Cultivating My Green Thumb

One of my favorite aspects of the new place is the patio. I am so excited to have some outdoor space all of our own--a place where we can sit on hot nights, people watch, and sow some seeds. It almost makes up for not having a gas stove (but that's another story).

Unfortunately, I don't have the best track record when it comes to keeping plants alive. I've never had much luck with even the heartiest succulents and cacti. But then again I've never lived in a place that offered the right conditions for growing anything (at least, that's what I tell myself). Despite my dark past, I've jumped feet first into patio gardening. So far I've planted cherry tomatoes, wild flowers, marigolds, herbs, and another succulent. See for yourself.

Tomaters


Day 1


Day 9


Day 13

Wildflowers

Day 4


Day 8


Day 12

Succulents


Marigolds

Natural bug repellents...or so I've read. We'll see. I'll enjoy them regardless; I've always loved marigolds.

Herbs

Hi Ho Silver Thyme and Spicy Basil in their new homes next to the tomato seedlings and some marigolds

Farm Fresh Diary

July 2, 2011

My first visit to the farmers' market in quite some time. Summer produce is in full swing and there were some new vendors.


2 yellow peaches, 1 nectarine, 2 avocados (for less than at the supermaket), some Japanese eggplants, and 2 kinds of basil: sweet Italian and Thai.




Beautiful Dahlias from a new vendor. Turns out today was their first day at the market and they were very busy. Gorgeous flowers (all organic) at a great price--2 bunches for $10.


Herbs for my patio garden (more on that tomorrow). Hi Ho Silver Thyme and Spicy Basil seedlings and a lovely conversation with the vendor for $6.

Came home very pleased.

Weekend Road Trip

Last Saturday, we decided to take a little road trip. We packed up our beach things, printed out directions, and wrangled Clarence into the car. And off we went! North through the coastal forests and windy roads of Marin County. We ate our picnic lunch at Stinson Beach and lounged around for a bit. Then, we embarked a drive up Hwy 1 and an impromptu detour to the Point Reyes Lighthouse.

Here's a little of what we saw along the way...






Italian style picnic lunch.




Clarence spots a snack.


Making friends.





On the way to the lighthouse...





Point Reyes Lighthouse.






Path to the lighthouse (and the car)...all 302 steps.