I like to listen to garden shows on the radio and podcasts. I like the "problem and solution" aspect of most shows, and I think most gardeners benefit from hearing what others have done wrong and/or right. I've learned a lot over the years from local gardening experts and those who are brave enough to call in. Although most people are adept at using the Internet to research solutions to gardening problems, there is just something about talking to another human being who is an

When people learn that I keep bees, I am almost always asked the same two questions: 1) Do you wear the suit? (yes) 2) Have you ever been stung? (also yes - maybe 50 times or so) Sometimes, I will get a follow-up third question about how they can help the bees. It's encouraging to know that people are not only aware of the plight of the bees (honeybees in particular), but that they want to help. There have been a few documentaries in recent years that have made this common kn

I need spring. My soul needs it after the dreary winter days that feel like they've dragged on forever (I know, it's pathetic - I live in Texas where winters are both mild and short). I don't know how people survive and thrive in places where winter reigns throughout most of the year. Here in the Hill Country, winter appears to be desperately trying to hang on, as we had a late freeze last week that was just plain cruel. Our last average frost date is usually the last week of