Wanna see some magic? Just look in the garden!

Okay, maybe that's a giant step for some of you. Maybe you live in a small apartment and there's not a garden anywhere within a day's drive. Or maybe it's freezing outside and all you want to do is curl up with a fuzzy blanket and hot cocoa.

We'll start small.

Get yourself a houseplant. They come in all sizes, colors, shapes, and varieties, so just pick the one that calls out to you. Think of your houseplant as a companion and give it the same attention and respect you'd give a dear friend.

Now the first thing you'll need to do when you bring your plant home is to make it comfortable. Check it to be sure it has plenty of room in its pot. Read the instructions that come with it and make sure you position it where it can get the light it needs -- full sun or partial sun or low sun.

If you aren't sure about the difference between 'full,' 'partial,' and 'low,' you can ask someone at the nursery. If you're lucky enough to have a friend or neighbor with a green thumb, you can ask for that kind person's advice. Plant people love to share what they know about growing!

After the excitement of moving in has passed, sit down with your plant. Look at her. Talk to her. Ask her to teach you how to care for her. Get to know each other!

Some of my plants like to be gently stroked, and some prefer to be ignored (much like cats). Over time, you'll learn what makes your plant happy and believe me -- a happy plant can do wonders for your home and for your sense of well-being. I don't know whether there is scientific evidence to back me up on this, but I am convinced that plants give off vibes that affect everything and everyone around them. If your plants are happy, you'll feel happy, too.

There's information about soil, water, and fertilizer for plants all over the internet. Those are details that must be attended to, but it's equally important to give attention to the spirit of your plant.

There is a book called The Secret Life of Plants that will astound and amaze you. Did you know that plants can recognize humans? Or that plants feel fear?

Don't take my word for it. Bring a plant into your life and see for yourself!

Grow long and prosper!

Brenda divides her time between playing in her garden and romping with her dogs, Solo and Babar.