This Memorial Day, I will still attend parades, and watch as my daughter marches in Color Guard for her high school band. We will both stand in hot sun and try not to look bored as another unknown dignitary speaks for hours over a sound system that reaches only those in front row. But this year, we will see flashes of September 11th in our minds and remember those innocents.

We will reach out to friends and neighbors as we have never done in years past. We will share our feelings. We will offer comfort. We will shed a tear as we listen to patriotic marches, for we all will be remembering September 11th.

This year we will plan backyard barbecues and family reunions. The children will plan their summer events, and we grown-ups will groan as we realize that another long summer stretches out before us. And this year, we will all take time to whisper, “God bless America" - again.

Other great plants are cucumer, parsley, lettuce, green onions, and yes, even a corn stalk or two. If space is limited, try container gardening. Even something as simple as a large coffee can with holes in bottom for drainage, some good soil, and wonder begins. Allow your child to do work - water, weed, and care for plant. If you do everything, then accomplishment he/she feels will not be same. A tiny hand can hold a small watering can, and it can pick out pesky weeds. Bright, little eyes will glow with each new growth until harvest time arrives. Lettuce can be picked for suppertime, and that salad will take on a whole new meaning.

Older children can be given more space and a wider variety of plants to choose from. Carrots, beets, green peppers, and pumpkins are sure-fire choices. Whatever age of your child, they can begin to enjoy joys of gardening right alongside their mom or dad. Please have a camera ready when they see that first "success". ©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 e-mail: akaptur@centurytel.net Website: http://www.rusticliving.info http://www.webspawner.com/users/rusticliving http://www.authorsden.com/arleenmkaptur Article autoresponder: mailto:rusticliving@sendfree.com