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Miller's life reads like a chapter
in the story of America's return to the backyard. Like a growing
number of people, he became interested in gardening as a hobby
that soothed his nerves and beautified his backyard.
As a corporate cog for nearly
10 years, he often spent the better part of his weekends puttering
in the yard. "I found I got a huge payback on the energy
I spent in the backyard; I enjoyed the leisurely process of doing
backyard chores alone or with the kids. On Sunday night we could
look back with pride on what we had done, and we could enjoy
a nice backyard sanctuary all week long."
In 1994, he decided to make
it his living, creating clever tools that made chore time easier.
Miller attributes his thriving business to identifying and embracing
the trend toward backyard living. "We're in the simplicity
business," he says. Innovative tools with names like the
Weed Hound (a stand-up tool that pops weeds with the punch of
a button) and the Bulb Hound Garden Planter (designed with a
hinged coring tube to make it easy to transplant flowers or dig
holes for bulbs), are flying off store shelves nationwide. Miller
says homeowners are focusing more time and energy on creating
a feeling of tranquility in their own homes and backyards, and
they're looking for the right tools -- and tips -- for the job.
Looking to transform your own
lawn and garden into a personal oasis? Miller offers some tips
to create a peaceful backyard sanctuary with a minimum of effort
-- and to enjoy yourself in the process:
* Small, bite-sized projects
rule. Even when you're embarking on a larger project in the backyard,
view it as a series of small projects. That takes the pressure
off and gives you more successes.
* Relax and enjoy the process.
Take your time; there's no rush when you're enjoying yourself.
This is an uncommon opportunity for you to leave any "Type
A" tendencies behind. Who knows? Maybe you'll discover the
virtue of patience.
* Remove nuisances and clutter.
That ugly shrub, those weedy areas, the branches that block your
efforts -- get them all out of your way and start fresh. If something's
nagging you, vanquish it. After all, you're the master.
* Involve loved ones. Chore
time is really playtime in your own backyard. Sometimes it's
even more fun when you share it with someone you love. Plant
a tree with your children and it will stand as a memory through
their lifetimes.
* Use the right stuff. The tools
of your craft should minimize strain and maximize results. Think
quality, not quantity here. Rather than aggravating yourself
with tools that will break or deteriorate, purchase reliable
ones, maintain them well and they'll reward you with a lifetime
of loyal service.
* Engage all the senses. The
most relaxing garden sanctuaries are the ones that tickle all
of our senses. Plant some fragrant herbs next to those beautiful
begonias, or save some space in the back of the garden for some
tasty onions or tomatoes. Install foot lighting along the path
to the back door or the gate. Create a small rock garden and
install a pump to enjoy the sound of water trickling throughout
the season. Express yourself -- this is living art.
* Enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Gardening isn't only about getting your hands dirty. Once you've
planted, tilled, cultivated and weeded, remember to appreciate
your sanctuary. One of a garden's most vibrant therapeutic qualities
is how it makes you feel when you're nearby.
The bottom line is to keep it
simple, and to make it your own. No matter which kind of backyard
or garden you choose, keep in mind that the best backyard sanctuary
is one that you create -- and care for -- yourself. |
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