Valentine for a Mallard Drake

San Elijo Lagoon, North San Diego County, CA   I didn’t think I’d see you here today, concealed in this wetland sanctuary amid stumps and snags and muddy ground, clumps of bulrush twisted all around the evergreen arroyo willow trees—   until something betrayed your nesting place: the sunlight danced on your brilliant pate and… Continue reading Valentine for a Mallard Drake

What You Will Need to Plant a Tree

You won't need books, or cutting-edge tools, or class on a Saturday morning at 8, or much in the way of gardens or lawn.   Only two things—a small patch of ground inside your soul that yearns for some shade— a leafy umbrella to soften the sun and the granite-hard edges of everyday life—  … Continue reading What You Will Need to Plant a Tree