The Toadstool Times: Issue 4

Hello, dear friends. This week's newsletter is a little different than usual. We're taking a moment to reflect on the beauty and fragility of life, as we navigate the challenges that come with it. We'll return next week with more uplifting tales of growth and connection with nature. But for now, let's slow down, take a deep breath, and find solace in the rhythms of the natural world.

Caring for Companions & The Power of Nature

As I sit here writing from beneath the old White Pine, watching the first sprouts of dandelions emerge from the soil and the butterflies flutter around the gardens, I’m reminded of the power and beauty of nature.

Recently, I stumbled upon a quote that really resonated with me:

It’s a powerful reminder to slow down, take a deep breath, and trust in the rhythms of the universe. ✨

As a toad, I find myself particularly attuned to the natural world, and I’ve been reflecting a lot lately on the cycles of life and death that define our existence. 🐸

Allow me to explain—before I do, I'll first disclose that my musings are a bit more philosophical and somber than my typical reports. (I'll return next week with more seedling updates, I assure you!)

Caring for our Companion

It’s been a busy week for us here on the farm, as we've had our hands full caring for our dear companion and resident farm dog, Cody. 🐕💛

Unfortunately, Cody has fallen ill with an aggressive form of prostate cancer, and while he’s been on a decline for a while, it does appear that his time may be truly be drawing to a close.

(I humbly ask that you keep him in your thoughts/prayers/meditations at this time!)

Watching Cody slow down and decline has been tremendously difficult for all of us at the farm, but it’s also been a reminder of the beauty and fragility of life.

It’s a real wake-up call that every moment we have with the ones we love is precious, and that we should cherish each day while we can.

While toads may not be religious in the traditional sense, we are quite spiritual, and to be experiencing all of this during this time of year—with its themes of death and rebirth—feels especially poignant to me. 🤍

I'll share a story.

Earlier this week, as Cody and I were sitting beneath the old White Pine, we happened upon a most miraculous find....

...a 4-leaf clover!

Finding a four-leaf clover is considered lucky because they really are rare, with only about 1 in every 10,000 clovers having four leaves.

According to Irish legend, each leaf of a clover holds a special meaning: the first for faith, the second for hope, the third for love, and the fourth for luck.

As I held the clover in my hand, I was reminded of the many ways in which Cody has brought good fortune into our lives.

He’s been a faithful companion, a source of joy and laughter, and a constant reminder to stay curious of the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

And while his time with us here on Earth may be nearing the end, I am grateful for every moment we’ve had together.

What incredible luck we've had, indeed! 🍀

And so, dear readers, here's my ask of you:

As the days grow longer and the world wakes up from its winter slumber, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on the beauty and wonder of the natural world and any transitions you may be undergoing—no matter how big or small.

Think about the butterflies fluttering around your garden, the birds singing in the trees, and the flowers blooming all around you. 🌸

• What do you notice?
• What messages does nature have hidden for you—just hoping you'll notice?
• How can you take nature's gentle guidance and apply its lessons in your day-to-day life?

To help cultivate a sense of mindfulness and gratitude, I’ve put together a Spotify playlist of nature-themed songs that I hope will inspire you to dance, reflect, and celebrate the beauty of the outdoors and your connection to all beings here on Earth.

Please see the link below my signature to listen. 🎶

To close this one out, thank you for taking the time to reflect and connect with nature alongside me.

And as we all continue to navigate the challenges and transitions of life, may we be reminded of the beauty and fragility of our existence and hold dear the moments we share with those we love.

Until next week, keep your eyes and heart open to the wonders around you.

With warmth and gratitude,

Tomás the Toad

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113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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