Ah! this strange time of year when we attempt to cram 12 months worth of passive caring into a few weeks of crazed, focused attention. Whether that resembles doting on family, co-workers, employees, or our neighbors in the community, why don't we take a longer-view, like we do in the garden.
So gift whenever the mood strikes you. Space out that adrenaline rush we get from haunting the malls and specialty stores between Halloween and Dec. 24th. Keep that child-like excitement alive every day by exploring ways to give something of yourself. Wrapping not required.
And if you're stuck with the most difficult person in the world to buy for, the one who has seemingly everything, wants nothing but will be disappointed if overlooked, may I suggest: SEEDS!
Actually I would suggest this gift for every single person you know. But they need to be heirloom seeds! These are the gifts that truly keep on giving.
This year each of my four children will be getting seeds I saved from my garden this summer. I was gone the entire season, walking in Europe, and my housemate insists she is clueless with the garden so nothing was done. When I returned in late August, the nasturtiums were creeping along the edge of the raised beds for several feet and the blossoms were the size of teacups! Marigolds had created a hedge and the zinnias tall with massive stalks and brilliant colors. It was a riotous and unkempt border around the area where a garden would have been. And seeds everywhere. As they dried, I carefully collected them and stashed them in my refrigerator. Until now. I happily pass along to them the beauty and energy of hardy annuals to add to their own gardens next season. And maybe they will think of me as the flowers bloom. ; )
There is no greater gift of life, longevity, love and compassion for the Earth our Mother, than continuing the inherent diversity which has sustained us for millennia. Buy some for yourself and buy seeds to give away....to family, friends, seed banks, community gardens,* schools. WOW! The list is as endless as are the varieties. Spread the joy!
Happy Merry Solstice Yuletide and may verdant gardens and luscious foods finds their way to your homes,
Yvonne
