This weekend was a delightful reprieve: it was the perfect opportunity to shake off life’s cobwebs and reconnect with nature. Although, it wasn’t all sun rays – more like dust clouds bursting out in every direction!
After months under winter’s chill, I had my first opportunity to re-explore our garden… only for reality to dawn that there really is no rest for the weary! I realised there’s an abundance of tasks still to be completed if this outdoor space is ever going to re-emerge from its frosty slumber.
Now the days are getting longer and the daffodils have emerged I’m getting really excited as spring is clearly here. Although there’s still a nip in the air it’s definitely the season where the most growth is seen.
I love watching the wildlife coming out of their winter slumber as well. The birds are starting to nest and the buds begin to appear.
A Change Is As Good As A Rest
Using a little re-imagining, I think we have the plan to create the perfect backyard sanctuary. As we sold the caravan last year there’s a large space just waiting to be filled. So we decided on a tranquil pergola as it will provide shade to relax on those hot summer days next to the barbecue. A herb and vegetable garden brings nature’s bounty right outside the door! I can’t wait to embark on this outdoor transformation journey now there’s a clear plan!
Make It Part Of A Routine
Gardening is more than just a hobby – it’s an opportunity to nurture your health and wellbeing. I love the smell of freshly cut grass. But if it’s not invigorating enough for you, studies have shown that regular gardening boosts both physical and mental strength with measurable results. To reap these amazing rewards, it’s important to take some time out for ourselves in the garden whether you have a large field, a potted balcony garden or something in between, it’s always a tonic.
Know Where Your Food Comes From
We’ve seen in recent weeks, the market is struggling to keep up with our demand for vegetables, so now is a great time to start gardening and supplying ourselves with fresh home-grown produce. Not only does it cut out costly trips to the shops, but it’s also an excellent way of getting back in touch with nature.
It also provides an education for our young son as he learns about the journey from plot to plate. I remember when I used to help my father in the garden as a young girl picking the fruit and vegetables and how excited I was knowing they’d travelled just 10 feet away from where they’d grown. I’d also help my mother prepare the vegetables for the roast dinner and the fruit pies for dessert.
We’ve become so accustomed to enjoying produce year-round that we often overlook the costs incurred by farmers. Growing and harvesting out-of-season crops require considerable effort while storing them in controlled conditions takes time and resources. This costs both money as well as our agricultural heritage’s natural flavours!
You Don't Have To Be Perfect To Be Amazing
Sometimes the greatest of planning doesn’t come to fruition as the disappointment of not being on my guard has seen the crop be eaten by slugs or other garden critters. I remember last year I got so excited that I’d grown my very own cauliflower for the first time only to find they’d fallen victim to caterpillar feed, having been reduced to a stump within just a couple of days.
I will try again this year as I will not be defeated! I’m usually very lucky with tomatoes, carrots, peas and beans and have a few other plans as well.
Watch this space!
What's Your Hobby?
It doesn’t have to be gardening. Maybe you love to fish, go to gigs or festivals or spending time with your family or going on holiday to get away from it all.
No matter how you like to spend your time, it’s a valuable resource and one that cannot be recycled – ever!
But how do you make more time?
If you’re a small to medium business owner you’ll know there’s not enough time in the day for everything. So why not outsource your admin to your favourite Virtual Assistant?
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Never knew there was a way to get away from it all – there is now!
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