Signed Agreement

Today I mailed my signed agreement and check for $25.00 to the "Friends of Wilson McLaughlin House, Inc." - the organizers of the Monterey Community Gardens, located across the street from my new home.  I am now the proud tenant of a 10' x 10' garden plot.

So, what do I do now?

I spent my day researching various plot plans and writing a list of all my favorite vegetables.  What did I want to grow and eat this year?  What to plant and how to maximize my harvest in New England's short growing season - made even shorter up here on my mountain (which is more like a big hill, but certainly a mountain to this coastal plains native).

I have to admit, that although I spent last season apprenticing under one the greatest farmers in Eastern Mass, I am nervous.  Did I learn anything about growing vegetables or was I just laboring swiftly from one project to another, not paying attention?  Am I going to be able to get things to germinate?  Will I have the patience to read seed packages and plant properly?  Will I make time on a regular basis for cultivation or will my little plot go to pot with the weeds?

It's a lot to think about.  Vegetable gardening is a huge commitment, but it is also a lot of fun.  I know this from experience and my experience also shows me that if I try, at least I have a chance.  I am trying to focus on my chances and opportunities and not my fear, doubt and insecurities.   Just need to concentrate on the effort and the fun and let go of some of my great expectations.

land - check
plan - check
seeds - check
attitude of gratitude - check and check