This is my third year making this pesto, thanks to my brother-in-law Mark who has been growing his own music garlic. When the curly tops of the garlic plants need to be trimmed, he’ll tell me when it’s time to stop by to give them a haircut. Of course, I could never say no to these garden beauties even if I get a massive haul, which is why they’re now part of my summer recipe repertoire. If you have a CSA membership, you’re likely to get a nice bunch in your basket by early July. Or you can stop by a local farmers’ market to score some.
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For Father’s Day, I share a poem I wrote for my Dad for his 75th birthday, an inspired idea suggested as a unique gift from a former boss and mentor. Now, eight years later, I realize this ode to him is actually more of a gift to myself. It gives me time to pause and appreciate my Dad. I’m not sure if these words will resonate with you not knowing my dad, but let me tell you a bit about him. An introvert all his life, calling himself bashful, he is a gentle man and deep thinker, an accidental philosopher actually, who loves being connected to nature and spending time outdoors.
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I’m finally trying out raised beds, made of galvanized metal, to elevate my vegetable gardening options. Over recent years, my vegetable and herb container gardening has been growing. Literally! I started out with a few pots on the deck, then it expanded to several large containers in my driveway. Last year, I integrated veggies and herbs in my flower beds and heavily pruned out a spot in the shrubbery of my back foundation area. I’ve had some success, but it wasn’t really working for me. I just wanted some raised beds. But I wasn’t sure how to go about it until I discovered the modern-yet-vintage style of metal raised beds at my friends’ house. I immediately fell in love with them.
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