I don’t know about you, but as much connecting with colleagues is in efforts to plan and to work together in developing online lessons, my connecting is also about taking care of my mental health. I have a very supportive family and I can talk to them about everything, but, there are just somethings they don’t quite get. That’s why it’s so important to me to find somewhere I can not only share my thoughts and feelings, but be understood. Truly understood, by someone else who is sharing the experience alongside me.
Making time for me
My Houseplants
To preface, I had 7 plants in my classroom over Spring Break. I couldn’t tell you how much I thought of them and worried about them dying. Yes, I know they’re just plants, but I’ve had them for a few years and brought them through trying times of dealing with pests and managed to keep them all healthy. As time passed, I worried about their condition and their need for water. I wondered if they’d be alive when I was able to get to them. Well, 6 made it. My coffee plant did not. As soon as we were allowed to schedule a time to go into school and collect the belongings we’d need for teaching online I was there. Yes, I grabbed my books and other things I’d need. But, my top priority was my plants. Did you know you could order plants online? Well, you can. Needless to say, my houseplant collection has significantly grown since physical distancing began. I went from 7 in the classroom and 6 at home, to a total of 27. I’ve even started propagating three of them, literally breathing new life into my plants. Who knew you didn’t have to buy plants, but that you could grow your own from the ones you already own? | Just one of my deliveries. |
THeir Beauty
It’s their uniqueness in appearances and needs that make them beautiful, they truly represent life and all of our diverse needs. Once I think I’ve figured out one of my plants, something changes and they demand something different than before. Take Ellie, one of my orchids. She seemed to be doing fine, she was still living, but she was just dormant, she hadn’t shown any new life in nearly a year. Well, with a little extra love and care, taking away her potting medium, I could see some of her roots were rotting. She needed my help. So, that’s what I did, I helped her. By cutting away the rotten roots and moving her to full water culture I was able to give her what she needed. A fresh start. Only 4 short weeks later Ellie started breathing new life and producing a new leaf. |
What is it that can breathe new life into you?
- D'Alice