Living in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, the only things growing during the long winter are the snow banks. Unless you consider the bulbs, perennials and the beneficial insects that are aware, albeit in their dormant stage, that spring is just around the corner. I am an optimist, quite accustomed to the cockeyed grins that I encounter when I definitively state that I will be dancing in my garden by the middle of April, happy as a clam or perhaps a ladybug. I have not been proven wrong yet.

With that in mind, and after perusing dozens of catalogs I have received with the onset of the New Year, my head is filled with all sorts of projects for God's little acre. One especially intriguing concept is the creation of a secret and sacred space within the landscape I have nurtured over the past 12 years. A space filled with many of my perennial herbs, which have been scattered amidst my various flower beds. What a delight it will be to have them all assembled in one place, within a separate room in my garden filled with an assortment of delectable herbs.

If you look at your garden as a series of rooms you would be amazed how quickly and easily you can design wonderful secret spaces filled with an assortment of sights and smells. And, the thought of sitting amid an aromatic garden room filled with a delightful array of culinary and medicinal herbs, is something that continues to dominate my early winter thoughts.

The first rule of thumb is design. Personally, I prefer to create a design around an object. Perhaps a sitting stone or a primitive bench that provides a focal point from which to enjoy what is happening around me. One or two 4'x4' squares can be laid out geometrically utilizing a diverse palette of color, height, shape and texture. And leave room for those tender perennials which will fit right in planted in interesting pots that can be easily moved indoors when winter returns.

Think about it. What better time than now, while the garden is still sleeping, to plan your new secret place. Reach out to the earth with your mind and imagination!