Gone But Not forgotten

Gardening

It grounds us...gets us out of our busy heads and back into our bodies.

Alone there on our knees, we can breathe. With our nurturing hands duly occupied, while gardening we allow ourselves the time and space to truly feel ~ peace, pride, satisfaction , joy.

~ Jodee Stevens ~

Only a few months from summer's end, and I miss my gardens. My soul and my senses feel numb with the snow covered ground, and gray gloomy days.

The sad remnants of sage, chives and oregano are peeking out of the wet snow; uncovered by a day of cold winter rain. At times it's as if they are asking when their roots will once again feel warmth.

As one who loves to feel the earth in her hands and the sun on her face, I understand how they feel. It's difficult to feel fully alive when stunted by the cold temperatures and cloudy skies. Sometimes I envy their ability to go dormant during the cold winter months.

Looking out the front window I see ice forming on the lake, and a barren flower bed. A landscape void of color; almost lifeless. However, visions of the summer's beauty create a picture in my mind that seems very real.

I keep a little piece of my summer garden with me by having fresh basil growing in the kitchen window. Seeing the green leaves and breathing in their pungent aroma can take me back to the warm days of the growing season. If I close my eyes I can almost feel the heat of the sun.

My gardens may be gone for now, but will never be forgotten. The memories of their bounty and beauty will warm my soul, and lift my spirits as I tread warily through the long dark days of winter.

Gardening design hand-painted by Julie Ross