My Tree

I was lucky to grow up with "my tree".  

The story goes, my father had prepared to plant a row of spruce along the western property line.  My mother was standing over his shoulder as he dug the first hole. "We're pregnant" she said.  My father, so taken aback, put his shovel down and didn't plant another tree that day.  From that day forth the Spruce at the far north-western corner was declared my own. 

As a child I took special pride in this story and this meaningful tree. I remember the summer it became taller then me! Each spring's new growth was observed with quaint satisfaction. The tree, like myself was diligently growing.  When visitors ventured anywhere near the backyard I eagerly introduce them, "come, meet my tree!" and proceed to tell the story.  

The gifts of this symbolic planting swelled in strength with time.  After childhood, I found myself far from the familiar, in awe of the immense expanse of this planet. Deep grounding and self assurance arose when reflecting upon that north-western corner. Imagining that tree rooted, standing tall in the sunsetting light.

Intentional Gardens

Memorial Gardens for Loved ones who’ve gone before us.

Loved ones remain in our hearts and in our minds.  Memories of their unique lives, their character and the love they shared can bring us peace, strength and reverence for the sacred nature of this life.  At times the love we feel for those who have gone before us isn't easily expressed.

Consider, the meaning of a man or woman planting a small tree with great reverence and love for future generations, or even a specific child who is expected?  What meaning does this maturing tree have to a grown person, knowing that their kin, their ancestors/family had considered them in love.  That their own well being had been a hope and prayer long before they were grown enough to understand such strength in love. 

How meaningful is it to keep a plant or a combinations of plants, each chosen with the specific intention of honoring a loved one from our lives? What happens when we plant a seed?  When we give life an opportunity to thrive? A seed is the plants greatest hope, a chance to continue on, to create progeny. 

As we navigate our unique times. In this fast paced, technological world, we can call upon the intelligence of the environment. We create sacred spaces for future generations.  We create a Garden Legacy.

Specific plant variety or even combinations of plants, uniquely chosen to honor a loved one can be quite meaningful. The symbolism we imbue onto our lives makes it richer.  If it is a place to meditate, read or have intimate conversations.  Gardens can incorporate a tribute to holy people you respect, such as Buddha, the Virgin Mary, St. Francis or Mother Nature. 

Our possibilities of co-creation with nature is endless.  

Seeds of Intention

A specific plant or combination of plants chosen to represent a meaningful idea.  An opportunity to keep these memories near.  

This is a personal affirmation, a remembrance of a loved one or a celebration of an important event, such as a marriage or a child's birth.  

Certain species spread readily by seed. Therefore creating opportunity to share these seeds with friends and family as a symbol of your intention over consecutive seasons. Keeping memories alive and beauty abundant. 

Dividing particular pre-existing plants by their root system is another great way to share this experience.