Early Spring

Lines Written in Early Spring

I HEARD a thousand blended notes,

While in a grove I sate reclined,

In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts

Bring sad thoughts to the mind.

To her fair works did Nature link

The human soul that through me ran;

And much it grieved my heart to think

What man has made of man.

Through primrose tufts, in that green bower,

The periwinkle trailed its wreaths;

And 'tis my faith that every flower

Enjoys the air it breathes.

The birds around me hopped and played,

Their thoughts I cannot measure:--

But the least motion which they made

It seemed a thrill of pleasure.

The budding twigs spread out their fan,

To catch the breezy air;

And I must think, do all I can,

That there was pleasure there.

If this belief from heaven be sent,

If such be Nature's holy plan,

Have I not reason to lament

What man has made of man?

-William Wordsworth







Parsleyed Israeli Couscous




1 cup couscous

1 small cucumber, seeded and diced

8 green onions, finely chopped

1 cup fresh parsley

1/4 cup lemon juice

2 TBSP olive oil




Cook couscous as directed on package. Drain, then rinse under cold water and drain again. Transfer to a large bowl and add the rest of the ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste. This is an excellent side dish for grilled items.







I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.

-Jeremiah 31:25