APRIL 2014
I, with eyes that will not close, lie wakeful because of beauty.—'Mockingbird Morning'
April is the month for mockingbirds—though they haven't been holding back for next Tuesday, by any means. Does the sun shine? They sing. Does the rain come down in gusty torrents? They sing. Does the moon rise? Are people trying to sleep? They sing. For the next few weeks they will whistle and warble at all hours with shameless joy. The one who claims our own neighborhood flits from acacia to sea grape to bottle-brush, weaving his song as an invisible barricade against rivals for his lady-love.
The nasturtiums too are making jubilation in a corner of the garden; their bright faces bob in time to the mockingbird's music. Bean sprouts are snaking out of the black dirt, as though conjured up by his piping.
One cannot help being energized by this atmosphere of cheer and growth, and so I meet a new list of goals with renewed vigor. Check here for my continuing progress.
{APRIL 2014 RESOLUTIONS}
New Habit—Vocalize my gratitude. {It doesn’t feel right to cross this off my list, ever!}
Continue eating a serving of protein with each breakfast; and exercising three times weekly.
Bible—Continue reading the book of Romans and transcribing in Journible.
Memorization—Continue memorizing the book of James.
Personal Reading—Read and narrate the fourth canto of Fierce Wars and Faithful Loves. Take vocabulary and other notes.
Read and narrate chapters 4-5 of Platero y yo. Take vocabulary and other notes.
Book Discussion—Read and discuss chapter 7 of Punished by Rewards on Privacy of Light.
Read and discuss scheduled books of the Iliad with Marcus.
Special Exercise—Bicycle to local botanic garden for a picnic on Earth Day.
Hospitality—Host an Easter Sunday luncheon. {Menu—Artichokes with Basil Mayonnaise, Almond-Crusted Salmon with Leek and Lemon Cream, Roasted New Potatoes with Spring Herb Pesto, figs with ricotta cheese and orange blossom honey}
New Recipe—Choose and make a new recipe from Local Flavor cookbook. {‘Figs with Cheese, Pepper and Honey’}
sans pepper
Herbal Study—Complete a new module 3 lesson.
Career—Complete and post video Health is Whole to Vimeo and YouTube channels and Apotheca Florida website.
Send invitation for May screening of Enjoying the Early Years workshop.
Contact local group about teaching folk-dance classes in the summer and fall.
Music—Continue learning to play ‘Ballade: Li Maus D’Amer’ on recorder.
Music History—Listen to music and songs by Guillaume Dufay. Post review on Wrestle with the Angel.
Latin—Complete Lessons 1-4 of Latin Form I. Review ‘Dona Nobis Pacem’ and ‘Christus Vincit’; learn ‘Gaudeamus Igitur.’
Orders—Order ‘birthday book’ for friend’s daughter. Order books for me!
• The dwarf jewel nasturtiums have been making jubilation in the garden. •
March 28, 2014