leaving the office for a garden full of memories
I still remember the smell of my grandmother’s backyard, where peppers grew wild and laughter echoed through summer evenings. A few months ago, I left my corporate job behind and became the full-time gardener for a local restaurant. Today, as I gathered a basket brimming with peppers, I felt a wave of nostalgia and pride.
But not everyone understands this choice. My kids tease me about being ‘old-fashioned,’ while my neighbors debate whether growing food for a trendy restaurant is better than keeping a neat, ornamental lawn. Some say our community should stick to classic flower beds, while others praise the move toward edible landscapes—especially with our unpredictable North American weather making food security a hot topic.
I see the garden as a bridge between generations. My hands are dirty, my back aches, but my heart is full. The peppers I pick aren’t just for fancy dishes—they’re a piece of family history, a nod to tradition, and a small rebellion against manicured lawns and HOA rules. Is it worth trading the security of an office for the uncertainty of the soil? For me, the answer is in every colorful harvest and every story shared over a homegrown meal.
#gardeninglife #familytradition #communitydebate #Gardening
