Gardening

For some unknown reason, I have decided it would be in my interest to take up indoor gardening this year.  Maybe since I keep seeing ads for gardening on social media.  Or that Tom gardens annually.  Typically, he plants basil, oregano, sage, peppers and sometimes, tomatoes.  I look on with envy as I always believed I did not have the space to plant anything at my apartment building.  This year I discovered indoor gardening with five-gallon buckets and a space nearby that is letting Lee use their plot of land.  He offered me use of part of the plot.  

I am excited.  I went to Dollar Tree to peruse their offerings.  I picked up carrots, summer squash, cucumbers, dill, basil and mint.  I think I will grow the mint outside with the summer squash and other herbs.  I might attempt the cucumbers and carrots indoors.  I have not full committed to this plan.  I went to Ace to pick up the buckets and look at their soil options.  I am no longer shopping at other stores that contribute to causes that I do not support.  Yes, I know that Ace Hardware supports both political parties and leans towards the conservative side.  It is a 55-45 split.  I am not in love with it, but I refuse to go to home depot.  I want to research this a little bit more too.  Is it best to put gravel in the bottom of the bucket before adding soil?  Are the drainage holes mandatory?  I do not want to half-assed this since I do want to have a successful harvest of goods.  I forgot to mention that lettuce I picked up, too.  

Tomatoes are a great option, but they seem to get demolished by the squirrels. I think having fresh herbs will be a nice touch.  I love adding dill to tuna salad and that is one item that I have as a staple in my pantry.  I don't have a black thumb.  I have managed to keep a peace lily alive since 2006.  I have a few succulents that could use some love and new soil.  I should look into gardening projects and see how I fare.

Yesterday was cinco de mayo.  Although not one of my favorite holidays, it is fun.  I decided to participate by going to a local spot that is in my neighborhood.  I entered their eatery and the place was packed.  I found a bar seat and tried to find the happy hour menu that is available according to their website and an A frame in front of the building.  I asked the bartender what the happy hour specials were and his response--we are not honoring those today.  WHAT?  

I told him thank you, but no thank you.  I was astonished that it was a Monday, and a holiday and they were unwilling to honor happy hour.  I returned to another Mexican spot that I broke up with a few years ago.  I had had too many subpar experiences.  I walked in and they, too, were packed.  I had about five minutes to order happy hour.  It was ok.  Not great.  I appreciated that they were offering happy hour and overlooked other annoyances.  I will find an ideal spot another time.  I am definitely breaking up with the first place.  They keep changing their hours.  It is confusing and makes me a little crazy.  I like routine spots and consistency.

The gardening will be helpful.  A new focus, emphasis and learning opportunity.  Plus, I can share my food with my neighbors and community.  Community is essential in 2025.  Make it a great day!