I am always inspired by the tenacity of nature and the small seemingly miraculous dichotomies of late winter/early spring like bright red berries on an ice bound American holly or crocus and hellebores blooming through a mound of soft snow. It’s a strong reminder that February is the time to get back to work in the garden. Winter pruning is a good place to start.

Most of these children are trying to reunite with family that already lives in the US and some are displaced by war, violence, economic collapse, and/or climate change. Whatever the reason, these are children whose lives are in danger. These are children in need of help.

Winter is a great time to see the bones of your garden; the scaffolding of twists and turns that define its summer thickness. The dormant season offers the gardener the time to reflect like an artist on how best to fill in the spaces with light and color and to plan like an architect on where to mound or to hollow.

In the days around #Imbolc, one of my favorite traditions is planning for the planting season and craft projects in support of my plant obsession. This simple credenza is a great plant stand and with its slim profile, is a great space saver. You can even make it longer for an awesome behind-the-couch table. Visit your local #reuse store for super cheap lumber!