Monday, October 17, 2005

Autumn leaves

Autumn leaves…

Autumn is in its glory here in southern Wisconsin, and before they shut down for the winter, the trees are giving us one last gift…their beautiful, bright, iridescent leaves.

Alex, my last little preschooler, has been accompanying me on my leaf gathering forays. His joy and enthusiasm is contagious, and it warms my heart to see that he too is developing a love for God’s creation. I remember when my three children were really young (I had them 14 months apart from each other) - they seemed so demanding, so needy, so totally consuming of every ounce of my energy. I wondered if they would ever want to spend time with me doing the kind of things I enjoy, like walking through a meadow, or the forest, drinking in the beauty of creation, and of course examining each and every plant, flower, or leaf we come upon.

My husband repeatedly assured me that whatever he and I had a passion for, our kids would most likely develop a passion for as well. He was right! Each one of my three children are showing a love and appreciation for the world around them, and although they might not be quite as crazy about flowers and leaves as I am, they display a remarkable tolerance for my passion, and eagerly bring me their own plant discoveries.

Autumn is such a fleeting season, please try to get out there soon, before it fades away, and drink in the color, the sweet earthy scent of fallen leaves, and the tangy cool breeze. And, grab a child or two, and take them with you, so they too can learn to appreciate the beauty all around us.

“the beauty of each blossom (and leaf) speaks silently of God’s love…”

If you don’t have time to make your own, Autumn Leaf Cards are now available on my website.

Labels: