Some Years Are For Growing

Some years are for growing;

But this one,

This one is for

blooming.

~ Lauren M. Garcia

Growing years.
Growing seasons.
They can be rough.

But in the end, if we allow the Almighty to use the circumstance for good, it will be beneficial.
It will hurt.
We might squirm in discomfort.
But it can make us stronger.
It can make us more resilient.
It can even make us want to grow again...
...just so we can bloom victorious once more.

This last year my health has not been the greatest. In fact some days were downright painful beyond bearing.

But here I am 14 months into this thing and I have realized that God used this physical pain for spiritual growth.
It caused us to pray more fervently.
It heightened our need to pray for others, not just ourselves.
It made me slow down to the point where it was painfully reminding me that I can't do this alone.
It's OK to accept help. It's OK to delegate.
Is't quite OK to simply say "I'm sorry, but I can't" and not feel guilty about it.

If you are going through a season of stretching and growth that has brought on pain and discomfort, take heart.
Soon, my dears, it will be a time for blooming.


All photographs are taken by yours truly, unless otherwise noted. 

Zucchini... Good Grief! What will I do with it all!

The weather has finally shifted here in the Pacific Northwest and it's been ideal for ripening the summer crops. We had a wet and cold start to the summer. The last few days have been unbearably hot for me, but the garden has been very happy! Our view is very clouded by the smoke from BC. Our prayers go out to those who have been affected and those who continue to aid in the efforts to end this. 

Here is a picture of the yummy food harvested this evening.

From left to right: Yellow "Cheddar" cauliflower, zucchini, kohlrabi, small pepper, 1 cherry tomato, green beans, yellow summer squash, Walla Walla onion, huge turnip, and 2 cucumbers.

Looks like I have some scrumptious veggies to use this week... and I need some new zucchini recipes to try out! This is only a few of the dozen or more we'll have within the week!

Pretty soon I'm gonna be gifting our Zucchini like Oprah gifting her studio audience.... Beware friends and family! haha!

Photo credit here. Links to 20 Dishes and Drinks you can Zucchini-fy

Here are a few recipes I'm thinking of trying:

(click on the titles to follow the pinterest link)

Zucchini Fritters

Zucchini Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Dump and Bake Summer Pasta with Corn, Zucchini, Tomatoes and Chicken

Bakes Parmesan Zucchini Fries 

Do you have any favorite uses for zucchini?

How about a recipe to share?

I'd love to hear in the comments below! 

Unless otherwise noted, all photos are taken by yours truly and are exclusive content of this blog.