What better way could I choose to spend some time than strolling around the pathways of a lovely garden? That is exactly what I did this week when I went down to Bellingrath Gardens in deepest Lower Alabama. Seeing the beauty of a place like this feeds my soul. I’ll stick with the required six … Continue reading SIX ON SATURDAY: Bellingrath Gardens
Alabama
SIX ON SATURDAY: End of March 2021
This week ushered in heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms for part of at least three days. Thankfully, we didn't have tornados as they did in the other parts of the state. I got a little work done in the yard, but not nearly what it needs. A new yard guy was supposed to start Tuesday, … Continue reading SIX ON SATURDAY: End of March 2021
Six on Saturday: The Gulf Coast’s Six Seasons
Today is Saturday, March 6. Quick! Tell me in what season we are now. Astute thinkers might ask first, “Are you speaking of the northern hemisphere or southern hemisphere?” Ok. That does make a difference, but I’m in the northern hemisphere. The discerning reader might note that although the vernal equinox won’t be here for … Continue reading Six on Saturday: The Gulf Coast’s Six Seasons
Black History Month: Hidden History
During the years that I worked as an elementary school counselor for a Mississippi school district, I attended many Black History Month programs. The community was 70% African-American. Year after year, the same handful of famous faces were highlighted in presentations, on bulletin boards, and for student writing assignments. Don’t get me wrong, I learned … Continue reading Black History Month: Hidden History
Six on Saturday: Meet Mr. Camellia
Last month in my blog post about camellias, I mentioned that the Gulf Coast region has played an important part in the development of many varieties of this beautiful shrub. One of the major contributors was Kosaku Sawada, often referred to as K. Sawada. (1882 – 1968) He emigrated from Japan in the early 1900s, … Continue reading Six on Saturday: Meet Mr. Camellia
Six by Six on Saturday: Camellias
Thirty years ago, I was Wesley Foundation Director for the United Methodist campus ministry at the University of South Alabama. Since 1913, Methodists have served students at many state universities across the United States, Canada, and the U.K. Of course, many other denominations and para-church organizations have campus outreach as well. I have fond memories … Continue reading Six by Six on Saturday: Camellias
Six On Saturday: Grasses, Not Just Lawns
Let’s take a look at some grasses today. By no means is this an overlooked category in the garden. Whether we are talking about beautiful lawns or ornamental species, the right or wrong selection of grass can make a big difference. It can also add interest with textures and colors. Although many environmentalists discourage traditional … Continue reading Six On Saturday: Grasses, Not Just Lawns