Today I planted my garden.
There is something about being outside with my hands in the dirt and my bare feet connected to the ground that makes me feel light and free. My mind slows down, I become present, and creativity seems to flow more naturally.
As I was working in the yard today, I found myself thinking about how nice it is to live a simpler life—one where I only take on what I truly have the capacity to care for.
Whether that means tending to something myself, like this little garden, or choosing to hire someone else to maintain it. Either way, it comes down to being honest about what we can realistically nurture and sustain.
Because my garden is small and manageable, I truly enjoy the time I spend in it.
My pup Libby joined me for the project. The moment I started digging, she jumped right in beside me with great enthusiasm. At one point we uncovered a bone she had buried in the garden earlier. Smart girl… perhaps she thought more bones might grow!
We got dirty together and planted just a few tomato and pepper plants. Around them I added companion plants—basil, parsley, and marigolds—to help everything grow well together.
I enjoy learning little things like that.
What I also appreciated was how I approached the whole project. I took it in stages.
Day one, I did some research.
Day two, I went to the store to purchase my plants—and yes, chicken manure fertilizer.
Day three, I planted.
By spreading it out, the process remained enjoyable. Nothing felt rushed or overwhelming.
It reminded me that life does not have to feel constantly busy or overfilled. We can choose to slow down. We can choose to only take on what we can maintain with joy and ease.
Sometimes the most meaningful things in life grow best when we give them a little space, patience, and care—just like a garden.
What is one thing in your life you could simplify so you can enjoy it more?