Transition Phase

I would love to report that the Homeward Bound Memorial Garden has fully blossomed, but in truth, we are in a bit of an awkward transition phase. Our planting was largely on hold, waiting for the irrigation system installation – now complete. With that hurdle overcome, the volunteer gardeners were out in force this week – some planting and weeding, others inspecting and planning.

Laure was out earlier in the week spending hours exterminating weeds. She shared her time with Susan and Jim who cleared and planted the Tree Circle Gardens.

Sue was out to continue her work on the what we had dubbed Grandma’s Flower Garden. With apologies for accidentally deleting the photo (next trip!), she has installed solar globe lights, a solar fountain, and a host of playful statuettes A new name may be in order. Something that captures new age spirit and old soul whimsy. Suggestions?

Randy and Vonnie were in planning mode. They are not only volunteer gardeners, they are volunteer taxi drivers. They are part of the devoted teams who travel up and down the state picking up lucky Goldens who have been rescued from shelters or sent from other organizations – including some from as far away as Taiwan. Theirs will be the Butterfly Garden.  This is the ‘before.’  Can’t wait to see the ‘after.’

Maria was busy with the Sugar Peas, Sunflowers, Marigolds and more in her Bed Garden. She has a knack for taking someone’s castaway and turning it into poetic vignettes.

Meanwhile, I did some weeding in other beds, and fussed a little in the Perennial Garden that I share with Deb in preparation for her Dahlias.

We are a patchwork quilt of established, newly planted and planned beds. We may look a little ragged around the edges at the moment, with the pathways now recovering from the heavy equipment. No matter; we will get there.  It was a necessary step backward, in order to move forward.Not unlike the Goldens who find their way to this amazing sanctuary. It’s not unusual for them to arrive with medical, emotional or behavioral issues. Thrust into yet another unfamiliar environment, it takes time to get stronger physically and to feel safe and trusting.  It is remarkable to see them blossom with love, care and patience. The garden devoted to them will no doubt blossom too!