Hooray for backyards ― even in the depths of January. As I gazed out the window the other day, still pondering my designs on 2012, I was struck by how the wildlife and plants seemed to be signaling inspiration. There's something about this quieter time of the year that encourages reflection and introspection. My yard has a wonderful way of encouraging me to see philosophical lessons for life. All of nature stands ready to show us the big picture, including the cycle of life: birth, life, and death.

Being aware of plants and trees that surround us continually, year after year, can spark renewed zest for living. A host of sayings keyed to nature came to mind as I sat silently surveying my backyard. I jotted some of them down to share in the hope they might strike a chord with you as well.

I came to the end of this reverie remembering the wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson: "Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience." I then decided to write all these little meditations on pieces of paper that I folded and placed into a glass bowl. As the year progresses, I can draw from this wellspring of inspiration one thought at a time to "recharge my battery" as need may have it. For the moment, I am fully encouraged and hope you are as well. May this be a gratifying year, one in which we all treasure nature and our backyards more each day.