I keep forgetting to put our hummingbird feeders out. Every time I think of it, I’m busy and can’t break away or I’m drifting off to sleep.

Then yesterday I was working in my garden and looked up to see the tiniest of hummingbirds feeding among the flowers. It was absolutely charming. So delicate and lovely.

Not only did I enjoy the experience, but it got me to thinkin’ about feeders and flowers. I wondered if there was an analogy that I could draw between gardens feeding hummingbirds and how we nurture the loved ones in our lives. 

I didn’t need to set out feeders because I had already planted the most natural of food for the little beauties (and lots of bees and butterflies were enjoying it too). Now don’t get me wrong, I think feeders are great, but the idea of things happening naturally is running around in my head and I want to know how to do for my family what the flower garden is doing for the birds, bees and butterflies.

What kind of “food” can I offer my husband, family and friends that will invite them in and nurture their hearts? How can I “be a flower?” Peacefulness, warm friendliness, thoughtfulness, being present in conversation … ?

I would be interested in hearing thoughts from y’all. What warms your family? What blesses your spouse? What does that look like for you and yours? 

Flowers seem intended for the solace of ordinary humanity.  John Ruskin

Image credit © Robert Lutrick | Dreamstime.com

Don’t forget the Treat on His Pillow contest. Leave an idea as a comment to enter to win a garden coffee cup. I’ll announce a winner on July the 31st.

Wow. Just wow. Forgiving the Unforgivable ~ a peek into the Nickel Mines Amish school shooting. (from One Flesh Marriage)