Stubborn Beauty :: OR

Stubborn Beauty :: OR

On my visit to Oregon last year, we (obviously) explored the Columbia River Gorge to see some waterfalls. This intimate scene was tucked away in the rocks at Wahclella falls. I loved the tenacity of this little flower, and the way the light fell (because light is everything!)

I tried, and failed, to figure out what type of flower it is…but ultimately, it doesn’t matter. Like all plants, it serves an important function as a rest stop for native pollinators. ….. If you just asked what the heck that means, the short version is that native pollinators such as bees, moths, ants, beetles, butterflies, birds, bats, etc all help plant species thrive and without their help we would have a food shortage of critical proportions. Over the last 10 years or so, pollinators have faced significant challenges in the form of mites and fungus, habitat loss, pesticides, etc all contributing to a massive population decline. Want to help? Consider keeping a garden with a variety of native plants that bloom for as much of the year as possible.

Also…Yes, I named this photo after a brewery in CT. Lol

The Seeds We Plant

Summer in the Garden

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you plant.” ~Robert Louis Stevenson

Every so often, I like to take a step back from the here, the now (Now NOW!), the wants, the goals, the massive to-do list and remember perspective.  It’s very easy (especially in America’s fast-paced, stuff-based culture) to lose sight of what is truly important in life.  Today’s quote is a little reminder that our lives are more than just a sum of our accomplishments…it is our experiences, our relationships and our ability to improve the overall quality of life for our community, not just ourselves.

Take a spare moment to spread some joy, to help a friend, to appreciate the people you care about, to share a smile or a joke.  I promise you will improve your day and mood, and affect the happiness of the people around you.  It’s a win-win!

<FREE E-HUGS>
Shann