Nature....down the driveway and in the house.

This morning we were visited by a new buck! It is hunting season and these boys know how to go deep into the woods to protect themselves. As I peered through my kitchen window, I could tell this was a buck, because of his keen alertness to his surroundings. He took his time to get comfortable, and I was able to get a few photos before he jaunted off into the woods. The pictures are a little blurry but his rack is not mistakable.

It's a wonderful experience to see these majestic animals and even better when there is a buck in the mix. Wow! What a nice way to start the day!

On another subject, I bring you my latest nature garden! It consists of moss, mushroom, leaves, grass and sticks from the woods. These gardens are simple to construct and last quite a while. All you need is a wooded area and some imagination. There is no dirt but water is important to keep the plant life hydrated.

1. Choose a glass plate or shallow bowl. I got mine at Goodwill for .99 cents.

2. Take a walk and gather moss, grass, small plants, sticks, mushrooms, leaves etc.

3. Put a large clump of moss on the plate and tuck in the other nature treasures. Be sure to make the plants snug, to insure their continued growth. Pour a small amount of water over the creation, and continue to do that each day. I put my "nature gardens" outside at night to extend their life. The mushrooms last several days and can be replaced easily. Go for another walk.....

In the driveway a few marigold seeds fell onto the gravel and sprouted. I gently pulled one free and nestled it into the garden below (the upper right side).

There is joy in using the gifts that are hidden, in plain view, right at our feet!

The List

I like the idea of thinking about the year ahead and how things can happen if planned for. I am also open to the unexpected happenings..things I don't plan for! How about you?

• Continue to eat healthier, exercise regularly, take my vitamins and keep going physically.  (Doing all these things and keeping a record).

• Paint in watercolor a series of farm animals, frame and admit them in an art show. (One painting is done. It is of a cow).
• Finish up a study of Isaiah by attending BSF International each Tuesday. 
• Study the Orthodox Faith and understand it as it has been from the ages to ages. (Reading several books that are enlightening, listening to Ancient Faith Radio..music and lecture series).
• De clutter everything in my home and either throw it out, pass it on or keep it in order.  (Read the information about Project 333 (as mentioned over at Willows)and I have begun to be ruthless in the clothes closet, book shelves and nicknack areas).
• Be a helper where needed and wanted..ie..family,babies, children and aging. (Ahhh..this one is sweet! We have a new grandson, 6 months old, granddaughter almost 5 years old, 3 year old grandniece, 8 year old grandnephew and twin grandchildren due in July)!  Yes!! Our dear daughter is going to have twins!!
• Offer art workshops in the garden cottage studio on the farm. (One class is scheduled for February 5th, taught by Heather Barton, and it will cover the art of folding and embellishing a fine quality greeting card).

• Develop a line of nature inspired floral designs, using found organic objects, branches and plants.

• Live simply and peacefully!