Words from the Heart

Over the past ten years, Roger and I have literally planted hundreds of trees, bushes, flowers and herbs around our home.  When we first moved into The Enchanted Cottage , it was less than enchanting.  Literally, it was a Cape Cod style house on grass.   Above is an aerial view of the house (red roof) just after we began planting trees and shrubs.  As you can see, it was pretty much open to everything. Now, however, our home is very enchanting.  We have hidden gardens and beautiful greenery all year round.  Friends and relatives love to come sit in our yard.  Animals - birds, butterflies, bunnies, frogs, possum and even the neighbor's chickens - come to visit, enjoying the flora as much as we do. Here are some pictures of our Enchanted Cottage, now.   The backyard filled with herbs, roses, flowers and a cherry tree   Path to the secret garden!   Wind chimes and prayer flags One of our many critter...

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) Today, May 22, I participated in an interfaith memorial service held on the town commons in Gre enfield, MA.  I have attended many memorial services , but this was the fir st time I had attended and participated in a service for those who had died homeless. Reading a prayer for those who died homeless The Interfaith Council of Franklin County (ICFC) , of which I am a member, h as held this service in May for close to 15 years.  Each year, we pray will be the last.  N ation wide, the observ ance is hel d on the win ter solstice . But, for those of us in ICFC, the observance is in the spring . These are the words I wrote and read at the service. I ask that as you read them, you hold the the memory of the homeless - men, women and children - in your heart. We gather here today to remember - Remember those who have no homes - Remember those who have found no comfort - Remember those turned away -...