Monthly Archives: February 2016

Our first spring crocuses in our lawn, always a delight but somehow even more beautiful and warming than ever this year.  I recall when Anna Ruth and I climbed the Alps in Switzerland.  We were enthused by the beauty and … Continue reading →

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.  Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you,” declares the … Continue reading →

I noticed that I had no trains left, must have given them all away, so the only option is to make a couple new ones.  So, for an hour or so a day I slip into my shop and have … Continue reading →

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.  Isaiah 40:11 Who can fathom the Spirit of the Lord, or instruct the Lord as his … Continue reading →

Why do you complain, Jacob?  Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God”? Do you not know?  Have you not heard?  The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the … Continue reading →

Mallards are now sporting fresh wing speculums, flashing dark blue outlined in white. They are paired up and looking for nesting sites. Our wee ponds deserve a visit!  I think mallards, as common as they are, are just plain beautiful. … Continue reading →

“Give us no more visions of what is right!  Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions.  Leave this way, get off this path, and stop confronting us with the Holy One of Israel!” Therefore this is what the Holy One of Israel says: “In … Continue reading →

One of the earliest signs of spring at our place, lovely yellow aconites that can even push the snow away if need be.  I took this picture yesterday, February 20, a most welcome sign of warmer days ahead.  The seasonal … Continue reading →

A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.  The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—and … Continue reading →