Farmers are philosophical; they have learned that it is less wearing to shrug than to beat their breasts. But there is another angle to their attitude. Things happen rapidly in the country; something new always comes along to divert them and it isn’t necessarily another calamity.

It’s a fair-sized job to write a book that people can be bothered just to read; when they begin to steal copies, you are really getting some place.

Farmers are philosophical. They have learned that it is less wearing to shrug than to beat their breasts.

Why do people who like to get up early look with disdain on those who like to lie in bed late? And why do people who like to work feel superior to those who prefer to dream?

The central paradox and challenge of marriage is that we have to make family out of someone we’re not related to...

The unmulched garden looks to me like some naked thing which for one reason or another would be better off with a few clothes on.

Only in the winter, in the country, can you have longer quiet stretches when you can savor belonging to yourself.

Working in the garden gives me something beyond the enjoyment of the senses. It gives me a profound feeling of inner peace.

There is peace in the garden. Peace and results.

I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet in a garden.