My thoughts about nature’s beauty changed when we moved further North.  I was drawn to the serene landscapes, with the treelines and fields in winter.   The lakes and rivers of Wisconsin.

I saw different types of trees that had weathered hard years–spaces where branches had been–and then new growth.  Evergreens and old orchards.  More beautiful, in my mind, than the trees that are “perfect.”   These images steeled my heart when an illness in the past aged me faster.   The memories from those years are ones I cherish in a strange way, because my faith in God grew deeper roots.  He did not fail me and I trust His plan.  I also am much more careful to pace myself and to have a healthy schedule.  Because of this, I am enjoying my journey to Christmas more this year.  Many ways to show others we care.  Prayer is a profound way too. 

With our long springs and short summers, I stopped planting the flowers that grew better in Illinois.  I adapted and accepted and learned.  Always learning.  I appreciated the gardens left behind by previous owners and could see the wisdom in their choices of plants.

My ancestors came to this country from Germany and Sweden.   I know it is a common experience to feel more understanding of them through the years, than was possible as a child–to look in the mirror and see some of their faces, in a way, as one grows older.   And to be our own persons as well. 

another storm
and there will be more…

lilacs covered in snow
know they will bloom again

beautiful in every season