
I don’t know how many of you have seen the movie It’s Complicated with Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, and Steve Martin, but it is one of my favorites.
Seriously.
It’s a comedy about a strong-minded yet gentle-hearted woman whom is on good terms with her ex-husband, makes chocolate croissants with Steve Martin, has a mac-daddy of a garden, and a wicked cool potting bench. I swear, I think I watch that movie over and over just so I can admire her garden.
Like, Alec who??

And ever since that movie came out, I have wanted a potting bench like Meryl’s in the worst way. Then, as time passed, I started simplifying my requirements and would be happy for just simply a potting bench. I almost went so far as to say – slap some legs on a board and call it a day.
But then one day I had to go down to the basement and empty the dehumidifier, and finally paid attention to all the tables that were down there. Apparently, the previous owner had a few hobbies, and built a work bench for each one. A couple of them got me thinking and I started tapping my temple with my finger.
“Hmmm” I thought. “A little of this and a little of that would make a great potting bench.”
So, naturally, I did what every wife does. I went to the husband and told him my idea. I told him I needed a couple pieces separated and brought to the barn for my potting bench.
And, naturally, he pretended he didn’t hear me.

I went into great detail with my arms moving in big circles explaining my idea, and my tone got all Southern and voice got all high-pitched with excitement. It started to become a play where I was the Director and Sean and this bench were the cast members.
When he got to work and started separating the pieces, you know he just wanted to call in an understudy. But he persevered and brought those two pieces, the bookcase and the table, to the barn.
I raced to the paint store and picked up some “oops” paint for $2 a can, and painted the pieces, along with a square of peg board to house the garden tools. Sean and the Little Miss cleaned out the designated space in the barn, and I was in business.

I planted my feet, so to speak. I organized my pots. I hung my garden tools. I filled the small garbage can with potting mix, and I planted a chrysanthemum.

And although summer is nearing the end, I finally have my potting bench. Bulbs that I have ordered are coming next week, and there are more mums to plant.
And for some weird reason, I can’t find that movie anywhere on my DVR….
