No. 6: Defrosting

It’s official—it’s spring. The Starbucks app told me so! The lavender oat milk latte is back and I couldn’t be happier.

Although I’m glad we’re moving past pipe bursting scares, I feel like this winter was exceptionally short and I sure am going to miss it.

What happened to bundling up for a little snow walk? Getting my favorite hot drink at my local coffee spot? Getting out of class in the pitch-black dark? Sigh…

I was just getting the hang of things! But, this is life—It changes up on you just when you get comfortable.

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This is not to say that I don’t love spring, because I do. The sun is out, my plants are thriving, and we’re all photosynthesizing.

I can finally leave these babies out on the windowsill without fear of them getting chilly. (Am I crazy for doing this? I don’t like to let them sit by the window when it’s cold out. What if they get goosebumps?)

A small part of my plant collection

I recently acquired a red pepper plant (pictured at center) that I am so excited to care for! This new acquisition prompted me to take some time this weekend to spend intentional time with all of my plants.

Just in time for the season, I came across this piece by Science Meets Soul about how important it is to cultivate an almost symbiotic relationship with my plants. They don’t exist just to serve me, but I exist to serve them and to care for them—just as I would with any other living thing.

How to Befriend Our Herbal Allies

In my future I envision a large garden complete with tea leaves, herbs & spices, vegetables, fruits, flowers and anything else I can get my hands on.

Although my vision is far from now, I have been able to find ways to connect with nature not just in my tiny apartment, but outside beyond the city and into the trails.

How I cultivate my relationship with nature

• Shopping and appreciating seasonal produce

• Spending at least once a week to tend to my plants

• Regular nature trail walks

• Tea-brewing rituals

• Sunbathing

• Taking deep breaths outdoors on a break

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Regardless the season, I find it’s crucial to remain grounded and connected to the natural world. Spring reminds me that the best is always yet to come, and that beauty exists even in the depths of winter. And yes, it will still be there for you when Donald Trump or Elon Musk do the next stupid thing.

Nature is a wonderful thing, and what a joy it is to have the capacity to experience its beauty.

XO,

Katy

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