When we moved into our home, the property was overgrown. A previous well-intentioned owner had
overplanted both in the back and the front. New to the natural foliage of
British Columbia and unschooled in handling many of the species, we trimmed
timidly last fall. Not so this year. We spent the week out front, digging up
and moving plants and hacking and slaughtering anything over four feet tall. It
looks haggard and worn, but we know the climate will support new growth and
that spring will bring fresh beauty.
There is something satisfying
about taking control of the yard. We did it systematically, going out each
afternoon with our self-assigned tasks. In the mornings, I took much the same
approach to my writing. While I'd like to say the words flowed, the truth is
they trickled. At least I did not face a full dam. A small leak is better than
that. Without a doubt, sitting each day and actually putting words on paper is
slowly rebuilding the habit, strengthening the writing muscle. I am once again
lying at night, plotting and planning and that too is a terrific turning point.Synergy is an interesting phenomena. As I begin to take control of these two aspects of my world, I am also finding the driving desire to take care of my body. The pleasure of many months of hosting and socializing has taken its toll. I had fallen into a lazy exercise routine and indulged in eating and drinking far more than my body can handle. So, since I can't just hack away at unwanted body fat or transplant some strength into atrophied limbs, I threw myself into some serious exercising and carefully monitored my intake. And, it feels good. Really good.
I'm not sure whether or not I am
a control freak, but I do know this sense of micro-domination increases my productivity
and brings satisfaction. I am optimistic that I have crossed a mental threshold
and will continue to throw myself regularly into each of these endeavours. While
I firmly believe that shaking up my world is necessary from time to time, that
celebration is integral to happiness and that enjoying unexpected moments is
essential to living a rounded healthy life, I have discovered that the comfort
that routine brings is also important to me.
Look out backyard, I'm coming for
you!
Good luck on the backyard. I'm a big fan of routines, with certain flexibilities. Your last paragraph says it all.
ReplyDeleteThe backyard is daunting but it will be conquered one way or another. And, it's all about balance, isn't it? :-)
DeleteI have to smile! We moved into this home in 1980. The overgrowth in Georgia was massive. Over the decades, we've experimented, groomed, pulled up, and planted what we want. Now, our yard is where we want it--managed perennials that take little care. My writing has gone through as much pruning, cutting out, etc. Everything worth doing is worth taking the time to do it right.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree. And, I can only imagine the growth rate of trees and shrubs in Georgia. Even here, in BC, it is drastically more rapid than ON.
DeleteHah! Way to go! My yard is currently overwhelming me. We built with a builder and full landscaping, but they put in way too many bushes and shrubs for me. I'd rather have grass. Ugh. So I'm tempted to go out and start clearing areas, but I'm afraid the HOA will come after me.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure why folks can't envision the future growth. Perhaps a need to see a finished product immediately? Like writing, my only advice is to keep hacking away and keep it manageable. Thanks so much for stopping by!
ReplyDelete