Asparagus are perennial; no need to replant yearly. These noble plants provide and provide and provide for our family with aplomb, no matter the chill.

I had wished for an elder veteran to care for in a way that was easy and fun. Then my cat introduced me to James, all that and so much more, only a block away.

Root, leaf, and flower, these tenacious and boldly beautiful plants show up at every garden party, invited or not.

At the end of the day, it’s the relationships we come home to that matter. Our commitment to loving one another and making it work no matter what. That’s the win.

As the cut branches fell to earth, he freed and made space for blossoms that burst forth only days later.

We’ve all been there … the expected or unexpected deep dive into darkness. Maybe we went alone and maybe with friends or family. But there, at the edge of our comfort zone, we redefined ourselves in ways that nobody could have predicted.

My arms and shoulders celebrate their strength with delightful aches from pulling, and I’m in wonder again at the gift of dancing with these plants in spring.

I appreciated the experience of “choosing” what my adventure would be.

Focusing on wellness and what I wanted instead of what I didn't want, I found greater joy and ease in general, and especially in reaching to attend events I'd formerly thought that I couldn't afford.

What strikes me about the Hellebore, much like our gorgeous native Columbine, is that I could have missed the party by just looking over her head.

We often forget that our love, like wild mustard, is also dispersed by natural agency. When we open our hearts, that flow of love affects those around us.

While I have often thought of consistency with dread, I suddenly realized the ways that consistency makes our tasks and life EASIER. It's not so much hard to be consistent as it is hard to START being consistent.

Looking to connect before correcting, I used my practice of Nonviolent Communication to give myself and the parent empathy (and the child silent empathy). In discovering the needs at play, my thoughts and feelings changed dramatically.

Turns out that the kale plant saves some of its most succulent sweetness for that final push to bloom. I can’t believe I’d annually let it go to the compost in that state!

I have my NVC practice to thank for teaching me to look for needs and lean into power-with. And to teach my kids to do the same.

This experience led me to reflect on the path to and through the Unknown.

One thing I love about Compassionate/Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is the way it can help build bridges between folks who are leagues apart; here’s a powerful example.

Feeling into all of my emotions – horror, grief, and ecstasy – I first encounter needs “not met,” and then "meet" them in their purest, most alive state.

Whether I’m in the garden tending Earth or watching Crow through the window as I work, nothing is more welcome come dinner than a meal already made.

The book I co-authored with Stephanie Bachmann Mattei is due out on April 1st!