June 1: All on the Front Porch Now

We’ve had a truly lovely month of May and, as is my custom, all of the indoor houseplants were moved outside to soak up the sunshine and warmth.  I added some impatiens and geraniums to the mix, as is my way, and the front porch is now my peaceful plant oasis.  

I spent most of Memorial Day weekend sitting out here or on the back deck.  Both places feel like a refuge.  This week, I’ve been out here in the early morning chill to enjoy the bird chatter and my first cup of coffee of the day.  When Summer Break arrives fully, I will sit out here every morning before I go to work and again when I come home in the early afternoon. 

Surrounded by my plants, I have the time to attend to each one fully.  I can admire the blooms starting to emerge on my peace lily.  I can consider whether I should trim my giant shefflura.  I can admire the enormous leaves of a particular pothos.  I can give the Christmas cactus, a transplant from my dad’s enormous cactus, all the love and affection it deserves.

These plants are my salvation in the cold dark Winter, when they brighten my days and bring warmth to my home.  And in the Summer, they are my morning glory.  That’s happy.