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My green thumb

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Old 12-29-2014, 06:12 PM
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My green thumb

I've been gardening for a long time. I didn't always do the best job, though. For years I didn't give my plants the proper care - I didn't water them very much. Then the weeds took over. As time went on, the flowers faded. Then the stems on my once healthy plants grew hard and brittle. The leaves turned brown. Finally, every last plant in my garden was dead.

One day I walked out my back door in a panic. I saw yellow grass, garbage, and brown leaves everywhere. What had I done? I raced to patch up my mistakes as quickly as I could. I poured every drop of water I had on that garden, and hoped those dead plants would come back to life. It didn't work, and I was devastated. I almost didn't want to even try to garden ever again. I was ashamed and embarrassed at how empty my back yard had become.

But I didn't give up. I realized I needed to start from scratch. Dig up those plants by the roots, and try again. After tilling the soil for a year, I was able to plant some new seeds. I remember those first green sprouts coming up - it was so nice just to get some kind of affirmation that I was doing something right for a change! As year 2 passed, I noticed some sturdy branches and long stems developing. A sign of strong roots.

I've got a new system in place that I think will produce healthy fruits, strong vines, and gorgeous flowers. It's working so far. Starting from scratch and changing my approach really worked for me. I'll have the best garden on the block in no time. Heck, I even lend my shovel to a neighbor in need from time to time.

I hope you all do the same. Start fresh out there. Dig deep and work with a solid foundation. A healthy, full and meaningful life grows back faster than you think.
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:15 PM
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Bigsombrero, that was beautiful.

Thank you.
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:15 PM
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Thanks for this
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:17 PM
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Beautiful
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:17 PM
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I loved that BigSomb - nice one.
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:18 PM
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Very nice, and so true. We can nurture ourselves back with love and kindness. We can heal ourselves.
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:26 PM
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I love this, BigS, thanks for sharing.

I grew up in a place that was (still is) surrounded by something like a botanical garden -- my dad's profession and passion. I also gardened as a kid there, and then later on for a few years in small, on my own balconies. I carry wonderful memories about plants and gardens from my childhood.

I appreciate the metaphorical message of your post even more, about the whole process. Very true, powerful, and I completely agree!
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Old 12-29-2014, 06:40 PM
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Thanks, BigS

Hugs and prayers,

Amy
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Old 12-29-2014, 08:07 PM
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Thank you for sharing, Big Sombrero. Always find your posts helpful. This one, this metaphor for our lives, is particularly insightful.
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Old 12-29-2014, 10:49 PM
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Great post. I have also found your posts very helpful over the last couple of years, thanks!
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Old 12-29-2014, 10:55 PM
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You're speaking my language. I love gardening and spend most of my time (spring to fall) slowly creating my dream garden. It's kind of like a living art one can walk into and around and eat. I'm glad you decided to start again. It takes a lot of practice and mistakes to get it right.
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Old 12-29-2014, 11:45 PM
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Thank you very much!
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Old 12-30-2014, 01:40 AM
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Sombrero you remineded me of when i done that

Awesome post i now do my garden every week without fail

looks lovely doesnt it
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Old 12-30-2014, 02:05 AM
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BigS.... every weekend you share your miracle grow formula on the weekender thread. Helping till others and weed. You are a big wonderful growing force there and I thank you!
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Old 12-30-2014, 02:18 AM
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Originally Posted by Weasel1966 View Post
BigS.... every weekend you share your miracle grow formula on the weekender thread. Helping till others and weed. You are a big wonderful growing force there and I thank you!
+1

Well done.
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Old 12-30-2014, 04:01 AM
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Lovely metaphor, Sombrero, thank you, brought tears to my eyes like so many posts on this site
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Old 12-30-2014, 05:36 AM
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Love your posts, BigSombrero. Happy New Year!
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Old 12-30-2014, 05:47 AM
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Thumbs up

great post BigS,
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Old 12-30-2014, 10:31 AM
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Wonderful post--and a wonderful metaphor for a new life! Happy New Year!
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Old 12-30-2014, 10:43 AM
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Very nice post BigS! I loved it!! Thank you!!
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