Nature

“Take Five” with Before We Stood Tall

Today on “Take Five” I’m recommending Before We Stood Tall: From Small Seed to Mighty Tree. This picture book was written by Jessica Kulekjian and illustrated by Madeline Kloepper (Kids Can Press, 2021). From the front flap: “Discover the extraordinary life cycle of trees—in reverse! From mature tree to young tree to sapling to sprout… Read more »

Apple Blossoms, MTV Awards, and Finding Awe Outdoors

Nature instills wonder. We just have to notice. I recently read a Writer’s Digest article on how authors should gauge their success. It said, “Start by asking yourself: Why did I write this book?” I wrote Night Becomes Day: Changes in Nature because transformations fascinate me. Each summer, I watch flowers turn into fruit in… Read more »

Comfort Food for the Soul

Come January, do you find you want to reread favorite books, re-watch favorite movies, or listen to favorite pieces of music? I do. Other times of the year, I prefer discovering something new. But in January, even as we begin a new year, I find myself recalling things from the past that I want to… Read more »

Making an Ordinary Outing an Adventure

It was my daughter’s idea—catching the sunrise and sunset on the summer solstice. She planned to see them with a friend, and I smiled at the idea. So, early Saturday morning, when the pink light of dawn glimmered around the edges of my bedroom curtains, I decided to copy her. “Come with me,” I whispered to… Read more »