I once knew a man who needed some painting done. He thought all the prices he got were outrageous. So he decided to do the work himself. He thought he did a good job, enjoyed the work and decided to take on a few outside jobs. That went so well, he was able to cut the normal painters out of a lot of jobs and and still made good money. So he decided to go into the painting business. Well, by the time he got the license, the insurance, the workers comp. and the headaches of the billing and deadlines, he was losing money and realized why the other painting companies charged so much. So soon he was out of the painting business.
I realize in times of stress just how important my gardening is for helping me cope with the times in life when every thing does not go smoothly. Now with the weather just perfect, (except no rain) it is just wonderful to be out.
Wouldn't you know it, now for the first time, if ever I am actually caught up in the garden.
I went out this morning did a few chores, pulled a few weeds and added some mulch to one of the beds. I then turned around looking for the next chore and realized there was not one. That really sent a relaxing chill though my brain...no need to hurry or rush.
So now I can look forward to leaf gathering ...just perfect timing.
Darn... writing about painting made me remember I need to stain the back deck and stairs!

The garden is where I feel most at peace too. Working full time and a long commute leaves little time for the things that I would much prefer to spend my time doing, and I always seem to be stressed about it. I often think how different things could have been if I had made my living in something gardening related, but also think along the same lines that maybe it probably would have down spiraled into the stress of deadlines and making $s. I guess in the long run, I am glad that gardening has always been and will continue to be my ultimate stress relief.

I've gotten side tracked this summer with a bunch of family moves. I have really neglected the garden and other things, and I am now playing catch up. I can't believe I haven't read your blog since mid July! I've missed hearing about your daily gardening pursuits. I foresee several pleasurable hours going back through the posts.

My countdown to retirement is becoming a reality. Just 20 more weeks to go. I am full of anticipation of all the time I will have to garden next season

Larry, as always, your words of wisdom really helped! And Terri, lucky you...I'll be counting down the weeks for you too. I guess I just need to spend a little more time being thankful for what I have and realizing that...seriously...what's the big rush? My garden is never going to be "finished"... what garden really is? And yes, I've got a list as long as my arm of things to do...better busy than bored, right? My lifelong friend is the same age as me and is bored out of her mind with only her house to clean and her grandkids to watch.... I'd rather be busy!

Now let's get out there and garden!