A Garden of Memories
Have you ever planted a garden?
When I was a child, my parents planted tomatoes, peppers, bib lettuce, chives and parsley. We would help dig up the dirt, gently place the little plants, fertilize, water and weed. Excitement was in the air as the plant grew and little yellow blossoms appeared, then miraculously became a tiny green tomato. We would check the garden frequently to see how big they were getting. Once the tomatoes started to ripen, we had daily checks to see if they were red enough to be picked.
There was nothing like a big, red, Jersey beefsteak tomato. One slice was enough for a sandwich! One of our favorite summer meals were Mom’s BLT sandwiches, with tomatoes from the garden. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!!
When my children were little, we had gardens, too. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and zuchini were the usual harvest. One year, at my children’s urging, we tried corn. The squirrels ate the plants one day, stalks and all We never had any corn! Cherry tomatoes were always a favorite for the kids. Perhaps the tiny size made them more appealing. They could just be picked and popped into your mouth.
Today, we have a very small garden. It’s just my husband and I, so we have two tomato plants, one zuchini plant, one bell pepper plant, and parsley, basil, thyme, and rosemary. The herbs are a new venture. A few days ago we had grilled fish seasoned with herbs from the garden. It was wonderful. I hope I can dry or freeze the herbs so we can enjoy them all year.
Even now, I find myself checking the plants through the window each morning and each evening. I’m looking for those same yellow blossoms. Last week, we spotted our first little green tomatoes. Today, I saw a zuchini had burst on the scene. I smile and am filled with the same anticipation that my children used to have. I can’t wait for that first BLT, or when we can steam that first zuchini.
Planting a garden doesn’t take a lot of skill. It doesn’t take a lot of time. Upkeep needs to be done; pinching back extra shoots, pulling weeds, watering. It’s nothing too taxing. though. The rewards, though, are sweet.
Are you fully present to simple things in life? A garden can bring a great deal of happiness, warm memories, fresh air, along with good-tasting and healthy food. It can provide enjoyable family time, basic horticultural education, and a time to talk your child about the miracle or science of plant life. You might catch a glimpse of your neighbor; perhaps a conversation will even start.
These activities and conversations can add a great deal of satisfaction to one’s life. No technology. No stress. No worries. Just anticipation and joy.
Do you have a childhood garden memory to share?
Tags: Family, Fully Present, Happiness, Health, Life, Nature
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