island spring...

It's in the air... today I sat on a bench overlooking Holmes Harbor and breathed in the smell of the world waking up from winter -- fresh pine and new grass, blossoming pink trees and dewy soil and the hazy blue bay... A place for breathing.

I'm a firm believer that there is beauty everywhere. But in some spots in the world, it's much easier to see than others.

In the spirit of spring, I decided to try to resurrect the sad-looking shrubbery at my domicile this week. Nevermind that I haven't really gardened since I grew giant radishes as a little girl -- but my mother's garden has always been impressive so I know it must be in my genes somewhere. It was a bit like an archaeological dig searching for intentional plants beneath the overgrowth. Was that one dead or only half-dead? Which ones are weeds? I had to call my mother to ask what a dead rhododendron looks like.

I'm only about a third done and this morning I woke up and almost couldn't move. Or maybe that was from the yoga? I don't know if it's the fresh air or the dirt on my hands or the sore muscles, but gardening is very cathartic. Especially when you feel literally unable to make decisions about anything else.

I have as many questions as I've ever had -- maybe more. I don't have answers or directions. But I have beauty and peace and fullness in the moments I am in. That's enough for now.

:: "Do nothing here." – advertising slogan for Whidbey Island