As the new gardening season begins, there’s a palpable sense of hope in the air. The crisp mornings and the faint promise of budding greenery remind us that this is a time for renewal, growth, and fresh possibilities. For gardeners, it’s more than just planting seeds; it’s about planting dreams, nurturing aspirations, and fostering a connection with the earth that keeps us grounded and hopeful.
This year, my focus is on self-sufficiency—taking another step closer to producing more of what my family and I need from our own soil. It’s a goal that excites me, but it also comes with its own challenges. Being self-sufficient requires not only effort and dedication but also a good dose of planning and learning from the past.
One of my big goals this year is to keep better records. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that a well-documented garden is a productive garden. Harvest times, planting schedules, soil amendments, weather patterns—these details might seem small in the moment, but they hold the key to a more fruitful future. This season, I’m committing to jotting down notes regularly, tracking what works and what doesn’t, and using that information to make next year even better.
But let’s face it, no matter how meticulously we plan, life happens. There will be days when the to-do list feels overwhelming, when unexpected challenges pop up, or when something simply doesn’t get done. And that’s okay. This year, I’m reminding myself not to stress over the unchecked boxes or the occasional misstep. Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.
Gratitude is a key ingredient in this journey. Instead of focusing on what didn’t go as planned, I want to celebrate what did. The first tomato of the season, the joy of harvesting fresh herbs for dinner, the bees buzzing happily around the blossoms—these moments are treasures that deserve our attention and appreciation. When we garden with a heart full of gratitude, every harvest feels like a victory, no matter how small.
So here’s to a new season filled with promise. Let’s dig our hands into the soil, dream big, and embrace the process with patience and joy. Let’s set goals that inspire us, keep records that guide us, and allow ourselves the grace to stumble and learn along the way. And most importantly, let’s take time to marvel at the miracles that unfold in our gardens and in ourselves as we grow.
May your season be bountiful, your heart light, and your gratitude abundant. Happy gardening!
Out Standing In The Garden 