Grieving Gardener

Thinking of those we love is a daily occurrence around Winterpast. With a large group of friends and family, it seems that someone is always in need of kindness and prayer. Covid over here, death of a pet over there. Each day presents its own amount of celebration and sadness.

To our delight, people in our church also spend time thinking of members with kindness and prayer. We were the lucky recipients of the beautiful card above. Alone in 2020, life has changed so much for me. No longer alone, we meet family and friends all over town. We are truly blessed.

Into our seventh month of married life, things have been going exceedingly well!! The garden continues to be a brutal task master. Saturday, HHH built two more garden boxes. Once complete, it was necessary to buy 22 bags of soil to fill them. We ended up with a little extra, but then, gardeners with hundreds of seedlings can always new soil.

Any visit to the garden center presents at least one plant you can’t live without. For HHH and I, it’s worse than going to the local animal shelter. Saturday, a lovely Lilac jumped on our cart with the soil. And so, the gardens of Winterpast become more lovely every day. So obsessed with gardening are we that HHH dreamed that we lost the lilac in some unknown way. This morning, it awaits its spot next to the little garden table by the fence.

My new weed whip arrived. There’s something special about owning the right tools for the job. Back in the 1900’s, I remember having many discussions about the inefficiencies of having “lady” tools on a working ranch. In reality, the only inefficiency is that this lady won’t ever use a heavy and burdensome weed whip. Not happening.

I had the perfect 10″ whip for the longest time. A Black and Decker, it was sleek and lightweight. Growing up, my mother said about a German neighbor, “The weeds are afraid to grow in her yard.” In reality, her German husband kept the yard sprayed. Back then, farm chemicals worked. These days, a weed whip is a necessity.

Last winter, I hired a company to sterilize the parts of the front yard that needed sterilization. I was happy to write a hefty check when the job was complete. During snowy weather, weeds don’t grow. I patiently waited for spring to enjoy my weed-free yard. Today, I have more weeds than ever before. Facing a front yard full of weeds, a beautiful “Thinking of You” card isn’t what comes to mind. Just sayin’.

Saturday, I inserted a battery from my dead whip and went for a spin. Sharp. Strong. Light. Efficient. I couldn’t be happier with my new tool. Weeds beware. Be afraid to grow in MY yard. In case you’re looking for one, try the Black and Decker 10″ version.

In other news, Miss Firecracker hit a rough patch this weekend. With quite a health scare, she is back at home, healing. It’s times like these when healing prayers are appreciated and needed.

Miss Firecracker and I met in 2017 and were besties at the first “Hello”. She fits her name in spunk and wittiness. She was the friend that convinced me this little town was a perfect fit as it just so happened she lived here, too. She and her husband shared a darling house for over a decade, even witnessing the great flood of 2008.

Shortly after I moved here as a new widow, she lost her beloved husband. Here we were, two grieving widows. For months, we shared dinners and visits. Our first widowed Thanksgiving was at my dining room table. She made life so much better for me just being herself. And then, she found it necessary to move back across the Sierra Nevada’s to be closer to her family.

What a loss and hole to be filled. Problem is, no one can quite fill it like she did. One amazing woman, the world needs her to heal.

Thinking of You, Miss Firecracker. Praying for a full and quick recovery. Your Nevadan bestie needs a visit. Hold on, we’re coming soon. Until then, feel better. Send you bushels of love and prayers.

The beautiful card pictured above arrived last week addressed to HHH and me. Not from one particular person, it was from our church family. Such a simple and sweet thing to send, just a beautiful card letting us know they love us, and hope things are going well. All honeymooners should be so lucky. (In case you haven’t got the idea yet, married life is amazing.)

Whatever you do today, don’t just take time to think of family and friends. Reach out to them. If you have an elderly friend that isn’t feeling the best, go visit them. Life is short. Make the most of the prayers and good thoughts you have to share.

More tomorrow.

Today we celebrate two groups of amazing inhabitants of our beautiful world. The birds and the trees. Usually these silly National Days of Praise celebrate useless things like Gummi Bears (4/27) or Lima Beans (4/20). But National Arbor Day and National Audubon Day are worthwhile of a special day all their own . Without trees and birds, the world would be a different place.

These days, no matter the time of day, Winterpast is full of birds. From red-breasted robins to yellow-breasted finches, the airspace around our gardens is busy. Although none are nesting at this time, they will be soon. I’ve noticed the little finches flitting back and forth through the blossoming cherry trees while searching for the right place to build their nests.

My first widowed spring, a Mourning Dove made her nest on the top rung of a ladder I hadn’t put away. For weeks, she tended to her eggs and then new life. On those cold spring mornings, I was delighted to have a front row seat to her activities.

Knowing the robins will harvest part of the worms I release into the soil, I always buy enough to share with them.

The birds should look forward to a treat this year with HHH in the house. In addition to gardening, he loves providing bird seed and syrup for our flying friends. Buying only the finest seed, birds of all kinds visit Winterpast for food and rest. Unlike the Central Coast of California, no jail time is associated with feeding our high desert birds.

John James Audubon (April 26, 1785 – January 27, 1851) was a French-American ornithologist, naturalist, and painter noted for his extensive studies of American birds (www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day-april 26). Take some time to sit outside for a little while today and see how many birds you can identify and name.

Audubon needs to share this national day of recognition with the trees. The last Friday of April each year, we celebrate Arbor Day.

The 35 trees here at Winterpast provide so much pleasure to HHH and me. In the spring, their swelling buds let us know the cold weather won’t last forever. Their blossoms provide pollen for bees and other pollinators. In the summer, their strong branches provide shade during the hot desert sunshine. Their branches are home to young birds, keeping them safe from ground dwelling predators like Oliver. In the fall, after providing fruit to eat, their leaves compost to replenish the soil. When winter comes, their barren branches are lovely when covered with inches of snow.

Trees also help to keep topsoil from erosion, exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen, and provide lumber for furniture, lumber, and supplies. There’re planted to improve the enjoyment of outdoor living space. Green spaces improve the overall quality of life.

Whatever you do today, consider whether you might have space for a new tree or a birdhouse and feeder. One way or another, this gardener is going to do her best to get you headed to the yard. There’s so much going out right outside your door. Enjoy every bit of it this weekend.

I’ll be back on Monday.

Spring days are flying by too quickly. It seems like it was just last fall when visiting Yellowstone, amazed at Old Faithful and the grizzlies. With winter in the rear view mirror, we’re awaiting our first zucchini and summer. Never did I really believe our little seeds would grow into the plants they have. Our vegetable producing plants are more beautiful than the hot house versions sold at Lowes.

As days have turned into weeks and months of married life, there is one lesson that HHH and I are learning. We need to enjoy Winterpast equally as much as we work in her gardens. It seems each day the list of her demands grow longer. Broken drip lines need repairing. The greenhouse needs covering. The iris’s need moving. The list goes on and on.

The greenhouse, although not yet used as a humid retreat from hot summer days, is now completely covered in a green, sun blocking shade cloth. From my research, 70% blockage is the magical number. Well covered, there is a noticeable difference in temperature when entering the little building.

This wasn’t any easy project, but then, nothing about the greenhouse has come easily. There’s a steep learning curve when dialing in the humidity, temperature, and correct amount of sunlight. Probably a lot of physics involved, (a class I never took or taught).

Just ordering the tarp was something that took patience. It seems that normal tarps are made in widths of 6′ or 12′, not 14′ like our greenhouse. After spending quite a long time looking through shade cloth on Amazon, I finally found one. I wish I could say it was bargain-priced. I think not, but at least, we have the right size. 14′ x 20′.

Next, HHH had to drill holes in the green-house frame every 23″ to secure bolts through grommets. If you have done any projects lately, you already know that bolts, nuts, and washers cost a small fortune. Specialty eye-bolts were $2 a piece. Everything is ridiculously expensive these days. Even every day DYI projects.

In spite of a medical emergency requiring Neosporin and bandages, the project came together and the greenhouse is a green box of beauty. I will not confirm or deny that there was a wee bit of black duct tape used in the process. Every homeowner loves duct tape.

There was one disturbing moment while working on our project. HHH had returned to the house for a few minutes while I raked pea gravel and organized a bit. It was then, I found a dead bird, buried under the pea gravel. Quite dead, I’m sure that one little white and brown dog with very short legs secreted it in MY greenhouse. Probably as a message to me that I’ve not been enjoying the moments in Winterpast, but rather working through each one.

One of Oliver’s worst traits is his killer instinct. Small and weak things like toads and hatchlings don’t stand a chance. He is lethal. Not a trait I can train out of his genetic makeup. Dachshunds were bred to hunt and kill badgers. With not many around here, a slow lizard or toad will fit the bill.

Oliver will be going to puppy camp for the first two weeks of wooklet-life around here. With five littles on the way, Wookie doesn’t need to worry that her new pups will meet a hot and gravely fate like the young bird did, or worse.

Winterpast has the most beautiful gardens in our town. Living in the desert, most people budget for food and entertainment, while cutting water to save on the utility bill. Although we try to conserve, we’re putting gallons to good use as we grow fruits and vegetables that we’ll happily share.

Whatever you do today, consider creating a little place to spend time outside. Once seated, listen for five unusual sounds. Look for five things you can see. Feel five different sensations. Touch five things that feel different. Really taste your afternoon snack. As you become more aware of your senses, you’ll find yourself enjoying the moment. And, my friends, that’s what life is all about.

More tomorrow.

Yesterday mirrored the picture above. With spring in full bloom, HHH and I have become hired hands. Just when you think retirement is final and complete, a new job might appear on your plate. In our case, we’ll care for the yard of our rental, also known as St. Louis Road.

The cutest couple moved into the rental around the first of the year. Young and adorable, they were excited to find such a nice home with a beautiful yard for their two active dogs. To sweeten the deal, they’d receive $100 a month applied to their water bill from April through November. An incentive to keep the sprinklers on and the garden growing. Of course, gardening services were included in the monthly rent.

The leasing company was happy enough to offer the services of THEIR gardener. When we started to consider the cost, we suddenly became younger than springtime. Having taken care of the yard for almost a decade, HHH could certainly do a better job than a crew of strangers. With his trusty sidekick, we’d be saving money and enjoying time together gardening. After all, it’s what these two romantic roses love to do.

The first week, HHH went by himself. He ran the mower over the front lawn and did a little watering. Everything looked great and he returned home in a flash.

Last week, we went together after almost forgetting our commitment. I must say our hearts weren’t in it that day. Heck, the lawn looked alright. So did the flowerbeds. Without taking a peak of the back yard, we made the decision to let one week pass and return in seven days.

During those seven days, with sprinklers still off, Mother Nature turned up the heat. Yesterday, everything was gasping for water. We came not a moment too soon and got to work.

The lawn was mowed. We weeded the front flower beds. The renters were happy to say “Hello”, wondering where we were the week before. We WERE there, we just didn’t mow and garden. Taking inventory of what was needed was a little painful for me, so it must have been like a knife to the heart to HHH. HIS beautiful St. Louis Road home wasn’t the same anymore. His green thumb left the building, now working magic at Winterpast instead and it showed.

With the front yard finished, we moved to the back yard, which was in even sadder shape. When we turned on the drip line, it was apparent that the resident dogs love emitters as much as Oliver. Water sprayed every which way and our hearts sunk. This gardening stuff will be a little more intensive than either of us had imagined.

Yesterday, we were gardeners AND repair people. If we would’ve paid to have someone else do the repairs, the cost would have doubled. And so, now, WE are the hired help. Each Tuesday, from 10-12, we’ll be the gardeners. It’s just what we’ll be doing.

It was nice to be back at the very house at which I first met HHH. In late August, 2023, he invited me over for a gourmet dinner with three main entree’s. Elk, Tuna, and Filet Mignon. They were all delicious, along with the sides he prepared. So handsome and witty, little did I know that over 1.5 years later, I’d be gardening right along his side. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Very low on energy by evening, I decided to do one more thing and began reading “A Country Year — Living the Questions” by Sue Hubbell. What a lovely book. If you love nature and gardening as much as I do, it’s a must. It’s as if she’s describing life on my old ranch so long ago. Thanks to the Goddess of the Central Coast for recommending such a beautiful book!!

“Once in a while there comes along a book so calm, so honest, so beautiful that even the most jaded or cynical readers have to say thank you…This is such a book.” San Diego Tribune

An amazing compliment to a wonderful writer.

Whatever you plan to accomplish today, try to do just a little more than that. Before breakfast, I pulled a 5-gallon bucket of garden weeds. Although I hadn’t planned on it, I’m so glad I accomplished something extra. Better clean up my own garden because it’s only six days until I return to the status of the another’s hired hand.

More tomorrow.

Being a brand new member of a church is exciting with whom worship. Over the last year, HHH and I have developed friendships with everyone in the church. As we’ve spent time in Bible Study we appreciate them more each day. We not only see them on Sunday, but others days at the week around town.

Being such a small group of diverse worshippers, we have one thing in common. We all cherish the same God and his only Son. Beyond that, we’re just people that come from different walks of life the enjoy coming together.

After being on earth for 68 years, there’s one thing I’ve observed over and over. In every single group, whether church, school, or work, the same people cover all the heavy lifting.

After a Sunday service in January, we held our annual Society Meeting (church meeting of the members). During the meeting there were several board positions that needed filling, but no new volunteers. Although I couldn’t commit to taking a job before we left on our cruise, I certainly could after we came back. Sure. Why not? April would be the perfect time to take over as Church Steward.

One great thing about this position is that it’s there to serve the community. Our little church has no problem helping others. Our building is used at least five times a week for Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. A local group meets twice a month to deal with feral cats and their neutering. We fill shoe boxes with Christmas goodies for children around the world through Shepard’s Purse. We grow a neighborhood garden feeding the needy in our community. We meet three times a week to learn more about the Bible. Our church provides a private building for the Crisis Pregnancy center, as well. On top of all that, the Pastor keeps the grounds as a small park for people to come and rest a bit on the beautiful green lawn under the huge shade tree. Quite a bit for a church of 30-40 active members.

Every time I think about all the services that help our community, I’m pretty proud to be a member. But, HHH and I could always do more.

The Pastor mentioned that, some time ago, members put together “Blessing Bags” for the homeless. Somehow, that idea touched HHH and me. Putting our heads together, we considered things we could add to the bags. When finished, we had a dozen bags for winter. From the softest blankets to hats and mittens, we made up twelve beautiful bags and let the Pastor know they were ready.

As we live in a desert, the wool hats and gloves won’t be appreciated much longer. Again, we brainstormed and came up with summer bags.

From fresh socks, underwear, and t-shirt to pen and paper, there is a little of everything in the Blessing Bags. A cool drink of water. Three nutritious snacks. A camouflaged cap. Hygiene kits. And a little of this and that. All in a colorful and reusable bag.

While filling the bags, thoughts were about the men that need them. We’ll never know how each person was helped. Was the bag was appreciated or scorned? It doesn’t matter. The beauty is in the giving. One small bag cannot fix the multitude of problems of the homeless. But maybe for a small moment in time, the feeling of new socks on tired feet will be a comfort or that thirst will be quenched on the driest of hot desert days.

I’d like to believe the tiniest break from despair might be a moment for thoughts of home and those that love them. May they know there are strangers in this town that pray for their safety and peace.

A couple of weeks ago, we learned about the power that comes with God’s blessing. When you bless someone in God’s love, it can change things for the better. It’s our hope that these bags will help in the smallest of way.

Whatever you do today, think about a small way you can help in your community. Even donating small bottles of hotel lotion, shampoo, and conditioner to a homeless shelter might be just the thing they need. Do you sew? Make some soft blankets to donate. Do you knit or crochet? How about making some warm scarves for next winter? Even an unsigned letter of encouragement can go a long way to lift spirits. There is something we can all do. Now just what will it be for you?

More tomorrow.

Vacationing and illness have robbed me of an accurate sense of time. Hard to believe that in the dark days of January, I was tending little seedlings. Delighted, we watched how differently they emerged from tiny seed pods as the days slowly lengthened. Each variety possessed unique and beautiful characteristics all their own. Checking them at least three times a day, they thrived under four spidery Grow Lights. Other than adding the “Super Thrive” that came with the “Jiffy” Seedling systems, we did nothing but give them water and time to grow.

Before we left on our cruise, HHH brought out his magical “Wall of Waters”. These things turn weak little plants into the Greatest of All Time!!!!! We stuck our scrawny tomatoes and zucchini in the middle of the watery walled greenhouses atop new garden boxes. Then, we left on vacation. Returning to the garden eleven days later, we were astonished. Inside the watery walls grew beautiful vegetable plants on the verge of blooming.

Past the threat of frost, zucchini blossoms have turned into tiny vegetables, while tomato blossoms are right behind them. Out of 72 tomato seeds, we’ve grown ten amazing plants that are thriving in HHH’s garden boxes. We’re expecting a good canning season for our secret spaghetti sauce.

The beans, peas, carrots and onions are awaiting their time in the sun. Russets and red potatoes are happy as can be. The radishes thrive in the herb box where I can almost hear them say “Thank You” when I water.

The apricot trees have bloomed and are now supporting another bumper crop. Even though there was heavy frost after a wonderful pollination by the neighbor’s bees, the fruit remained unharmed. Plums are right behind them.

Our Wedding Apple from HHH’s mom is in full bloom. Being such a young tree, we’ll pick off all but three apples. One for each one of us. We want our tree to grow her roots deep, producing Granny Smith apples for decades to come.

The cherries are in full bloom, with lots of bee activity. I’ve never seen one cherry on any of these trees, so this year will be the test. Perhaps we’ve never experienced proper pollination.

As for all the seedlings so lovingly cared for, they are slowly going into the ground. The 4-O’Clocks are tucked between the 2023 Hosta plants which are returning for year two. The Black-Eyed Susan’s grow bigger by each day. Even the Siberian Wall Flowers are giving it their best. Jaguar Marigolds are starting to bloom.

Watching all of this, there is a certain couple that doesn’t miss a day being so very thankful for life as healthy gardening newlyweds.

Last night, HHH insisted that I brave the mosquitos and sit a bit to look at Winterpast in her solar-lit glory. Already PJ’d, I didn’t really want to return outside, having just spent most of the weekend working out there. But, if you are lucky enough to have someone that loves you so much he asks YOU to PLEASE join him in the garden at twilight, you are exceptionally lucky and better hop to it.

There, two of us sat watching the doves, robins and first hummingbird of the season. Marveling at the beauty God has given us, we enjoyed a conversation about gratefulness and the beauty of nature.

There in the twilight, I couldn’t help but remember the faith it took to name my home “Winterpast” when I was in the depths of despair as a new widow. I remembered the courage it took to believe that I could keep her gardens alive and the faith it took to remember that angels surrounded me while I grieved such complete and private loss. Across town, HHH found comfort in the same unwavering faith in God and angels.

Just like the seasons of this amazing world, for now our winter has passed. And so, I close with this beautiful passage from my favorite book.

My lover spoke and said to me,

“Arise my darling,

my beautiful one, and come with me.

See! The winter is past:

The rains are over and gone.

Flowers appear on the earth;

The season of singing has come.

The cooing of doves is heard in our land.

The fig tree forms its early fruit:

the blossoming vines spread their fragrance,

Arise, come, my darling;

My beautiful one come with me.”

Song of Solomon 2: 10-13

More tomorrow.

Although there were few disappointments on our trip, there was one sad bit of news. No confetti allowed while sailing away. Confetti is not allowed by extremely grumpy, stiff-necked, environmental party poopers. On a glorious day on the bay, we were about to “Sail Away” on the Crown Princess, aka The Love Boat.

Of course, my personalized and essential technological medallion was defective. Didn’t matter!! Luggage would arrive hours after we did. Who cared?? Not us. Vacationing commenced. On the top deck, we sat front-row, pool-side, entertained by the professional dancers of Princess Cruise Lines.

It was surreal to be in the middle of a travel brochure moment after months of planning and waiting. It was all there, just as promised. The Salty Dog Grill was pumping out hamburgers and fries, the buffet was serving lunch, the bars were open, and everyone aboard was ready to sail away from trials and troubles.

Before our departure, there were a few housekeeping details to complete. The main safety requirement involved locating our Muster Station and watching the safety video in our stateroom. Done and done, we were ready to pull away from The Port of San Francisco, while cruising by Alcatraz and under the Bridge.

Watching a 19 story ship go under the bridge did seem a bit risky. The clearance between bridge and ship didn’t seem like very much as we sailed into late afternoon on the Pacific Ocean.

From there, we just settled into four days on the high seas. The first morning we awoke, there was a faint outline of land. I just know the Goddess of the Central Coast was having her bran muffin and coffee, while reading, “A Country Year– Living the Questions.” Or, perhaps she was already onto “A Book of Bees”. Both written by Sue Hubbell, on her recommendation, they are now on my bookshelf. We waved, hoping Auntie TJ and the Goddess knew it was us sailing by on a bright blue sea.

Day after glorious day, we did things we never thought possible. HHH zip-lined his way through the jungles of Puerto Vallarta, while bungie jumping when zip-lining wasn’t possible. Professional photographers got shots from every angle, allowing us to bring home adorable memories.

We had two formal nights for which we cleaned up really nice. We enjoyed gourmet meals and even watched “Top Gun” with the stars on top of the ship under warm comfy blankets as we steamed along. Although we needed continual directions on this 19 story ship, there was always someone in a uniform to help.

One of the best parts of the entire trip involved daily Bible Study with some of the nicest people on the ship. Cruising during Easter week, for eleven mornings we studied the Gospel of John. So beautiful to study the words of Jesus before he left this world to return to his father. Lifetime friendships formed during our time of study. As John so beautifully wrote in the last verse of his book, “Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.”

The Bible is my favorite book, featuring such gifted authors and subject matter.

Cruising is for any and all types and ages of people. There were very young kids ripping up the pool and hot tub, and then there were older, more reserved honeymooners quietly enjoying the sunshine around the pool and hot tub. There was even an older gentleman cruising with his Medically Approved Service Dog. Every necessary adaptation was made so that all could enjoy a wonderful vacation.

One very special thing we learned is that at sunset over the Pacific, when the sun is just hitting the horizon, something amazing happens. A green flash. I haven’t researched the science, but HHH and I did see the green flash. So quick, if you blinked it would’ve been gone. This is something that must be seen once while standing hand in hand with your true love on a tenth balcony on The Love Boat.

It was all so great, we’re going again in November. And yes, we’ll return to The Love Boat.

Whatever you do this weekend, think of a place you’d like to visit and research a trip. If it’s not possible, take a virtual vacation on your computer, enjoying the highlights of your favorite spot. When a little land-locked here at Winterpast, I just hum the theme from “The Love Boat” and it all comes back! Have a wonderful vacation and I’ll meet you back here Monday Morning.

So much to catch up on!!! Where to begin???? Well, at the beginning of our adventure. At the end of March, HHH and I began packing for a most wonderful adventure. Without wasting much time, we planned a trip to the Mexican Riviera. Translated, we planned to float under the Golden Gate Bridge, travel the Pacific Ocean as far south as we could before turning around to return back under the Golden Gate Bridge.

After deciding on the itinerary, the first problem was deciding which items would make the cut , ending up in my packed, 50 pound suitcase. The last time I flew on a trip “to the beach”, the year was 2013. Having traveled some many times to Hawaii, it soon became easier to tell co-workers we were vacationing at the beach. No need for everyone to know the beach we were referring to was on the other side of the Pacific Ocean.

I’ve always loved flying, waiting for every bit of the experience. When I was 11, my mom took me on my first flight to visit my oldest sister in Alameda. What an exciting flight! I remember the family coming to see us off. At that time, people could walk with the passenger to an outdoor gate, feet away from the airplane. There, after the pilot presented all littles with wings, the left-behinds would wait until take-off and wave until they could no longer see the plane.

After that first flight, there were many more to come. To Hawaii on a family trip in 1972. Whether taking my first international flight to Switzerland in 1973 or a 1977 escape from communism in Russia in 1977, flying has always been something I’ve eagerly awaited with delight!

However, the news about flying these days has been a bit distressing.

Parts falling off planes. Passengers losing their minds while going berserk. People trying to smuggle things on and off planes. Pet passengers that shouldn’t be. The list of ways flying has changed is endless. Long ago, people dressed up nicely to fly. Well, these days, we just hope flying patrons ARE dressed. Enough said about that.

Keeping luggage weight below 50 pounds has always been challenging. This trip was no exception. Now, HHH had no problems staying below 40 pounds. I think his suitcase came in at 39 lbs. Mine hit the airport scale at 49.2 pounds. Thankfully, I’d moved a few things my husband’s luggage.

With an early morning flight, The Mayor came to pick us up at 4:30 AM and our vacation began. The boldness of that statement strikes me. Such a native that I received shuttle service from our beloved mayor! (Who happens to be my brother-in-law).

The biggest surprise of all was that there we experienced no surprises or unpleasantries. Not one. Everything at our airport was efficient and easy, like clockwork. Before I knew it we were in the air and on our way through turbulence towards San Francisco Bay! It was pretty rough over the Sierra’s, as snow fell thousands of feet below.

One of the strangest innovations was the stewardess jacket designed with an elbow cup holder. She walked down the aisle in this jacket with cups at the elbow and a bottle of water in her other hand. No heavy cart. No peanuts in the pocket. Nope. Just a fabric cup sleeve sewn onto the inside of her elbow freeing her to carry a bottle of water. Demeaning, the woman had been turned into a walking, talking beverage cart.

Once in San Francisco International, we dreaded seeing evidence of things we’d been watching on the news. To our relief there was no bad behavior anywhere. Things were absolutely beautiful. People were kind and efficient in their squeaky clean airport. What a wonderful surprise!

All we needed to do was grab our luggage and sit at Baggage Claim Area #1 while waiting to be picked up by Princess Cruise Lines. Again, everything was perfect in an airport kind of way. Nothing threatening or out of order while we gathered together with experienced cruise employees.

During these hours, I had time to think about all the crazy events we watch on television. What IS true and what is a simple sound bite about the most absurd things that happen in our country? If you are worried about stepping out and trying a little travel, don’t be. In our experience and observations, even the weakest and most elderly are traveling and having a most marvelous time. I met many elders enjoying the time of their lives while traveling alone. Life is to be lived to the fullest.

Soon, it was time for us to board a fancy charter bus. We were on our way to a new adventure that neither of us had experienced before. Honeymooning while enjoying HHH’s 70th Birthday in a balcony suite on a 19-story cruise ship, there was no way our trip would disappoint. And believe me, it didn’t.

More tomorrow.

How often does one little trip to Walmart turn into an unnoticed testimony to kindness and faith? It happened today. How often are we racing from here to there doing this and that, when something so special might go missed? The following story happened yesterday and I’m still smiling. Read on.

There is a man that attends our church that doesn’t quite look like the rest of us. He doesn’t have a car, so his legs take him everywhere he wants to go. He doesn’t have new clothes, and would probably like the use of a washing machine once in awhile. He makes his bed under the stars in the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada. He is homeless.

Each Sunday, he comes to worship with us and has for about six months now. He brings his best friend who is the tiniest and cutest little scraggly dog I’ve met in some time. Weighing less than a can of soup, this little dog is adorable, well cared for, and friendly. The two are a good team.

For weeks now, I’ve been meaning to learn his name, but am embarrassed to admit that I don’t yet know it. I know all the names of my Harvest Sisters. I know the names of the minister and his wife. I know the names of past police and highway patrol men. I even know the name of the oldest woman in the church, but, I don’t know his. Of this, fact, I’m ashamed.

Anyway, on the first day of complete health for HHH and I since coming home from our cruise HHH and I were feeling happy adventurous. We decided to run around town to take care of errands. Needing 10 bags of dirt at the hardware store and a few bags of groceries at Walmart we dashed out with list in hand.

At any small town Walmart, it’s impossible to go enter the parking lot without seeing people you know. Our town isn’t any different. As we were parking, there was a young, adorable, shapely, belly-button pierced woman that could have done with a little more clothing. I quietly commented on the situation to HHH.

“Could she just dress before shopping?”

Unhelpful, unnecessary, simple minded, and down-right rude , I admit.

Anyway, we parked and were just ready to enter the store when we saw the young man I mentioned earlier. He and his little dog were waiting by the door, so HHH called out to him and we walked over to say “Hi”. By that time, the young woman had made her way to him and was questioning him about his adorable dog. Then the most beautiful thing happened.

“Hey, I’m on the verge of homelessness myself, but an angel just changed my situation. I have a little I can share,” she said. “Is there anything you need? I mean ANYTHING at all. A friend just helped me out of a real jam, and there’s a little extra to share. Can I help you in any way? Need dog food?”

“Thank you but we’re really good. I have a couple bags of food for him at our camp. But, what I really need is some shoes for a friend under the bridge. His feet are in a bad way. He needs a pair of shoes, either 8 1/2 or 9. That’s what I could really use.”

After we visited with him a little while, we followed the young lady inside. She turned to smile and ask again.

“Really, is there anything I could do for him? I’m so fortunate. I was looking at homelessness just like him in a few days. My situation has changed in a most wonderful way. I’d like to share my good fortune.”

“Well, he needs shoes for his friend. He said that’s what he really needs.”

Now, here is a man that, to most, would need a lot more than a pair of shoes for his friend. He sleeps under the stars on the high desert plains on very cold nights with his little furry friend. He has no permanent home. No family. No cushy neighborhood. His meals come as they may. And yet, his worry of the day was helping someone that had less than he. Less than almost nothing.

Later, walking past the shoe section, we ran into the pair at the shoe section. I overheard this angel telling him, “I bet he could also use some new socks, right? Come on, they’re over here.” They had just finished talking to two older gentlemen who were also commenting on the adorable pooch.

Just like that, this sweet woman was sharing her good fortune with someone else before doing her own shopping. This sweet young man was helping a soul under the bridge that needed it. Goodness swirling around an odd couple while everyone else in the store missed the beauty of the moment.

It made me stop and think about how the whole thing started. With a snarky comment from a wealthy old woman without really knowing the facts surrounding this beautiful young woman’s situation. My world would’ve much happier if I’d just considered that her situation might be a little different than mine. I might have gotten a little better feeling if I’d made a comment about the gorgeous sunshine-y smile on her face. She was bubbling with happiness on her happy Tuesday morning.

Whatever you do today, be mindful. Open your eyes to really see the very moment in which you find yourself. If something isn’t quite to your standard, bend your opinion to fit the situation. Say “Hello” to a stranger. Ask if there’s something you can do to help when things are tough for someone else. Stop a minute and look around. Not just look, see with new eyes. There IS something you could do to help someone somewhere. Even if it’s just a smile and nice comment about their silly little dog.

Love and Kindness are beautiful gifts. Be sure to give them away every day.

More tomorrow.

Although it seems to have taken years to get here, the day of the Bee-Keeping-Honeymooners has arrived. Our bees have arrived, settled in, and are now in their forever home. In a few short months, we’ll harvest our first honey, while having our first season of experience under our belts.

This adventure started with a simple Christmas gift. For days before Christmas, HHH’s large mysterious gift made muffled woody noises if moved. At that point, we hadn’t discussed the possibility of owning a bee hive, but certainly shared a love for our fruit trees and gardening. Once Christmas morning came and the surprise discovered, we discovered the bees were the one thing we’d been missing in our lives.

On a January morning, we headed out with friends to a New Bee Keeper’s class. To our surprise, the room was full of people just like us. Those ready to try something new in the yard. Through the class, a most beautiful lady has come into our lives. She speaks BEE and it’s obvious they love her. She will remain our life-line connection to bee-husbandry.

During the class, we researched flowers the bees would love us to plant. With a few trips to the seed department of our local hardware store, we began selecting residents for our bee garden.

Mammoth Sunflowers. Black-Eyed Susan’s. Giant Zinnias. Thumbelina Zinnias. Pumpkins. Watermelons. Zucchini. Tomatoes. Strawberries. Chamomile. African Daisy’s. Peas. Beans. Carrots. Onions. Garlic. Cucumbers. The seeds jumped into our basket as quick as we could find them. Soon, a simple gift had turned into soil producing hundreds of seedlings.

This does bring me to another point. The price of plants at the local nursery has sky rocketed. Just last week, the cheapest plants started at $3.50 and went up from there. In a very short time, one can spend hundreds of dollars on very few plants. Growing our own seedlings was a cost effective way to get the number of plants we’ll need to keep the bees happy.

Someone questioned the large amount we’d planted for Winterpast. Be assured, one-half acre of land is quite an area to keep in bloom. 50,000 bees will need plenty of nectar, pollen, and sap to keep up with the hatching brood of their productive queen. It’s just all so exciting.

We returned from the cruise ready to accept ownership of one nucleus of bees. This consists of a queen, and about 10,000 worker bees all living together on five frames in a box. In this form, they are referred to as a NUC (pronounced NUKE). On April 6th, ours was delivered by two people without bee suits. They simply placed the box in the back yard, opened the tiny front door, and left them in our care.

We had prepared a bit. We had two fountains of fresh water for them to drink. Each fountain had been fitted with extra rocks for soft landings. Bees can’t swim, so one needs to remember that when planning as a bowl of water could be lethal.

HHH built a beautiful fence around the bee area, keeping the dogs away from the bees. It also from fence barking with the neighbor’s dogs. There, they have been while we’ve battled our colds inside. Just hanging out doing what bees do.

Yesterday, the lovely and talented Miss Bee came to check on them. Every bee keeper uses smoke to calm bees. Miss Bee happens to prefer dried donkey manure. With donkeys of her own, she had plenty to share! Indeed, the bees calmed down as we disassembled their home to check out the health of the hive. After quite a search, Miss Bee pointed our our queen, a sassy beauty at that. She’s been busy laying eggs. So many has she laid that it was time to move everyone to the Christmas hive to carry on with their business.

After a clean bill of health, Miss Bee went on her way, leaving us to breathe easy knowing everything is right as rain. Of course, there is a need to order pollen patties to give them an extra boost. Next week, we’ll open the hive to refill the internal feeder with a 1:1 simple syrup solution. And, on it goes.

Learning something new in the garden is such fun. There are always new tips and tricks to try. At this writing, HHH is looking for new weed sprays that are bee and pet friendly. Because one thing is for sure. Weeds never stop finding ways to be annoying.

Whatever you do today, try something new. Maybe a new recipe. Or something new in the garden. There’s no time like the present to find a new hobby. At the very least, if you happen to be attracting bees in your garden, grab a cup of coffee and watch the show. Remember to enjoy yourself a little while you do.

More Tomorrow.