June 11,

Here in the foothills residents have flower beds with the full knowledge that the deer and elk can be expected to nibble and savor what is planted. We have options that rarely get bothered such as Russian sage and day lilies. I know this. This year I risked planting bee balm for the first time. I was told these critters do not like the scent of this plant. This year I was out of a spray that can be applied as a deterrent to elk and deer. So I was exposed.

This morning while enjoying coffee on the deck, I spotted this deer heading for the plant in question. Feeling entitled I shooed it away with my voice. It was then I noticed that it had a limp. My heart felt sad and shamed. Did it really take a limp to tweak the soft spot of my heart? Is it too much for me to give these creatures a treat from their normal diet of grass? I learned my lesson. I will stick to the tried and true plants for my front beds as these are the more truly resistant to deer and elk. And if these are nibbled, I will be generous because these animals add so much to the experience of living in this area. It is okay if my flower bed is enjoyed by all.

"Real generosity is doing something nice for someone who will never find out."
~Frank A. Clark

Peace.