Blog article by Paula Pashby
I enjoy kicking back and looking over the accomplishments from a hard day in the garden. However, I will usually end up noticing other things that also need tending; a little pruning here and there or some weeds that I did not see before settling down in my comfy chair. During these moments, I must stop and remember that there is a time to “do” and times to “be” … you know, just sit still and take in the beauty, scents and sounds of our garden.
Some recent developments have helped bring me back to a happy and more relaxed state of mind in the garden. This change started with a cat named Ginger. We adopted Ginger from a rescue group, hoping that he would keep our indoor kitty company. Once Ginger settled into the household, I then discovered that he loves to explore the garden, and beyond. Ginger had been a free spirit for several years before landing in an animal shelter.
We live near a few busy roads and are worried about his safety. We got a GPS tracking collar for Ginger and learned that he hops the fence and wanders a little too far from our safe zone. We still wanted him to enjoy exploring the garden so came up with a “Plan B” to keep his spirit happy. We now take time to bring him out and keep a watchful eye to steer him clear of the fences.
This might sound like a hassle just for the sake of a happy cat, but it turns out that I can also enjoy a peaceful moment with the garden. I have stayed my compulsion to carry my pruning shears at the ready for a quick snip so that I can keep an eye on Ginger. I now spend time walking with Ginger as he explores the back yard, and I find myself reconnecting with the garden... a time to just, Be…
It’s funny how a cat named Ginger can bring me unexpected pleasures with the garden.
