So we definitely feel like the garden is under control. We are enjoying the foods that are starting to come and storing some for winter too. We already have an abundant crop of snap peas, beets and basil. Plus more kale and broccoli to eat and freeze.

Growing gardens has become the "in" thing again. People with - and even without - space are working their green thumbs in attempt to grow delicious vegetables. Whether it be in your back yard or a community garden, growing your own veggies can be fun and is definitely rewarding. What's great about our situation is that we are able to share the garden. It makes the work load a little easier and also opens the door to trying new foods. One of us is definitely more daring in what we eat and was willing to go outside the box with what was planted. The other would have been fine with the traditional tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, etc. The planting of kale this year was something new and different for one of us. Honestly, if we were not sharing the garden, this plant would have never hit the dirt. Surprisingly, it is wonderful! It is so good for you and is hardy enough to fill you up. If you haven’t tried the recipe that we previously posted, then you should. It was awesome!

The most shocking thing we learned about planting a garden is that our kids are more willing to try something that they take an active role in. How refreshing is it to see our children picking snap peas and actually eating them instead of turning them into a science experiment. The most unbelievable thing was when the 4-year-old ate raw kale and loved it! We have done the whole song and dance routine before to get our kids to eat good, healthy foods. Now, because they feel like they had a part in growing it, they are willing to try it. A very cool thing to see as a parent.

So take a chance and try something new. If you don't have a friend to share a garden with, then make sure your family has an active role in the planning of what is grown. It's not too late in the summer to dig up the dirt and plant the seeds. You might surprise yourself and find a new food to cook up for dinner.