Beads of sweat were forming at the base of the hairline on my neck. I didn’t bother to wipe it off because I knew more would follow.

Repetitive movement had also heated up my core, and it felt good.

There is something cathartic that happens for me when I am working in my yard.

My mind seems to be set free and worries fly away.

I don’t know why gardening has this effect on me. Maybe it’s the fresh air combined with the physical exertion.

Whatever the reason, I like it, and this past week I carved out about an hour to rake up some leaves.

With a very limited time frame, I knew there wasn’t a lot I would accomplish, but I at least had 60 minutes and I was determined to get outside and start my spring clean up.

I filled up two lawn bags with leaves and was proud to have done that much in such a short amount of time.

While raking, I noticed that my Knock Out roses had flower buds close to opening, and the hydrangeas under the Japanese maple were pushing out new greenery.

I was thrilled with all the new life I was seeing and envisioned how spectacular everything could look once the beds were rejuvenated and flowers were in full bloom.

Time was up, and I had to wash up before heading out to work.

I was a bit frustrated I had to stop and leave the yard and the relaxation it was providing, but my appointment wouldn’t wait.

En route, I happened to notice an overgrown azalea bush, which had exploded with hot pink blooms.

A smile crept across my face, edging out a bit of the annoyance I was feeling from having to leave MY yard behind.

I then drove past a house where a Spirea bush was in full bloom. Its branches looked like a waterfall of snow.

My irritation further subsided, and I began to feel thankful instead of put out.

Looking back, I think this drive to work was a teaching moment for me.

Working in the yard and seeing the fruits of my labor provides a positive release for my psyche, but what happens to me when I can’t garden?

I have got to remember to take advantage of other opportunities — ones not so expected—like seeing a beautiful bush on the side of the road.

Feeling like you need a little food for the soul? Spring in Vicksburg is amazing.

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Terri Frazier is a staff writer at The Vicksburg Post. You may reach her at terri.frazier@vicksburgpost.com. Readers are invited to submit their opinions for publication.