What was left of the tomatoes died a while ago from the chilly nights, but I had hope that some of the flowers in pots on the deck could be saved. After moving the potting table back under the shelter of the house and the overhang I kept looking for another window to bring another plant to winter over. Now in the early morning before the sunrise, I wonder what’s still left alive out there.
The neighborhood deer huddled against the storm under the large pine tree to stay somewhat dry. The wind and rain were fierce. At the outdoors Nordic fair near Budd Lake, there was hail. True, we were somewhat sheltered by the pavilion roof and some tarp strung up to provide some shelter, but the hail blew in and the temperature dropped a good 20 degrees by the time we were done.
One could really feel the fall coming in with a fury, but, hey, it wasn’t last February. And as I reminded all the hearty Scandinavians there, our ancestors went sailing in this weather. They must have been a really hearty folk!
Prayer for the Day
The morning is calm and cold, and the sun comes into a clear sky
As the birds flutter about looking for food that will sustain them;
Even the squirrels are nestled in their drays, huddled for warmth,
Waiting for the sun to warm even the cold air.
Embracing us all as we grab our hats and gloves,
Help us to grant warmth to those who need it.
In the name of the One who told us to share our cloaks,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Fear not November’s challenge bold – we’ve books and friends,
And hearths that can never grow cold: these make amends.
Anthony Louis Fraser, Canadian clergyman and poet (1870-1954)
It was November, the month of crimson sunsets, parting birds, deep, sad hymns of the sea, passionate wind songs of the pines.
Lucy Maud Montgomery, from Anne of Green Gables (1874-1942)
God understands the way to wisdom, and knows its place,
For God looks to the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens.
When God gave to the wind its weight, and apportioned out the waters by measure;
When God made a decree for the rain, and a way for the thunderbolt;
Then God saw it and declared it; God established wisdom and searched it out.
Job 28: 23-27