November 24, 2008

Coming up on Thanksgiving, I am looking back upon memories of previous years. My mind immediately goes back to last year over Thanksgiving, I was traveling the globe. When I returned from the lands of Greece and Italy, I anticipated changes in my garden to reflect the overseas journey with friends. My garden did not enjoy many changes of Italian or Greek flare; however, indoors I am having much success with growing rosemary, bay and an olive tree. Jars of olives still fill my cupboards, but the rosemary and bay leaves do add a gourmet flare to the delicious dishes I attempt to prepare for dinner. Minnesota winters are great for inspiring the outdoor gardener to come inside, or rather forces us to go inside and work on something other than tilling, weeding and harvesting! As a vegetable gardener, I like to try new things in the garden and look forward to planting new and different varieties. In the past few years, I have learned that I am not alone. Numbers of herb and vegetables gardeners have increased significantly over the past few years. Trends show that many of us like to grow our own products, whether we have a large garden or a few containers on the patio. For me, not only is it fun, it is something I can share with friends and family, and it saves me money in the long run. Yes, it is a process preparing vegetables for winter use, but the time and energy spent in the garden and kitchen is well worth the joys of using homegrown produce!

Thanksgiving for me is such a time of reflection and great appreciation. I am so thankful God has given me so much in life to be thankful for, including a wonderful family, fun friends, a great job and super customers! Thank you all!

Wendy Jasper
MNLA Certified Professional

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