The Many Gifts that Weeds Give

For our online prompt group, we were asked to create something that reflects Spring. I wanted to create something fun with flowers, as I have been the process of weeding and that reminded me that Spring is indeed on it’s way!. I chose these words from Margaret Atwood:

In the Spring,
at the end of the day you should smell like dirt!

– Margaret Atwood

I wanted the words and lettering to reflect that I have been digging through and clearing out our weeds and flowers! And I enjoyed creating the grass and weeds in the lettering, to keep it real. If you look closely you can see a little lady bug I found while clearing out some hosta!

As I worked outside and worked on this piece, I was reminded that weeds are not all bad. Yes, we don’t usually want them taking over our spaces. And yes, we have to exert a great deal of energy to get them removed. And yes, they can take over so quickly that we never seem to get ahead of the game. And yet, weeds also give us the gift of protecting and preserving all that is growing underneath. I had moments of joy and surprise once I removed large sections of dead grass as I had forgotten what was planted underneath. Suddenly my years of hard work was in full view and still alive! The garden was simply waiting for me to get busy and remove the dead parts.

I think Spring gives us all that gift. The reminder that warm days are coming, that our efforts are still growing out there, and that we have renewed energy to add exciting, vibrant things to our lives. No matter what is happening in our life, Spring renews our hope and excitement in the possibilities of things to come. Be it personally, professionally, or even within the place where you live, Spring holds within it’s grasp endless options and joy.

So, today I encourage you to embrace Spring. Be it storms that water the earth, buds and blooms that bring color back into view, or simply the opportunity to again put on shorts! Be glad that you have another Spring to enjoy and time to appreciate it all. So get out there and work so hard that you smell like dirt!