I guess I'm feeling sentimental this week and going down memory lane. Today as I was digging in my flower beds, I thought of my grandparents, parents and gardening. It is hard work planting, hoeing and harvesting a crop. A typical summer day consisted of sitting in the front yard "shucking" corn, peeling peaches, stringing and breaking beans and visiting. Several chairs would be formed in a circle under the shade tree and the entire family would get busy working. I enjoyed sitting on the front porch, visiting with Grandma Tennison, shelling purple hull peas and listening to her tell stories. I also enjoyed making relish and chow chow with Grandpa and Grandma Wheeler. Grandpa would let me assist in grinding the peppers and cucumbers. These are memories made I will never forget.There is nothing that tastes any better than fresh corn-on-the-cob, fried squash, fried okra or green beans with new potatoes. The corn must be cooked, smeared with enough butter and salt to ooze down your chin. I'm sure tasting and missing that fresh corn about now. I see a trip to the Farmer's Market coming next week.
Growing up, canning was an essential part of my parents and grandparents lives. We never knew what it was like to go to the store to buy canned vegetables, our cellar was always full. They canned just about everything including tomatoes, corn, beets, beans, peaches, and apples. They made their own jams and jellies from the berries that grew wild in the woods. Those of you who still live in the country and have gardens are probably thinking that this is still a typical summer for you, but not for me, and I sure miss it.My mom and brothers and sister still have gardens and still carry on the canning tradition. I may have to go for a visit and assist in the "canning" process so that I can pass this tradition on to my family.
Gardening, it is great therapy, both physically and mentally...thinking I will definitely try a box garden next year. Until then, I'll just keep digging in my flowers.
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