A. Potter

Quest for Beauty - GBBD, July 2013

Gladiolus - Lucifer

It seems the garden is on a quest for beauty each summer. The blooms grow bigger, taller, more colorful on that journey to unfold and splash into splendor. With all of the rain we have been having, most of the blooms are thriving and the quest has been supported by plenty of moisture.

Gladioli stretch out and up, reaching for the blue of the sky. Tall and lanky, they burst forth with petals galore.

My Garden Notebook - July 2013

The mild spring that blessed us with cool temperatures has eased into the first days of summer. Although we have had some hot days, many of the days are cooler than normal.  At this time of year, I am usually watering often and running out of water in the rain barrels. In June we had a lot of rain. I don't see any major fungal issues yet on the plants. They seem to thrive in this weather. Still, I wonder what summer will bring. With the spring bestowing a blessing of tolerable weather, it will be interesting indeed to see what kind of summer we have.

Composting Part II: Advantages and Disadvantages of Compost Bins and Piles

Image Courtesy of nycompost.org

Various types of compost bins are now available for purchase. Some are completely enclosed, some are open at the top. Some are made of wood, some are made of plastic. Some are tall, some are wide. All of these are viable compost makers. Compost will happen with or without a fancy contraption. Compost will happen in a pile on the ground.

Spring into Summer

S   P   R   I   N   G

Spring arrived this year like a lamb--emerging slowly with grace and beauty.

My Garden Notebook - June 2013

Spring has continued on its slow emerging path throughout May with long bloom periods and a consecutive flow of color and beauty. I have enjoyed this spring more than many because it has been cooler, and with that cool weather I have been able to savor so many elements of the garden as the gradual evolution unfolds. When I am outside working in the garden, there is a calm and consistent steadiness to the garden that never makes me feel rushed or as if I am behind. It has been a joy this spring to be a part of that slow and steady flow.

Composting - Part I, All About Compost

Compost Bin

For many gardeners, composting is just another part of gardening--a way to continue the cycle of life in the garden. I have been composting for over 25 years, and I enjoy having a way to reuse the waste from the garden and the kitchen. It has become a part of my gardening and cooking rituals. Whatever can decompose naturally in the compost pile goes in the compost pile. And within a few months, I have a natural and nutrient-rich soil amendment for my plants. I love composting so much that when the opportunity arose for me to teach composting in my community, I easily accepted the volunteer position. Most people are excited and anxious to begin composting once they learn how easy it is to do. Rarely do I encounter someone who finds the entire process a waste of time.