As we approach the much-loved Thanksgiving holiday, it feels like an appropriate time to give thanks to all that our landscaping, our community and nature give to us. As I write this column, I am able to view the beauty of sunshine filtering through the bright red leaves on a maple tree. This common fall sight has brightened my afternoon and brought joy. It is by our interactions with nature, that joy can be found throughout the day.
Life can be tough, even horrific, at times. Events around the world are having an impact on all of us. While nature doesn’t make difficult things go away, it does make our ability to deal with them better. The act of giving thanks, particularly for things such as a bird’s song, bright colored mums, or wispy ornamental grasses can have a transformative effect. Engaging with nature has definitive mental and physical benefits.
The landscaping around our home, while can require our time and effort, it can also bring us happiness. Watching wildlife enjoy what we have created is very rewarding. Birds enjoy sources of water, chipmunks chase each other, and much to our frustration at times, bunnies enjoy eating our flowers.
Our community is home to absolutely gorgeous public spaces. Common areas provide opportunities such as fishing in Wildflower Lake, walking along winding paths, or biking through flower-lined streets. The nearby Pleasant Valley Conservation Area consists of over 2000 acres of property that is accessible year-round. The ecosystem of this McHenry County Conservation District property consists of over 274 native plant species. Wetlands, Prairie and Oak Woodlands combine to create a breathtakingly beautiful area. The Kane County Forest Preserve not only offers gorgeous public spaces for respite but they also offer a series of fun events. These events include fall bird hikes, crafting classes and a variety of public nature programs through their organization.
As with our family, no matter what life’s ups and down entail, we are always surrounded by nature. It is from nature that we gain much needed sustenance. Nature provides us with life sustaining resources. We derive vitamin D from the sun, fruits and vegetables as a result of the work of bees, and shelter from trees. Being outdoors in nature can lead to better breathing, better sleep and a stronger immune system.
As Louie Schwartzberg so aptly stated “Nature’s beauty is a gift that cultivates appreciation and gratitude.” In addition to thanking nature, I thank each one of you. You provide me the inspiration and encouragement. It is my hope that this gardening column, provides you with the same. I wish you a Thanksgiving filled with welcoming family, appreciative friends, delicious food, and perhaps best of all, time to reflect in the gloriousness of nature.
Kathleen Carr is the owner of The Growing Scene, Inc., a landscaping company. She can be reached by calling 815-923-7322 or emailing her at Kathleen@thegrowingscene.com. Have a gardening question? Please contact her. She may address it in an upcoming column.
