Gardening can provide both joy and satisfaction. Some dread the onset of spring, and the beginning of another of planting and weeding season, but for others it is the beginning of utopia. Winter has been a time for planning how this year's creation will unfold. A vision of vibrant hues of green, yellows, oranges, fuchsia, lavender float across the artist's mind, making their way onto graph paper, in preparation for the first signs of spring.

The earth smells damp and fertile, as patches show forth through melting snow. Plans made throughout the winter are taken from the drawer, seeds are purchased; at last, robins herald planting time. The perfectionist painstakingly marks each row and forms each plot with string or hose. Each seed is carefully planted, spaced exactly according to the package directions. The free spirit simply creates rows and formations as spirit moves them, according to their vision. Both know the seeds will flourish, with loving care, water, and yes, weeding.

There is nothing more peaceful, than a stroll through the garden, in the early morning. The air is cool. The birds chirp a daybreak welcome, anxious to see if the bath is replenished and ready for a morning swim. A mouse scampers out from the potato patch, suddenly startled from his protective covering. The dew sparkles in the rising sun, a sign of abundance. This time with Mother Nature, refreshes the soul.

As the evening sun sets, one more walk reveals new shoots appearing, blossoms coming on the peas. A quick check on the tomatoes reveals that they are growing bigger with each sunny day that passes. You find yourself planning for next year, as you look around at the lushness of this sacred space. Was that a butterfly or a humming bird? You stop to check. Too late, perhaps tomorrow it is time to put out the feeder, just in case.

As you stoop to check for baby carrots, a ladybug welcomes you. As you recite the childhood rhyme, "Ladybug, ladybug, fly away home", you recall sneaking into the garden for new carrots and peas. A smile comes to your face, knowing your own children will be doing the same, in just a few days.

The scent of nightshade fills the air. As the sun lowers in the sky, you watch the flowers take on the colors of the sunset peaches, pinks, with a golden glow forming across the green of the trees and grass. You are awed by the splendor, inspired by the aroma's, so satisfied in your heart.

As you wander slowly back to the house, there are plans dancing in your head, for drying herbs, arranging bouquets, new recipes to try. Tomorrow is another day. A day filled with blessings, surprises, and yes, weeding. No amount of weeds can take away the joy of gardening, for those who live for the seasons to sow and reap.

Learn more about this author, Julie Melville.
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