Gardening requires patience and a bit of hard work, but you certainly are rewarded for your efforts.  Whether it be flowers, fruits, or vegetables your daily life will improve when you devote some time to growing plants and trees.  We always cherish our bing cherries each June and enjoy sharing them with family and friends. 

Every spring I look forward to the tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.  Next, the perennials begin to emerge and return year after year to fill in the garden.  You cannot discount annuals because they add a constant splash of color and are especially important in containers and borders.  Roses and peonies are my favorites because they are fabulous as a single flower in a vase or in an enormous bunch. 

I also grow vegetables and herbs because I can ensure that I have access to particular species of plants which enhance my cooking.  For instance, San Marzano tomatoes make a superior marinara sauce and they can cost up to $5 a can.  I also grow several herbs because fresh herbs make a huge difference.  They have a freshness that you cannot get from dried herbs.  Some of my favorites are basil, thyme, rosemary, sage, and spearmint.  Experiment with vegetables and herbs and enjoy!

I love to entertain and feel that there are little things that you can do to take an evening from ordinary to extraordinary.  Most guests love simple homemade food with high quality ingredients.  They should be familiar with most of the menu and I usually try to work in one thing that they may not have had before or make something a little differently than people are accustomed to.  Dessert is often what sets apart a meal and is more likely to be remembered than the entree considering it is served last.  With entertaining, it is actually the small gestures that make an impact.  For instance, taking the time to make (or purchase) a centerpiece and setting a beautiful table instantly tells your guests that you are pleased they have joined you. 

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the host sets the tone for the party.  If you have fun, that your guests will invariably have fun as well.  Please share your questions and thoughts on our blog.