tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32095371646726343352011-11-27T20:02:40.570-05:00<br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> <br/> My goal is to give you the best home and garden information I can find. I'm getting back in touch with my creative side, and you're along for the ride.Linettenoreply@blogger.comBlogger1131100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-35133900078954845762009-04-21T10:17:00.006-05:002009-04-21T10:57:58.553-05:00

I'm so ready for summer and cooking out in the backyard. The weather here keeps teasing me, warm one day, cold and rainy the next. It's supposed to be in the 80`s and sunny here this weekend, so I think we'll have to fire up the grill!We had pork loin on the grill with Carolina barbecue sauce a few weeks ago that was fabulous!I thought I'd share a few summer barbecue recipes and links today, for

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-58692635577060008102008-08-08T12:51:00.001-05:002008-08-08T12:51:59.346-05:00

I have a couple giveaways going on at my other blogs, please stop by and check them out. At She Knows Parties I have two giveaways going on: The first giveaway is for a 10 pack of their new Celebration Single Use Cameras®, they’re perfect for parties! Click over there to enter before midnight Sunday August 17th. The Second giveaway is for 3 copies of SplashShopper Data Organizer

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-8755232097736619202008-07-20T09:44:00.001-05:002008-07-20T09:44:08.018-05:00

Here are a few fun links for your weekend enjoyment. This year all the rain has left our area extra buggy, here's the recipe for a homemade insect repellant bar. The blueberries are in season, at Robust Cooking I shared a recipe for Blueberry Oat Bran Muffins. During the hottest days of summer why not plan a beach or pool party? The Olympics are coming up in a few weeks why not plan some

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-43178100955937360722008-07-19T08:20:00.001-05:002008-07-19T08:20:34.267-05:00

I love it when the lilies in my hillside garden are in full bloom. Here's a couple photos of some of my favorites.   Have a wonderful weekend! Images (c) L Gerlach all rights reserved Technorati Tags: lilies,lily photos,red lily,pink lily,yellow lily

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-89206553696484714882008-06-14T00:18:00.001-05:002008-06-14T00:18:28.747-05:00

If your taste in furniture runs toward the modern look, check out NYC Concept Furniture. They have very modern looking furniture with a European twist. They carry quality furniture from Belgium, Italy, Germany and Spain. They have bedroom furniture with very clean lines, and furniture for ultra modern kids. The NYC Concept Furniture showroom located at, 1977 Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-34738835750036750582008-06-13T23:53:00.000-05:002008-06-13T23:54:00.023-05:00

I love outdoor living spaces. To me that is what having a garden is all about, being able to go outside and feel right at home. Yard Envy has some really great outdoor furniture and garden decor to help decorate your outdoor space. I've always wanted a hammock for my outdoor space. I may have to get one this summer. I think I could see one of Yard Envy's fabric hammocks hanging from the two

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-70675283931044042202008-06-13T16:52:00.001-05:002008-06-13T16:52:10.294-05:00

I haven't had much time to post anything here lately, but here's what I've been up to on some of my other blogs. Feel free to stop by. At the Kid's Birthday Fun Review I have ideas for a couple summer movie parties, if you're planning a Wall-E birthday party, or a Camp Rock party stop by and check out some of the ideas. Check out my pink peonies (one is pictured here), the Garden Pest

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-35512546565424093742008-04-19T15:15:00.001-05:002008-04-19T15:15:44.050-05:00

My garden's in bloom! I love spring blooms. They always bring a big smile to my face. I thought I'd share some daffodils with you. Photos (c) Linette Gerlach   Technorati Tags: daffodils,yellow daffodils,double daffodil photos,white daffodils

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-40109622711041932222008-04-10T14:54:00.004-05:002008-04-10T15:08:54.432-05:00

There's an interesting new way to shop for home and garden supplies online. It's a new website called ShopWiki.com. It's a great shopping resource because it isn't just paid advertisements. The site has its own web crawlers (similar to how search engines find sites), constantly crawling the web to find the best home and garden shopping sites out there.This is the time of the year when I'm on

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-13892132984829344502008-03-22T23:35:00.003-05:002008-03-22T23:40:17.605-05:00

I hope you and your family have a wonderful Easter! I haven't had time to post here much lately. I hope to visit more in the next few weeks.Have a great weekend!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-9425598269473737432008-03-02T11:31:00.007-05:002008-03-22T23:41:51.387-05:00

Learn more about Bee Colony Collapse Disorder at Mother Earth's Garden.Garden with your pets at Home and Garden Cafe.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-18456805788880958862008-02-14T22:56:00.001-05:002008-02-14T23:04:54.125-05:00

Here's a virtual Valentine from The Virtual Garden. Hope you had a wonderful Valentine's day!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-45094638015117611572008-02-03T22:50:00.000-05:002008-02-03T22:59:44.651-05:00

There are so many cute things for girl's bedrooms these days. I created a couple Squidoo lenses with girls bedroom themes. One was a Hannah Montana bedroom theme the other was a Tinker Bell bedroom theme. I was amazed at what is out there. I found several comforter patterns, window and wall treatments, lamps, furniture and bedroom decor for both.The new MP3 pillows are the cutest! I think I may

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-75521310980420286652008-01-21T22:24:00.000-05:002008-01-21T22:32:28.036-05:00

If you haven't entered the HGTV Dream Home Giveaway yet I'm way ahead of you. I've entered it several times now, actually every day if I don't forget.The house is in the Florida Keys this time, and it's beautiful. It looks like it definitely has that island feel.You can enter once a day until February 19th, so head on over to HGTV.com and enter if you haven't already.Good Luck!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-88710760949747185982008-01-15T20:12:00.000-05:002008-01-15T20:19:55.361-05:00

If you're planning a Superbowl party here is a great appetizer recipe.Buffalo Chicken Wings20 chicken wings, washed and patted dry1 cup all-purpose flour1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper1 teaspoon cayenne pepper1 recipe buffalo wing dipping sauce, recipe followsBlue Cheese dressingPlace chicken wings into a large, zip-top plastic bag. In a small bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-60614852172229390682008-01-11T19:06:00.000-05:002008-01-11T21:18:17.511-05:00

Grey water systems collect the water from your shower, laundry, and wash basin. The system treats the greywater and stores it for later use on crops for irrigation, to flush your toilet, or wash your vehicle.Rainwater tanks collect rain water for later use. They come in several different sizes and shapes. You can get rain water tanks for above or below ground use.Both systems are an excellent way

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-27097646874320205112008-01-11T18:43:00.000-05:002008-01-11T18:47:00.920-05:00

I'm hosting a couple blog giveways this month on my other blogs.Check them out at Mother Earth's Garden, and The Kid's Birthday Fun Review.Have fun!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-49097680364286577422007-12-07T09:37:00.000-05:002007-12-07T09:39:32.236-05:00

I announced it on my b5media blog, Mother Earth's Garden this morning, and I'm excited to announce it here. The First Annual b5media Lifestyles Channel Holiday Blogging Awards.b5media's recruited some of the greatest bloggers from around the sphere to step up as judges for the following categories:Best Holiday decoration of a Blog - Any blog or blogger who has decorated their blog for the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-583382881358664332007-12-05T10:17:00.000-05:002007-12-05T10:26:49.012-05:00

Are you planning your vacation for next year? Trusted Tours and Attractions offers discounted tickets to the best sightseeing tours in Key West, San Diego, Miami, New Orleans, and much more.It’s been many years since I’ve been to San Diego. Trusted Tours and Attractions has several packages available for touring this majestic town. You can check out the San Diego Zoo, and add it to an Old Town

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-10739708887474604372007-12-03T21:25:00.000-05:002007-12-03T21:56:36.940-05:00

Do you have a gardener on your Christmas list this year? Why not give them a Garden-Opoly game. Players can buy their garden favorites, get aphid infestations, and care for their properties. Get a dandelion attack this January, and it'll feel just like summer in the garden. Test your gardening skills against the other members of your household.If you'd rather try your hand at running a farm try

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-19587612183791369182007-11-22T18:20:00.000-05:002007-11-22T18:22:39.693-05:00

I hope you and your family are having a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-10639126373454486722007-11-20T22:44:00.000-05:002007-11-20T22:58:32.306-05:00

I love to take photographs, I always have the camera in front of my face snapping a picture of something. I love to use my photos on my blogs and websites.At the top of my Christmas list this year is Wacom Graphire Bluetooth 6x8 Tablet. I keep telling my husband I need one of these to edit my photos. This handy tool is also great for creating graphics. It's supposed to be excellent for detailed,

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-84969693482147549242007-11-13T20:49:00.000-05:002007-11-13T20:55:13.254-05:00

I'm excited to announce I accepted a position with b5media to blog for Mother Earth's Garden there. I'll continue to post home and garden ideas, products, tips and tricks, etc., but I'll also be posting some great gardening information over there. So hop on over and check it out, then let me know what you think.I truly am excited to be a part of the b5media team, they have a great group of blogs,

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-34481445735765206062007-11-09T16:02:00.000-05:002007-11-09T16:06:00.163-05:00

I'm trying to win a free blog design from Girly Girl Designz. She's the wonderful person who designed my blog layout at The Kid's Birthday Fun Review, and I love it. I would like to convert this blog to a wordpress format, and a new theme would lower the cost a bit.To vote all you have to do is click over to Girly Girl Designz and leave a comment voting for Linette. Thanks to anyone who votes!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-55604639603317378012007-11-09T15:52:00.000-05:002007-11-09T15:57:23.751-05:00

I recently won a Your Baby Can Read set from Gayla at Supernanny Rules over at b5media. Since my son's 8 years old I won't be needing it. Soooo... I thought I'd give it away at The Kid's Birthday Fun Review. It looks like a really cool product for someone with a young baby or toddler.I want to thank Smart Kids- Your Baby Can Read for donating the product originally.To enter the contest all you

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-42749061195810031252007-11-09T09:00:00.000-05:002007-11-09T09:18:30.220-05:00

Super Mom at Momma's So Called Life is hosting a blog carnival on housecleaning tips. Not one of my favorite things to do, but I guess it has to get done somehow. Since my dogs only look at me when I tell them to vacuum the carpet I've had to develop a system of my own.My favorite cleaning and organizing tips come from Flylady. I’ve been a flybaby for several years. I tend to collect clutter and

Linettenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-6693697138997635222007-11-08T15:30:00.000-05:002007-11-08T15:34:49.747-05:00

Doug, at Dougsgreengarden.com has created a short video explaining what you can do this fall to help your trees explode with new growth next spring. Check it out then check out Doug's other tips on his website and blog.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44359126206866007192007-11-03T11:35:00.000-05:002007-11-03T11:41:10.862-05:00

I love kids, and planning birthday parties. My sister and I plan several a year for our own children, and for others. We also run the Create-A-Friend website. I'm usually bursting with party planning ideas, so I started a party planning blog, The Kid's Birthday Party Fun Review. Check it out when you get a chance, and forward the information to anyone you know who may be planning a party in the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-2703959718303067952007-11-03T11:24:00.000-05:002007-11-03T11:27:54.405-05:00

Fit on A Budget is having a contest this week to give away a couple fitness DVD's. All you have to do to be entered is leave a comment on her blog. I need some fitness motivation so I've already left my comment. Hop on over and check it out!

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-67201478978964792452007-10-26T16:04:00.000-05:002007-10-26T16:09:23.351-05:00

I recently had the opportunity to check out Roland’s Housewarming Gifts. They have some really cool gifts for the gardener on your Christmas list. The best part? Most of them can be personalized. I’m adding the personalized decorative slate to my Christmas list. It will go perfectly in my perennial garden. I need to decide if I want an etched slate, or a painted one. I love the lighthouse, but I

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-55433272891993594802007-10-26T14:38:00.000-05:002007-10-26T16:17:51.080-05:00

It’s a great time of the year to have pumpkins, so what else can you do with a pumpkin besides carve it? Pumpkins make great serving dishes for harvest or Halloween parties. Just cut off the top, like you were going to carve the pumpkin. If you’re creative carve a fancy scallop, or decorative pattern along the top. Scoop out the seeds and pulp. Don't forget to bake the seeds!Coat the inside of

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-83929810942308182132007-10-19T21:29:00.000-05:002007-10-19T22:29:16.839-05:00

What are the best flowers for fall arrangements? Mums, sunflowers, bittersweet, viburnum (fall berries), late season miniature roses are all still easy to find this time of year. Farmers markets are a great place to find fall flowers or end of season vegetables such as pumpkins, winter squash, potatoes, and more. Now is also a great time to start forcing bulbs indoors if you’d like to have

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-17831873324610722412007-10-15T18:53:00.000-05:002007-11-04T22:54:18.402-05:00

Overstock.com is one of my favorite online stores, and I just discovered I can get additional Overstock.com discounts from EdealFinder. I'm all about saving money whenever I can. Overstock already has some of the best prices on their merchandise. With the Overstock coupons I could save even more on their already discounted prices. EdealFinder also has great deals from another favorite store of

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-82079048281557372712007-10-15T15:47:00.000-05:002007-10-15T16:00:27.041-05:00

As an avid gardener preserving the earth and the environment is something I try hard to do. When I garden I only use organic fertilizers and pest control methods. I also try hard to leave the soil better at the end of the gardening season than it was in the Spring. How do I do this? I compost everything I can, create habitats that encourage beneficial insects like the Praying Mantis pictured

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-41805684804694111142007-10-14T21:02:00.000-05:002007-10-14T21:28:22.588-05:00

As part of my pact to interact more with other bloggers this month, I've been commenting on the b5media Family and Relationships Channel. They're having a Blogtoberfest and giving away fun prizes for commenting on the blogs in the channel. I commented on several of the blogs last week, and Gayla from www.supernannyrules.com e-mailed me to let me know I won! I won a gift from the Your Child Can

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-87270457338024239642007-10-13T12:32:00.000-05:002007-10-13T13:21:27.261-05:00

I was browsing through my Google reader this morning, and I came across a couple recipes I think I might have to try. I thought I'd share them with all my readers.Sandy at Aromatherapy, Bath and Body Recipes posted a recipe for Scented Pinecones for the Holiday, she also has some Pumpkin Spa Recipes that look heavenly. Preschool Rock has a Halloween recipe for Ghost Sticks (I wrote that one let

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-3519032015478991062007-10-12T22:50:00.000-05:002007-10-15T15:47:33.535-05:00

I will be participating in Blog Action Day on October 15th. What is Blog Action Day? On October 15th bloggers from around the world will unite and post about the environment. Want to learn more check out this Youtube video about Blog Action Day 2007.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-55540384605367750192007-10-12T21:39:00.000-05:002007-10-12T22:16:17.775-05:00

I live near Bradford Ohio, and right now that means the Pumpkin Festival. Here are some really cute entries to the pumpkin decorating contest this year. My favorite is the M&M's(tm) guy. He's toooo cute!Maybe one of these will give you inspiration for your pumpkin decorating project this year.The second photo is a football player in his helmet, theres also a Shrek and a really cute elephant with

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44892750051961898282007-10-10T12:16:00.000-05:002007-10-10T12:36:56.073-05:00

October is American Humane Association's Adopt-A-Dog Month®, to help get the word out, Affurmation is having a blog carnival. The topic is stories about adopted dogs, or pets. This is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. About two years ago we had to say goodbye to our beloved Australian Shepherd who we adopted about 14 years earlier. She was a wonderful member of our family, and I was

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-91397694589279845132007-10-10T08:36:00.000-05:002007-10-10T08:41:49.357-05:00

My philosophy in life is to always try to be as kind (or kinder) to others as I would want them to be to me. I’m a firm believer in karma, and I believe you receive what you give. I was bloghopping this morning ( a really bad habit of mine), and I saw a post on this very subject. The post is called The Power of Nice Challenge. So I am planning to make an extra effort to be nice in the next few

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-69906455095026875232007-10-07T09:06:00.000-05:002007-10-07T09:15:36.577-05:00

Leaves are great for the fall garden. There are many ways you can incorporate them into your soil. The simplest and most direct is to rake them up and spread them out on the garden. Work them slightly into the soil now to keep them from blowing away, then let them rot until spring. You can also add leaves to your compost pile, just make sure you add the right combination of “green” items to

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-71013223604949330762007-10-03T14:49:00.000-05:002007-10-04T15:28:27.423-05:00

As many of you know I love to take photos. I think I’ve mentioned my favorite cameras before, but I’m going to mention them again. My favorite, on the go, stick in my pocket and take anywhere camera is the Canon PowerShot A540 6MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom. I always have this camera ready to take a shot if I see one. It tucks in my purse or my pocket so I never have to be without a

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-51765461052690024492007-10-03T14:48:00.000-05:002007-10-03T15:23:16.202-05:00

It's time to get the garden ready for it's long winters rest. This month is all about getting your garden ready for winter. It's an excellent time to work on your soil. Start by removing dead and dying annuals and throwing them on the compost pile. It’s a great time to have your soil tested to see what’s lacking. You can add soil amendments this time of year by lightly working them into the soil.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-40906136498620563962007-10-02T16:10:00.000-05:002007-10-04T15:27:25.444-05:00

If you’re like me you have tons of gardening tools in your garage or shed. Combine that with my husband’s love for anything that even looks like a tool and there has to be some organization. Car Guy Garage has some really cool cabinets on their site. The diamond plate cabinets really caught my eye. They have a worktop, pegboard, and upper cabinets, with lights pre-installed. All you do is order

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-68808533679677758872007-09-30T22:00:00.000-05:002007-09-30T22:17:17.614-05:00

It’s time to bring in any potted plants herbs or flowers you want to overwinter inside. Before I bring in my plants I give them a spray down with insecticidal soap, or a mixture of Fels Naptha soap and water. You can find Fels Naptha soap in the laundry aisle at many grocery store. It comes in a bar, use a cheese grater to grate about a tablespoon to mix with water in a small spray bottle. Shake

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-80582294236125420992007-09-23T22:00:00.000-05:002007-09-23T22:08:41.557-05:00

Lindsay Lohan's taken up gardening? Hollywood.com reports that Lindsay Lohan is Staying Clean By Going Green. They go on to say Lohan was proud to show off her gardening skills during her father's recent visit. I think that would be a great way to rehabilitate fallen stars. Nothing gets you more in touch with yourself than getting in touch with the Earth. Learning to enjoy the beauty of the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-17469660778083984302007-09-20T22:07:00.000-05:002007-09-20T22:13:48.698-05:00

I’m really excited to be the new Preschool Projects writer at PreschoolRock.com. One of my first articles is about making your own flower press with your preschooler. Check out the rest of the site, if you have preschoolers, or if you’re still a preschooler at heart.The plans are very simple, make your own flower press before the leaves start to turn, and you will be able to preserve some of

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-70824652263781678332007-09-19T21:14:00.000-05:002007-09-19T21:23:45.864-05:00

I recently came across a new paid to blog opportunity called Blogsvertise. Blogsvertise pays you to buzz about products and services offered by others. You can earn cash and generate extra income from your blog for blogging about the websites, products and services of their clients. In exchange blogsvertise pays you via Paypal per task or blog entry. I'm going to give them a try, I'll let you

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-60648502948682317592007-09-15T19:07:00.000-05:002007-09-15T19:09:05.359-05:00

Now is a great time to dig up tender perennials, or annuals you’d like to keep indoors over the winter. Here are some of my favorite plants to bring inside: geraniums, scented geraniums, hibiscus, and small pepper plants. I usually plant several containers in the spring or summer (when many annuals go on sale) with the idea of bringing them in when the weather gets chilly. You can plant small

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44833983878074663202007-09-14T15:18:00.000-05:002007-10-04T15:26:18.544-05:00

Every year for the past ten years I’ve gone shopping on the day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday) with my sister in law. We usually end up waiting in long lines, with cranky impatient people, and grouchy sales clerks. This year we’ll be out of town, so we won’t be able to go on our usual Black Friday shopping spree. I was excited when I found Black Friday.net, they have great thanksgiving

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-69982269255561537382007-09-09T21:41:00.000-05:002007-09-09T21:43:29.084-05:00

Ahhh! September. I love the fall, the garden is coasting along, giving more than it is requiring. It’s the end of the harvest for tomatoes, corn, and green beans. Pumpkins, gourds, and winter squash are all ripening nicely, waiting to take up their spot in fall decorating scenes.Fall is a great time of the year for gardeners to find bargains and steals at their local gardening center. There’s

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44484639418027383212007-08-31T19:54:00.000-05:002007-08-31T20:03:25.881-05:00

The next few weeks will be great for dividing those perennials. It'll give the roots time to settle in before the ground freezes for the winter. How do you know if your perennial needs divided? 1. If the center of the plant has died out. A good example is Lambs Ear, when it starts dying in the center it's time to divide it up and replant. 2. The plants stopped, or slowed down on flowering

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-9537614444068312732007-08-30T07:46:00.000-05:002007-08-30T07:55:23.913-05:00

I love this time of year, when it's just starting to feel a little like fall. It's been really warm here the last couple days, but today's a little cooler. The kids are back in school, the corn is tall, fall flowers are starting to bloom, I can go on and on. There is not a lot to do in the garden this time of year, other than picking and harvesting, and reaping the rewards of what you've sewn.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-18243805997300756402007-08-29T21:47:00.000-05:002007-08-29T21:53:19.179-05:00

Here are a couple more butterfly photos from our latest trip to the bike path.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-6420716688515140342007-08-28T08:06:00.000-05:002007-08-28T08:41:41.827-05:00

There's a bike trail near our home we visit quite often. The part of the trail we ride most often is loaded with butterflies. I (of course) have taken many photos of these beautiful creatures while we're on our walks. Here are some of my favorites. I hope you enjoy these beautiful butterfly photos as much as I enjoyed taking them. It's so relaxing to go ride the trail with my family, and

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-2663015007822389032007-08-26T20:32:00.001-05:002007-08-28T08:42:57.455-05:00

Summer has flown by, and the holiday season is almost here! First Halloween, then Thanksgiving, and before you know it, Ho, Ho, Ho Merry Christmas! Why not let CouponChief help you with your holiday shopping this year? Make a list of your household family members and think of the most amazing gift you would buy for them, if you could. Don't forget your furry friends! CouponChief has coupons to

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-68283627890218056002007-08-25T10:36:00.000-05:002007-08-25T10:51:45.970-05:00

Have you ever heard of Gooseneck Loosestrife? It looks like a pleasant enough flower, sitting there all pretty and innocent. But it is a very aggressive plant. If you're looking for a plant to fill in a large area quickly then this is a good plant for you. Otherwise I would stay away from Loosestrife. It's a beautiful plant, Bluestem Nursery has all the details on this plant. You should not

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44962394990687937042007-08-24T20:35:00.000-05:002007-08-24T20:42:48.180-05:00

I recently signed up for Pay Per Post blog network, after reading about it on the Mom Gadget Forum and in the blogging section of the WAHM Forum. I signed up a month or two ago, but it’s been a really busy summer, and I’m just starting my first posts with Pay Per Post. I’m hoping to make a few extra dollars on my blog by posting a couple posts a week for Pay Per Post. I’m hoping to put the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44075658932720045362007-08-22T17:56:00.000-05:002007-08-22T18:01:07.673-05:00

I've been at the Darke County Fair the last few days, check out some of the Horticulture exhibits that were there. I just had to snap a few shots of the best stuff.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-37625403708799698722007-08-19T23:39:00.000-05:002007-08-19T23:42:49.889-05:00

Check out this deluxe Garden Glider from Outdoor Decor. It's definitely on my wish list. I have the perfect spot in my yard! They have some beautiful fountains there too. I love the mermaids. Deluxe Cedar Garden GliderFrom: OutdoorDecor.com

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-52160702148948911692007-08-01T14:32:00.000-05:002007-08-01T14:45:10.579-05:00

This is my dad's garden. While my garden is often weedy, and not always in perfect condition, my dad's garden is always beautiful. Year after year he quietly tends his little plants, until the grow into beautiful flowers, fruits, and vegetables. He is truly the reason why I love nature, and gardening so much today. I used to work side by side with him in his garden, not always willingly back

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-89554802354654560272007-07-30T11:06:00.000-05:002007-07-30T11:27:42.584-05:00

This cute little Praying Mantis was visiting my garden the other day, gobbling up all the pesky bugs that munch on my plants. He paused long enough for me to snap a photo of him. Having a Praying Mantis (or two, or three) in your garden is one of the benefits of gardening organically. If you use harsh chemicals or pesticides you kill the beneficial bugs with the bad bugs. Why do that when you

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-49132109961698959182007-07-17T11:25:00.000-05:002007-07-17T11:26:57.816-05:00

Do you want to be more environmentally responsible? Growing your own garden without chemical fertilizers and pesticides is a great way to start. Working in harmony with nature is always a great way to leave a positive footprint on this earth. By growing your own fresh produce you are cutting down on the pollution caused to food halfway across the world to get to your back door. Buying produce

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-76211675486442195352007-07-15T06:20:00.000-05:002007-07-15T06:21:58.665-05:00

Fall garden related festivals in Ohio (September- October). Fall is the best time of year for festivals, check out these fun fall garden related festivals to see if there is one in your area. Clinton County Corn FestivalSeptember 07 - September 09, 2007Wilmington, Ohiohttp://www.clintoncountyohio.comJohnny Appleseed FestivalSeptember 15 - September 16, 2007Lisbon, Ohiohttp://

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-48059860639046858992007-07-13T21:47:00.000-05:002007-07-13T21:54:10.341-05:00

Would you like to establish a natural hummingbird habitat? Here are some great plants to include in your meadow, or garden:1. Bee Balm (Monarda Didyma, Oswego Tea)2. Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera Sempervirens)3. Columbine4. Trumpet Creeper (Canpsis Radicans)5. Spotted Jewelweed (Impatiens Carpensis)Try to incorporate flowers that bloom at different times of the year in your garden, so your

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-64662010128016155172007-07-11T12:51:00.000-05:002007-07-11T13:15:35.938-05:00

Bee Balm, also known as Monarda Didyma, Bergamot, and Oswego Tea, is a common native wildflower in North America, and one of my favorite perennials. Monarda is easy to care for, just plant young plants in sandy well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Bee Balm spreads easily by sending out rhyzomes, and can spread up to a foot a season. This makes them an excellent candidate for

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-9645053481894326152007-07-08T20:55:00.000-05:002007-07-08T20:57:08.255-05:00

Chicory (Cichorium Intybus) is a common find in ditches, fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The blooms are cornflower blue, and usually occur from July to early September, depending on the area. Chicory is an excellent plant for naturalizing, it is not overly invasive. It spreads by seed, making it an easy specimen to plant and maintain in a wildflower garden. Chicory is easily maintained,

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-76185175500645991262007-07-06T19:07:00.000-05:002007-07-08T20:57:44.551-05:00

Purple Coneflowers (Echinacea Purpurea) are drought tolerant natives to the midwestern and southeastern United States. Coneflowers are great for naturalizing in borders, wildflower gardens, roadside prairies, and meadows. They self seed, or plants can be divided at the roots. The large showy blooms are great for flower arrangements. Purple Coneflowers also have many herbal uses. Including

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-71913797115292276772007-07-05T22:50:00.000-05:002007-07-05T23:14:21.898-05:00

Our lilies are blooming, so I thought I'd share them. They've naturalized down by our creek, and we also have a beautiful showing of them in the flower bed, and up by the barn.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-82508751821278708012007-06-22T09:26:00.000-05:002007-06-22T09:29:32.968-05:00

Black-Eyed-Susans are one of the most common easy to grow native plants in the United States. They are great for the gardener who is trying to naturalize an area, since they thrive on neglect, and hold tough against other invasive weeds and plants. As a caution to anyone who would like to try Black-Eyed-Susans in their flower garden, this plant can be invasive in small spaces, which makes them

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-58705207218309916872007-06-18T15:38:00.000-05:002007-06-18T15:45:16.075-05:00

I love festivals here are some gardening related festivals in Ohio this summer (June –August):If you’re looking for a fall schedule, check back in a few weeks. (Mid-July)Maria Stein Country FestJune 22 - June 24, 2007Maria Stein, OhioGerman Village Haus und Garten TourJune 24, 2007Columbus, OhioOhio Lavender FestivalJuly 6- July 8, 2007Streetsboro, Ohiohttp://www.ohiolavenderfestival.com/

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-26507345370486165022007-06-17T21:09:00.000-05:002007-06-17T21:15:02.389-05:00

Here is a photo of my Peonies from a few days ago. They are looking brown and dry now, but they were beautiful for a few days! The other photo is of my climbing Tea Rose, it's beautiful now, and full of blooms.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-4978921962303828352007-06-12T19:00:00.000-05:002007-06-12T19:11:54.678-05:00

I’ve been searching the last couple days for great new garden gadgets, over the next couple days I will show you some of the things I found. I’m always up to test out a new garden gadget. This is one of the coolest things I’ve been seeing this summer, check it out. You can roll this portable sink right into your garden, or potting shed. Hook up the hose and you’re ready to go. When you’re

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-81816913389274001512007-06-05T22:09:00.000-05:002007-06-05T22:24:41.224-05:00

This is a Blue Angel Hosta in the front of my house. It has a beautiful blue cast to it, and is one of my favorites. Not sure what the hosta with the yellow tipped leaves is called, but both of them get huge by mid summer.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-8589365175792158472007-06-03T21:32:00.000-05:002007-06-03T21:45:01.945-05:00

I wanted to share a couple of my favorite summer herbal drinks with everyone. Summer Lemon PunchThis is a great drink for a summer party or reunion. 7 black tea bags2 quarts water1 lemonade concentrate (12oz)1 cup sugar1 bottle Sprite, 7 Up, or any citrus cola1 cup crushed lemon balm, save some nice leaves for garnishSteep the crushed lemon balm leaves in 2 quarts of hot water with the tea bags

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-4670490292423094062007-06-01T21:52:00.000-05:002007-06-01T22:13:58.490-05:00

Are you looking for some edible flowers to throw on your fresh salad this summer? One word of caution- do not eat flowers when you do not eat unknown flowers. Some flowers and greens can be poisonous. Here is a list of some great flowers to toss into you next salad:1. Nasturtiums2. Violas3. Violets4. Dandelion5. Chives (Alliums)6. Angelica7. Anise Hyssop8. Scented Geraniums9. Squash flowers10.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-8131779027829230632007-05-29T11:19:00.000-05:002007-05-29T11:23:42.789-05:00

Here is a picture of a Blue Indigo plant at our local school eco-garden. It is breathtaking; the blues in the flower are almost iridescent. The other names for this plant are Blue False Indigo, and Blue Wild Indigo. The scientific name is Baptisia australis. It grows to between 3 and 4 feet tall, and flowers in late May or June, depending on location. The plant can spread up to 4 feet, so

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-41951064014393292222007-05-27T15:29:00.000-05:002007-05-27T15:44:17.639-05:00

I love Bearded Irises for their beautiful flowers, and their lovely scent. If you don't know much about this beautiful plant you should. Bearded Irises grow to about 2-3' and can have a spread of up to 2'. If they spread more than you like, not to worry just share a couple clumps of this beautiful flower with friends. That's what I do with my extras, I never have a problem finding them a home

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-81356425920325500342007-05-25T15:26:00.000-05:002007-05-25T15:27:24.484-05:00

I get several people here every day who are searching for the term “Virtual Garden.” Sooo…. I thought I would do a little background work for those who are looking for software, or information on creating their own virtual gardens. Here are a few great picks if you are looking for software to create, and plan your own virtual garden, before you start the actual digging. 1. Better Homes and

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-67063390190678612402007-05-21T22:25:00.000-05:002007-05-21T22:32:37.023-05:00

I love this time of year. It is the busiest time of year for gardening. In our area (Southwest Ohio) May is the time of year when most of the planting is done. My garden is almost planted, I have moved all of the perennials I wanted to relocate. I have been weeding, and mulching like crazy, (mostly weeding). Doing a little watering, since it hasn't rained on a regular basis. I love

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-71058625421294825502007-05-18T11:25:00.000-05:002007-05-18T11:29:48.085-05:00

Troy Built is recalling a children's gardening set called, The Budding Gardener Complete Gardening Set. The stamped logo on the back side of the gardening gloves included in the set contains a high level of lead. Check out the recall at Media-Newswire.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-67410323163937942212007-05-14T21:55:00.000-05:002007-05-14T21:56:17.221-05:00

Every year I plant a small garden right outside my kitchen door. I try to plant a few of the herbs, vegetables, and flowers I use the most in this garden. I love to step outside the door and clip a few herbs, grab a tomato, or cut some flowers to throw them in a vase. What do I include? Flowers that work well in an arrangement, snapdragons, mums, irises, you get the idea. Herbs I like to

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-21639574932315301892007-05-11T22:03:00.000-05:002007-05-11T22:10:52.413-05:00

Here are some great books to help you get started with your compost pile. These are my favorites. If you have a great source of info on composting please let me know. Teaming with Microbes: A Gardener's Guide to the Soil Food Web This guide will explain how important having plenty of microbes in your soil is to your plants health. Let it Rot!: The Gardener's Guide to Composting (Third Edition

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-52806605797370351382007-05-08T15:13:00.000-05:002007-05-08T15:16:15.091-05:00

Compost is one of the best things you can add to any type of soil. It makes hard clay soil looser, and less likely to clump. It makes sandy soil retain more moisture. Most important of all compost contains valuable nutrients, and micro organisms to help keep your plants healthy.You can set up 5x6 bins to make your compost in, or use a barrel composter like the one shown below.Making your own

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-69982200026617483052007-05-06T09:09:00.000-05:002007-05-06T09:10:10.691-05:00

Spring is a time for renewal. It’s a time when everything comes back to life. Spring is an excellent time to get back in touch with nature, and appreciate the beauty around you. It’s easy to get caught up in all the things you need to get done in the springtime. I challenge you to slow down, at least for a few moments, and enjoy the world around you. I have a bench in the middle of my

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-68947373596503650822007-05-05T18:10:00.000-05:002007-05-05T20:39:00.934-05:00

Homemom3 at I'm not just a mom...I'm a Stay-At-Home Mom is hosting a blog carnival with posts on the subject of Mother's Day: What Does It Mean To Me?, check out what other bloggers are saying in their tribute to mom. What does Mother's Day mean to you?

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-28674401150300161092007-05-01T12:59:00.000-05:002007-05-01T13:07:38.254-05:00

I have always associated Mother’s day with the start of the gardening season, with flowers, and warmer temperatures. Getting out in the yard, and enjoying the sunshine. My mom is a gardener, with several beautiful gardens, and a large pond. One of our annual Mother’s day rituals is to go to Cox Arboretum (near Dayton Ohio) flower sale every Mother’s Day. The flower sale raises money for the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-14998006822715406292007-04-29T21:45:00.000-05:002007-04-29T21:49:18.130-05:00

Ahhhh! Springtime! I love Spring, it is my favorite time of year. I can get my hands back in the dirt, and start working on my garden. The trees are blooming, and everything is getting green. It is such a beautiful time of year.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-44871525928695873282007-04-28T09:40:00.000-05:002007-04-28T09:42:55.975-05:00

Here is one of my favorite recipes to combat powdery mildew:1 Tablespoon of Murphy's oil soap1 Gallon of water3 Tablespoons of baking sodaA spray bottle, or sprayerMix all ingredients together and pour into the spray bottle, or sprayer. Spray on affected plants. I know it's not quite that time of year yet, but it never hurts to be prepared. When you don't have recipes like this handy it is too

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-59801912635991396382007-04-24T20:48:00.000-05:002007-04-24T21:06:07.743-05:00

Several people have asked me what camera I use to take the photos I post here at Squidoo, and at The Virtual Garden at Squidoo, I have two cameras. When I am feeling serious about my pictures, and I need to get some special shots I use this camera: Nikon D70S 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera Kit with 18-70mm Nikkor Lens This is a great camera if you are trying to achieve special effects, or you need to

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-40228032567780203262007-04-23T11:46:00.000-05:002007-04-23T11:49:43.700-05:00

Are you ready to get physical? Gardening is great physical exercise, but if your only exercise over the winter was lifting the remote you may want to prepare for the gardening season ahead.Taking a long walk or stroll and get back in touch with nature, it will also help you get your legs back in shape. Stroll down the street and check out what your neighbor has done in their garden.Before you are

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-84275431928712110992007-04-20T22:45:00.000-05:002007-04-20T22:47:05.514-05:00

Need a way to spread those tiny seeds? Grab an old spice container, or parmesan cheese container. Put the seeds in the empty spice container, and twist the lid so the shaker holes are open. Shake out the seeds to spread them in the garden. The shaker helps spread the seeds evenly.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-21953207527174738022007-04-17T22:27:00.000-05:002007-04-17T22:34:17.893-05:00

The tulips are blooming check out the blooms I caught on camera.

Linettenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-66241391735566412572007-04-15T21:27:00.000-05:002007-04-15T22:09:01.048-05:00

Here is a simple way to keep slimy green algae from growing in fountains and birdbaths. When you clean the birdbath or fountain and fill it with fresh water, add lavender flowers. Bind about eight lavender flowers together with a string or rubber band and lay the bundle in the water.The anti fungal properties in the lavender will help keep the algae away for about two weeks. The lavender won’t

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-35151973320689314592007-04-13T22:14:00.000-05:002007-04-13T22:37:42.902-05:00

Many herbs will grow well in the shade ( four hours or less of sun per day). Here are some herbs that tolerate partial shade: angelica, catnip, chervil, dill fennel, sweet woodruff, lemon balm, tarragon, lovage, parsley, pennyroyal, and pineapple sage. Mint can survive anywhere, including shady spots. Chives will grow well in the shade, but will not produce many flowers. Other plants that do

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-27150682379603854902007-04-11T17:57:00.000-05:002007-04-11T18:02:08.503-05:00

Instead of buying expensive prepared seed tapes you can make your own. Cut newspaper into 1" wide strips. Create a paste from flour and water about the consistency of thick gravy. Dot the paste on the newspaper strip at evenly spaced intervals and apply the seeds. Cover the seeds with more paste, then lay the seeds aside to dry. You can store the seed tapes in a plastic container or bag until you

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-14543784170096622102007-04-10T21:05:00.000-05:002007-04-10T21:10:26.115-05:00

Some herbs can be invasive, such as bee balm, costmary, mint, and wormwood. These herbs spread by aggressive underground runners. These herbs can still be enjoyed and controlled if you plant them in a container, or barrier the roots can’t penetrate.Find an old bucket or pot. You want to look for a pot that will not rot or break under the ground. Be sure it is at least 6" deep, and large enough to

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-57190776234846898182007-04-08T11:39:00.000-05:002007-04-08T11:49:38.374-05:00

My flowers and trees are not happy about this weather at all! Like I said below, we were 70` and sunny until mid week. Since then it has been below freezing, and spitting snow. I don’t think it will have any long term affects on the trees or perennials, but I don’t think it has been good for the plants that are flowering now. My daffodils blooms are not looking near as good as they look in the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-72966449174844054212007-04-04T20:40:00.000-05:002007-04-04T21:42:45.791-05:00

If you don’t like the weather in Ohio wait until tomorrow is the saying I hear on a regular basis. In this case it is the opposite. The weather has been great for about the last week, highs in the 60’s and 70’s, with plenty of sunshine. The week before that it was rain, rain, rain and floods. Now we are cold and windy for the next several days, with snow flurries. Ughhh!My daffodils are blooming,

Linettenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3209537164672634335.post-40205492721136774142007-04-01T08:12:00.000-05:002007-04-01T12:03:23.980-05:00

Pond plants come in many different styles. Some grow entirely below water, some grow up out of the water, and some just like to have their roots wet. How they grow will determine where you place them in your pond. Water lillies are the most common type of flower you will see in a garden pond. They come in a variety of bloom colors and shapes. The leaf floats at the top of the water, with the

Linettenoreply@blogger.com0