by Hope
Sea Cadet built me a raised bed garden this spring. And I have been having a blast planting in it and watching things sprout over the last few weeks. Every morning when I take the dogs out, I weed the containers and review what has changed over night. It’s especially fun to see the seeds pop through the dirt…and I was smart enough this year to make a chart of what I planted where.
I’ve got two tomato plants, 1 pepper plant, cantaloupe vines, cilantro, green onions, summer squash. loose leaf lettuce and fall gourds coming up. And, of course, a variety of flowers! It is beautiful and I am so proud every time I pull into the driveway. (I’ve also got a pecan tree and fig bush, but neither has produced anything in the two years we have lived in this house.)
It’s been really great of our landlord to give me free reign over the yard. While I know the food we are growing won’t save us a ton of money over the summer, it will be a nice supplement. And there is just something magical about growing your own food.
I’m looking forward to spending a few hours outside this weekend, literally tending to my garden. There’s just something calming about getting my hands dirty.
Do you have a summer garden? What are your favorite and easiest vegetables to grow?
Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.
Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.
Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.
I don’t have a garden, but I do understand the thrill and accomplishment it can bring. Any update on your landlord selling?
I agree, something magical about growing your own food. I planted my first garden last summer and loved it. Loved getting my hands dirty. Enjoy it!
There is NOTHING like eating vegetables that you have grown – NOTHING tastes better 🙂 I normally have quite a large garden with tomatoes, peppers, peas, green beans, zucchini, etc. but I am waiting on a knee replacement and my daughter just moved out of state, so it is just a little to much for me to take on right now. The first season AFTER my knee replacement – back in business!!!!
Check out onehundreddollarsamonth.com. She’s a blogger who focuses on frugal living and is a master gardener. She has great ideas and suggestions. I think you’ll find her way of life to be inspiring as you continue this journey.