Our gardens are not just homes for plants but any personal place of peace. Wherever you seek solace, that is your garden.

   Liz Wessel's weekend essay reminds us of the definition's breadth. Here is part of the Mary Oliver poem she quoted: 

If you’re John Muir you want trees to
live among. If you’re Emily, a garden
will do.

Try to find the right place for yourself.
If you can’t find it, at least dream of it.

   To "dream of it" is vital because we do not spend much time in actual gardens. Fortunately, dreaming can put you anywhere. 

   What brings you peace? My younger sister dreams of La Jolla. The views there are her garden.

   Since my life is dominated by making pictures, still & moving, & the music & poetry that accompany them, my daydreams are secret gardens of their own.

   The most beautiful traditional garden I know is friend Melinda Garwood's. I photographed this image of pink, red, green & pale blue there. 

   Dr. Garwood has spent her career as a skilled caregiver tending to the education, well-being & healing of countless people. Thus, her garden is as lovely as is she.

-Erie Chapman

Photograph: Lynnie's Garden by Erie