Friday, March 14, 2008

Heart's Content



'Within in us lies a secret garden.'


Nurtured from childhood through the written word and illustrations of Beatrix Potter, we were indulged in the adventures of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny in Mr. McGregor's garden.

The beloved tale by Frances Hodson Burnett of 'The Secret Garden' took us through a weathered gate, unlocked by a hidden key, to a small walled place of beauty covered by rambling roses and trailing brambles. We became absorbed in solving the mystery of an overgrown paradise that time and sadness had forgot.

Some enjoy a manicured lawn with perfectly shaped evergreens and trimmed boxwood, guiding us through its chambers dotted with benches to rest upon.

Urban communities have come to realize the tranquility enjoyed from a garden. An abandoned lot once strewn with garbage is turned into a haven where neighbors meet. Flowers, fruits and vegetables are shared amongst those that tilled the earth, planted the seeds, prayed for rain and waited.

A garden need not be a broad expanse of soil bedecked in flowers and fruit. It can exist simply on a hillside where wild daises dot the lush green grasses that sway in the prairie breeze.

For those with limited space a window box can suffice.They are lush with blooms that stir the heart and calm the soul. Many a balcony or rooftop are home to a profusion of color provided by carefully arranged pots.

Others are perfectly placed to be enjoyed from a rocker set on the porch, where the heavenly scent can encourage one to linger well into the evening.

For me it is that space just beyond the window, still covered in snow. Soon the crocus' will spring forth, the birdsong will become a symphony and I will sit 'till my heart's content in the sweetness of my secret garden.



19 comments:

Christine Crocker said...

such beautiful words dear Susan...
I would send my violets to you if I could, they're blooming in purple and white swaths right outside the front gate.
We are expeccting more snow today, but that will make it even more lovely.
I wish you sunshine & daffodils in your secret garden. For Peter to nibble on, of course.
xo,C

Britt-Arnhild said...

Your new photo is so charming. I can dream alot of dreams about what is behind the wall.

Like you I mentioned Secret Garden in my blog yesterday, (my garden blog). It is a perfect read for spring.

Lori said...

how beautiful Susan... and oh, you made me cry...Beatrix Potter's charming tales were our favorite bedtime stories when my boys were tiny small...thanks for reminding me:)

Suzanne said...

I love to visit Susan...your post are always beautiful and thoughtful. And this one mentions some of my favorites...Beatrix and Frances.
As for our own secret gardens, my MIL is an avid gardener and has created "rooms" with her plantings...and there is always a quiet corner where you can "escape"!

Tracie~MyPetiteMaison said...

How beautiful. I've always loved Beatrix Potter, those thatched roofs, ahh, beautiful.

You should go visit Cielo if you haven't already, she's got a garden theme going that's just beautiful as well. Her link is on my blog if you do not have it here. Thank you for visiting me and please come back often - I enjoyed your visit, as well as mine here.

Happy weekend, Susan.
~Tracie
My Petite Maison

Donna O'Brien said...

Great post, Susan. I know of two little creatures who would LOVE to visit you. They here you have a better salad bar AND costume department.
D.
PS- Love the new spring colors on your blog. You ARE ready for spring!!

Donna O'Brien said...

Oops- make the "hear, not here. I hate that!!
D.

Lea said...

Susan, this is so lovely... I love the banner and the Secret Garden is still one of my favorite stories... as well as my admiration for Beatrix Potter... a threshold to cross, winter to spring and may your heart longing find joy in the first sign of renewal...soon!!! XO

http://afancifultwist.typepad.com said...

Oh yes, I completely agree. Any type of garden, even if it lives in a cup, is important to have. I can't wait to get my hands in my soil. It is getting warm here, and wonderful for growing all of my herbs and flowers and fruits... The peach tree is blooming... I loved my visit here!!!

Sea Angels said...

Can I bring you huge armfulls of flowers, all scented and damp with the morning dew...you truly deserve them for your wonderful posts....wishing you a lovely weekend.
Hugs Lynn xx

Sherry said...

The Secret Garden!! And Mr. McGregor's garden (I loved reading that one to my boys! Complete with Scottish accent!!)....

I long for the moment when I can be in my garden...and I love your banner -- very inspirational!

Pinkie Denise said...

Oh Susan
you make me want Spring to hurry...
I love the sweet scent of the little
purple violets that cover my lawn, I have pink and white too. My bulbs are
peaking out and blooms beginning to bud...and I love to smell the scent of my jessamine on my porch next to my swing. Oh yes and the sweet song of the happy birds chirping away...
Thanks for sharing this beautiful post Pinkie
P.S. I love Beatrix Potter, have some little figurines and books..

Doreen Frost said...

The Beatrix Potter stories are some of my favorite's. Even now as an adult I will sit down and read a childrens book. I love them dearly.

Thank you Susan for your email and kind words today. I greatly appreciate them. I too love your new blog colors...very tranquil.

Blessings,
Doreen

Christine LeFever said...

Your words are soft and pretty and filled with enthusiasm. Yes, Beatrix and Frances, two who have implanted their dream worlds into so many of ours. Thank you for the sweet reminder, Susan.

Christine

wanderlustnpixiedust said...

I'm lucky to live in Southern California. At least until the temperatures hit 100 plus degrees that is. Recently planted my first extra special rose, "Geoff Hamilton." Can't help myself from going outside repeatedly to look at it. I shall be overjoyed when he shows his first bloom!

Thanks for making me wish to be the girl in the garden...

Stacey said...

What could be a bigger joy? I'm anxiously awaiting violets and jack-in-the-pulpits here. A few more weeks, I'm sure but lovily thoughts to hold dear until the flowers arrive.

oldflowers4me said...

oh to have a secret garden of one's own-would be divine-have a happy easter -singing and skipping love jo

Sea Angels said...

Thankyou Susan,I also hope you have a peaceful and relaxing Easter too.
Warmest wishes
Lynn xx

Sandra Evertson said...

Happy Easter to you and yours!
Sandra Evertson