The colors in this Clematis are just stunning!

The last many years, I've noticed I am MUCH happier in the summer months than winter months.  But it wasn't until this year that I figured out why.

It's all about the garden.

I do not like to be dirty.  I do not like to get messy.  I do not like to be hot.  I do not like to sweat.

But I gladly say yes to all of the above when it comes to gardening.  Joyfully!

That high that some people get from shopping or working out or going to church....that's what I feel after I work in the garden.  It's a high!  I am more energized and more peaceful and in such a better mind space.  It keeps the crazy at bay.

Can you see it?  In the center?

I know seeing the first signs of tomatillos growing is incredibly unexciting to most of my readers.  And that's totally OK with me.  I write for myself.  And even for some of my new, garden-loving readers.  Because seeing the first little baby pineapple tomatillos growing sent me over the edge yesterday.  I noticed them after sweating my face off for an hour and a half.  I was so drippy that I was dripping into the lenses of my glasses.  Gross!  But great, too.  I was weeding (and endless cycle) and admiring new growth of my tomatoes and brussels sprouts and on my way out, I saw them.

Look closer.  That's my first baby pineapple tomatillo growing!!

I am working hard.  But I am seeing the fruits (literally) of my labor (back-breaking) before my eyes.  The time spent concentrating is really helping me to focus in ways I've not been able to before now.  And the time spent doing more mindless activities like weeding, have allowed me to meditate and contemplate life a bit more.

I really can't explain the bliss that come to me through gardening other than to equate it to those who love running and working out.  It's that look what I just accomplished, my body feels so healthy even though I'm in pain from working hard, I can't wait to take a shower, go to bed, and do it again tomorrow high.

I'm in a place of discontent with several areas of my life.  But I am honestly happier than I've been in years.  Not all due to gardening, but it sure is a big contributing factor.  I feel lighter.  And more positive.  And without a doubt, I am physically and mentally healthier.

Now I just need to figure out how to keep this in my life from Nov-April.  I start seeds in March but most of that is really just staring at flats full of dirt and plastic plant markers.  Any ideas?  I feel like I've really had such an A-ha and don't want to drop the ball after the fall growing season concludes.