Saint Francis de Sales

Plains Wild Indigo

Today is Good Friday. It is good because some-One died so that life might come. After taking about 20 different snapshots of blooming wildfowers on the property, I have chosen to highlight this one for this very special day. 

Like the Plains Wild Indigo, Jesus became sin - aka death - so new life would be born. Even from this creation He teaches of His love. Who would ever think that the dead, dry bush on the left would be the key to the beautiful sprays of hopeful, yellow blooms displayed by the Wild Indigo on the right. Seeds that die are seeds that reproduce - and so it is with us. 

On this Good Friday, this simple flower speaks peace to me in the mystery of how hope is most always born of suffering. It makes zero sense to the world, but as such it is.

Hebrews 5:7-10 says it well ~

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard for his godly fear, and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchiz'edek. 

This saint says it well too~

If there be a true way that leads to the Everlasting Kingdom, it is most certainly that of suffering, patiently endured. -- St. Colette

May we collectively rejoice in our sufferings, moving ahead with every step in the hope of building a sure foundation for a Heavenly future. In our death to self, may He live in us. In Christ's obedience, may we follow suit and join our sufferings to His. Thanks be to God. Amen.

Plains Wild Indigo Cool Facts~

- used by Native Americans for medicines (stimulant and astringent)

- produces a blue dye when boiled

- roots were "toothbrushes" of old

- entire bush dies in late summer, turning a silverish color, breaks and tumbles about in the wind

- we cluster and use these as hiding spots for quail during hunts

Happy 2 Year Ampuversary

We've come a long way, baby . . . squirrel - 

Welcome, Grant!

A big WELCOME and we love you to our latest little grand-rancher - Grant Daniel Williams! Born February 9, 2016 at 8 pounds 4 ounces and 19 inches long! Thank You, Lord for this miracle! 

Today's Beauty

"Be exalted, O God, above the heavens.
    Let your glory be over all the earth." ~Psalm 57:11

From morning mist rising . . . 

to birds perching . . . 

to the moonrise . . . 

God's glory is singing all around us. 

Cut the Cable

To cut back on expenses we've decided to "cut the cable," as Robert says. He is also perusing the thought of putting his services up-for-hire, with a conditional required tip for rooves like ours. All went well, but he did say that our tin roof was "slicker than owl poop." This isn't really noteworthy, but I just like the picture and thought to share it.

Play Day

Every soul needs a play day. We are celebrating ours with a first time to worship at a beautiful cathedral in Austin, to eat double portions at Iron Cactus and to be accompanied by a pigeon missing part of its left leg - as well as a clever grackle who has lost his manners. :)