Sanctuary
When we moved into this house eight years ago, the yard was overgrown from years of neglect and I was completely overwhelmed by the tangle of weeds, vines, dead stuff and good stuff. Not knowing where to turn, I started a garden club in my neighborhood to try to learn from others. It turned out a healthy group of people, and we exchanged ideas and tips. It was a great way to get to know the neighbors. Then in 2020, when we could no longer meet in person, the club went virtual, with a Facebook page, with the slogan “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow”. It’s been a lot of fun and a great resource. If you’re interested in joining, here’s the link! https://www.facebook.com/groups/234272921096583
Now more than ever, I am grateful for the garden. I love the whole house, but during the pandemic, the garden in particular has been a special oasis; a salvation, a place to go to get away when we can't get away. It’s not particularly big or fancy or exotic, but it's ours. We nurture it, care for it, eat from it. It's a work in progress and a constant source of learning, creativity, and wonder.
Studies have shown that growing a garden, whether vegetable or flowers, is not just good for physical health, but for mental health as well. In fact, digging in the dirt stirs up microbes in the soil, . Inhaling these microbes can stimulate serotonin production, which can make you feel relaxed and happier, not unlike an antidepressant. Doing this with bare hands is even better. That helps explain the that feeling of joy one gets after an afternoon puttering around in the dirt. Great in-depth article on that here.
I don’t have much in the way of “before” photos, but here are some “after”…
The back porch
The carriage house. Replacing the old doors really brought it back to its original vintage.
Afternoon sun
Evening light, after the rain
A bee getting some pollen
If you want a garden but don't have outdoor space of your own, look into your town or city' community plot offerings, or volunteer programs where you can help others in your community grow vegetables. They are both great ways to get to know my neighbors and learn tips from others.