A Morning in the Garden

Here in NE Ohio we are in the middle of a heat wave. The temperatures have been in the mid 90s with heat index over 100°. As I was coming back from doing my barn chores I decided to tackle my raised beds. I want to get them ready for a second planting of lettuce and herbs.

 My ultimate goal is to have my raised beds full of herbs that will come back every year. Even though I have been gardening for 30+ years I'm still learning. Talking to other gardeners, going to seminars and watching YouTube videos has taught me so much. And, given me the courage to "give it a try"...I mean what's the worst thing that will happen? 

 You're not seeing that wrong, I am in my pajamas LOL The plants don't mind. This is the coolest time of day so wanted to take full advantage. Plus, after the storms that rolled through overnight, I was able to pull weeds without a trowel. 

One of my favorite Homesteaders is RuthAnn Zimmerman. She is an avid gardener who loves to share. I enjoy her videos so much and got to meet her recently at a conference. You can find that post HERE.

 The beds are cleaned and ready for a second planting today. I need to harvest my dill and some lovage for drying. If you're not familiar with Lovage, it has been long cultivated in Europe and the leaves are used as an herb, the roots as a vegetable, and the seeds as a spice.  Its flavor and smell are reminiscent of both celery and parsley, only more intense and spicier than either. My in-laws are from Croatia, use it regularly and gifted me with some for planting.  

 

Seed to Spoon

Through my women's Homesteading group, I found out about the Seed to Spoon Summit. It's a two-day
event held in Amish County Ohio. There are main stage presentations, an Amish-cooked (always delicious) meal, exhibitors and workshops. There are vendors with wares to sell, both commercial and individual. But, more importantly, everyone everywhere has information they want to share about raising your own food and living a more sustainable life.

One of my favorite Homestead women is RuthAnn Zimmerman! And, when I found out she was speaking, the excitement level went up a couple of notches. She shares so much on her blog and YouTube channel. What I like about her the most is how real she is. She comes from generations of experience and readily shares it with all of us.

I pre-ordered her first book (there are more coming, YAY) and was fortunate to not only get her to sign it but also got a picture with her. Photo credit to her husband Elvin. 

Looking forward to Seed to Spoon Summit 2027!