Renewed Spirit

"It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men's heart, as for the subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit." by Robert Louis Stevenson

I am happy and relieved to have reached this stage in the garden.  Preparing the soil and beds, the continuous act of weeding and watering, the sowing of seed and planting out in preparation of one's own food production...this is a lot of work.  In our case, pleasurable work, but still a lot of work.   Each day we closely examine each newly sown bed in anticipation of germination, we lovingly dig out the compost and spread it around the plants for nourishment, we remove weeds because we don't want them stealing the nutrients from our plants, we provide organic fertilizers to correct any of the plant's health problems...it reminds me of when I nurtured and cared for my children.    Now that the basics have been provided though, we can sit back and watch our garden grow, occasionally making small adjustments here and there. 

And, now we can move on to other pleasureable activities.  Yesterday we headed up to one of our favourite haunts, Haslam Lake.  Instead of following our usual path directly to the lake, we went through the forested, old mill area, coming out near the old Haslam Lake Railroad.  It's hard to imagine the area as it once was but much evidence of man's industry still remains.  Check out Vanishing History, A Sharing Information Site on the Vanishing History of Powell River, British Columbia, for some great photos.   www.vanishinghistory.ca/?p=386

I am always amazed at how renewed my spirit is after spending time at Haslam Lake.  The trees make me feel protected and safe, the rocks and earth ground me, and the water calms me.  I am so grateful to be living here in Powell River. 

Apparently the Common Garter Snakes in the area were enjoying the day as much as us.  I think we saw or heard the departure of 3 or 4 snakes as we hiked through to the lake.  Barry spotted one moulting snake as it departed.   

That reminds me of the juvenile raccoon that surprised us as it  ran along our south fence around noon yesterday...apparently the raccoon was surprised to see us too as it quickly diverted into our neighbour's shed until it felt safe enough to proceed. 

Barry also discovered a robin has nested in our big, old red maple.  The tip off...the robin repeatedly returned to the maple with a beakful of worms. 

Ah...life is good!