Tending the Property

United States Department of Agriculture, 1917 poster. (LOC)

 

It is very cool here in the mountains of Vermont.  The last fear of frost has passed. We were able to get our seeds planted in the gardens in the early part of this month.  We have assorted lettuce planted in 3 different patches in the front and back grounds.  We have peas, cucumbers, and tomato seeds all settled in the soil.  There are a few more scattered items in pots waiting for a more permanent place for the summer months.

Seeds planted with labels in the back yard. 

I have been pruning, walking, and checking on all the fruit trees, blueberry bushes, and our strawberry garden.

Our strawberry garden with a few pinwheels.

There were a few warm days, which were beautiful as I walked all over the grounds of our humble 2-acre estate.  A cool breeze spread a scent of lilacs over the property.  I have already taken in 3 cuttings of fresh lilacs for the parlour table.  The birds and butterflies are enjoying the flowers.  My sister sent me a packet of assorted flower seeds that pollinators will like. We have planted these in a designated spot near the fruit trees and bushes. 

Our garden patch of flower seeds. 

I have come to appreciate the need for a large amount of flowers to keep the pollinators happy.  We have seen bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.  These visitors should be encouraged as that is how the vegetables and fruits are helped to grow and produce a harvest.

It has taken me years to understand the need for making it a priority to have a garden, even though I have much to learn. It is best if we do this at our own pace, in our own time, in our own way, without pressure or worry.   I used to think it was not worth the trouble of trying to garden when so many others were far more experienced than I was. I have come to realize that no garden has to look the same. We will develop a love for gardening if we are not comparing what we have with others.   It is lovely to simply plant and enjoy the land we have been given to tend. Time will bring experience and a reward for our hard work. 

Pacing myself has always been a problem. On a recent warm day, as I tended rose bushes, cut lilacs, and checked on our assortment of gardens, I became very weary.  I went indoors for the day to read and do some housework. I did not realize how exhausted I was, and possibly dehydrated, until the end of the day when something happened. I was standing in the living room letting the family know I was going to get ready for bed.  All of a sudden, I collapsed in a heap on the floor.  We were stunned!  I was quickly ushered off to bed and had to rest and take it easier for a few days.

We came up with a solution that might help. We scraped up $20 and bought a little pool.  I now take a few breaks, when outdoors, to sit and rest by the pool. It is set up on the back of the property in an area that looks like a little campsite.

A seat by the pool for my gardening breaks. 

I am amazed at how nice it is to just sit in a comfortable chair and put my feet in the water.  I hear the sound of the birds, the rushing of the river beyond, and enjoy a quiet rest. It is refreshing and helpful!

It is such a blessing to enjoy this lovely season and delight in the beauty of nature!

Blessings

Mrs. White

From the Archives - 

My Mother's Example - A Home Without Clutter.

What happened when I rushed ahead - Waiting for the Door to Be Opened.

Taking Care of a family of 4 generations in one house - Gracious Homemaking.

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Mrs. White's special book for homemakers:

 

"Introduction to Home Economics:  Gentle Instruction to Find Joy in Christian Homemaking." 

 

Paperback, 200 pages.