Finding Peace with My Hands in the Dirt

After a very long, cold stretch of weather in early spring, warmth and sunshine finally arrived. Of course, it always seems to rush in with days that are far too hot and humid for mid-May. However, we will take it over the lingering cold as it feels good on our winter weary bodies.

All winter I think about the flower bed buried underneath the snow. On the cold and dreary days, I spend time pondering what I want to do when the days get longer, the snow melts, and planting time nears. The ground will be ready and filled with nutrients from spring snow - poor man's manure they used to call it.

When the first hint of growing season arrives, I take a trip to my local garden center to decide what will grace my flower bed. The Sunpatiens are always the showstopper. They come in several colors, will have a multitude of blossoms from summer into the fall, and are easy to care for. A Million Bell plant takes its place in front of the bird bath next to the Daylilies, and wildflower seeds are planted behind it. My Reblooming Azaela sits next to the angel, with Strawflowers to fill in leftover spaces. I carefully place the plants in a protected area until Mother Nature tells me it is time.

When that day arrives, there is joy in my heart, and I feel a lightness I have not felt since fall. At long last it is time to submerse myself into this task that nurtures my soul. I gather up my plants and tools and go look at the blank canvas in front of me. I carefully lay out each plant to ensure it is exactly where it should be to greet passersby with the colorful display that will eventually appear. 

Then the planting begins. I find myself smiling as my hands get into the dirt to make space for each precious plant. As I work, my spirit feels lighter as every plant takes their prized position in the flower bed. When they are in place, everything around them gets a layer of black bark mulch to make the plants stand out even more. Even though it will be a while before all the blossoms appear, in my mind I can see what will be. 

With my hands covered in dirt, and a sore back from planting, I am filled with peace and contentment. This loving work is very good for the soul. 

Next...the vegetable garden.









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