3.28.2011

The Handyman Will Be Rewarded.

He's done it again.  He built me something pretty.  



And since he knows the way to my heart, he included all of the important things- it's cute, recycled and  functional!




He made the CD bookcase years ago with scrap wood, when we first started dating.  Since we've gone the way of the times, the CD's are now uploaded and stored away.  Our unspoken mantra for 2011 is "minimize", so this bookcase was pretty much saved from the yard sale pile by getting a second life.




The neighbor's kitchen remodel resulted in free 2x4's for the legs, rustic and sturdy.  He drilled holes for drainage and added a screen to the bottom.  What served previously as shelves will now be busy defining boundaries and providing a sweet ass design element.
 



Ain't she swell?

It was an amazing gift and it was an easy decision.  I decided to plant herbs I'll use in cooking delicious and healthful things to both repay him.  Here's to celebrating the good old back & fourth!


1. French Tarragon

2. Fern Leaf Dill

 3. Tri-colored Sage
Evidence shows that throughout history, sage was associated with immortality and longevity, and it was believed to increase mental capacity.  It's also been studied lately, with the possibility of helping with the results of Alzheimer's. It's antibiotic and anti-fungal. Homemade cleaners?  However you slice (or chiffonade) it, it is welcome in my garden + kitchen.  Helpful growing tip:  To encourage full bushy growth, pinch growing tips in spring, and remove old leaves after frost or before new growth appears.

4. Golden Oregano
5. Curled Parsley
 6. The Lemon Thyme and English Thyme 
 It will do great in the spot that gets the most sun.  They tend to propagate like hussies, so separating them from the rest of the herbs should cool their laurels for awhile.  If it grows and grows, I can easily dry some and keep it in an air tight container.  It will be a common flavor supporter in my soups and roasts, providing some much needed iron.


7.  Stevia 
The leaves will make a great natural sweetener for some well earned mojitos.  I assume that's where all of my mint may be headed too!

8. Coriander Cliantro  
My biggest challenge to date, who is constantly teaching me lessons in the garden. It's dry but then quickly overwatered.  It's wilting in the sun but not much better with some shade.  I spoke to a few guys at Armstrong Nursury who gave me a pep talk though. I will desperately try to keep it healthy!
9. The Marigold and Dianthus flowers  
bring in a little jazz.  Marigold's are actually hard workers though too.  They deter harmful insects from making your garden their home, while simultaneously attracting butterflies. Rumor has it that you can even use it in teas!  (My newest obsession.)




Beautifully HANDCRAFTED container 
LOVINGLY grown herbs

I'd say we both win in this scenario.  
Team Minton!

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