From My Garden to Yours

I know that the Holiday season can be truly challenging for many; a poignant reminder of those we have lost, worries about the future, job uncertainties and more. In such circumstances it can be hard to find joy and celebrate the season. While I don't have all the answers, I can tell you that time and again I have found my garden to be my sanctuary; a place of solace and peace.

And so my wish for you this Christmas is that you are able to find moments of joy in nature. In the sparkling frost that covers the skeletal tree branches, in the cry of an eagle as it soars overhead, in the music of a bubbling fountain, in the beauty of a winter sunrise.  May you be able to capture these moments and hold them as a promise of peace in the future even if you struggle to find it today. From my garden to yours.

Thank you all for your encouragement and for making my days brighter with your lovely emails, smiles and hugs.

Karen

16 Comments

  1. Sharon Faulkner on December 24, 2019 at 4:52 am

    Enjoyed your words of inspiration. Sure do miss living in Duvall and seeing your smiling face. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!



    • Peggy Shelley on December 24, 2019 at 8:37 am

      What a beautifully written uplifting letter! Thanks Karen for reminding us of the healing power of nature! Always enjoy your inspiring words! Have a wonderful holiday!



      • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:36 am

        Merry Christmas to you both Peggy – thank you for your kind words x



    • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:35 am

      Hi Sharon! I was thinking of you both just a few days ago as I was driving in your old neighborhood. Merry Christmas x



  2. Craig on December 24, 2019 at 4:56 am

    Thank you for being a source of inspiration and help through the year!



    • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:37 am

      I'm so pleased to hear that in a small way I can make a difference Craig. Wishing you the best.



  3. Cathi on December 24, 2019 at 6:16 am

    Wishing you the best for the new year…. from my garden to yours!



    • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:38 am

      Thanks so much Cathi!



  4. nancy mellen on December 24, 2019 at 6:49 am

    I share your source of peace in the garden. When asked why I don't attend church, I say that I do everyday I am in the garden, I am in my spiritual place.



    • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:38 am

      Totally understand that Nancy. All the best to you.



  5. Mary Perez on December 24, 2019 at 7:08 am

    Aaah… that was lovely. Was feeling out of sorts and not sure why and realized that I haven't been out working in my yard for a few weeks; letting the cooler weather and rain keep me inside. I know the physical connection with soil, plants, and water make me happy. Going to a nursery and hanging out with plants is a joy …Visiting someone else's garden is my idea of a good time. Would guess that anyone else who reads Karen's blog feels the same way. Best Wishes for a Happy and Peaceful New Year!



    • Karen Chapman on December 24, 2019 at 11:40 am

      Always lovely to hear from you Mary – and thank you for your many years of support, encouragement and friendship. So lovely to know that my words have helped ease the day a little. Take care x



  6. Connie Berg on December 26, 2019 at 1:39 pm

    Very lovely Karen. Thank you for this reminder. I practice mindfulness regularly and you really can’t find joy in the small simple things that are everywhere in nature! From a tiny drop of dew on a leaf to the lush green moss that grows so abundantly in the northwest…beauty abounds, we just need to open our eyes and take it in!❤️



    • Karen Chapman on January 5, 2020 at 1:45 pm

      Take care Connie x



  7. Gale Wald on January 6, 2020 at 12:30 pm

    Thanks Karen for your greeting, I am a bit behind in reading my emails!! The frost on the trees was beautiful and I too find solace in what I call, "God's place, my garden. To see all that has been provided for me. Looking forward to our trip and all those "places", we are going to.
    Gale



    • Karen Chapman on January 6, 2020 at 12:54 pm

      Hi Gale – Happy New Year to you! I'm excited too!!