The little bridge leading to my house.
You mean we only get daffodils for a few weeks out of the year and then they are gone? Those friendly, outgoing, shining flowers just appear out of the depths of winter, carrying the promise of spring in the bright yellow of their petals and then simply vanish, a job well done. Amazing. Such an incredible cycle we are a part of.
I'm waist deep in an intense cycle myself. I feel so grown up, I am making healthy choices that are taking me to new heights of proactive inspiration. Everything in perfect synchronicity, as this new found motivation rises up within me, I'm becoming more aware of how quickly the days, weeks, seasons pass. It's a steady reminder that our time here is not infinite and a reminder that I've got work to do. So many dreams, so much love to share - I don't want to "waste" a single moment!
Our garden is such a joy! I can't think of any more satisfying way to spend a sunny afternoon than with hands dug in the dirt. It can be difficult to balance the time between time spent in the garden and time spent "working" (haha gardens are work tooo!) But I've discovered that after lunch I am pretty useless for computer work, but its a perfect time for me to get busy in the garden.
I'm convinced that the most effective way to change the world, yes THE WORLD! is if every family starts planting their own food gardens. I'm sure the reasons to garden are endless but here are some of my favorite reasons to plant a garden:
1. Save money and energy! Sending produce literally around the world makes no sense. Why pay, in dollars and environmental cost, for food to travel so far when it can be produced in your own backyard? Organic grocery bills can be pretty heavy on the pocketbook as well.
2. Take back food production! Not only can you regain control over what you are eating (have you looked at food labels these days, what is that stuff?) but I think its an important step in reclaiming your life. Now is the time to learn ways to be self-sufficient.
3. Gardening builds communities, families, friendships. Gardens are a lot of work and you will get better results if you work together. Plus you can share resources, share recipes, have work parties, harvest feasts, knowledge... Teaching children about gardening and food production is priceless.
4. Exercise!! Bags of soil, digging beds, weeding, the job list in the garden goes on and on. Why pay for yoga, do garden yoga for free!
5. Health. Not only will you know exactly what has gone into the food you are consuming, but by spending time in your garden you develop a relationship with your plants and they know what you need! Let them nourish you! eat more greens ;)
6. Beginners mind. Even an expert gardener can't completely control an organic garden. You have to develop the beginner's mind and creatively solve problems that arise in your garden. You are the constant student.
7. Oh, the inspiration. You are nurturing life! Caring for it from seed to harvest. The gift of life provides endless inspiration.
8. Getting in tune with the Earth. By observing and participating in plant, moon and seasonal cycles you begin to get in synch with the rhythms of the earth. You'll feel more balanced, grounded and harmonious.
9. Gardens are beautiful. Nature is the best designer. She has produced so many beautiful miracles in plants. Its truly pleasurable to sit back and admire a garden.
10. oh, did I forget to mention: YUMMMMMMM! Food fresh from the garden is the ultimate culinary experience. Imagine the fun you'll have in the kitchen coming up with ingenious ways to prepare all of your fresh harvest. Fresh salsas, salads, stir fry, lasagna, fruit pies, the sky is the limit. Dinner parties and BBQ's will take on all new significance.
