Mercy Rain

Indiana has seen more than its normal fare of rain this June. In our community garden we think about the water needed for our plot share. Every bit is precious and necessary to life. The abundance of regular rain means that I don't have to lug gallons from the tank and refill what I have used. The rain is like mercy -something I don't deserve - abundant and free.

Sometimes there are other reminders to be merciful that hit me upside the head - when others withhold that life-giving mercy from me. The last two weeks have been an exhausting struggle - difficult and life-draining - that could have been avoided with a little mercy.

The pain recalls an age-old lesson.

Am I really remembering to show mercy to others?

Do I choose to think that others are doing their best even if they mess up and that mess affects me?

Do I love them because they agree with me and make choices that look just like mine?

Is it easier to work for mercy overseas to someone I don't know, while I overlook chances to be merciful to those around me?


I struggle to find that courage - that says you can be yourself around me - no matter what.


Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy (Matt 5).









(pix-ARobinson photos)

Plant a row for the hungry...

Plant a row for the hungry is a great start on sharing home grown produce. Their website is actually the Garden Writer's Association. When I need further gardening help - these guys are the experts. They have a national campaign to give back by encouraging gardeners to plant an extra row for the hungry.




Don't know what to plant? Find a listing of your local food pantries to see what items are needed and their procedures for accepting donations.

The best food pantry websites are found by searching your local area.

Here's info for all you fellow Hoosiers about local Indiana food pantries and local food rescue.

Indiana's Food for the Hungry Web Site
Midwest Food Bank
Food Rescue
Third Phase


Are you planting something this spring? Send me pictures and your story and I will post some on the blog.

Happy planting!

Question of the week...gardening tips

Do you have any gardening tips for newbies?

Do you have a gardening question of your own?

Garden for Good

Fresh, healthy, sustainable, and local food might seem an unlikely justice issue. But unbalanced food production cycles directly contribute to the hunger and poverty in our world.

What if you could save your family $ on your groceries and have some to share with local food pantries that desperately need fresh produce?

March is a great month to start indoor seeds for a garden. In the past I have struggled with my garden. Not too much space, lack of equipment, and badly timed plantings.

Yesterday I sat down with a new friend Sara, who helped sort things out.

Time to begin seeds indoor for the garden? Now
How do I start to plan out my garden? Visit Square foot gardening to find out.
I only have a small space? That's OK
Do I need large equipment for a small garden? No

Websites to visit:
Seeds of change
Baker's Heirloom Seeds
Grace Garden
Square foot gardening

(pix-stock.xchng)