For see, the winter is past,
the rains are over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth,
the time of pruning the vines has come,
and the song of the dove is heard in our land.
The fig tree puts forth its figs,
and the vines, in bloom, give forth fragrance.
Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one,
and come! (Song of Songs 2:11-13)
Yesterday was a beautiful morning in Seattle. I went on a walk with Tune to capture more images of those wondrous cherry trees. As the flowers appeared on the earth I heard the ancient call that keeps hope planted inside of me ready to spring forth like a spectacle of snowy petals.
My beloved and I are off for a couple of days retreat together. In the meantime please keep those orders for prayer cards and notecards coming (I will fill them on Monday and thanks to everyone who has ordered so far, your support means so very much)!
And write those stories of blossoming and leave a comment letting me know (scroll down for more info). The drawing for a free set of prayer cards will be next Wednesday!
-Christine Valters Paintner @ Abbey of the Arts
The grass is just starting to green – we are several weeks away from flowers appearing so it's a treat to see these beautiful blossoms. Thanks for sharing. And many wonderful blessings on your time away with your beloved!
How beautiful, the photo, your words and the words from the Bible.
Days are getting warmer up north here as well.
Your photos are spectacular! Hope your retreat is nourishing.
I hope you are having a wonderful time with your beloved! Please send me more information about the retreat…I am quite excited at the possibility!
Thank you Cathleen, Britt-Arnhild, Carla, and Suz! I adore watching the fruit trees blossom and I had a good weekend away, more tomorrow!
Blessings, Christine