Sure, it has been a cool commencement to the 2026 summer season, but that has not halted my adventures in the garden. As per usual, I generally opt to assemble my own potted plants. As a rule of thumb, I studiously follow the true thriller, filler, and spiller formula. The formula is a simple one. It is a method that employs the services of three plants in one pot. The thriller plant functions as the showy, focal point of the arrangement. The filler is, well, self-explanatory, as you would be correct in assuming this plant selection adds volume and fullness to the pot. The spiller plant adds a cascading effect as it pours over the sides. Now, I have experimented with a few plants over the past summers. The resulting pots have been quite nice.

This summer, I decided on the trio of begonia, coleus, and vinca vine. I got to work on a Sunday afternoon, and by the next Sunday, my pot was filling out beautifully. I am very pleased with its progress. Putting the pot together itself is a relaxing, soothing mental exercise. And I am grateful for the results born from my work. Whatever the task, I humbly suggest you identify a labor of love and leisure that elicits personal fulfillment. Most definitely, life will stress you to the point that it may leave you broken. I have learned that my gratitude must be greater than my grief. I am thankful I have found an activity that provides but a moment of reward, peace, and mental clarity. I pray you do as well.

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