So, plants were never on my official “list” of things to avoid buying when I started this challenge. My plan was to avoid the major pitfalls in our spending—random Amazon buys, clothing, shoes, and then I added in “eating out.”
But ever since starting the challenge, I’m rethinking what I spend on everything. It’s been pretty unavoidable.
Enter: plants.
Disclaimer: it only occurred to me after the fact that plants might be considered home decor. What do you think?
my spring tradition
Each spring, I make a few trips to a handful of local nurseries. Gardener’s (that gorgeous greenhouse!), Pickering Valley Farm and Feed, and Conestoga Nursery are among my favorites. Some years, I make time for a trip to Briar Rose Greenhouse in East Earl. Several spots in Lancaster, Honeybrook, and East Earl are run by Amish and Mennonite families, and I love that mom and pop feel.
I usually buy whatever looks pretty. I try new color combinations, adding annuals and perennials to the flower beds and my containers. I pull together new texture combinations. It’s not only fun to shop. It’s also fun to get everything home and fiddle in the dirt for a few hours.
things have changed
But this year feels different. I know how easy it is to overspend in a place like the nursery. And I’m embarrassed to admit that I’ve never made a plan before today. I’ve never gone to the nursery with a budget or any kind of expectation. I’ve let the wind push me in any which direction.
But today I set an intention.
The years in our home has shown me which flowers grow best in our soil. I know what is deer resistant and what will survive the heat of July without too much water (for the time when we’ll be away for the summer.
So, in spite of my desire to shop and have fun doing something very natural and familiar, I told myself: if they have the zinnias I like for the front of the house, I’ll buy a flat and that’s all.
shopping with intention
I admired the plants like I usually do. I read the name tags and learned which plants like the sun and which like the shade. I wanted to buy some pentas! I wanted some lamb’s ear. I also thought a few coral bells would look cute in the smaller side garden I keep near the fire pit.
But I didn’t go there.
I stuck to the plan.
I admired the planters arranged by the folks in the nursery. I took pictures of the fairy garden. And I only bought what I intended to. They had the zinnias. So, I bought the flat, and then I left.
A part of me felt bored with this. I felt like the dieter who has broccoli stalks instead of chocolate cake. But another part of me is proud. I’m changing habits. I’m trying this new hat on for a few months. And maybe some part of this challenge will stick in the end.
How’s the challenge going for you? Fill me in! And as always, Namaste every day!
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4 the Love of Peace 