Taking Time To Breathe

With all the things going on, I thought it was important to stop and take some time to just breathe. I took a few therapeutic pics. I also took some time to visit my forgotten flower bed. I cleaned it up so nicely a number of posts ago, though you wouldn't know it now -- It's a mess!

It's important to take time to enjoy life. Getting your perspective on things back in balance. Your focus back on God, He truly works wonders in your life and gives you peace.

But, back to the flower bed. I didn't weed at all, yes I was shock at myself. I located some flowers I've enjoyed over the past few years and took a few cuttings.

My favorite cuts are Lavender. If you enjoy Lavender here's a helpful link. Mountain Valley Growers Lavandula Care & Tips.They also have many varieties.

Talk about a relaxing smell, I love it. I fell in love with Lavender, visiting our son Aaron in Port Angeles, WA . (I have another story about PA, I'll post another time). We went to Lost Mountain Lavender Farm (update 3.1.26 now permanently closed http://www.lostmountainlavender.com/.)  Aaron also loves it and uses a pouch full of lavender buds to smell when he gets stressed. Don't laugh, it works, I use it too. I lost a couple plants from a harsh winter but I've been getting some cuttings off a couple newer plants. Jim built me a small above ground garden bed for herbs and it's worked out well.

When I move, I'll miss my flowers, but I maybe can plant more; I always seem to, and I think getting better at it. Ha   Though one thing for sure I'll really miss my kitchen. (I do)

Interesting note about lavender. I read where Lavender was mentioned in the Bible but under a different name. Some believe that it was the Biblical plant called Spikenard. Which I did had a link to their thoughts and possible research on the plant. Well, like the link above it no longer is in use and for sell - in my quest to provide a good link of interest I happened upon here Warwick's Furnace Farm (beautiful blog) that gives a simple history to the one I originally shared, however, I also read that they are two distinct plants and are from different geological areas. It was also lead to believe that the Greeks call Lavender nardus after Naarda a city of Syria is where they (whoever they might be) get the name Nard sometimes used in short for Spikenard. (updated 3.1.26)

Song of Solomon 1:12
When the king sitteth at the table, he shall smell my Nardus 

Well whatever its history is I would like to think Lavender was in the Bible but not as with the name we know - though a prettier name than Spikenard ~ 

John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Your heart must not be troubled or fearful. [HCSB]

Since my original link is gone I'll share another for you to take a look at the beautiful I was blessed to see. It would be wonderful if you could visit yourself!

Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm 

Sequim Lavender Trail

By the way there still are times I need to take time to breathe and enjoy the beauty of nature that God gives us to care for and the peace that only He can give visiting with Him ~ Amen