The very cool spring and my knee surgery postponed planting season. But, finally, the last couple of days have been warm and suitable for working outdoors AND I am off of crutches, out of the leg brace, and able to carry watering buckets. A planting flurry commenced!

Planting is a favorite activity. A sacred activity. The feel of rich soil. The effort of digging just the right sized hole. The satisfaction of seeing a plant set firmly into the ground or settled happily into a pot. The delight of watching the growth, the blooming, the activity of pollinators.

And all throughout the summer, the pride of overseeing pots full of flowers in full bloom around my house and a lush garden that supplies food for my table. Even the supportive tasks - hoeing and watering and fertilizing - are fun and keep me moving.

Today’s photo is a close-up of Johnny Jump-Ups (or violas) that I planted in a pot just outside my front door. They are friendly flowers and never fail to make me smile. I am enjoying them now because they will stop blooming in the intense heat of the Boise summer.

But right now, I am happy in the anticipation of the growing season to come.