Spring is in the air

I have had my nose in the gardening books while Mike has been reading up on how to build raised beds. The goal in mind right now is to have 2 12 feet by 4 foot raised beds flanked by some container gardens. We are going to grow tomatoes, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, peppers, beans, peas, shallots, onions, carrots, swiss chard, lettuces and spinach.
The herbs will be basil, rosemary, chives, cilantro, horseradish, mint, flat parsley, tarragon, and thyme.

I have been outside exploring the backyard looking for the perfect plot. The plot needs to be in a sunny area that drains well. I have been closely watching the sun at every angle each hour of the day. The trees do not have leaves yet, we looked at some pictures last year and expect leaves mid to late April. This will also be important because we don't want to put down the beds in a spot only to find it's shaded by leaves in the Summer.

I am excited for this project for many different reasons. First, after participating in a local CSA program the Fall before last, I became inspired to eat healthier and seasonally. Secondly, a garden is a challenge that requires love and attention. I can't wait to challenge myself to take care of my plot everyday and watch my hard work grow. Third, I recently watched the movie Food Inc. and it spoke to the feelings of mistrust that I have for big chain grocery stores. As a consumer I put so much trust in our local grocery stores to give my family the best, most wholesome, fresh products. It's time for me to take back some control from the local grocery stores and grow my own food. Finally, I am sharing this project with my family especially my 4 year old who is a very picky eater. That is to say he hates vegetables. I am hoping that with some careful focus on the planting process from seed to table he will come to understand the growing process and ultimately want to eat the veggies that he has had a hand in growing.