Tuesday, November 1, 2011

It Can't Be Done.

It can't be done....just four little words. Have you ever had anyone tell you this? I have. Just the other day I was reminded of one of those times when someone told me that something just couldn't be done. I was taking some fall pictures of my house and garden when I remembered the time that this conversation with a neighbor took place. I had just returned from Charleston, South Carolina where I fell completely in love with the courtyard gardens that I could barely see past the iron gates. One of the objects of my affection was a particular planting, creeping fig. This beautiful vine was growing everywhere giving off an air of timeless elegance. I wanted so much to turn my little courtyard area into a Charleston garden. Then it happened...my neighbor...the one with the greenest thumb in the whole county...said those words to me. "It can't be done. We don't live in a warm enough climate to grow creeping fig. If you plant it, it will just die the first winter."



Well, as you can see I ignored her and bought three tiny pots of verigated creeping fig. I figured that it would be protected somewhat by the three walls surrounding it and the heat from the bricks may keep it alive during the cold winters.



Here it is four years later. It took it a couple of years to take off and the winter does take its toil on it just a little bit, however, it always comes back in the spring. In fact, I think it needs a little trimming right about now. What do you think?

I couldn't help but chuckle when taking my pictures the other day. My neighbor's words resounding in my mind. I am so glad that I chose not to listen to her.



I tell my girls often that anything is possible and to never let anyone tell you that something can't be done. Carson has heard a lot of "it can't be done" and "do you know how many talented people want a music career" lately. Her dad and I counter those statements with something like "if you really want it and if you are willing to work hard enough anything can happen." Isn't that what we are supposed to tell our children?

I think I should tell her the story of the creeping fig and remind her of the Bible verse that says, "With God ALL things are possible." Matthew 19:26

17 comments:

Blessed Serendipity said...

Beautiful post. Just the words that it can't be done should challenge anyone to go ahead and try anyway. What a beautiful picture of your daughter.

xo,
Danielle

F Cameron said...

Wonderful post! I've often coveted the creeping fig as well. Yours is amazing!

Fabulous photo of Carson.

pve design said...

This post is perfect as I was literally just having a conversation with our contractor who told me that whenever someone tells him it cannot be done, he does it. Wherever there is a can't makes me turn it into a can. Desire counts for so much! :)
Yes, "with God ALL things are possible"-
pve

penny said...

I love your story, Carla. Matthew 19:26 and the tale of the creeping fig, is exactly what you should remind her of.
Your daughter is prettier than ever, I do believe she has the determination to follow her dreams.

Blessings,
Pam

sweetbay said...

You should tell her that story! Funny about the Creeping Fig -- you must have just the spot for it. You're right, it must love the warmth from the bricks. It looks great.

Paula@SweetPea said...

So true!

Your neighbor was definitely wrong about your Fig. It's huge!

Joan Elizabeth said...

Sadly I find the person saying "It can't be done" to me is me. I am trying to kick the habit.

Michelle said...

I love it! "it can't be done" is one I have heard a lot through the years when it comes to my home projects. So glad your creeping fig is showing the YES, IT CAN!

I can't imagine the challenges of trying to break into such a hard industry like music, but you are right...."it can be done!"

Glenda said...

Love the positive tone of this post!! The creeping fig is beautiful against the red brick, and I don't think it needs trimming.

Carson is blessed to have your support and encouragement, and I know she will realize her dreams!!

From the Kitchen said...

I've had such a lovely visit catching up with you this morning. Alas, we are in much too cold a climate for the creeping fig that grew in our Charleston garden with wild abandon. Have you read "Mrs. Whaley's Charleston Garden". I often reread it in the depth of our upper midwest winters.

I've heard many successful people (musicians and otherwise) give much credit to their parents for encouraging them to keep trying. Carson is very fortunate to have talent and parents who cheer her on.

Best,
Bonnie

Elena said...

I am a fighter as well and for me everything can be done with time, patience and commitment.

Skeeter said...

Creeping Fig. Hum, I must do some research on this one. We see some type of vine growing on brick walls all over town but have yet to identify it. You may have helped us along here.

I never believe those words, “It cant be done” My saying is, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way” And also that little train saying, “I think I can, I think I can” …

Carson is so lucky to have such supportive parents…

Anonymous said...

Yay for you, Carla!!! It CAN be done! Love the creeping fig - so pretty. And the inspiration and encouragement that you give your children is so important. Yes - it definitely can be done!
Hugs,
Zuzu

Sunflowers With Smiles said...

I just came across your blog....I love the creeping fig? Have you ever heard of Confederate Jasmine? They have a lot of it here growing on fences in Beaufort, SC. It is beautiful also. I am a new follower of your blog.

*Ulrike* said...

I think we all have been told that one time or another, it just depends on whether we go along with it or choose to ignore it. You came out with a beautiful creeping fig by ignoring! I love Charleston too, but my all time favorite is Savannah.
Take Care,
Ulrike

Tammy@Simple Southern Happiness said...

So very true, all things are possible with GOD. Bravo for taking the risk, creeping fig is lovely.

Southern Fried Gal said...

Awesome post! I love practical life application of God's truths. Your fig and daughter are gorgeous!