Unexpected Garden

So, my husband and I threw in the shovel and decided to dismantle the garden we’ve attempted to grow for years. Instead we used the dirt to fill in a little retaining wall to create the illusion of a bigger yard.  Our little bit of fakery has actually landed us a true victory garden! In this spot, we have harvested a number of cucumbers, butternut squash, and even tomatoes. How many delicious, and truly awe-inspiring and free meals have been graced with these goodies!

This got me to thinking about other things we throw away without much thought. How much value– or the seeds of how much value –exist therein?

As a younger (and perhaps more creative)  person, I had more time to see the treasure in that which was about to be tossed. I won awards for art made of dumpster-dived materials, and assembled a lovely living space with many discarded items. Necessity was the mother of invention then, but unfortunately now,  necessity just seems a mother.

So, how can I (or you!) harness your spirit of creativity or invention today? What are you about to toss that may have intrinsic value with just a little polish, artful re-working or sun and water? I plan to report back a couple of brainstorms and practical ideas in the coming posts…..