what in the world is there to eat?

There is a global crisis about food. There is lack of it in some countries.  Sustainability in others.  And horrible food practices in supposed G8 countries (poor ethical treatment or harmful pesticides and chemicals that are mislabelled in our food).  


I often find that it takes increasingly longer to  grocery shop.  Mostly because I read labels carefully to ensure I know what I'm getting.  I also re-read labels with products that I frequently purchase, especially when the packaging has changed....sometimes the ingredients change too.

This is a beautiful "formal" garden, designed with vegetables instead of flowers.  Brilliant! {source}

Sometimes I want to just live on a farm, or have better access to one, so I can ensure that the food is safe.  I don't have large backyard, so growing many fruit trees is out of the question.  However, I've started to consider container gardening as something that can be relatively easy to do, and doesn't take a world of space to grow.

These are fruit trees in containers! {source}

I've grown herbs, but I might consider growing more in my own garden.  There are  eight great edibles for just about any climate: lettuce, peppers, blueberries, strawberries, zucchini, collard greens, cucumbers, and Mediterranean herbs (oregano, sage, and thyme).  {source} 

Rosemary and other herbs from my garden last year

With all these beautiful examples of container gardens, I just might be inspired to do it this year!

A garden in wine crates! {source}

And I wouldn't have to travel the world to get my food.

Simple Curb Appeal

"Vista Red Salvia"

Now that Victoria Day has passed us, it's time to look at our outdoor spaces. Gardeners say it's best to plant flowers after May 24 to avoid frost.  When it comes to gardens, I’m pretty low key.  I like flowers that are hardy, simple and easy to maintain (i.e. just add water).


For that reason, I’ve always leaned towards perennials. However, I’m experimenting with colour, so this year, so I bought annuals…if I like the red, I’ll purchase red perennials next year in place of these ones.

We also have beautiful cast iron urns on our front porch…incredibly adaptable...just add whatever is in season.  

I find the easiest way to dress up the front porch, without planting and arranging flowers in pots is to purchase hanging baskets.

These were 2 for $25 at Loblaws or Superstore

These fit perfectly in the urns, and usually only need watering.  Just remove the hanging part (some can come undone, some need to be cut).

Perfect!  And so easy.  (Now I hope planting the annuals will be just as easy…)