Fruits of our Labor

 

It’s Labor Day weekend here in the States, a time when we celebrate the fruits of our labor, and allow ourselves time and space to reflect on the work that has been.

The garden harvest turns to fall-colored things, deeply colored and golden. My favorite winter squash is delicata, the first variety to come to harvest, and one of the simplest to prepare, almost as if the garden said, “Here, take a rest and enjoy the fruits of your labor.”

Delicata plants are prolific, inviting us to gather friends, tell them to fetch a squash from the vine, and tell stories as they roast whole in the oven for 45 minutes. 

Set a pot of black lentils up while the oven is going, and serve as a hearty side. Start with a salad of baby kale and baby spinach, the first tender leaves coming forth from the second planting, and top with sunflower seeds and dried cranberries. Dress with garlic apple cider vinaigrette. 

Here Comes the Sun

Here we are at the beginning of September, a golden time of year. 

The heady days of summer are retreating, and in their wake I find, as I do each year, a renewed sense of what I bring from within

I am a power house, and it can be easy to lose sight of this. 

This challenge is about staying in touch with all that I have at my core: At the center of the labyrinth of myself I have a shining spiritual sun that fuels me, sustains me, warms me.

I have nothing left to prove.

Being as I am is enough.

Nurturing that is the path.