He Restoreth My Soul

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen". Hebrews 11:1

The question was once asked, "Have you ever thought of your life as being a garden? If we had come to the conclusion, that yes, we could in some ways consider our life as a garden, then that might lead us to ponder the other questions posed, as well. What seeds are you planting? What fruit is being brought forth? What fragrances are you leaving behind?

In the reflection," Garden Fragrances", some examples of "garden-like" lives had been introduced. Through the seeds that were sown, and the fruit that was brought forth, fragrances were left behind that benefited countless thousands. We touched briefly on the skills and labors put forth by Frederick Law Olmsted, a world renowned landscape architect. Some of his life's work produced some of the most exquisite gardens in the world. Those fragrances--left behind in the gardens and grounds of a world famous attraction--are still bringing joy and inspiration to thousands of visitors to the Biltmore Estate each year. Another life that had been mentioned, and continues to bless and inspire people from around the world, is that of Helen Steiner Rice,"America's beloved inspirational poet laureate". Her writings of God's love for mankind continue to bring hope, faith, and love to countless souls, long after her life on earth has passed.

These examples of garden fragrances, left behind to inspire, motivate, and bring comfort and hope, are lives of somewhat famous people, from the era in which they lived. There are numerous examples of lives today, that are once again producing beautiful fragrances, from which we all receive the blessings. For the most part, these wonderful folks won't be mentioned in the evening news or the tabloid papers. Through her book, " In Spite Of Cancer", Georgia Lucas has shared with us numerous instances of lives that have been touched by this disease. They are everyday people, who have been tested through some of life's greatest adversities, and have come through them with a renewed sense of what life is all about. Through their individual trials and tribulations they have come to realize that God has a purpose for each and every one of us. They have come to the realization that we were all put here to love and care for our neighbor. That, through loving each other, we fulfil a part of God's plan for our lives.

Of all the tragic and life altering experiences we could possibly be faced with, cancer would probably be one of the most daunting realizations to come to grips with. At that point in time, we are faced squarely with our mortality. The psalmist referred to walking, "through the valley of the shadow of death". The 23rd Psalm might indeed be one of the many verses of the Bible that is brought to mind at such a time. But, praise be to God, that the verse goes on to say, "I will fear no evil: for thou art with me". Those who have come out of the valley of fear and dread into the glorious light of hope and faith, are the ones who can share their sweet fragrances of God's love with us all. Visit the Cancer Treatment Centers of America and The ACS' Cancer Survivors Network websites, and read some of the stories of the healing, hope, and renewed vision that these survivor's of cancer came away with. In most cases this renewing of their hearts, lives, and minds would not have been possible, had it not been for others who had been through the same valley and were willing to share their experiences. These fragrances, that were brought forth from the fruit of their help and guidance to others, are of lasting value to all.

In telling the story of the lives of those who have left us gardens of inspiration, there is one that inspires above all others. It is the story of a man who came to a garden long ago. He didn't come to the garden for his own enjoyment, but to do what he referred to as a young boy as, "I must be about my Father's business". Before going to this garden it was said of him, "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief". He began at an early age sowing the seeds that would eventually flourish and become the, "bread of life", for all who would trust him. He left a sweet fragrance behind that all of mankind would have a chance to become recipients of. He faced a life altering experience that no man has ever had to, nor will ever be asked to face. As he knelt alone in the garden, he didn't think about himself, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God". He looked forward to the fact that because of the sweet fragrance of his life and sacrifice, many would win the battle over a disease greater than cancer. They would be able to be victorious over sin and it's consequences. The apostle Paul stated, "O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? Of all the lives who have left us "Garden Fragrances", none is greater than,

         "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends". John 15:13.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved". John 3:16-17

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved". Romans 10:13

My friend, today, invite Jesus Christ into your heart and life. Pray this prayer with me.

"Lord Jesus, thank you for taking my place on the cross, dying for my sins. I believe that after taking my place, you were buried and that you rose again the third day just as the Bible says. Please forgive me of my sins and come into my heart and save me Lord Jesus. In your name I pray, amen."

January 2010 Planting Times For Veggies

It is a known fact that in gardening, timing is everything, when it relates to planting. There are, most assuredly, favorable and unfavorable days during the month. One excellent reference for timing, that gardeners have been using for years, is The Farmers Almanac. This reliable publication relies heavily on the tried and true method of moon phases. According to the almanac, for the month of January 2010, the 19th through the 21st, are very suitable times for planting any above ground crops that weather permits. It is an exceptional time for planting peas and other vine-like varieties provided the Hardiness Zone Map for your area permits. The 22nd and 23rd are what is considered barren days. Do not do any planting on these dates. The 24th and 25th are perfect days for planting beans, peppers, cucumbers, melons, and a few other above ground species, providing the weather permits. The 26th and 27th will be primarily poor for planting, as the seeds tend to rot in the ground. The 28th and 29th will be exceptional days for planting above ground crops, especially peas, beans, cucumbers, and squash. Plant seedbeds and flower gardens on the 30th and the 31st. The 30th and 31st will be a great time for killing weeds, briars, and poison ivy. This time frame is also an excellent opportunity for killing plant pests and clearing fence rows and woodlots. The Farmers Almanac has always been an accurate and reliable tool for determining the best planting periods during the month. For the best selection of a wide variety of seeds for vegetable gardening, follow the link below to Gurney's. World famous for selection and quality service for your gardening needs.

Vegetable Seeds

Importance Of Hardiness Zones

One of the most critical factors governing a successful gardening venture is the best planting time for a particular plant in your neck of the woods. There are a number of sites offering a wealth of information on this subject. I have decided to narrow the options down somewhat. As I stated before, one of the best resources available is the Farmer's Almanac.

Another critical issue deals with plant hardiness. An extremely valuable tool for determining the best plants available for your area, based on hardiness, is the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Once again rather than get into a lengthy dicussion, I have provided the links to these tools. First of all some helpful information explaining the use of the map. Then the map itself.

Please use both of these wonderful guides for your gardening enjoyment. Enter your zipcode in the Almanac to find the best planting times. Use the hardiness zone map to determine which plants have the best chance of survival in your area based on temperature ranges.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Vines

Vines and vine-like plants are a beautiful addition to any landscaping project.They add a flair of sophistication to any yard or garden. Unlike trees and shrubs, which have rigid stems, those of most varieties can be guided to grow where you want them. You can have them grow upward or outward on a vertical surface, around a tree trunk, or as you can see by the photos they add an air of elegance to brick architecture.There are four major vine attachments. We will touch briefly on those four and guide you to some valuable resources.Twining vines, twining tendrils, clinging vines, and vines that require tying.

Vine Fact Sheet (Ohio State University)

Vines(purchase)

Planting Trees And Shrubs In The Fall

Fall is an excellent time of the year for planting trees and shrubs. In the more moderate zones, October , November, and December are near perfect times for planting a variety of species. A couple of factors such as water requirements being lower and the fact that most varieties are busy storing nutrients from the ground during the colder months are major advantages. As stated earlier, the hardiness zone tool is a great method for determining what types and species should work the best for your region.

There are a few basic guidelines to consider before starting. Choosing the site is, for the most part, a matter of choice as to curb appeal. Time spent learning the conditions most favorable for the variety you have chosen to prosper is invaluable. One example of this is a tree or shrub that requires a lot of moisture. You would want to consider planting this species a considerable distance from oak trees. The reason for this is that oak trees drain quite a bit of water from the ground to stay healthy. Another factor to consider is the eventual root structure. If you decide on a shrub that does not naturally produce a deep root, you might plan on locating it closer to natural wind shielding areas. Read and follow closely the instructions and directions that come with most varieties you purchase.

Remember to keep in mind as well, whether it is a fruit bearing tree or not. These should be planted away from decks, walkways and parking areas to minimize their dropping messy fruits on heavily traveled areas. Also consider the eventual size once it reaches maturity. The main reason for this consideration is for structural damage to the foundation if it is located too close to your home.

Once you have determined what tree or shrub you are going to plant, adhering to some basic planting tips will pay great dividends in years to come. As to the initial planting, dig a hole that is just slightly shallower than the root ball and about twice as wide. The shallower depth allows the root ball to be at or just above the soil level. Doing this enables the root structure to begin life in the more fertile top soil. Some experts believe also, that if you are planting in harder clay, as opposed to a looser soil, you should dig the hole a little more than twice as wide as the root ball.


These are just a few simple tips for the successful selection and planting of the trees and shrubs you decide on. For more in depth information and ideas we again refer you to some of our excellent resources.

Trees

Curb Appeal Equals Equity

There are a number of reasons the average homeowner decides on a landscaping project for their home or garden. One of the major advantages of considering home improvement by means of landscaping is for the equity it provides to their property. For the DIY home gardener, a landscaping project represents a challenge and a pleasurable experience to them in creating lasting beauty for their homes. The pride they take in accomplishing their goals and the respect they obtain from their neighbors is most gratifying.

Homeowners who are not quite as industrious or experienced at performing landscaping techniques as their DIY counterparts, still see landscaping as being a worthwhile venture to help add curb appeal to their residences. These homeowners must approach the task of landscaping from a somewhat different angle. Whether it is for the simple enjoyment of the landscaping experience, or the aesthetic benefits it provides for the homeowner, curb appeal equals equity for the homeowner.

Even with the fact of the housing market and the overall economy being in a downturn, homeowners can still benefit and add value to their property by improving the outside appearance of their homes. This is accomplished for the most part by landscaping design elements. Landscaping, as it applies to the average homeowner, incorporates two of the three major landscaping concepts. The three concepts of landscaping are Landscape Design, Landscape Architecture, and Garden Design.

Those most beneficial to the average DIYer are landscape and garden design. Landscape Architecture is a concept that is a little bit out of the realm of the average consumer, thus rendering it not as relevant. Some of these landscaping design elements are flowers, shrubbery, trees, and plants. Other design elements include some architectural components, such as ,brick or stone, fountains, ponds and concrete pottery items .

There are a couple of ways consumers can approach the task of improving their home's curb appeal. First, for the DIYer, they can ask questions and get tips and advice from many of the fine home improvement or local gardening centers available to them. The staff and management of these centers are very knowledgeable and have plenty of resources available to assist the homeowner.

For those homeowners without the experience or knowledge to undertake such a venture, there are usually a number of excellent landscaping contractors available locally who provide wonderful services. One piece of advice to those consumers contemplating hiring a contractor. They may need to consider taking advantage of companies such as Angie's List to help them make informed decisions on which contractor(s) to enlist. They have ratings and recommendations on contractors nationwide, based on input from members of the list. These ratings include such criteria as quality of work and the customer service(or, lack thereof) these members have received from the companies and contractors they had hired.

The DIYer has, as stated earlier, a few options available. The advice and tips from home improvement centers, and also from the many books available on the subject. There are also a number of companies available who either produce, or offer at retail, excellent landscape design software. This design software is in the form of CD-ROM, or in some cases, in a down loadable format online. Either way, it is an excellent resource available to the DIYer. The homeowner who desires to hire a quality landscape designer or contractor has the resource of ratings companies, such as Angie's List, from which to turn to for valuable advice. Those consumers that are eventually going to hire a professional, can still benefit from the software programs available. They can design a template of their preferences to present to the contractor during the initial planning stage.

In closing, there are few home improvement techniques that deliver more aesthetic beauty and lasting value than landscaping. The investment made in improving the outside appearance of a home, adds tremendous long term benefits to the homeowner. Whether this is accomplished as a DIY project, or contracted out to a professional, it is a very worthwhile venture indeed. In the midst of an economic downturn and a housing market slump, it is still possible to increase the value of ones home. Landscaping equals curb appeal. Curb appeal equals equity.

Landscaping Ideas

Garden Fragrances

It has been stated before, that your garden is an expression of you. I would like for you to consider for a moment the garden of your life. The garden that people will see after you have gone on. Your garden, your legacy. Have you ever thought of your life being a garden? We touched briefly on the notion that your garden is an expression of you. What seeds are you planting? What fruit is being brought forth? What fragrances are you leaving behind?

Go with me in your mind to some of the most exquisite gardens in the world. One that comes to mind is the gardens and the grounds at the famous Biltmore Estate. Frederick Law Olmsted, a world renowned landscape architect, has touched the lives of untold thousands of people through his creativity. A stroll through those wonderful gardens is an experience that will be etched in your memory for a lifetime. If you ever need the inspiration to create your own little corner of the world, surely you must visit that awe inspiring estate. The work, the dedication, and the love of creating lasting beauty, is most evident in this beautiful garden. What a testimony and a legacy this man has left for all to enjoy.

Another garden of inspiration and beauty that has been left for all to benefit from is the life of a sweet, sweet lady. Helen Steiner Rice has touched and warmed the hearts of countless millions of people around the world. She has been acclaimed, and rightly so, "America's beloved inspirational poet laureate". Her works of inspirational literature have doubtless warmed and comforted the hearts of everyone who has ever read them. The sweet fragrances of God's love for mankind is so apparent in her writings. This well of life that she was able to draw from, she has passed on to us. This garden, that was her life, still continues to blossom anew in the hearts and minds of her readers. What a precious legacy.

The question still remains. Will you cultivate a garden of life today? A garden that your family, friends and the rest of the world will glean hope , happiness, and warmth from? There are a number of fertile grounds that are tilled and ready for planting. Will you begin today sowing those seeds that will blossom, mature, and bring to life your legacy. Remember, your garden, your legacy, your expression of yourself, will flourish and continue to be a sweet fragrance for the world to experience. Consider some of these fields that lay before you. Churches, Homes for the Elderly, and missionaries serving on foreign fields.

Missions To Military