Pleasant View Antiques in Newville, PA

There is something cathartic about working these old flower beds. Sure, there is the exercise value, the vitamin D intake, and even the sense of accomplishment that comes from such labor. I sit there and think about what they looked like in 1879. Were they full? Did they have nothing but roses? Did they send one of President Grant’s nieces or nephews out to weed in this exact same spot? Did he stand on the porch with a cigar and declare, “how beautiful the roses are at this time of year”? Then…our dog, Jack comes over and lays in the very same flower bed where I am pruning back the basil–squishing it flat. Once thing I’ve learned since moving here is patience. Nothing is perfect in an old home. It never will be perfect inside nor out. Our gardens are no different than the inside of the house. Yep, not perfect. Just as I get one completed, the others need some attention. I guess I was meant to be here and learn this lesson. (I likely need more practice!)

We started a “chip jar” as we garden. Every single time I dig in our yard we find something of an artifact. Whether it is a chip from a tea cup made in England or even a plate of sorts. We find all types of broken stoneware. It is like looking for sea shells along the beach—you just keep going to find that perfect shell. In this case, we always hope for a coin, a button, or maybe a large plate. I can’t throw them away, all of these broken pieces belong here. Just as they are, a perfect reminder of how things once were in contrast to the busy lives of today.

Gardening does help me think about things just in the way I used to when I went through my power walking phase. I think about the days ahead and even the day of the past. Reflection is a good thing…Broken pieces of china that served Civil War Soldiers and even a US President are good things…Digging in dirt with Jack—just the best!

Stop by Pleasant View Antiques at Herron Cottage and visit us. There is always some iced tea and time to sit on the porch and enjoy a visit with Jack and pull a few weeds.