Karen Burch

What bores you?

It bores me to sit in traffic for a few minutes as I grieve loosing the feeling of getting somewhere. Then I start looking at the horizon and staying in the moment. As long as I stay in this watchful and reflective state I can think. I can plan. I have an excuse for being temporarily stationary rather than running fast and trying to hurry while still being careful.

I make sure my doors and trunk are locked. I scan the other cars and drivers staying aware of my surroundings. Then I notice people and sometimes pets shifting around in the cars. I call people who need to know where I am while watching all the other people also on their phones. In the moment I am safe from boredom. By the way, I hope you are not bored reading this!

I have been enjoying the slow pace of gardening this winter with only a small greenhouse to care for, where the cozy atmosphere provides a perfect refuge from the biting cold outside. The Ornamental Kale and pansies seem to care for themselves, sprouting vibrant colors that brighten even the grayest of days. Their resilience against the winter chill is truly remarkable.

The only thing I will need to do is spray spinosad to keep the worms from eating my seeds, helping me to save money by not having to buy seeds every year. This simple yet effective method allows me to enjoy a flourishing garden without the constant worry of pest damage. I found one interesting speckled lettuce in a mix I want to save seeds from.

As I stroll through the garden, I can’t help but admire the Japanese white dandelion, a reliable perennial growing in the same spot year after year, blooming only during the winter months. Its delicate flowers bring a touch of elegance to the garden.

I have an update video on the Spring Flowers I started from seeds. I have started planting pansies, foxgloves, snapdragons, and hollyhocks.