As a child, I lived on the twenty acres of land that my maternal grandmother Emma had purchased in 1896. Long before I was born, the land was used for farming and raising livestock, chickens, and hogs. The land was dotted with a variety of fruit trees. During their season, black walnut and pecan trees provided us with fresh nuts. Reminiscing about picking blackberries for our mother's delicious blackberry dumplings and wishing for those days again.
My mother often spoke about her father Jasper and farming. When my grandfather Jasper died, I was around two years old so I don't remember him at all. My siblings and I worked in the field with his brother Palmer Harrell, who was also a farmer, during those long hot summer days. We helped him plant and harvest beans, potatoes, corn, and peas. One that is for should we always had fresh vegetables to eat. Matter of fact we was surrounding by planters and farmers. Right across the pasture is where my Cousin Doris lived with her husband and family. Her husband Henry Wheat grew all types of vegetables and always sent us something fresh. Yes, that was the old days that have lone been gone. When I'm in my garden I think about them often.
"Farming instilled in me a deep appreciation for gardening and the cycles of nature. These are traditions that I hold dear to my heart. Each spring season I look forward to planting, and learning various ways of gardening." Expanding my garden each season is my goal. Each season adding a touch of art and vintage items to give my garden character. The vibrant color from the flowers add beauty to the garden while attracting butterflies, and bees.
Currently, I'm harvesting mint tea for preservation. Some of the mint is boiled for a glass of fresh delicious tea or a cup of hot tea. A fresh aroma fills the house as the tea boils. My mint teas are all organic. The plants are not treated with pesticides. My peace of mind also comes from knowing what is going into my body. Mint tea has numerous health benefits. It can aid digestion, soothe an upset stomach, and relieve headaches due to its calming properties. Mint tea is rich in antioxidants, which boost the immune system and promote overall well-being. The teas I enjoy most are ginger, peppermint, turmeric, and jasmine. Well, to be honest, I like all teas.
