Last night, I took some time to read the comments that have been posted on the blog. What a blessing to see so many encouraging and enthusiastic responses from so many different parts of the world! My intention has been to let you all feel connected to the garden, but your reception has made me feel connected to you in a whole new way. Thank you for welcoming this special gardening project into your hearts.
A few people have shared their love of growing things in small, confined spaces. Let me assure you, there is no space too small that can’t be improved with one of God’s precious plants! When Chuck and I were newlyweds at Texas A&M University, I worked on campus in the Extension Horticulture department. I didn’t know anything about gardening, but those passionate horticulturists shared their knowledge and expertise with me in such a way that I couldn’t resist trying to grow something! By the time Chuck graduated from college in 1975, our little balcony looked like a jungle. My gardening canvas has increased in size since then, but I still get just as excited about the process today as the first time I watched a seed sprout on that balcony so many years ago.
For those who have wondered if I have actually planted anything in the garden yet, the answer is no. We are working on the irrigation system this week so we can start planting additional trees next week. The trees that currently call the garden home are several types of oak, vitex, and crepe myrtles. To those we will be adding fig, almond, red cedar, olive, pomegranate, and Eve’s necklace.
Next Tuesday, I will be working with students in our children and youth ministry, including those who have been a part of my Junior Master Gardener group, the Glory Gardeners. The children have adopted the tribe of Benjamin as their gardening project, the senior high youth have adopted the tribe of Asher, and the middle school young people are adopting either Manasseh or Reuben. This means that they will be involved in the planning, planting, and maintenance of those three areas of the garden. And, of course, they’ll learn something about the tribes and horticulture at the same time!
I will be posting a work schedule here within the next several days. Those of you in the area who enjoy digging and getting dirty will be welcome to pick a time and join me in the garden.
Happy Gardening!