Garden Dreams

I think that Audrey Hepburn said it best, "To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.".  Around this time of year, I always find myself planning my garden and itching to plant it.  I love the idea of gardening, perhaps more than the actual garden.  I love sowing seeds into dark dirt and watching them poke their heads through the soil, finally reaching for the sunlight.  I like that a garden represents renewal, growth and hope.  It is a lesson in patience and also in love.

I actually didn't want to grow a garden this year.  I planted last year's garden at 40 weeks pregnant.  I thought that it would be a good way to coax my baby out.  It didn't work.  My plants sprouted, but with taking care of a newborn, the weeds quickly took over.  I actually had a decent harvest, despite the neglect my garden received.  I hated looking out my window and seeing my plot of weeds.  I vowed to never garden again.

Yet, here I sit, just having completed my seed order.  Last weekend, I meticulously planned my garden and what would go in it.  I chose plants for their beauty and some for their ability to feed my family.  I have vowed to myself that I will go out and weed my garden this year.  Miss. E is old enough to come out with me and play while I work.  I have tried to plan the garden so I will easily be able to take care of it.  We will see.

Gardening can be therapeutic.  I have pulled weeds while stressed and by the end of it, I always feel better.  Gardens are peaceful and allow you time to be with your own thoughts and meditations.  I love the smell of new plants and the feeling of pride when plants flourish.  I like that I can grow food and know exactly where it came from.

Gardening is one way that I find peace and simplicity in my life.  How about you?

One of my roses.