Sacred Stones, Sacred Stories

Pumpkins and squash grown by our sisters in Clyde, MO

A few weeks ago we said good-bye to summer with a campfire, roasted marshmallows and singing.  In this short period of time the weather has indeed gotten cooler, down right cold some for some of us.  The leaves on the trees are wearing their brilliant russets and golds as they struggle to cling to the branches while the winds whip around.

Gardeners and farmers also know it is harvesting time.  The crops in this area have suffered from hot dry conditions all summer.  We hear it is the same for most farmers, especially in the midwest.  We keep all these families in our prayers.

Our garden produced a fare harvest due to diligent watering – sweet peas and tomatoes, bell peppers and beets, jalapenos and cucumbers not to mention lots of glorious herbs.  A few of us also planted pumpkins and squash.  These were tended for in a different area as squash bugs have decimated our gardens for a few years running.  We had a bumper crop of squash and pumpkins, enough to cook and enjoy at table and perhaps some that will adorn a corner here and there.

The colors of fall are richly hued.  The tastes of autumn are bold and satisfying.  I for one will never get tired of this time of year when all of creation seems to chant its praise.

The unseasonably warm weather in the Midwest has been confusing to us AND our trees.

Some are budding as if it’s spring. Some are staying green longer than usual. One is giving us a splash of fall color.

It is letting us know the seasons are changing and life is dynamic. It is a lovely sign of the nature of Mother Earth.