Today is the second day of my “official” summer break. The adjective “official” is used because it really isn’t a “summer break.” I still have a “To Do List!” The current list includes many things that require minimal brain power and lots of stamina and creativity. For the past few days, I have directed my stamina and creativity towards beautifying my yard. As is probably true with all dedicated principals, my mental state has not fully transformed into a creative state. I am still reflecting on the previous school year and how to advance onward. I want so much for my team to realize their untapped potential for SUCCESS! I want them to move forward as Masterpieces capable of conquering anything with their talents and commitment!
In just 2 days, despite the influence of untimely rain showers, I have chopped down my “To Do List.” To my credit, I have painted the lions which are perched near the entrance to my driveway. One lion guards the mailbox, the other, an identical twin, sits proudly on the north side of the driveway. The guys took quite a beating during the polar vortex, but they are glamorous now! Their manes are adorned with highlights and low lights. Their nails are finely manicured, their eyelashes have been curled, and everlasting eyeliner has been applied. I’ve visited all the local nurseries and Home Depots to find the perfect hues of purple Petunias and accent foliage to fill 4 Grecian urns, 2 oblong planters, 1 circular planter, and the side planters of the pedestals where the lions are perched. I almost forgot; I’ve painted the Grecian urns! The polar vortex didn’t discriminate! So, I have painted, shopped, planted, and lastly, pulled weeds! It is the weed pulling that has inspired this blog! I am naming my not-so-friendly weed, Daniel Dandelion. It’s kind of ironic, I’ve spent numerous hours “sprucing” 2 lions only to go to battle with Daniel Dandelion and his cousins!
The battle began when I decided that Daniel and his cousins had to be evicted from my plush green lawn. After all, what is expected when poachers move into a condominium and don’t sign a lease! I gathered my special dandelion extraction tools, a long-spiked fork and a mini spade. I was committed to ridding my lawn of the unsightly residents. It was quite a battle, Daniel and his cousins stalwartly stood with their lengthy roots firmly planted into the rich soil. I, Commander of Flowers, refused to surrender until ALL Dandelions had been extracted! Due to my relentless commitment, I won the battle. While I won the battle, I knew that I hadn’t won the war. After a few rainy days, other poachers would be looking for a well-kept condo in which to root. As would any skilled Commander, I decided a strategic plan was needed and did a little background research. To my surprise, I found that dandelions have hidden characteristics that make them unique and special. I am stunned to call them MASTERPIECES, but really, they ARE! Dandelions are filled with nutritious value and are excellent sources of vitamins A, B, C, E, and K! They are stocked with lots of substantial minerals: iron, calcium, magnesium and potassium. These “wonder weeds” are also a great source of fiber! You can serve them raw or cooked! Dried dandelion roots can also be used to brew a soothing cup of dandelion tea! Now mind you, I am not adding these “condo poachers” as a side dish to dinner but I have gained new respect for the bothersome plants.
When school resumes, I will be looking for Daniel and his cousins among the marigolds. I will find ways to let them know that they are special, unique, and valued! Every garden needs some variety!
