Are you like me, peering out that window and seeing nothing but gloom? The trees are leafless and brown, frost touches the ground here and there, no birds, no rabbits, just cold and dark and ... well, wintry.

Here's a way to get you out of the winter doldrums.... dig into those garden catalogs NOW!!! (I'll be posting a list of my favorite kitchen garden catalogs later.)

We bought our house (our 9th home in 17 years of marriage) last year, and the previous owner has done beautiful work with the landscaping. There's what we call "our own little park" in the yard, complete with stone paths, several seating areas, and gobs of perennials nestled between the honey locusts and conifers. BUT. While I am happy that the birds have a place here, I would like my family to enjoy the fruits of the garden as well. I've always been a firm believer in edible gardening and landscaping. I'm all for beauty in our yards, but if the plants that we grow can somehow contribute to our well-being by gracing our table at harvest time, so much the better. Those of you that are already into fruit and vegetable gardening know what I mean. If you don't, the Edible Landscape Forum at Gardenweb is a great place to start. The people are always friendly and you can ask ANY question at all. If you're looking to exchange seeds, you can see my list at Gardenweb -- look for the member exchange list for "stefoodie". In a couple of weeks I'll be starting my seeds -- I can't wait! Last year was my very successful first year wintersowing.

While we're at it, you may want to take a peek at Mighty Foods -- they've got a post about Food Not Lawns, a book from permaculture designer Heather C. Flores, that's sitting on my bedside table right now. I think it would be the perfect Valentine's Day gift to that guy in your life who also loves his green lawns and his mower:D. Just a little hint:) I'll even make it easy for you -- just click on any (or all) of the books/links below!