I mentioned a few days ago that we took a trip to a local plant nursery to prepare for our next activity from our Gratitude Jar — Flowers: Make a special flower delivery! Emily and I had so much fun with this!
At the plant nursery, we found bags of fall bulbs that were 30% off or about $2.00 for several bulbs. Then, Emily asked some of our elderly neighbors if it would be okay to plant some bulbs in their flower beds.
What’s that? You want to plant flowers in our yard? Ummm…. Yes, please!!
The reaction was absolutely fantastic! I wish I could have gotten some more photos, but Emily was just so excited and could not wait to get started! After deciding where the bulbs should be planted, we eagerly got to work.
At one point, she was talking to each of the bulbs as she was planting them, “I think you’re going to do just fine over here, little flower. You’ll grow up big and strong.”
Afterwards, we were invited inside for what was probably the best tasting hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies ever! What an unexpected treat!
This was such a wonderful way to get to know some of our neighbors, express gratitude for flowers, and let Emily get involved with a small service project.
A few things:
1. Always ask for permission first!
2. Discuss what you will be planting and where.
3. I wish we had brought a slightly larger shovel, and another set of gardening gloves. Some bulbs need to be planted about 5″ deep, and ground conditions can make that difficult in November.
4. Have fun!!
Dear Valerie,
I've already dug up half of our neighbor's yard, and have planted 1,123 bulbs. Should I not have done that?
Love,
Mark
I didn't ask for permission first, either. Boy are they in for a surprise when they get back from Florida!!
@ Mark — So you're the one who took off with the big shovel! I should have known…..
what a beautiful idea. I'll bet they were really touched.
That is such a beautiful idea! Thank you for once again bringing a smile to my day with your wonderful ideas.
You really are always doing such creative, educational and giving activities with your girls! Thanks for inspiring so many 🙂
I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
I bet you made your neighbors' day. What a great activity. Emily is lucky to have you as a mom.
the house next to mine is vacant. I can use some good neighbors. interested in moving?
I am sitting here being a little grumpy when I read this post. Not only did it make me feel better, but the comment by Mark made me chuckle. You guys rock! What wonderful lessons you're teaching your children.
What a wonderful idea! 🙂
I forgot to mention, our neighbor said she will call us when the bulbs start to come up. Emily can hardly wait! We planted tulips and crocuses. She was so proud!
Can you move next door? My garden is a disaster!
I would love to have you as a neighbor. Imagine all the crafting, knitting ..
Valerie, I love your site and look forward to see what you and Emily are up to every day. You are a wonderful mom that is raising someone who will grow up to be a definite positive influence in our world. My dear mother was much like you. Thank you for the memories it brings and Bless you and your family!
What a wonderful activity!
This is fantastic! I am really enjoying these posts. You have very lucky neighbors.
Oh the part about her talking to the plants is just too cute!
I love this idea!