Lessons in Gardening

Among many other aspects in my life and mind that have begun to alter, a growing desire to eat healthier has been taking place over the past few years. It’s not something that I just decided to do, and not something I have managed to maintain constantly either. Some subtle, conscious changes in choice have taken root and continue to want to flourish.

This year, for the first time in eight years, my husband and I planted a garden. Planning gave way to spontaneity and excitement, and roughly a month late in the season, we planted vegetables and herbs. We didn’t consider much beyond getting seeds in the ground, and I quickly discovered that I would view this year as our getting back to it/learning season. We were excited to see many things come up, and disappointed to see other things fail.

Peas that were planted beneath a home-made “arbour” made of branches from the yard, quickly became food for the baby birds that took residence in the yard after the loss of our cat. The pumpkin, lovingly planted by Makiya and Grandma, first found trouble when Makiya stepped on it. When it finally healed itself and sprouted two leaves, Makiya’s excitement took over and she plucked them off. Patiently, and hopefully, we waited and watched, only to come out one morning to discover the birds had again been feasting; they plucked the thing straight out of the ground, leaving a hole in the ground! Spinach that we enjoyed for a short time, turned to seed and had to be removed. Radish sprouts were enjoyed, before they, sadly, also went to seed.

Over in my herb garden, we faced many trials; starting with the dog refusing to obey, and consistently making his bed in my Rosemary and Dill seeds. I tried repeatedly to take control, even adding some extra seeds in the hopes of seeing something! The Dill managed to come in quite strong, only to be recently, and finally, destroyed. On the other side, eavestrough issues and downpours have continually drowned my Basil, Oregano and Green Onions.

However, on the bright side of this garden adventure, we have enjoyed spending time working together and talking about what we will have and what we will do differently in the future. We are still enjoying and looking forward to the Sunflower, Zucchini, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Beets, Carrots, Thyme, Parsley, Chives and Basil. We also got excited enough to continue on this journey, that I convinced hubby to keep his eye out on the job for old windows and other materials, which I am thrilled to now have ready to go in the backyard!

A season of learning no doubt! But I am more than excited to be en route in this new little adventure that will only bring good to us in many ways!