I can be trusted with plants

For several years, since I have had kids, the concept of house plants in my care has been so overwhelming I flat out refused to have them in the house. A non-talking being needing care and tending on top of my staggering caring load was inconceivable. The few times that a straggler got through the front door, I was burdened by guilt as they slowly failed to thrive and die a parched, neglected death. As the roots dried out, I treated it , if at all, like another piece of clutter. Before I thought of watering it, I'd wonder, should I dust it?

Lately, I have started caring for plants again. My childcare duties have been alleviated , the kids can now dress themselves, have a solid concept of time and can feed themselves. There is now a little wedge in the pie chart for plants. My good friend brought me three charming characters a few weeks ago. I have learned somethings from taking care of them. They are alive. they are alive like me. And like me, they need water. Having plants in my life, especially healthy, low maintenance overachievers like these, is a healthy addition to my living space.They are model roommates. Instead of constantly feeling like I'm letting them down, they nudge me towards watering myself. "I miles well pour a glass a water for myself while I am watering you", I think. "How rich is this soil you are in?"

Their life reminds me about mine. They are constant reminders about what I need to stay alive and thrive. Drink water. Soak up sun. Be cared for. For a long time, I thought I shouldn't be trusted with plants. I didn't think I was the right person to care for them. I didn't realize that they are meant to care for me too.

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I entered August without you.

I won't visit you this month. You won't call. I will raid your garden and you won't get any of the vegetables. I will make plans without telling you about them. We'll go to the store and not buy you one single thing. Whole books will be read and I will not tell you which ones. I will watch movies and not inform you. The nasturiums will ripen. Last month was different. I changed my schedule and took time off work to be with you. I dropped all kinds of plans for us to be together. You sent me messages, I received them. I picked up food that I thought you would like at the store and sent you pictures of every beautiful thing I saw. I sang with you. We watched the Great Canadian Baking Show. You chose the recipe for the garlic scape pesto and gave me instructions for making the gooseberry jam. I am in August without you. You are in July.

Fists full of lettuce

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Shake your Bummy

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Growing Versions

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