Creating Sacred Spaces

I've mentioned my garden circle several times on this blog, usually when I have added to it in some way. The space has evolved both in how it looks and how I use it over the past two years. Currently, it's borders are marked with large rocks that are large enough to sit on. In the center is a fountain, and there are small trees and shrubs growing randomly along the edges. I use this space primarily to relax and contemplate after a long day, usually with a cup of tea in hand. I also use it to have serious or important talks with people. The space is special because it has been infused with meaning.

After many discussions (some in the circle ha ha!) we have decided to make completing this space our next project. Our plan is to enclose the space further, replace the grassy surface with a stone patio, and turn the border into a moon garden by adding white and silver plants. I know, it's a big project and a lot of work. I have a little experience with the planting aspect, but neither of us have ever tried to lay down a patio before.

Researching online gave me the impression that "a dedicated couple could complete a small patio project over several weekends". So we have given ourselves a six week deadline, which conveniently lands at the same time we are hosting a rehearsal dinner for dear friends.

Birthday

For my birthday this year, my parents and my partner went in together to give me an over-the-top, beautiful, whimsical gift. They gave me a FOUNTAIN!!!

I always wanted a proper fountain in the backyard, specifically in the sacred circle space we created last summer. But it was hardly a priority. A fountain this size is also expensive, heavy, and dificult to set up. But they made it happen, and I was beyond thrilled. It looks and sounds beautiful and calming, birds play in it, and the sun reflects the water onto the leaves above.

Love to the full moon!



Autumn Gratitude Ritual

When the trees are losing their leaves, I like to honor the end of their yearly cycle with a gratitude ritual. This is often done on the eve of the Autumn Equinox. Throughout the year the trees give us shelter, oxygen, food, and beauty. This ritual is essentially an offering, giving something of meaning in exchange for all that the trees have given us. Achieving balance. The best offerings in my opinion take effort - in this case I made bread from scratch (an overnight process) and apple cider (a full day undertaking). So there was effort a-plenty! Choose a tree that is special to you - maybe one you pass daily on your way to work, or one that looks especially beautiful this time of year. The tree we chose is a young maple that I stare at through the kitchen window while doing the dishes. It also looks gorgeous this time of year.

Our offering is ready

We tie the bread to one of the branches with string

Flowers adorn the base of the tree

We thank our beautiful maple tree

This ritual can be accompanied with singing, a declaration of gratitude, silent thought - anything! Whatever you feel moved to do is fine - as long as it is done with a genuine heart. I usually hum while I put out the offering, and end by saying a few things aloud. When the offering was complete, we went inside and enjoyed apple cider hot from the stovetop. Happy Autumn everyone!

Elder Tree

Here are some photos of a nearby tree I visit every time I walk the dog. The first time I saw this tree I was struck by the resemblance to a woman with her arms outstretched. So to me this tree has a female energy, and I call her the Elder Tree. She is covered in thick moss, and her branches reach out over a small creek. It's a beautiful spot at any time of year.

Her arms are outstretched

Soft moss covers the trunk and branches

Dramatic on this overcast day

Elder Tree is in a public wooded area, so while it's somewhat private there still sounds of traffic and other urban noises. It doesn't bother me (although I do feel sad when I see trash or graffiti) as I simply accept it as part of the landscape. The beauty and power of nature doesn't go away, we are just distracted from it by other things. So, all you have to do is make a conscious effort to notice. I feel quite lucky to have a wooded area like this the same distance from me as the grocery store and movie theatre.