Mint soup

In May, Amelia and her little brother Isaac went to visit Grammie. While they were playing in Grammie's garden, they found a pretty blue bowl on a stand. It was a birdbath with some nice clear water in it. When she saw the birdbath and the water, Amelia had an idea right away. "Mint soup!" she said. "I want to make some mint soup!" So Amelia and Isaac set about making mint soup, a lovely concoction containing aromatic mint, a sweet rose or two, pungent evergreen tips and some woodsy hardwood chips.

Sister-brother chefs

The sniff test

Needs a little more mint

A final stir

Ah, perfect!

In Memoriam

The loss on April 2nd of our dear friend Mac Brownlee left us in shock, sad, and off-balance in the wake of his sudden, yawning absence. He was a rare friend of great goodness and kindness. So many who were fortunate enough to be his friends are left with hearts warmed by memories of times we shared with Mac, yet grieved by his death. Mac, you are remembered and missed with great love, affection, and gratitude for your steadfast friendship.

As we grieved our loss, we were heartened by Mac's wife Becky's survival of the car accident that took his life. After spending 18 days in a San Antonio hospital, Becky returned on April 19th to her home in Raleigh. We are relieved and happy that Becky is healing well from the severe injuries she sustained. Her grit and determination are an inspiration to all of us -- and there are many -- who love her. Becky, we lift you in love and light, and we celebrate your presence among us.