I really enjoy seeing my garden come to life in the early summer mornings. Before the sun is fully in the sky, you hear and feel a relaxed stillness that draws you to take in the world with your senses.
Just before sunrise, the sky brightens and the earth doesn’t seem cold any longer. At first, birds sing softly, almost hoping it’s alright to sound out and the bees move between flowers as they look for something. Mammals appear from the wilderness under the shrubs when the light of day becomes visible.
Like most early mornings, the mullein plants seem to call my attention. They are like guardians in the garden, tall and firm and their thick coating on the stem adds soft protection to the yellow and round flowers.
With a sunny glow, the late summer flowers reach upward, above my height, as if catching the first glimpse of sunlight. The way mullein starts out is very modest, yet it stands tall with great dignity. The streets seem filled with enthusiasm.
Not too far from the mullein, a hummingbird zooms in and out between tangled honeysuckle with quick steps. Its wing beats sound like a small car and as it travels quickly, it weaves across the mullein stalks in and out many times in a hidden pattern.
The lighting you see shows the flash of iridescence for only a brief second, much like a jewel being moved. It feels rushed and cheerful, making me realize how vibrant all of nature is right now.
Then there’s the woodpecker with a rhythm that changes things up and asks us to focus harder. The insect travels slowly on a mullein stalk, tapping every so often near crevices to look for insects or seeds.
The painting does not pay attention to the bird’s flight or to the light that comes and goes. It’s focused on what it does and seeing its exact process gives me confidence. Although the stalk leans slightly, it doesn’t break and seems comfortable with treating guests.
Everything in the garden, in the early morning, gives the impression of having a peaceful exchange. I just watch and it feels like a special event has been shared with me. Seeing such peace among nature is what makes me love gardening most, not only for the flowers or the rewards of what I grow.
I feel stillness and activity at the same time, thanks to the mullein, sunlight and birds in the morning. There’s something about the migration I never get tired of observing.