Changing Time - Accepting THIS Season

This photo on the left is Summer at a mill in Idaho. See how happy the tree leaves look? And why shouldn't they be happy? They are well-watered, have plenty of sunshine, and they have been programmed by The Creator to "show off" their plumage! it's like every thing is wonderful and will never change. But time does change and I have difficulty accepting the change.

Now, the photo on the right is of the same mill, but the Season is Autumn.What few leaves are left are either gold, red, or crusty brown. Are these trees full of angst over the changing season? Are they depressed unto death? No! Without any faith on their part, they're just accepting the inevitable! They're accepting the season.

With the changing of time, most of us (except those in Arizona) have been made acutely aware of our energy levels. It's dark so early in the autumn, and because our bodies are so influenced by the energy of the sun and moon, we automatically feel tired earlier! It's easier to get depressed or upset in Autumn or Winter. We don't like change!

There is a spiritual lesson in this for me. Solomon said, "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven..." Ecclesiastes 3:1

And in Proverbs 15:23, "A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, And a word spoken in due season, how good it is!"

Psalm 104:27, " These all wait for You,That You may give them their food in due season."

So, with just a few of the references to "due season" and "time" I begin to understand that God does deal in Seasons. And those of us who live by faith in His sovereignty must understand that faith is not about "what could be" or what should be". Faith is believing in what IS. Whatever the situation right now, it is as it should be in the grand scheme of God's will. It may not feel like it, but it is!

Here's an example. When my marriage of more than 25 years ended unexpectedly, my faith had to learn to say, "Lord, I don't understand this, but I accept what is right now and I trust You with it."

God is neither constrained by time, nor blind to it. He foreknew I would be left alone, and He had already set in motion several miraculous avenues of support and provision. All He required of me was to accept "the season" and trust Him with it.

I think plants are lucky. They don't, to my knowledge, wonder and worry about all the changes in their lifetime. They just go with the flow, fit in with the current season, and grow deeper roots during the cold leafless Winter Season. I'm a human and I find it much harder to deal with constant change. It requires strong faith on my part. And "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by The Word of God." (Romans 10:16)

Gotta run! Time for this woman's daily walk!

© 2009 April Lorier

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

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Creatures Nature Video

All day I have been singing this song that I love so much, "All Creatures of Our God and King" written by St. Francis of Assisi and William Henry Draper. It is now public domain.

Years ago, a rock group called "2nd Chapter of Acts" recorded it in their "Hymns" album and then in "Hymns 2" in Baroque Style, and I ate them up! They were later re-released in a Hymns Collection that is "to die for!"

First, the nature video and the song as background to the video. Then the lyrics, just in case you know the song and want to sing along. (Don't worry: no one but God will hear you!)





And now the wonderful lyrics (and chord symbols for the guitarists)!

G C2 D (C-G walkdown)
All creatures of our God and King,
G C2 D
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
C2 G C2 D (C-G walkdown)
Alleluia! Alleluia!
G C2 D (C-G walkdown)
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
G C2 D
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!
C2 G C2 G
O praise Him, O praise Him!
C2 G C2 G
Alleluia! Alleluia!
C2 G
Allelu-u-ia!


( G C2 D (C-G walkdown)
Guitarists: rest of the verses are the same as the first, musically.


Thou rushing wind that art so strong,
Ye clouds that sail in heav’n along,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou rising morn, in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice!
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Alleluia!


And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise GOd and on Him cast your care!
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Alleluia!


Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father, praise the Son,
And praise the Spirit, Three in One!
O praise Him, O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Alleluia!

This very song was playing on the tape player when my most beloved Shih Tzu, Niecie, was giving birth to her first pup. I will never forget the moment when little Peanut was born and this song was booming over Niecie's yelps and Peanut's little squeaks!

I do hope you enjoyed it.

(c) 2009 Christian Nature

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

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Variegated Plants and The Virus of Fear

When I was CEO of a plant corporation, I enjoyed educating groups of people on the how-to's of different indoor plants. One of the questions I got most was why are two plants the same except one of them is variegated? They meant one plant was all green and one was a combination of green/white or green/yellow.

Variegated plants are an interesting topic. Most variegated plants are chimeras, meaning that have more than one tissue type due to a mutation. Leaves with yellow or green margins have cells in those areas that lack chlorophyll. (Flowers - especially tulips - in the 1600s had streaks caused by a virus infection. They were weakened plants.)

Even today, a variegated ivy must have access to higher light than the non-variegated to look (and be) as healthy as the all-green twin.

This has caused me to think about my spiritual life. Is my character variegated by weaknesses that will prevent me from being the woman God created me to be?

As I do a serious evaluation of myself, I wonder:

Isn't fear a variegation of my character? Didn't God say, "Do not fear"? I think so. I remember reading in Revelation 21:8

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

Whoa! To be included in the group with abominable, murderers, whoremongers, sorcerers, liars, and idolaters is pretty serious lumping! God must view fear and unbelief as very serious sins. I know, from experience, they are definitely character defects for a Christian who says she believes God's Word!

I think fear must be a slap-in-the-face of God. It's like screaming at Him, "You're nothing but a liar!" when I allow fear to reside in my mind, will, thoughts, and emotions. Why even read His Word - all of the promises He made in both the Old Testament and the New Testament - if I am going to give in to fear? Jesus, Himself, kept admonishing His disciples not to fear.

So, since I do have a choice, I choose to be a dark green Christian instead of one weakened by the virus of fear.

I believe, Lord. Forgive my unbelief.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

(1 John 4:18) There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

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The CREATION Story For Children

I have six grandchildren that have heard the story of creation many times. They know God's Word is true and that God would not lie to anyone because lying is a "bad thing."

This video is one of their favorites, and they want to share it with other children. (You know how kids are!)

If you have children, share this video with them. They'll love it! They will probably drive you crazy to play it again and again!

(c) 2009 Christian Nature

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

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Your Breeze Reminds Me In The Night

A cool breeze from the window by my bed lets me know You know me intimately and You're with me as I drift off to blissful sleep.
The sweet smell of jasmine drifting from my porch, and again, I know Your love of beauty to see and smell.
The morning opening of purple Morning Glories on my picket fence and I know
Your compassions are new every morning.

The early morning dew covering my thick green grass, and I know You have visited.
The light rays filtering through our early-morning fog, and I know You are waiting to guide me through today.
The glowing red of a breath taking sunset and I know You are telling me to stop and prepare to be alone with You.

The mysterious cumulus clouds that take me back to my childhood imagination, and I know You cherish my inquisitive mind.
The view of leaves against a blue sky remind me that You are in control no matter how I feel.
My fascination with an odd-shaped rock reminds me that the rocks will cry out in praise if I don't praise You.

Neatly groomed rows in fields remind me of Your love for order as You ordered Your creation in orderly stages.
My dog's tail wagging reminds me of Jesus' love for animals. They, like all of creation were created by Him and for Him.
My love for Your creation binds me to Your Presence, and I know how much You care for me.

Your breeze reminds me in the night.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

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Inspirational Nature Video for the Week

Today I felt like watching my weekly inspirational nature video, and now I want to share it with you. The pianist is playing a hymn that is 106 years old. "God Leads Us Along" was composed in 1903 by George A. Young, and is now public domain.

First, the video, then the lyrics that are so inspirational.



1. In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water’s cool flow bathes the weary one’s feet,
God leads His dear children along.
* Refrain:
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,
In the night season and all the day long.
2. Sometimes on the mount where the sun shines so bright,
God leads His dear children along;
Sometimes in the valley, in darkest of night,
God leads His dear children along.
3. Though sorrows befall us and evils oppose,
God leads His dear children along;
Through grace we can conquer, defeat all our foes,
God leads His dear children along.
4. Away from the mire, and away from the clay,
God leads His dear children along;
Away up in glory, eternity’s day,
God leads His dear children along.

I am disappointed that the scriptures are too small to be legible, but I am inspired nonetheless.

Thank you, Lord, for leading this woman through all the ups and downs of life, so far.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

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"The Birds," The Economy, and My Provider

There I was, snoozing in my lazyboy when I was awakened by such a clatter, I rose from my chair to see what was the matter! I felt like Tippi Hedren and it was The Birds all over again. Just outside my window were dozens of sparrows fighting over a snippet of orange peel! I mean fierce terrorist fighting!

I watched in amazement as one of those little sparrows actually made off with the orange peel, unnoticed, and the rest of the birds were still doing battle. I thought, "Isn't that the way it goes? Anger got the best of them."

No one has to tell you the economy is pinching your style. As more and more people enter the survival mode we will see anger rising in more people. Fear does terrible things to people. It's not displayed as fear, but as anger. And as the economy gets worse, we will see more and more vigilante behavior.

People tend to forget that God said He watched over the sparrows and I am worth far more to Him than a sparrow. That fear takes over and we lose sight of our Provider who is far greater than any recession or depression.

I'm so thankful for the reminder from Him of His Sovereignty over all things. Were it not for these birds, I might have forgotten Who's actually in control.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being. Revelation 4:11

read more ""The Birds," The Economy, and My Provider"

2009 National Geographic Bee Winning Question

The 2009 National Geographic Bee, hosted by Alex Trebek, produced a new champion in Washington, DC. Eric Yang from Texas received the award and the check for correctly answering the tie-breaking question. Yang is a seventh grade student in Texas who has already scored 2200 on the SAT. He was one happy teenager! Let's watch!




Wow! I don't know about you, but I am feeling a little dumb right now. How did these kids get so smart?

2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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PBS NATURE: 10 Best Episodes

NATURE is the best of all of the natural history shows on American television. There are reasons why this great program has won more than 450 honors. After more than a quarter-century, PBS NATURE still rocks! These ten episodes are the best ever, in my opinion, in alphabetical order:

1. Alien Empire - Insects, fully-explained, with hot graphics! Insect reproduction, society, migration, survival, design, food wars and a strange relationship with humans. NATURE's family-friendly, fact-filled and fascinating insect epic. Totally creepy-crawly, but extremely cool - although you will scratch occasionally.

2. Dogs That Changed The World - The wolf's evolution, and how dogs and humans have changed each other. Dog shapes, sizes, temperaments, behaviors, transformations, domestication, biological theories, genetic analysis, origins, breeds, genetic studies and ancient ancestors to our modern dog-friends. Yes, you will want to adopt every single dog in the episode.

3. In The Valley Of The Wolves - Gray wolves transported from Canada to Yellowstone National Park to repopulate, then a second wave of wolves named the 'Druid Peak pack' thrown in the mix. Interesting dynamics! Shot in High-Def by Emmy-award winner Bob Landis. Yellowstone's changing ecosystem, fur-fights, wild action and drama. No dancing with wolves, though.

4. Ireland - Foggy coasts, steep gorges, inland waterways, 9,000 years of settlers, impenetrable forests, strange and varied landscape, weird mountains, island-filled bays, dry grasslands, spooky peat bogs, falcons, puffins, gannets, dippers, salmon, otters, stoats, badgers and red deer. No leprechauns, Irish Spring soap or Lucky Charms in this one.

5. Kilauea: Mountain Of Fire - Hawaii’s mega volcano that creates new land, shapes ancient forests and carves cool tunnels. Great high-tech mapping of the magma chamber! Scary noises, shifting liquid earth, explosive fire, molten rock, giant boulders, poisonous gases and darkness-loving creatures called 'troglobites'. No, this is not about night-life in Los Angeles.

6. Shark Mountain - Cocos Island, an old favorite of pirates and now Shark Gang Central! Violent ocean current collisions, undersea storms, moray eels, hawksbill turtles, leatherbass, bigeye jacks, red-lipped batfish, yellow barberfish, hogfish, urchins, silkies, hammerheads, black-tip reef sharks, white-tip reef sharks, silver-tip reef sharks, whale sharks and marbled rays. Way beyond 'Jaws'. Totally.

7. Sled Dogs: An Alaskan Epic - Alaskan Huskies, with incredible strength for their size, that can pull buses and move houses. Even brakes have difficulty holding these super sled dogs back. They eat 10,000 calories worth of food per day and they are workaholics up to 10 years of age. They couldn't care less about that 'doggie treat' in your tiny human hand! Boys love this episode INTENSELY.

8. The Beauty Of Ugly - So, looks aren't everything, huh? The 'ugly stick' went crazy in this episode! Warthogs, proboscis monkeys, bull elephant seals, star-nosed moles, mole-rats, vultures and needle-toothed viperfish. Shot with a unique undersea camera designed by researcher Dr. Edith Widder. My favorite? The mole-rat Queen. She's definitely one of nature's 'hotties'.

9. The Cheetah Orphans - Filmmaker Simon King becomes a surrogate mother. After their cheetah mommy is killed by a lion, Simon parents Toki and Sambu and becomes attached to the orphans, making 'difficult decisions that determine their fate'. If Oprah can't make you cry, The Cheetah Orphans will. Have ten boxes of Kleenex handy for this one. Tear Jerk City.

10. Why We Love Cats And Dogs - Cat person? Dog person? Soul mates, best friends, surrogate children... these pets are FAMILY. Here are some emotional stories of pet owners and their beloved animals. Emmy Award-winning filmmaker/director Ellen Goosenberg-Kent really knows how to tell a story. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll stand in line to buy your pet a new toy within the hour. Guaranteed.

There just isn't enough entertaining, family-friendly stuff on television these days, it seems. PBS NATURE is still relevant, still informative and still exciting - and these ten episodes prove it. There aren't many programs that kids, parents and grandparents can equally enjoy together. NATURE is a great show that will never be out of style.


This is a guest post from my son, Mark, a former broadcast media Public Service Director.

© 2009 Christian Nature

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My Heart Is A Garden - Heart Weeds

I have learned to see my heart as a garden, and God holds me responsible for its care. I will admit there have been times when my heart has been overgrown with weeds of anger, unforgiveness, and bitterness. It's during those times when I have let the weeds get out of control.

Now any gardener knows weeds mysteriously appear, some by seeds carried by winds, and some by forgotten roots hidden deep within the soil. And while the saying goes, "One man's weed is another man's flower," God sees heart weeds as destructive because they block our ability to receive His love. We're overtaken by the weeds and that chokes out the spiritual flowers God sends our way.

Hebrews 12:15 tells us we are to look diligently lest we fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness spring up trouble us, and thereby many be defiled.

This phrase, look diligently comes from the Greek word episkopos, taken from the two words epi and skopos. The word epi means over, and the word skopos means to look. When these two words are compounded into one word as in Hebrews 12:15, the new word means to look over or to take supervisory oversight. In other words, I am the bishop (pastor) of my own heart (mind, will, emotions).

As I meditate on the Word of God, I am, in effect, hoeing those weeds! As I repent of unforgiveness, I am pouring Weed-Be-Gone on those roots! It's totally my decision what will stay in my heart.

People may offend me, but it's my responsibility to not allow those weeds of unforgiveness to hang around in my heart garden and take root. God holds me responsible for watching, directing, guiding, correcting, and giving oversight to what goes on inside me.

I hope this has provided insight for you. I wrote it for myself today because I am struggling with some of those weeds!

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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The Prince Talks About The Frog

The Prince of Wales talks about rain forests and frogs. Interesting concept, I think, since frogs and princes have been inexorably linked for so long . He seems to have a problem reading the teleprompter, but his message is valid, nonetheless. Enjoy!



I think it was a smart move to have Prince Charles deliver this message. What do you think?

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

read more "The Prince Talks About The Frog"

"My Father's World" Answers The Question

I have been asked why my blog is called Christian Nature more times than I can count. There is an old hymn that answers that question.

Whose world is this, anyway? The following public domain lyrics spell out my answer. The hymn is called This is My Father's World.


1. This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world: I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas; His hand the wonders wrought.

2. This is my Father's world, the birds their carols raise,
the morning light, the lily white, declare their Maker's praise.
This is my Father's world: He shines in all that's fair;
in the rustling grass I hear Him pass; He speaks to me everywhere.

3. This is my Father's world. O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong, God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world: why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring! God reigns; let the earth be glad!





This is Amy Grant's version and can be found here if the video is missing. But my favorite rendition of this hymn was recorded in the '80s by a rock group called 2nd Chapter of Acts in the album Hymns 2. They recorded two albums (Hymns and Hymns 2), taking old hymns and doing them Baroque-style, and I am still playing them! They were re-released in 1993 as a wonderful large compilation called Hymns Collection.

Maltbie D. Babcock captured my beliefs brilliantly, and Franklin L Sheppard adapted a traditional English melody so people could sing the lyrics.

I do hope you will sing along with the video! You don't have to be English to recognize the melody! And for those who questioned why I named this blog Christian Nature, I hope I have answered your question!

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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The Nature of The Cat

I have been pondering the nature of the cat lately. And not only the nature of the cat, but also the nature of cat lovers. I have noticed there are "cat people" and then there are "dog people". And each group seems to posses specific traits.

Dog lovers seem to be people who need reassurance of love, and a dog certainly gives immediate reassurance. A wag of the tail, a slurp of the tongue, or a desire to play ball all say, "You have a friend in me!" Dogs, especially the smaller breeds, are willing to be held, babied, and will even let humans dress them up in "outfits" - in other words, they are willing to be "humanized" by humans. Not so with the cat!

A cat is independent and wants to stay that way. For the most part, a cat will not "come" when called by a human being. If a cat wants to visit you, it will be the cat's decision! Cats have strong survival instincts and don't usually depend on humans for survival. Their very nature is that of a committed human bachelor: I'll see you when I want to see you, and I'll survive without your help, thank you very much!

I have had pets from both groups, and I've noticed dogs are much easier to control and command. For a good ole' Bacon Bit a dog will sell his soul! But a cat? Not on your life!

And when a cat looks at you, you know you have been analyzed and categorized. Those eyes look right through you!

Even on dating sites, cat people want to be matched up with other cat people, not dog people! It's as if they have contempt for those "dog people".

One thing I know, for sure: the nature of the cat is what has caused it to be idolized in Egypt as a god. Perhaps its ability to hunt unwanted creatures has something to do with that. A cat is predatory, while a dog is more dependent upon humans.

When it comes right down to it, a cat doesn't really need human beings. Its nature is to be self-sufficient. So I guess if a cat chooses to snuggle up to you, it's deemed a high compliment?

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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Toucan Online Dating - Bring Food!

Well, hello there! My name is Charlie, but you already knew that. Did you think my profile on eBirdCalls.com did me justice? I know I noticed your beak right away, Lindsay.

Hello, Charlie. I noticed your beak, too. And your beautiful bright colors. You're just as handsome as your profile photos. Here, I brought my food. Did you bring yours?

I sure did, Lindsay. What's a date without food? Here, catch this juicy piece of apple I will toss to you. Good, eh?

Oooo, that was very good, Charlie! Here's a peachy morsel I got off of those high branches. Iill bet it's as sweet as you are! Tee heehee! I'll pitch it to you.

Oh, girl, you make my heart throb! You know human beings copy us all of the time. They think it was their idea to fuel their passions by feeding each other. And they have to use their hands!

I know, huh. And do the fathers incubate their babies the same as mothers do? No! Male Toucans know how to be real men!

That's right, Lindsay, and they usually have only one baby at a time. Can you imagine having only one baby? If I know you, you will have four! And you won't wrinkle like those women do because of your beautiful skin around your eyes. You'll always be colorfully beautiful. Here! Catch this tasty orange slice!


Mmmm! That was wonderful, Charlie! You know, all that surgery and makeup those women use is just so they can be as colorful as I am. Look at my colorful throat and red undertail-covert!

Oh, you are feisty, Lindsay girl! Aren't you glad, Sweetie, that we are Toucans and not silly humans? Now, toss me a piece of that banana and I'll show you how a Toucan responds!

Oh, Charlie! I'm so glad you clicked on my profile! I'm so glad I tried online dating, too! You are just what I was looking for!

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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The Smallest Can Make The Biggest Impression

She was the smallest of them all, but she made the biggest impression. People always thought she was a puppy because of her diminutive size, but she was actually the oldest. I've been thinking about her all day long because of her feisty never-say-die attitude. But she did. And it was in my arms as my son was racing us to the vet 15 miles away.

That was five years ago, yet I still feel her presence. I think about her the most when I am ready to give up. Peanut never gave up, right to the last minute. She was 13 years old and had a defective heart, but you'd never know it by her actions. She took her heart pill in peanut butter twice a day, and was delighted to get it! She danced ballet on command, and was almost as good as Mikhail Baryshnikov!

The other dogs (and there were many) moped, tried to manipulate me, whined, and growled. But not Peanut. She was an assertive adventurer at heart.

Years before I lost her, she decided to take an adventure on her own. Since she was so small, it was impossible to find her among the bushes, trees, and houses. My husband said I would never find her, so quit looking. But, like Peanut, I was tenacious.

I scanned a photo of her into Photoshop, made a Reward Poster, printed out 25 copies, and my daughter and I went house to house, leaving the copies. Then I left one at the nearby elementary school, and we waited 5 days. Just about the time I my hope was beginning to wane, I got a phone call from the school.

A little Mexican boy had seen the poster, and while he couldn't read English, he did make out the $50 Reward. He took the poster home and the next day he brought Peanut to the school. His family had been feeding her refried beans and other Mexican fare, so she was a mess. But oh, what a welcome sight!

I am grateful for the privilege of having this tiny Shih Tzu in my life. She inspired me in so many ways I can't really articulate. I wonder if God knew I would need the memory of this tiny adventurer to inspire me down the road. Probably.

The photo of Peanut is called "Baglady" because when I tied her kerchief around her head she reminded me of a homeless lady I had seen weeks before.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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California Fire - Here We Go Again

Santa Barbara County in California is on fire again. This time it is called the "Jesusita Fire" and it is all we can get on our television stations. Here we go again. This is the big downside of living in Southern California. Since I am only 20 minutes away from the burning area, and winds are blowing hard (50-65 mph) I will not be sleeping tonight. This is so tension-producing.

In the 35 years I've lived in this area, I can't even remember the names of all of the fires I've survived. Every year - sometimes 3 or 4 times a year - I'm packed for evacuation. This is no way to live!

Just pray for California. We need your prayers right now.

April Lorier

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Lompoc - Where Have All the Flowers Gone?

The motto of Lompoc, California is "The City of Arts and Flowers." I took this photo during the late '80s when the beauty of the sky and flower fields compelled me to stop the car and shoot the camera. Now I ask, "Where have all the flowers gone?"

The United States gained control of California in the Mexican-American War, 1846-1848. The valley was acquired by Thomas Diblee, Albert Diblee and William Welles Hollister, the latter of whom sold his portion in 1874 to the Lompoc Valley Land Company. It is from that portion that the present-day Lompoc was established as a temperance colony. Now this strikes me as odd since one of the current industries is wineries. In fact, Lompoc hosts the Santa Barbara County Vintners' Festival held at River Park in the spring. Wine tasting rooms are located in the "Wine Ghetto" and other locations in Lompoc.

In the "old days" Lompoc was the flower seed capital of the world. But, like most California cities, agriculture has been compromised for other industries. Vandenberg Air Force Base dominates the economy, directly employing a large percentage of Lompoc's residents, and contributes $1.7 billion to the regional economy. Also, there is The Federal Correctional Institution, as well as The United States Penitentiary of Lompoc.

But I miss the flower fields. So now I must go through old photos to be blessed by them. I think Joni Mitchell had it right: "Paved paradise to put up a parking lot" ...

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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Ice Plant - Reminder of Inner Beauty

You whispered "inner beauty" as I focused my camera on this unbelievably beautiful Ice Plant. I heard it clear as a bell. What did it mean?

This succulent (caryophyllales) belongs to an order of flowering plants that includes cacti, carnations, amaranths, and most carnivorous plants.

It is found all along the Pacific coast, but is native to South Africa. Originally, it was brought to this country for bank stabilization - who hasn't heard of California's landslides? - and soon became a popular landscaping plant.

But ice plant, like some people, is extremely self-seeking! It wipes out native vegetation and prevents the natural movement of sand which most native dune species need to survive. It can take over an entire beach with lightening speed.

It's very much like some people I've encountered, Lord. They have an outward beauty that definitely gets them noticed. But inner beauty? No, just self-centered agendas drive them. Their attitudes are similar to that of line-jumpers: Get out of my way! I don't have time to wait my turn!

I try to remember there are different types of beauty in human beings when I'm overwhelmed by the beauty of the Ice Plant. Being a woman, my mind goes to I Peter 3 where Peter was talking to women:

Be good wives to your husbands, responsive to their needs. There are husbands who, indifferent as they are to any words about God, will be captivated by your life of holy beauty. What matters is not your outer appearance—the styling of your hair, the jewelry you wear, the cut of your clothes—but your inner disposition. Cultivate inner beauty, the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in.

I know outer beauty fades with age, while inner beauty becomes more beautiful. That is my desire, Lord - to radiate that inner beauty that pleases You.

Thank you for the simple beauty of the Ice Plant and the reminder of true beauty - inner beauty.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

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The Tragedy of Growing Out of Wonder and Awe

There was a time when we were fascinated and dazzled by even the simplest of things. My sister loved blowing dandelions, and my cousins loved capturing fireflies. For me, it was clouds. Those wonderful cumulus clouds! They filled me with wonder as I lay on the grass imagining all sorts of wonderful scenarios behind those mysterious white bodies of moisture!

Somehow, I always knew, even as a young child, that God was in those fluffy clouds! I wrote poems about them, imagining I was rolling around all day on a fluffy bed of clouds — just me and my dog, Freckles. Later, my imagination took me to more sophisticated fantasies, but always I was mesmerized and dazzled! Even now, as a grandmother, I get the urge to drive to my spot and get lost in the clouds.


Isn’t it odd how the very things that used to fill all of us with awe, wonder, and exhilaration now seem mundane and expected — or even worse, unnoticed? Maybe you remember when you were a child and something as common as a rock filled you with wonder? Or every rock seemed like a treasure never noticed before. Every petal of every flower was precious, or every insect fascinated you? What happened?



You might say, “I grew up.” What a tragedy. To grow out of the wonder and awe of a child is truly a tragedy.



Isn’t it odd how quickly we become complacent as relationships become familiar? Even in our faith walk, it is so easy to slip into a routine that robs our encounters with God Almighty. These encounters may have filled us with awe at one time, but over time, we are no longer very impressed or moved. It happens with any long term relationship. We are dulled by familiarity, even with God.



About mid-point in Jesus’ ministry, the sights of miracles and deep, intimate friendship with Christ had become common place for His disciples. They expected the miracles. They had grown comfortable with His depth. Closeness with the Divine was their normal.

Things were going to change and Christ took a few of them up to a mountain top for an amplified view of another realm - the realm of Spirit (Luke 9:28-36). The mysterious events that would be called The Transfiguration were expected by these followers. Jesus took them up there for prayer and they became sleepy! But something happened that pulled them out of their lull. Christ was physically altered right in front of their eyes - the true Divinity that He was became visible for a moment and they saw Him as an Illuminated Being. They had an encounter with the Divine - a light so bright that He jarred them out of their dull familiarity. Once again, they were dazzled.

As you journey through life, as you press to live beyond your circumstances, be careful to protect the wonder and awe that accompanies an encounter with the Divine. Guard yourself from the dullness and blindness that comes with familiarity. As you follow Christ, keep your eyes opened for that overwhelming Light, and when you see it, be dazzled by the truly spectacular. Jesus said unless we come as children, we will not see His glory. Allow Him to take you back to when you first encountered Him - before you grew up into the mundane.

(c) 2009 April Lorier

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. -Romans 1:20

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Famous Nature Quotations

Nature quotations (or 'nature-quotes') can sum up a nature-lover's feelings and experiences with just a single line. Many are inspirational, encouraging and full of straight-forward wisdom!

Here are some famous nature quotations from experienced nature-lovers whom you might recognize. ( I wonder if Anne Frank would have enjoyed the Christian Nature blog...) Nature is nature in all eras of history and in all parts of the world. God created it for us all to enjoy.

Feel free to comment, expound and add your favorite nature quotations!

"The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quiet, alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature."
-Anne Frank

"Nature is just enough; but men and women must comprehend and accept her suggestions." -Antoinette Brown Blackwell

"The least movement is of importance to all nature. The entire ocean is affected by a pebble." -Blaise Pascal

"The richness I achieve comes from Nature, the source of my inspiration."
-Claude Monet

"When we understand that man is the only animal who must create meaning, who must open a wedge into neutral nature, we already understand the essence of love. Love is the problem of an animal who must find life, create a dialogue with nature in order to experience his own being." -Ernest Becker

"We cannot command nature except by obeying her."
-Francis Bacon

"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you."
-Frank Lloyd Wright

"Everything in nature is lyrical in its ideal essence, tragic in its fate, and comic in its existence." -George Santayana

"Nature teaches more than she preaches. There are no sermons in stones. It is easier to get a spark out of a stone than a moral."
-John Burroughs

"There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story."
-Linda Hogan

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20

From the heart of Nature Girl

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