The idea of urban gardening seems to generate big buzz these days. Harvest your own land, plant your food and eat the fruits of your labor. I live in Denver, Colorado where finding ways to live “green” has significant badge value and bragging rights. I recycle, buy products that have minimal packaging and try to bike whenever possible but the idea of farming seemed a bit out of reach. It seemed like something for the few granola people in my neighborhood that buy hemp clothing and don’t own cars.
Well, I stand corrected. This weekend I planted fall vegetables and I found the entire process to be not only fun but rewarding as well. It gave me a great sense of accomplishment and provided me with a way to engage my family in what it means to take care of something (aside from our great dog of course).
Let me back up…In our tiny, urban backyard we have two garden beds with years of old flowers, bulbs, vines, weeds and spiders. The people before us were retired and spent hours tending the garden. Something those of us with a full time job, a new business, two kids and a half marathon schedule don’t have the time for. I always looked at those gardens with a bit of frustration and resentment. In my opinion, while I love flowers, it was a waste of space that sucked up my precious time.
With garden gloves and a shovel in hand, I spent an entire day gutting the beds. I have sore legs to prove it! My son, while I was ripping out vines and getting attacked by rose bushes, washed the side of the house with the hose. He felt very helpful! My youngest was cheering me on from his exercauser while chowing on Cheerios and talking to his plastic pig.
After a full day…drum roll please….we had our vegetable garden. I planted lettuce, shallots, rhubarb, several types of peas, bok choi and a small mandarin orange tree. Like I said before, I felt very accomplished (visual: me with hands in fists on hips, standing proudly). Ok, I will probably never have a green thumb but I am looking forward to going into my garden to pick some lettuce and eat some beans. For the last few mornings, my oldest son and I go outside and check on the vegetables and see if anything is ready for the table. Great way to start the day.
If you have a patch of dirt and some time, this is a great family activity that keeps on giving!
Dream big. Dream often. Eat your beans.
Tags: capturing ideas, create a garden, creative play, family activity, family fun, food for kids, gardening small spaces, imagination for kids, imaginibbles, outdoor activities, outdoor play, tamara kleinberg, tamara's musing, urban gardening, vegetables for kids
