Inspiration is a mysterious thing that I will not attempt to explain. I do however, consider it a gift to be inspired. To feel a tingle in the inner psyche, a divine spark, an inexplicable urge to act, to be driven by a strange desire– inspiration is powerful stuff. Imagine my joy when fellow blogger Kevin, author of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Man blog, nominated me for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. I was overjoyed and touched. When I began blogging, my goals were simple: to teach people gardening practices, share plant information and share my experiences and inspirations as a self-expressed gardener. I can think of no better compliment than to be told that I am responsible in some way for someone’s inspiration.
If you’re not familiar with Nitty Gritty Dirt man, Kevin’s gardening blog is a unique compilation of humor, realism, and healthy doses of pop culture references all intertwined to create a unique style of gardening storytelling. I visit his blog often to catch up on his latest ‘incredibly true misadventures of a home gardener’. I urge you to pay him a visit. I guarantee you’ll smile.
The Very Inspiring Blogger Award comes with a few requirements upon acceptance. One is to pay it forward by nominating 7 other blogs. Second, to reveal seven random facts about myself, and last but not least, thank my nominator and link to their blog.
My 7 nominations: (in random order)
- Hamptons Gardens – Written by Jeff in East Hampton, NY. This blog is thoughtful, personal and well written. I love how observant Jeff is. He has a very good eye for plant combinations and design as evident in photographs of his own gardens.
- Skippy’s Vegetable Garden - Kathy, accompanied by her Portuguese water dog named Skippy, authors this great blog about gardening edibles. This is where I turn to for veggie-garden inspiration. From tips to techniques, the photos always convey the story. A terrific urban garden blog.
- No End to Gardens – A tumble blog dedicated to wonderful garden photos submitted by people all over the world. Go here to get visual inspiration and be prepared to be amazed. Why aren’t there more blogs like this??
- American Gardening, with a love for the English Garden – Thomas Mickey’s blog is dedicated to telling the story of how nineteenth century American seed and nursery catalogs sold the English garden style to America. This blog will teach you a quick history lesson in every post, and includes research for his upcoming book Seduction of the English Garden. Go visit his blog right now.
- The Perennial Plate – a site dedicated to adventurous and sustainable eating. The video episodes are the main reason I visit the site, but the duo’s blogs, authored by Daniel and Mirra, are a good read too. Go here to see real food and the people behind it. Awesome video production. You might just be inspired to incorporate video into your blog. I know I am.
- Growing with Plants – Matt is what I call an intense gardener. He has a sizeable greenhouse that kept me salivating for more exotics all winter long. Gardening is in his blood and he just goes for it. I’ve learned an awful lot about plants from this informative blog.
- The Intercontinental Gardener – I have a fascination with the Northwest and Liisa Wihman’s blog is my window into that world. Her blog is lovely and worldly. A seasoned gardener, she’s gardened in five countries on three continents. Stunning photography and eloquent prose. I love this blog.
7 random facts about me…
- I love and collect American Impressionism painting.
- Some of my favorite movies include: Six Degrees of Separation, Man on Wire, The Shawshank Redemption and Dancer in the Dark.
- I co-founded a graphic design firm with my best friend in 1991. We were on the fast track and achieved a lifetime of accomplishments within the first 5 years with International acclaim.
- English was not my first language. I spoke Spanish up until the first day of kindergarten. Consequently, I don’t remember much of that school year.
- I don’t have kids, but I have two very special children in my life. Kids can change your perspective even if they’re not yours.
- An occasional Mani Pedi is a must for me. Completely underrated by men. Oh, and a good haircut doesn’t hurt either. ; )
- I live deliberately and look for the beauty lurking in the mundane details of everyday things.
So, there you have it. Seven completely random facts about me. And thank you Kevin. I’m honored by your nomination.