Char's Gardening"As the Garden Grows, so does the Gardener"

I can’t believe I have allowed so much time to go by without posting, but making time to sit at the computer to write a post was more then I could do.  I wish I could say I have been on an exotic vacation, but truth be told, I have been right here.   Here’s a glimpse into my last week and a half, my parents came to visit,  I had a meeting and a project with the Navarre Garden Club, and the Northwest Florida Arts Association had meetings and it’s second gallery show, oh and if that isn’t enough, the deer came by and ate my winter garden down, the black bear came by two nights in a row to get in the garbage and eat my bird seed.  So, needless to say, all this plus work made blogging get pushed to the side.  I am thoroughly enjoying my extracurricular activities, but wow, I am a newbie at all this volunteering, let’s just say I have a new appreciation for others that have been volunteering much longer than I.

Mom, Dad, and I at the Gallery Show

Garden Club Cleanup Crew

Proof the Deer at my Winter Garden

Thanks to the Bear for Scattering my Garbage

I can’t believe I’ve gotten so many gourds this year.  I planted two different varieties.  The small ones are Baby Bottles and the large ones are Dipper Long Handles.  I’m a little disappointed in the Baby Bottles I  thought they would be bigger, but am very pleased with the Dipper Long Handle.

Gourds galore

I tried growing them last year, but without much success.  I did get a few small ones,  which my dog Kahlo had a grand time shredding.  But thanks to her I have a few volunteers.

Volunteer Gourd

The plant which has been the most productive has grown into the woods and seems to be loving it.

Gourd Growing in Woods

Gourds on Vine

I’m a member of the Northwest Florida Arts Association and thought maybe I could have a kids class and have the kids paint the gourds once they are dry.   Anyone have any tips on what or how to paint  the gourds or any other ideas on what to do with my gourds?   Oh, also how long do they take to dry?