Yay! A garden. Ten days into the new year and I’ve already crossed off something that’s been on my virtual bucket list for years. I am the proud new gardener of this 50+/-sf plot of land at Promise of Peace’s Imagine community garden. There’s no room for anything more than container gardening in our tiny Dallas back yard, so a plot in this community garden close to our home is ideal.
Okay so right now it doesn’t look like much. This is where the imagine part comes in. Last week I spent a few hours hanging out, thinking and planning and watering my soil (in case there is anything hibernating under there…)
I do have sorrel and a fancy lettuce growing in the far corner. (In case you aren’t familiar with sorrel, it’s a lemony flavored leaf much like lettuce.)
While watering and weeding, I met a lady who has a well-established plot near mine. While we chatted she transplanted a lettuce and celery plant right from her dirt to mine. Just like that. The perfect example of a community garden.
Did you notice the little bluebird in my bed? He was left behind by the prior gardener. I consider him a good sign.
Native Americans considered bluebirds to be sacred, a symbol of happiness, joy, hope and contentment—all things I feel when I work with the soil. According to legend, bluebirds were originally gray until one bathed in a lake. The lake water colored his feathers blue. (Possibly my favorite Lake Norfork?)
On second thought, my bird may actually be a bluejay. Since the bluejay symbolizes energy, determination and curiosity, I’m good with that too.
Look at this plot next to mine. I need to become acquainted with this gardener’s green thumb…
This afternoon, John and I will be planting the first of our spring seeds in our garden. More to come!
Grace Grits and Gardening
Farm. Food. Garden. Life
Logic will get you from A to Z; imagination will get you everywhere. – Albert Einstein
Musical Pairing:
It’s a Beautiful Day, U2
