When we bought our first home a year and a half ago, we were so excited because even though we lived in city limits, we still have a decent-sized fenced back yard.

Along with a swing set, sandbox, above-ground swimming pool, and an overly affectionate black lab, we were so excited to add a small vegetable garden to the mix.

Shaylie and her buddy, Toby

In late March, my husband and children planted a few tomato and cucumber seeds in small cups. They kept them inside, near a window, and gave them a mixture of water and love and soon enough, they sprouted.

Meanwhile, Andrew and the girls (this Mama just can’t find any extra time in her day for gardening) worked on getting a place ready for our garden. They pulled weeds and tilled the ground. It became a labor of love. Although, they all complained about the hard work, I secretly think each of them enjoyed the bonding opportunity it presented.

When the ground was ready and temperatures were staying warm enough, the plants were transplanted into the ground. We also added a few corn and green bean seeds.

From the very first day, I know those plants were “checked on” at least four times a day. One of the first things they would do after getting out of bed in the morning was to run outside and “check on the farm.” Yes, I realize we don’t have a farm, however to two little girls who live in city limits, a few vegetable plants qualifies as a farm.

Finally, just as boredom was starting to set it,we begin getting our first green beans. Then the cucumbers followed. The corn was quickly taller than the girls and little green tomatoes had appeared. The excitement blossomed all over again.

Having a vegetable garden has been a great experience. We’ve learned all about seeds and plants. We’ve seen God work His magic. We’ve seen amazement in the eyes of little girls. We’ve seen father/daughter relationships strengthened. We’ve learned that vegetables out of our own garden taste much better than those bought in a store. We’ve learned that you must plant more than four seeds of corn if you want to have enough to feed your family.

Planting a vegetable garden has been a blessing to our family. What is working for yours?