Summertime......and a lesson in motivation!

This is the first year that we have tried to grow a "container" garden. The entire garden consists of 3 Better Boy tomato plants, 4 banana pepper plants, 4 squash, 6 cucumber plants and 1 round watermelon plant. So far, we have beautiful green tomatos and squash blooms with only a few squash and cucumbers that own the entire deck with their sprawling tendrils and vines. My husband is definitely into the tomato plants and thinks that fried green tomatos might be tasty right now since they aren't turning red any time soon. Instant gratification, anyone?

I was first inspired by some talented women at work as they were discussing their wonderful gardens. Hmmm.....I thought it would be great to have my very own tomato or squash or something!!! [even if it was just to be extra sure that there weren't chemicals or other harmful things used during the growth process :) ] Just listening to their description of the plants and all of the preparation in planting their garden made me want to rush out and find an acre or two to start my new life as a farmer! It just goes to show you that the power of suggestion is definitely motivating. It's kind of like life, isn't it? Sometimes we might go through those phases of boredom, indecisiveness or one of those other debilitating emotions that try to keep us from accomplishing even the most smallest goal. It's important to be aware that we can climb those mountains with just a little extra perseverance and pressing forward. Yes, even when we don't "feel" like it.

Motivation is only a thought away.....only a dream away......and only one action away. The thought of a plant and beautiful fruit at harvest time motivated me; envisioning the end product moved me to action; a plan for growing a small container garden allowed me to put it all together and make it a reality. Now, it's just a matter of time [and patience] before that first red, ripe delicious tomato is ready to be the star of the show in a BLT sandwich or chicken salad sandwich.

What's your dream? Sometimes the smallest dream or accomplishment can spur us on to greater things----and when you've forgotten how to dream, these little things help remind us how much we can do when we decide to take the steps that carry our vision from a dream to reality. You can do it!

And, always remember: Philipians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ which strengthenth me."