And then one morning, after days of watering, waiting, and watching, I find first brush of green seedlings in new bed.

A sense of peaceful satisfaction steals over me. I usually give seedlings a pep talk.

Roto-tillers are terrific. But having an aching back and dirt under your nails from doing all hard work to reach moment of green life...

Baby, there's nothing like it!

Do I really want this jewel of a plant, this tempting beauty, breaking up my happy garden?

Can I live without my new love?

No! Why should I have to live without this beauty? I'm gardener! I decide what is planted and what isn't!

I set new plant in my basket, shove my guilt down deep inside, and stride determinedly to checkout counter.

I happily wallow in guilt-free denial while waiting in line. My new plant is in good hands.

But maybe I can grow it with marigolds? I could give it a shot. They might get along. Marigolds are tolerant souls.

Yes! Decision made. My marigolds are about to meet a new friend. I am no longer a horrible person for considering dumping my little buddies.

I am gardener, a proud caretaker of earth! My guilt slithers off to haunt me during my next nursery visit.

We gardeners have a deep relationship with our plants, each and every one.

But we always manage to find room for one more.