Happiness starts at your front door

A few months ago, I finally got up the nerve to say to a client what I’d been dying to say for more than a year: “Do I need to do a drive-by planting?”

Every week, I’d show up at the front door, see those poor, unloved pots framing the entrance with their dry soil and dead plants, and I’d cringe. Several times I’d stopped myself from just pulling out the dead whatever-it-was and flinging it behind the shrubbery. Even that change would’ve been an improvement.

Much to my surprise and delight, my client said with excitement, “Do you do that?? That would be fantastic!”

Before long, we were talking colors and seasons and plant combinations. We discussed possible changes to the whole front porch that would make it beautiful and usable. We unearthed a petite watering can, two old-but-usable obelisks, and some window boxes. One week later, I filled those pots with pre-sprouted tulips, hyacinths and primrose. The obelisks created height and the colors popped. A new outdoor rug and pillows completed the scene.

And just like that, the front entrance was happy and inviting.

It was a small task for me, but a HUGE win for her. I had no idea she’d been embarrassed about the condition of her front porch and door for more than a year. She knew that entrance was a terrible first impression, so guest invitations were few and far between. Now she felt far more confident and excited. She took photos for her mom and sister. She talked about having a friend over for porch coffee. And I thought, My work here is done.

If your entrance is looking a little tired or sad, I encourage you to get out there and change just one thing. Sweep and dust it off, then add a pot of flowers. If that brings a smile, add an outdoor table or chair. If you have an outlet nearby, add a table lamp and leave it on. It will glow at dusk and whisper to evening strollers, Friendly people live here.

Before long, you might find yourself sitting on that porch, waving to neighbors, counting fireflies. Happy. Inviting. Then our work will be done.