So here I am, not quite a month into my new lifestyle and the things I’m learning and applying are so exciting to me.
My kids will tell you that throughout their lives I was known to have a black – not brown, not light-green – black thumb. Our home was where luscious, beautiful plants came to die a slow, painful death. No matter what I did, water, didn’t water, fed, didn’t feed, too much sun, not enough sun – plants and flowers in my care were destined to become recruits for Morticia Adams. And those of you who are old enough to get this reference know that’s not really a compliment.
Fast forward to the present. Before I truly discovered the homesteading lifestyle I knew I wanted to try my hand at gardening again. I said to myself “Self” (and I know it was me because I recognized my own voice and I was wearing my underwear). I said “Self – you can do this! You have no real distractions to keep you from taking care of these plants and learn what you’ve done wrong in the past.” Well, learn I did.
I started the first set of seeds – my “babies” – on March 17th. I planted 18 – yes 18 – cucumber plants, 18 zucchini plants, 18 jalapeno and 18 tomato plants. Perhaps I was a little overzealous but I was determined to make this work. I watered and cared for them according to the instructions that I read from those who’ve been there, done that. My babies have now become my “toddlers” and are coming right along.
Since then, I have planted calendula, garlic, more peppers of all kinds and a delightful little herb garden that I can’t wait to start harvesting!
I don’t have a lot of space. I don’t even have a designated “garden” spot because of the layout of our place. But what I do have is the ability to learn – and share – how to make the most of the space I have. You see I had this built-up image in my mind that my garden had to be “show” quality – a place for everything and everything in its place all lined up in pretty little rows – free from pests and rodents and deer. Boy was I wrong!
If you’re still reading along, my point is this – you don’t have to see the whole staircase to take the first step. You can start right now – even if you have never gardened before, even if you’ve been interested in homesteading and just didn’t know how to get started or even if you just want the ability to walk outside on a warm summer afternoon and pluck a fresh tomato from your garden space to enjoy with a salad. All you have to do is START.
Until we meet again – may your hands be in the dirt, may your head be in the sun and may your heart be one with nature…
Melanie
Life of a Homesteader 