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Lamb storm at Maple Hill

I’ve been concerned in recent weeks because I have a sense that some people no longer believe that nature works. I’ve even read some material that suggests that Earth cannot regenerate itself anymore.
For us, here on Maple Hill, above the Long Prairie River, this last week has once again demonstrated that the profound and abiding forces of renewal and regeneration are at work as always.

To start the week off - actually, to end last week, we went to the baby shower of Maria Lopez and her husband Jose. Really, Mary and Joseph! Maria is such a beautiful and strong looking pregnant woman and together they are so filled with joy and vitality that one is assured that this new beginning will join with all of us to continue this miracle of life. It was quite an honor to be with them.

Then, earlier this week, we went north to visit Caroline Venis at the Wadena-Deer Creek school deep winter green house. It was gray, windy, and cold outside but it was springtime inside. The cucumbers, tomatoes, and nasturtiums Caroline had planted in December were in full bloom. The students had already been snacking on nasturtium flowers but will have to wait until May for their home grown tomatoes and cukes. Caroline had also planted peppers and peas in the rich soil she nurtures so carefully.

Caroline, like Maria and Jose, is deeply moved by the new life she is participating in.

“The children love the fresh peas,” she said. “They are so sweet.”

Upon reflection, I don’t know if she meant the children or the peas are sweet. It doesn’t matter. It’s all the same.

While this was going on we were experiencing a lamb storm at Maple Hill. It started slowly and a couple babies died. This is a heart breaking thing. But then four sets of healthy twins were born and they are drinking their mothers rich milk and thriving. There will be more to come. The power of it is far bigger than we are. We are fortunate to be witnesses and participants in such a grand enterprise.

The photos below are the first lamb of the year and its mom, Caroline in her green house, and the two shepherds Thomas (on the left) and Colin with the ewe named Ewestice. She is the proud mother of twins. 

All evidence points to the Earth working just fine. I’m happy to be on-board.

Tim
Central Minnesota Political

PS:  The maple sap has started running!





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