Growing up I became extremely used to home cooked meals made of fresh fruits and vegetables. No, don't worry; we are all meat eaters... well, save my oldest sister. She claims her stomach can't hack the meat. Which may or may not be true.

If you can have fresh vegetables and fruits and you choose not to, you are insane. I think there are fewer greater pleasures in life than eating real tomatoes. Not those silly anemic things you buy in the grocery store. They have no flavor whatsoever.

I am sorry to say, it has been some time since I really gardened or worked in the yard. I am working on changing that this summer. Because of this neglect, I cannot really give you much advice on your gardening. I can only give you some opinions that formed inside of me when I was still very young.

Opinion #1: You should grow fruits and vegetables in your garden and on your trees. Not necessarily all your gardens or trees, but at least some.

Opinion #2: There may be a something to this Feng Shui. It may not have to do with all that energy stuff, but the basic layouts do seem to be more pleasing to the eyes, ears, noise, and probably to the human spirit, as well.

Opinion #3: Any garden, including a vegetable one, is highly personal. It should fit your needs, likes, and desires. It should make you and your mate feel welcome and happy. Some times, this happiness may be, in some ways, similar to a melancholy. This is OK.

Opinion #4: If the birds, honey bees, and other animals don't like your garden, neither should you!

Opinion #5: A water fountain, pool or stream is always very nice. Don't over do; don't forget them. (And don't let them stand too still, or you get mold and mosquitoes.)

Opinion #6: Always wash your fruit and vegetables, even if you don't put pesticides on them.

Opinion #7: When picking fresh fruits and vegetables for dinner or canning, don't wait! Enjoy them as you pick. If you get full, start putting them in your bowl or bag. After all, they were meant to be eaten. Besides, they taste best this way.

Opinion #8: No one should be without a rose garden (with red, yellow, and white roses).

Opinion #9: Hey, don't be a speciest. Remember to use other flowers, too.

Opinion #10: Visit and lounge in your garden often!

Opinion #11: Don't forget to bring a book!

Opinion #12: It is always nice to meditate and/or pray while visiting the garden.

Opinion #13: Mild exercise and stretching is always nice; especially in the garden.

Opinion #14: Plants like good music, too. Bring your Bach, Enya, etc. Enjoy your stay, let your plants dance and sway. Trust me, you will be rewarded both innerly and from the plants.

Opinion #15: Plants have spirits, too. Be kind to them.

Opinion #16: Please don't neglect your garden.

As I have time and as I continue to reenter the greener world, I will try to share what I learn and think. At some point, I hope to put up a section containing hints, tips and tricks about all types of gardening. I am even thinking of putting up a forum for all of you to discuss things or add your own tips. If you like this idea, please let me know.