>We covered the area last fall to make the transition easier. So far, we’re on track. The lawn is gone, and now we’re building the raised bed itself. Thanks to our generous neighbor (the one with the amazing stacks of firewood), we have boards. Next step: dig the trenches and set them up. After that: dirt. Soil. Lots of it.

Adding to the seedlings in my living room window: I brought these home today. Tomatoes, peppers, and a few herbs, we’re ready to go. Well, almost. I’m still going to buy a few ordinary store tomato plants almost as insurance. I know they grow; I’m not sure yet about the new heirloom varieties. What if I can’t make them grow?

(Is that an oxymoron? New heirloom? Like jumbo shrimp or cafeteria food?)