Months of Magnificent Memories!

 

As we cross the threshold into a New Year, I have mixed feelings about letting go of some magnificent memories from 2023.  Although this year was peppered with some moments I’d rather forget, I try to focus on happy thoughts and pleasant memories from the year past… a year which now lingers in our rearview mirror.

Spring and summer months provided sufficient warmth for children and adults to enjoy their warm weather activities. In addition, our flowers and fruits, veggies and herbs had enough warmth and sunshine to thrive and provide much joy each time I walked through the garden gate.

September and October offered gentle weather in Southeast Wisconsin, with ideal conditions allowing autumn foliage to remain on many trees through late October.  Even November days were often warmer/sunnier than usual.  The most difficult condition during our 2023 growing season was a lack of consistent rainfall.   Supplemental watering was necessary to encourage plants to stay alive and thrive.

December weather was quite unusual with only a few snow flurries making an appearance.  In Wisconsin I like to say we measure SNOW in feet—not inches— but that adage was incorrect in December 2023.   It seems odd to witness green turf grass in backyards at this time of year.   Parsley and cilantro continue to grow actively in my herb garden in late December, and I continue to harvest for culinary use.

For me, December offers magnificent memories every year… the joy of hanging each ornament on our Christmas tree is both special and memorable.  Over a lifetime I have received ornaments from relatives, neighbors, and co-workers—often handmade.  Each is a special keepsake that reminds me of the person who gifted me with a memorable ornament they made or bought.  I enjoy those ornaments (and those memories) each time I select just the right branch to display that tiny treasure!

In a World that exhibits more than its share of craziness and selfish behavior, it is refreshing when I can sift through the negativity and pause to appreciate a simple pleasure, like an ornament provided by a thoughtful friend or neighbor. 

My wish for each of our Goodness in the Garden readers:  

As you cross the threshold into 2024, I wish you blessings of peace, joy, courage, and health… may your journey be filled with wonder and beauty along the way!

Happy New Year!

M. Lynn Schmid, Master Gardener

A.A.S. Landscape/Horticulture/Arboriculture