I’ve always been drawn to the act of planting and nurturing. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a tiny seed grow into a vibrant plant. Over the years, my garden has evolved into a mix of flowers, vegetables, and herbs, each with its own story. Tomatoes, basil, and zucchini provide not only fresh ingredients for the kitchen but also a tangible connection to the rhythms of the seasons.

Gardening has taught me patience. Plants don’t rush; they grow in their own time. Watching them flourish reminds me that progress in life and in health care—whether as a nurse or a volunteer—also takes time. Every bloom and harvest feels like a small triumph, a quiet reminder that careful attention and consistent effort can produce beautiful results.

Outdoor Living as a Lifestyle

For me, the outdoors is more than just a place to garden—it’s a lifestyle. Living on Cape Cod, I’ve been fortunate to have access to beaches, walking trails, and boating opportunities that make it easy to embrace nature every day. I love the feeling of a sailboat gliding across the water or the simple joy of tending my small garden while listening to birdsong. Even mundane chores like watering the plants or raking leaves become moments of mindfulness when done outside.

I also see outdoor living as a way to stay healthy and energized. Activities like tennis, horseback riding, and snorkeling keep me active, while gardening and walking help maintain both mental clarity and physical strength. Being outdoors allows me to breathe deeply, recharge my spirit, and return to the indoor world with a renewed sense of purpose.

Gardening and Sustainability

Over the years, I’ve become more aware of the ways gardening and outdoor living can support a sustainable lifestyle. Composting kitchen scraps, collecting rainwater, and planting pollinator-friendly flowers are small steps that make a real difference. I try to focus on growing as much of my own food as I can, which not only reduces waste but also brings a sense of independence and self-reliance.

I’ve learned to appreciate the interconnectedness of life through gardening. Every plant, insect, and bird plays a role in the ecosystem, and even small actions in our gardens—like avoiding harsh chemicals—can help maintain that balance. It’s a gentle reminder that sustainability isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about consistent, thoughtful choices in everyday life.

Finding Calm in Nature

The garden and the outdoors have also been a source of emotional sustenance. In a career that has exposed me to illness, stress, and human vulnerability, I’ve found that spending time in nature restores my energy and my perspective. Sitting quietly under the shade of a tree, watching the sun set over the water, or tending to a flower bed allows me to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what really matters.

I often think of these moments as a form of meditation. There’s a rhythm to planting, watering, and harvesting that mirrors the rhythms of life itself. Being present in the garden helps me leave behind the worries of the day and find peace in the present moment.

Sharing the Joy

One of my favorite aspects of gardening and outdoor living is sharing it with others. Whether it’s offering fresh herbs to a neighbor, showing a friend how to plant perennials, or introducing children to the wonders of a backyard garden, there’s something deeply rewarding about spreading the joy of nature. I’ve also seen how these simple experiences can foster connection, curiosity, and even a sense of responsibility toward the environment.

Living close to the water and being part of a community that values nature has reinforced for me the importance of caring for our surroundings. Gardening isn’t just about personal enjoyment; it’s about creating spaces that bring life, beauty, and sustenance to the people and creatures around us.

Embracing a Lifestyle of Balance

Ultimately, gardening, outdoor living, and sustainable choices are more than hobbies for me—they’re a philosophy. They remind me to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and act with intention. They encourage me to live in harmony with nature and to carry that awareness into every part of my life, from my nursing career to my volunteer work.Gardening and outdoor living have taught me that care, attention, and love—whether for a plant, a neighbor, or our planet—always yield growth. And in the end, that growth is the most rewarding harvest of all.