Live in the garden now

Spring was generous to gardeners this year, and we didn’t miss a single opportunity to be among its radiance. Whether the sun was brilliant or clouds were thick overhead, you could find this gardener standing amidst a garden renewal. It was a daily vigil, watching every leaf and every bloom at every stage of development. I was curious and anxious. I was hopeful and impatient. And with every stage came my notice to all within earshot that the garden was alive. My kids used to call it an obsession; I call it gardening.

You see, I live in the garden no matter the season. Hot or cold, muddy or dry, it’s important to experience every aspect. Yes, it helps when it’s warm outside and the hellebores have bloomed beyond belief. It’s impossible to stay away. And yes, I get weak in the knees when I see the salvia beaming with blue hue. How can I stay away from my favorite color? And when the peonies delivered blooms larger than the palm of my hand, well ... I can only say, “somebody get me a glass of water cause I think I’m going to faint.”

These are the heady days of spring. We become captivated, even infatuated by what’s growing on in the garden. We are driven to spend every possible moment in the garden to observe and salute the amazing blessings that surround us. It can take your breath away. The lush new growth on trees, blossoms gleaming with color, combined with the fragrance of spring, it is heady, indeed.

Yet the garden can be such a tranquil place. It is the place to unload daily stress. It’s the sanctuary of peace, a soothing connection with the Earth. No expectations, no talking, no traffic, just peace. It’s the place where I can be ... just be!

Do you know that peace? Have you experienced the tranquility offered in the garden? Do you stand in your garden and simply observe? No tools, no trash bags, just you and the life of the garden.

Or are you overwhelmed by the chores? Are you reluctant to wander out into the garden for fear there might be something to do? And when you figure that out, how to begin? Then when to stop? Do you avoid the garden because you don’t like what you see?

Well, my gardening friend, it’s time to regroup. Forget about the list and start where you want. Discard the false images of what you think your garden should look like. Live in the garden now. Savor and have gratitude for the garden beau- ty as it is. Admire the present, and plan for the future. Create for yourself the garden that provides a resting place, a place to rejuvenate and restore your spirit. Plant a sprig of hope; it will grow to a tree of happiness.

“Live now, believe me, wait not till tomorrow; gather the roses of life today.” ~Pierre de Ronsard for a magnificent effect. See more hydrangea suitable for your garden starting on page 14.

I’ll see you in the garden!