It’s January in the Midwest, which means subzero temps and snowflakes for days. Not today! What a perfect day! 60F in January – I’ll take it!
The heating went off, doors and windows open, outside barefoot on the grass doing gardening. I stopped at Home Depot to get some bags and secateurs and decided to use the break in the weather to tackle an overgrown bush outside the kitchen. Not something that’s usually done in January.
I’d forgotten how much gardening relaxes me. The only difference today was the garden is MINE. I own that little patch of land and it’s all mine! For the first time in my life, I’m gardening for me and not someone else. Gardening is the only thing I’ve found that totally empties my mind. The constant chatter in my head goes away and all that matters is the task for the task’s own sake. It’s like nature’s therapist.
It’s been years since I’ve had a garden to potter in. To be barefoot in wet mud and soft grass, with a bit of sunshine was just what I needed but didn’t know.
2 full bags and about half a bush gone. I will need to wait for the summer to tackle the root system on that thing, but most of the branches are gone. The previous owners seemed to use that bush as their dumping ground because the sheer volume of crap that came out from under it was impressive. From a garden hose to a pair of scissors, 3 balls, a plastic doll, 2 plastic cups and a pile of kiddies coloured chalks. Granted, I had to hack my way through the branches to get to them but still. Geez Louise….
There were no other doors and windows open around the neighbourhood; a tragic waste of an unexpectedly warm day in the middle of a brutal winter. For the first time in a long time I can honestly say I’m truly content. That little bit of sunshine and relaxation has done more for me in a few hours than a week at the spa could have done. When life gives you gifts, grab them with both hands. Put your phone down and savour the bliss of simple things.
Simplicity restores balance so give it a go. If you’re fortunate to live in a temperate climate, make use of it. Walk barefoot on the grass, get your hands dirty. The rest of the world can wait a while.
