My garden. A Positivity Challenge (day 2) and Tranquility Blog

Being in my 2nd year of gardening to provide for my family and I can still tell that there is so much I don't know. I learn as I go and sometimes that means that I end up killing a couple of plants and even though that is something I must accept, it still breaks my heart.

I have a medecine and flower garden in a raised bed located in the middle of my backyard where 2 white pines grow and a jack pine in the middle. There I have been growing a variety of plants from white sage, lavender, calendula, chamomile, amaranth and a small rose bush to flowers like moon lily, lily of the valley, pansies and some that I don't remember the name of.

Next year I will add more flowers and more medicine plants as well. These are just a few pictures of what I have.

In the greenhouse I have planted a whole bunch of items like tomatoes, peas, peppers, hot peppers, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, herbs etc. Some are probably not meant to go in there but with the short summer seasons I think it's worth it. We even got a pea pod ready and was our very first pick out of the veggies. My son loved it!

In front of the greenhouse outside I have been growing carrots, parsnips, turnips, onions, beets, squash, zucchini and pumpkin and jerusalem artichoke.

What is humbling about gardening about all this is that this is the healthiest form of foods that I can give to my children. I can give them a good boost at life by starting with the best food I can offer them.

When I go through my garden, I find most peace within myself. I don't think about my problems, my feelings, the chaos of the outside world and I am so very thankful for that. All I think about it is taking care of these plants as we depend on them. I respect them and when I see more growth, more fruit, I feel like I have done something great, like if I am passing this test of life. Strange but it's true.

It is an escape to get out there barefoot, ground with the soil beneath my feet, breath in the fresh air and take in the vitamins from the sun. A wonderful place to be.

One thing to think about when gardening that has proven to be a challenge for me is the quantities. How much of what do I need for a family of 5 to last as long as possible. And to add to that, the long process of canning (jarring) all of what is picked so that it doesn't go bad and can last through the winter. It is a lot of work but something to be appreciated.

To all of you that are awesome gardners, to those that are just starting this great adventure, I say thank you. Through some of you I have learned more, I have learned more respect to the people for their hard work and I think the world thanks you as well ^_^

Happy growing!