Be Careful What You Wish For!

As a gardener in the Northeast, I’m accustomed to having my seasons well defined. The pattern of the four seasons is comforting and instructs all my activities. Whether it be entertaining dinner guests ( I’d much rather we dined outdoors), taking vacation (summer), staying put (spring), house projects, taking time to focus on future plans (winter), having house guests ( preferably fall), visiting grandparents (winter) and so on. Of course, the garden is the best example of how much is dictated by the seasons.

So here we are in winter, the ground is frozen and covered in snow, fireplaces are blazing, heavy coats and winter gear are being put to good use and, my gardening self welcomes the respite from chores. However, the long, chilly months loom ahead and one begins to feel envious of those who live in warmer climes. While the snow and ice create spectacular visions, one can only spend so much time outside. Much better viewed from the confines of warm, cozy interiors. Thus, I start dreaming of beaches, rain forests, lakeside cabins and all places warm and sunny. Where the midday heat brings out the scent of roses and oregano. I crave the feel of grass between bare toes, the thrum of bees and even miss the discomfort of soil under my fingernails. Then, I wake up to reality and actually feel much better.

While I’m sitting with my feet propped up, dreaming of perfect gardens and catching up on my reading, my fellow gardeners in those sizzling locales are still working in the garden. They do not get a break. Achy backs and arms, rough hands, insect bites and dirty nails are theirs to have year round. Thats the penalty for all that mild weather. Plus, the spring bulbs and several perennials that are so utterly mandatory in my garden, are not genetically designed for the tropics. They demand a good, rollicking round of winter with snow and breath freezing cold. So there.

I’m happy to be exactly where I am and will contentedly pass these frigid days with grace and patience. And plenty of rest. It is awfully comfy right here, right now. The grass might literally be greener on the other side, but, only for the moment. Our turn cometh. All good things come to those who wait.

January

January


March

March


Still March

Still March


May

May


Still May

Still May


August

August


Still august

Still august


November

November


Still November

Still November


(c) 2013 Shobha Vanchiswar

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2 thoughts on “Be Careful What You Wish For!

  1. It is a good thing that we have this time to “hibernate”, reflect and nourish our body and soul. Soon, we will be with our friends!

  2. Christmas morning begins with a Shobha led gratitude. Bless you. Merry Christmas.
    Love,
    Bab

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