Unplanned Visitor

I have learned with time to let my garden speak to me.

I don't mean that I actively talk to my plants (although I do admit to talking to my backyard birds).  When I say 'let my garden speak to me', it's more about letting go of complete control.

Sometimes a garden will let you know what it wants to do. A perennial that you thought you had completely removed will stubbornly regrow and flourish. A plant that you desperately want to grow may refuse to—letting you know in no uncertain terms that your conditions do not suit it. A plant that you never placed in your garden may appear, perhaps a gift of a passing bird, the wind or a stowaway on a garden centre pot.

I currently have a lovely unplanned visitor. I almost pulled it out when I saw the unknown green sprout growing in the crack between the stones of our front steps a few weeks ago. I am so glad that I didn't. Now we have a sweet alyssum plant welcoming us as we approach our front door. Spontaneity in the midst of structure. A good reminder.

A Castle in the Forest

Have you ever watched your children do something and you have been totally amazed and interested by what they have done? You're not sure that you could have done the same thing or even have thought of it. You are just a happy witness to its splendid execution.

My daughters and their cousin said that they wanted to go into the forest. We are spending the week with my parents who live on the edge of a forest on the banks of Lake Muskoka. I wasn't certain what they had in mind. They are two pre-teens and a teenager who no longer require constant supervision.  The forest they wanted to explore is on our property.

What did they do?

Well, it took more than a day. It is beautiful and amazing and could belong in an art museum if there were an art museum for forest creations.

A large rock and the roots of a fallen tree were used for its back wall.  At least a hundred branches were then leaned and woven together.  Long pieces of grass were braided to form rope which was then tied to create a moveable door or flap. The floor is carpeted lushly with ferns.  Flowers and more ferns adorn the walls, grass ropes and door.

I asked them what I should call it and gave them a number of suggestions:  tee-pee, lean-to, dwelling, wigwam, shelter, abode, fort.   The oldest of the three thought for a moment and then said, 'Castle'.

Muskoka Morning

On the dock in my beloved Toms shoes (one of several pairs I own)

Tuesday had the perfect beginning: calm water, beautiful sunrise, a loon in the distance; my canine companion, a coffee cup and book nearby. Meeko often tilted his nose upwards to catch the lovely early day smells. A duck and her ducklings lingered close to the dock as if begging for a photo but I think it is more likely that a neighbouring cottager is feeding them.

Yesterday's weather was more unsettling with a tornado watch most of the day and evening but thankfully we only experienced light thunderstorms.

I am working on a painting today and will post it in the days ahead.