Just a few days ago, though, I received the new issue of Martha Stewart Living; when I finally got a chance to read it today, I learned it's their special gardening issue. Now I'm getting the urge to get my seed list going and my pots ready for some more planting.
Did you know that there are tremendous benefits to planting a garden, other than fresh produce to eat and pretty flowers for your table or entry path? As writer Peter Jaret starts out by explaining in his article "Reap the Benefits of Gardening", what's good for your yard really can be great for your health. Come to find out you can burn a couple of hundred calories raking or weeding, more than brisk walking, even! Digging bumps you over 300 calories, and mowing the yard with a push mower eats up almost 400.
Wow. Now I'm imagining the difference it would make in the lives of folks to not only switch over to eating more fresh produce and fewer sweets (*guilty look*), but to also have put in the effort and exercise of growing said veggies and such ourselves. Could be an interesting combo, and you don't have to have tons of acreage either...even a small yard can be landscaped with edible goodies and become a "gym" of your own. Something to chew on, for certain.
I live & work in the Metro-Seattle area and yeah growing up in the grey can really take it's toll. Though I haven't ever been very successful with an outdoor garden beyond grass and tomato plans. When I'm at work, I do appreciate my co-workers' plants in the office.
One pro about the rain is that great first morning smell you get when everything is clean and washed away. It's a pretty good buzz when you have to walk the dogs out in the rain.
Posted by: Marilee Veniegas | February 28, 2007 1:24 AM | Permalink to Comment