The grand essentials of happiness are: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for. — Allen K. Chalmers
I read that quote in a short piece in the latest Funny Times by writer Tom Bodett of Motel 6 fame (“We’ll leave the light on for you.”) The ever humble Bodett was trying to disavow that he is the source of those words, even though it sounds like something he’d say.
I couldn’t help thinking that Chalmers must have been a gardener. Happiness is tough to find this time of year for gardeners in this neck of the woods because there really isn’t much to do. But it’s not totally out of reach, because there is still much to hope for as the plants we love begin to awaken.
Thanks for this quote, Craig – it’s perfect for gardeners!
What I’m doing now is very Henry Mitchell in nature … watching hail smash the open iris flowers.
Annie at the Transplantable Rose
I quite agree with Mr Chalmers. I am always hopeful and the garden always keeps me busy and I just love my garden.
I thought I heard some wailing from out west. Sorry to hear about your iris Annie. All is about to drown here in SW IN.
It’s a long wait too here in NJ. We don’t have your snow cover, and I burned all the grasses last weekend. Since my garden is mostly perennials and grasses, I’m looking out at a clean, well maybe not so clean, rather a very muddy, “slate.” And it won’t get much better for five or 6 weeks. But I’m thankful to have the three essentials. The new pond is finally dug. I hope for heavy rains to fill it. And there’s love all around.