No doubt about it, we live in a world of instant gratification. The other day, I ordered a pair of shoes online, and honestly, I think they arrived on my doorstep that afternoon. Things are so readily available to us that it’s sometimes hard to appreciate them.

Fortunately, however, we have the gentle gifts of nature to remind us that some things are worth the wait. Those first green buds of spring can lift a spirit like no pair of shoes can. This issue of Central Virginia HOME will help you savor those signs of spring we’ve waited for patiently all winter. Our feature on peonies shares all you need to know about growing and maintaining these luscious blooms, and how to decorate your home with them this season. We’ll help you get your yard more beautiful than ever with articles on incorporating a retaining wall into your landscape, smart ways to prune your trees and shrubs, and new ways to mulch (can’t you just smell that mulch?). We’ll even help you make quick work of the onerous task of washing your windows, to let a little more of that glorious sun shine in.

Lest you think all we want you to do is work, relax and keep reading. In fact, read our “Simply Southern” column to learn how to pour yourself a proper cup of tea and savor it. Peruse our feature on fantasy pools and dream about what over-the-top pool might grace your backyard someday. Or feast your eyes on our feature on throw pillows: After all that waiting for spring, you can bring in a quick pop of gratification and a whole new look to your home with this humble accessory.

Regardless of whether your projects are long-term slow and steady, or done-in-a-day do-overs, take a cue from nature and take time to appreciate your home and garden. While there’s nothing “instant” about building and maintaining a home, there’s so much for which to be grateful as we create our most meaningful spaces. It’s worth the wait.

—Meridith Ingram
Editor