The dreaming time of the year is done for now. Spring is forging ahead, demanding attention at every turn.
For me, this is both a liberation and a challenge. On the one hand, I can finally move forward with the plans I’ve been making all through the winter. On the other, I have to get out of my head and go do the things I’ve been thinking about.
Anyone else spend *lots* of time thinking about things?
It sometimes feels a bit jarring to transition from the one mode to the other, but it feels good to be accomplishing things.
I’ve just come in from working in the garden and digging post holes for a new fence I need to complete to give the goats a fresh hillside of scrub to munch.
Some things go much faster than I expected – like digging three new post holes. Yay productivity! And some go so much slower than it seems like they should.
But that seems to be the lesson nature is teaching me lately. Go with the flow. Let it be what it will, and look for the way forward in spite of whatever challenge is in front of you.
I’d like to say I have my garden prepped and ready to go, but I’d be lying. The fence needs to get done, so it will be next weekend before I finish getting the garden prepped and ready for seeds to go in the ground.
Looking forward to those early garden peas!
Journal Prompt: What lesson has nature been teaching you this week?
Nature through the senses
Scent:
One of those chores we have to start doing about now is cutting the grass. I’ve heard people say they enjoy it, but I find it a profound waste of time. It turns out, though, there is an upside. Wait for it….the scent of freshly mowed grass brings a sense of joy and relaxation to the people who smell it. If that weren’t enough, there’s some evidence it can help slow mental decline in those who are aging. That’s a lot to expect of a smell!
Sight:
If big sculptures exploring our relationship with nature sound fun, you may want to head to the Morton Arboretum in Boston to catch their exhibit “Of the Earth”. I’m hoping to make it up there to see it before it closes.
Sound:
Spring has woken up the insects, for sure. The wasps who like to nest around our workshop have been taking it slow the last week or so, but today it got warm enough to give them some pep. It was my first experience of the year of having the buzz of wings zoom past my ear.
Taste:
If you’re in an area where it’s important to be water-wise, here’s an interesting article on gardening practices that allow you to raise your vegetable garden without draining the reservoir.
Touch:
If you’re interested in getting some tips from the Finns on why they’re the considered the happiest people on the planet, they are offering a class for people to come and learn for themselves. They are running a competition, so if you want to apply, the deadline is April 4.
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