Yes, Welcome Back…
Since Michael got the ball rolling here, I might as well be a follower and introduce myself too:
My name is Shelly Wilkerson; I currently am living in Lebanon Oregon, which is the Pacific Northwest, right in the heart of the Willamette Valley. This area titters on zone 7 and 8. I have been here for the past four years and have enjoyed gardening in this dry humidity and rainy climate. I have simply fallen in love with some of the native plants here and enjoy learning more and more as the growing season rolls around every year.
I was raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which is a zone 7 and where most of my family still resides. I have been brought up to appreciate gardening, and to know why gardening is important. It not only gives you an abundance of food, it also helps relieve stress and calms you. My father and his father before taught me the basics with my gardening, mainly with a vegetable garden and my mother taught me how to take one flower and make a whole hanging basket with that once choice. I have grown through that and I love to have my hands in the soil. My parents and grandpa have always played an important role in my gardening and the gardens I have had and will have. I love their creativity and their knowledge.
Just this past year I have been getting more involved in the art of Zen gardens and meditation gardens and I have come to realize that a garden is anything you make it. Having a place in your own yard, terrace, or even your kitchen window, that you have had a hand in creating with flowers, plants, shrubs or even certain vegetables can be your own private garden. An area you call your own. With Michael and my help, hopefully we can get you to love gardening as much as we do and possibly share your thoughts and achievements in gardening with us as well. We look forward to it.
Here’s to great gardening,
August 18th, 2008 at 7:35 am
I didn’t realise you were from Hot Springs. I went there with my best friend when she was introducing me to her childhood. (She’s from Mountain Home.)
August 19th, 2008 at 7:56 am
Wow, you like Zen gardens too?
Technically, I live right between Zones 7 and 8 as well, but I am always pushing the envelope so I don’t pay that much attention to it unless it is something important.
This is going to be a hella fun blog, ya’ll!
August 19th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Yep Gillian, grew up there. I will be moving back come next summer too.
August 19th, 2008 at 1:09 pm
This is going to be a fun blog Michael. I am looking forward to posting fun and helpful topics with you.