Encouraged by the Cabin Faced West

I had been thinking about starting a vegetable garden, but I had numerous excuses not to try this year. Last year's garden was a flop. It was too late in the year to start. And it is just flat out hard work. Do I want more work?

And then I read to the kids from The Cabin Faced West,
"At this time of the year, he would say, every day of sunshine was gold in your pockets. He would also say, and was indeed, at this very moment saying, that sunshine shouldn't be wasted." p.32

I looked at my kids and I said, " We are going to have a vegetable garden."

I began planning the garden and found out that it was in fact not too late to start a garden. I researched what would grow in this area and bought the seeds.

Then I read
" It felt good to turn up the rich, brown earth and to work until her back and arms ached. Sometimes when she worked like this, Ann felt it was the strength from her own body that was making the vines so stout and healthy and turning the pumpkins golden." p. 73

That was the feeling I was longing for . I wanted to work hard and feel like my effort was making a difference.

That quote went through my mind several times as I was doing my daily routines or cooking supper. It was just the encouragement I needed. I realized that I don't have to have a garden or live like a pioneer to have that feeling. I could have it any time I gave my all to the task at hand.

So, this year we are growing beans, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers and bell peppers. I am praying that we will get some vegetables out of it, but even if we don't, I will enjoy the feeling of turning up the sandy soil and working until my back and arms ache.