Jardin-date....

Our small Jardin is making big waves! After some hard work of preparation and planning, we got to plant our Maize a few weeks ago.


Since then, they have been growing and enjoying the company of our small homemade scarecrow. After surviving the long-needed heavy rain, our Maize got a wonderful surprise! Some compadres generously gave us some squash who were in need of a home and space to grow. Although they were left to weather the storm and were drenched with water, our adopted squash underwent some quick greenhouse treatment in the back of Dante Piquin (the trunk of a suv).


Continuing on it's small adventure to the Original Jardin, our baby squash had to be planted quickly in hopes of salvaging it from it's small container. A few people came out to help tend to our Jardin, through giggles and competing against one another to see who found the biggest weed, or "imposter" Maize plants, our small intimate grooming session manifested into laughter and the celebration of life as we created spaces for our squash. With the wind blowing in our hair and the earthly sounds of a spring evening in East End simmering down, we were able to create a new home for our squash to grow. With gentle coos, oohs, and ahhs our Squash was graciously welcomed at the Original Jardin, and blended well with our Maize, I must say.


Feeling the cool dirt in my toes and hands as I helped de-weed and create hoyos (holes) for the squash was an amazing experience. As I watched my brotha's and sista's work sideline with me, I was overcome with a tranquil state of mind. Watching this Jardin grow, and seeing the communal efforts to strive for a better living inspires me in ways I can't describe.

After our Squash was planted we discussed some ideas for other areas, and plans we hope to make happen in the near future. So stay tuned and don't be afraid to drop some knowledge for us, whether it's suggestions, comments, tips, or even a few links!

pAz,
la Gritona