Posted in Gardens, joyful-echoes, Seasons

Growing Our Own Food

Growing your own food and connecting to nature is a powerful and rewarding experience that can bring us closer to God. Not only can this practice help to sustain our physical bodies, but it also has spiritual implications. As the Bible says in Proverbs 12:11, “He who tills his land will have plenty of bread, But he who follows frivolity will have poverty enough!” This scripture speaks to the importance of working hard and cultivating the land. And in Galatians 6:7-8, it is written: “Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.” This passage speaks to the idea that we will reap what we sow, both physically and spiritually.

The large area raised garden

The act of growing our own food is an act of self-sufficiency, a connection with nature, and a way to remind ourselves of the gifts of God. It is a reminder that we can trust in God for all of our needs. When we plant our gardens and tend to them throughout the season, we are reminded of our faith and dependence on God. Planting and harvesting our own fruits and vegetables is a reminder of the miracles God has created and how we can glorify Him in our lives. It is also a reminder of how we are all connected to the land and each other.

Growing our own food can offer us peace, community, and connection with God. By getting our hands in the dirt and learning to cultivate the land we can build a closer relationship with God, deepen our understanding of nature, and experience the joy of eating fresh fruits and vegetables that we grew ourselves. Even patios gardens with tomatoes and peppers in a pot allows us to get one with Mother Earth

Ways to grow plants no matter how small the area is.

The Benefits and Joys of Small-Space Vegetable Gardening

The world we live in today is fast-paced, with most people busy with work and other responsibilities. As such, it’s essential to slow down and take time to enjoy some leisure activities that can improve our quality of life. One such activity is gardening, which can be both therapeutic and rewarding. However, not everyone has the luxury of a big garden or yard. For those living in small apartments or homes with limited outdoor space, vegetable gardening may seem like a far-fetched idea. But worry not, because with a little creativity and some helpful tips, you can create your own mini-garden oasis.

One excellent way to start small-space vegetable gardening is by using patio pots. Patio pots come in various sizes and materials, making them ideal for growing different types of vegetables. For instance, you can grow lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens in small pots, while larger ones can accommodate tomato plants and bell peppers. Additionally, patio pots offer flexibility, allowing you to move them around to maximize sunlight exposure or protect them from harsh weather conditions.

Another great option for small-space gardening is vertical gardening. This technique involves growing plants upwards rather than outwards, using trellises, hanging baskets, or wall-mounted planters. Vertical gardening helps save on space and can add aesthetic appeal to your balcony or patio. You can grow cucumbers, beans, peas, and other vining vegetables using this method.

When it comes to planting, you have two options: seeds or seedlings. Seedlings are young plants that are already a few weeks old and are ready to be planted, while seeds require more time and effort to germinate. If you’re a beginner or if you have limited time, seedlings are a perfect choice as they save time and shorten the growing season. However, starting with seedlings will limit the types of plants you can grow. If you prefer a more diverse selection of vegetables, starting with seeds is the way to go.

Posted in community, joyful-echoes, Seasons

Seasons Of Our Life

This is so brilliant that I had to share this advice on friendship from Madea (aka Tyler Perry).

Madea is a character developed by Tyler Perry based on his mother and aunt and from watching Eddie Murphy perform.

One of Madea’s comedy bits is about understanding relationships.

Using the analogy of a trees, “Madea” says that some people are like leaves, some are like the branches on a tree and, then there are those friends who are our roots. Read this: Madea shares how to understand relationships.

Most people are like leaves.

When the wind blows they go to one side of the tree and then the wind blows the other way they are on the other side. They are totally unstable. All they do is take from the tree and only give shade. When the seasons change they wither and fall off the tree. But don’t be angry with them; this is who they are. God put them in your life just for a season.

Some people are like branches on the tree but watch out for them.

They make you think they are your friends but the minute you step out, they break and leave you.

Oh, but God bless those folks who are the roots.

You are blessed to find two or three people who are your roots. They are there to help you live and give stability to your life. A tree may have one thousand branches but just a few roots. Hold on to these people.

The lesson is to be able to let people and relationships go.

And learn how to be alone and first love yourself. Learn to be peaceful.

With your later years, you should learn to be at peace with yourself and others.

Get rid of the dysfunction and let people go who continue to create drama and dysfunction in your life.
Although I am a blogger who shares inspiration and motivational programs, this advice is so important for a living balanced life.

Share this blog with those folks who need some help with their relationships. Also share this blog to honor those who are your roots.
Posted in joyful-echoes, Seasons

Glorious Spring

Spring is a time of renewal and fresh starts, as evidenced by the blooming flowers and budding trees. It’s a miracle of nature that reminds us of the power and goodness of God. As the snow melts away and the days grow longer, we are reminded of the promise of new life and new beginnings.

In Psalm 51:10, David writes, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; renew a right spirit within me.” This passage speaks to the idea that spring is a time for spiritual renewal and growth. It’s a time to examine our hearts and ask God to create in us a clean slate, free from past mistakes and shortcomings.

Another powerful verse comes from Isaiah 43:19, which says, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” This passage captures the essence of spring as a time for new beginnings and fresh starts. It reminds us that God is always at work, creating new opportunities and making a way where there seems to be none.

As we celebrate spring, let us take time to reflect on these verses and the message they bring. May we embrace the newness of the season and the endless possibilities it holds, trusting in God’s plan for our lives.