Nature Can Help Heal

I am not speaking about cars today. It's a slow, rainy, gentle morning. We have been advised that there are bad thunderstorms on the way. Right now, it is warm enough to enjoy the outdoors without a coat and very delicately misting rain.

I noticed my koi were sucking on the rocks yesterday evening. We had a large amount of rain yesterday and the pond level is higher than normal so the fish can reach moss and algae that is usually beyond them. So I got a box of honeynut Cheerios out of the freezer ( I stockpile them when they are on sale for my fish to eat in the spring and fall) and applied a fresh coating of montmorillonite clay. With a fresh cup of coffee, I went out to see my friends.

They know. I think they hear the rattle of the food in the container. I like to think they know me also. Some of the koi were there at the edge of the gazebo where I always feed them, waiting for me. The others were quick to assemble.

There is something mesmerizing about watching the gently swirling water as the long graceful fins of the butterfly koi move through the water. The fish were very mannerly this morning and no one was "rude with the food". I could watch them all day.

I say this every year but I really want to try to spend more time in the yard this year. I am really getting into bird watching in the yard. Recently I have seen a Baltimore Oriole in my herb garden and this week the mate of this beautiful bird was with him in the rosemary bush. There are cardinal pairs around. One pair fussed at me when I went onto the deck this morning. They were holding court on the glider.

Bird feeders must be researched, I think. The backyard provides plenty of foliage for nesting and shelter and constant running water. I would like to provide a little more for our feathered friends.

Thank you God for giving us such wonderful gifts!!!!