Simply Sitting on the Stoop

One of my favorite spring rituals is simply sitting on my front stoop while basking in the morning sunshine and immersing myself in the flowery world that surrounds my home.

My tiny front stoop is a quiet place for personal reflection (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

On fair days, I like to make a midmorning cup of tea and take it outside where I can sit and enjoy all the activity going on in the front yard. After easing myself into a comfortable position, what follows is a sort of garden meditation in my own personal Eden.

There are long expansive views of the garden to enjoy from where I sit (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

When I allow myself to just sit quietly and observe, it’s easy to become engrossed in the wonders of nature taking place just outside my front door. Each day brings something new as the garden constantly changes and shifts. Early spring bulbs die back as summer perennials quickly cover the vacant spaces. Old flowers fade while new ones begin to bloom. Whiffs of sweet fragrance drift by on a gentle breeze. Sleepy bees awaken, moving slowly in the cool temperatures of the morning as they seek out flowers. Busy chipmunks race through the tangle of plants and sometimes stop short right in front of me, always letting loose with a squeak of surprise! Birds flit from shrub to tree, cheering me with their exuberant spring song and reminding me of all that is joyful in life.

Abundant early May blooms include Bleeding Heart, Windflowers, and Daffodils (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

It’s hard to describe the delicious feeling that comes over me while immersing myself in this magical garden world but I always feel better for the experience. I find such peace here and feel so fortunate to have this special place to enjoy. It’s a blessing for which I offer up a silent prayer of thanks.

The colors of Bleeding Heart and Heuchera brighten the morning garden (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

At times I like to close my eyes and just listen while I soak up some morning sun; other times my eyes roam over all the different plants and marvel at their diversity and beauty. Sitting up close, I have even more appreciation for the garden, as everything seems larger and lusher than it does when I admire it from a standing viewpoint. And, with every moment spent here, my floral haven beckons me to witness some of life’s daily miracles.

Windflowers peak out from under some Lady’s Mantle (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

Taking time each day for quiet reflection or meditation is something we should all try to do. In fact, it should be given the same importance as a good night’s sleep or a healthy diet. Although you can meditate just about anywhere, my personal preference during the warmer months is to go out into nature where the sights, sounds, and scents cheer my heart. I believe the beauty of nature is healing and cherish any time spent outdoors on a bright spring day!

Flowers surround my front stoop on either side (Photo by Nancy Marie Allen)

We all need some respite from the stresses of our busy world, a place where we can find comfort and quietude. Do you have a special place that brings you peace? Does being out in nature lift your spirits? Do you find time for reflection in your day? I love to hear from my readers so please feel free to share your experience in a comment here or on social media.

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6 Replies to “Simply Sitting on the Stoop”

  1. I so agree, my garden has been my sanctuary for years, but it’s so easy to spend time doing rather than just sitting! Lovely pictures of your garden!

    1. The greatest reward of all our gardening work is getting to gaze upon its beauty!

  2. Oh, Nancy – you wrote this lovely piece just for me. I know you did. I so agree with you, It is such a blessing to have a little piece of heaven, away from the stress of the world. Our garden is small, but it is truly paradise to me. A place to simply, ‘be.’

    Thank you for sharing so beautifully your thoughts and have a lovely weekend!

    1. So wonderful to hear from you, Sandra! I believe it’s true that spending time in a garden is a healing experience – we only need to make that time to reap the benefits.

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