Tranquility and Transitions

A change in seasons evolve. Because this year's prolonged spring brought summer slowly, the transition from spring green to summer dry has seemed sudden. But the reality of it all is --- that the season of green is diminished and things are starting to dry out. The mountain grasses are golden and fire season is at it's peak. Flowers are starting to go to seed and powdery dust accompanies our woodland walks. At least the dust makes it interesting when it comes to tracking wild animals, but coming across a large bear or cougar print in the trail becomes unnerving at times! Upon our arrival at cabin door this week-end, a note was found, thanking us for the hospitality our cabin provided for a girl lost in the woods overnight. Although she couldn't get in, there was clean water in a barrel and shelter in the woodshed. Fortunately she was found the next morning by a search team who had spent the night looking for her. I know her parents were most thankful for her recovery. After a week-end of relaxation and some spring (summer) cleaning, we headed home. As we passed by Robin's Lavender Farm, we stopped so I could take some pictures --- and to view the change of seasons in a cultivated garden as contrasted to the mountain wildness. The lavender left on the plants is nearly dry, and daisies, love-in-a-mist, and decorative thistles are going to seed. Bees still hover around, gathering sweet nectar for their hives from uncut lavender plants. They ignored me as I walked among the lavender rows. The setting sun cast a mellow glow over Robin's beautiful garden. Serenity and calm prevailed. As the day ended, I took time to savor the layers created by Robin's gardening style. I tried to capture it in this picture, but a photo doesn't do it justice. Cut lavender, dried daisies, tall lavender stalks, a bushy shrub of pink roses, tall trees behind, and a dried field in the background all worked together to create a beautiful and tranquil scene.

God is good. . .and I am thankful for the safety and recovery of a brave little girl! Enjoy a blessed week, friends!