With Memorial Day right around the corner, I wanted do something to honor those that have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Every few years my birthday falls on this solumn day and this year happens to be the year. On the years I share my birthday with Memorial Day I am reminded that the celebration of birth is just as important as celebrating the lives of the fallen.

Here’s how I made this tiny memorial garden:

1) The second I picked up this rusted and battered old tin at our local transfer center I knew exactly what I was going to use it for. It was once part of an old movie theater popcorn machine but now it will be given a new life.

2) I placed small pots filled with stones (for stability) where my jars will soon go.

3) The I filled in the rest of the tin with potting soil.

4) I use worm castings for all of my plants. It’s nutritious, natural, and cost next to nothing for what magical properties it offers.

5) Sprinkled a good handful of it into the soil and mixed it in.

6) Gently remove your potted flowers and don’t forget to tease the roots if they look root-bound.

7) Dig little holes where your plants will go and place your plant of choice into it.

8) I chose red, white, and blue flowers just for the occasion. Make sure to design your planter with foliage that requires similar light and water requirements.

9) Place your jars in the garden, cover the exposed soil with mulch, and add some burlap ribbon to dress up the tin.

The candles in these vintage blue jars will wait to be lit for the big day. On that day my husband and I will enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with the tiny garden as a centerpiece on our outdoor dining table.

I can’t wait.
Do you have a Diy project that you want to share?