Little Joys

I’ve recently established a little kitchen garden at home, and it’s been quite an exciting journey. The joy of watching your own food grow from seed to harvest is truly something else. Right now, I have a few basics planted: potatoes, coriander, fenugreek, spinach, salad leaves, and garlic. But that’s not all—we also have three mango trees standing tall, a pomegranate tree, a lemon plant, and a jamun (java plum/ black plum) tree.

_{Potatoes growing beneath the soil, waiting to surprise with their humble yet hearty harvest.}

Now, one might wonder: do we really need to grow these vegetables ourselves? After all, it’s much easier to buy them from the market. Will my little garden yield so many potatoes that I’ll never have to buy them again? Or will I grow enough garlic to last a lifetime? Probably not. So why do it, then?

_{garlic shoots already tall and proud}

Well, as I mentioned before, it’s a rewarding hobby. It keeps you close to nature and gives you a sense of fulfillment when you see the fruits (or veggies) of your labor. There’s something deeply satisfying about nurturing a tiny seedling into something edible.

But there’s another hidden benefit. The otherwise barren land around us often remains unused, becoming a home for dangerous reptiles like snakes and scorpions. By cultivating it, we transform that once-empty space into a productive little patch of green. It not only keeps the land in use but also creates a safer environment around the house. It becomes a vibrant space that’s full of life, where birds come to perch and bees come to visit.

_{Coriander, a sprinkle of green magic}

Even the smallest harvest will bring a sense of accomplishment. When I will pick fresh spinach leaves for dinner or pluck coriander to garnish a dish, it will be a different kind of happiness. There will be a unique thrill in knowing that these will come from my own garden.

_{Methi sprouting its delicate leaves, promising a hint of bitterness}

And then there’s the joy of sharing. When friends or neighbors drop by, it feels great to hand them a bag of homegrown spinach or a bunch of fresh herbs. It's a small gesture, but one that brings people together, creating bonds over something as simple as food. I have just received some citrus 🍊 🍊 🍊 delights from our neighbours. And I wish to do the same with my yield!

_{The lemon plant in the backyard}

So, even if my little garden doesn’t eliminate trips to the market, it’s worth every moment spent digging, planting, and watering. It’s about cultivating more than just vegetables—it’s about growing patience, joy, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. 🌿🍃

_{A single mango tree gracing the side yard}

Have you ever tried your hand at gardening? I’d love to hear your stories and experiences!

_{The pomegranate tree: the fruit isn't that red but it's very sweet}

_{A Pair of Mango Sentinels by the Gate — Two mango trees standing tall, guarding the front yard with their lush green canopy}

Enjoy the little things in life, for they bring the greatest joys!!!