Nothing to be nervous about. There's really no way to do it wrong. Just look at The Earth. Plants grow from the arctic to the equator and from sea level (actually below) up to the tree line (and actually above). They grow in river delta enriched soil, in sand and in the cracks between rocks. You'll grow all the seeds and weeds you want in Florida. Of course, you'll also kill some plants and have some eaten by every type of bug you can imagine. Your lawn service will whack a few out of existance and the sun will dry some up. The heavy rain will wash out a few - some years it will wash out all of them - but they'll either grow back or you'll plant more. Every plant that dies leaves a space for the others to get bigger or for that new variety that just caught your eye. Then you'll have to find new places for the plants you get at swaps. One day you'll be thinking that you will never have room for all the plants you want and then two weeks later you'll wish you had kept it to one small bed because you can't find time to weed everything you have. You do have time to start some seeds and it's as easy as throwing some potting soil in little cups and dropping in the seeds. Or buy one of those trays at Walmart with the plugs in it and a package of seeds. Problem solved in less than 30 minutes! But don't stress because if you don't get it done, you can always pick up seedlings at any nursery or big box store about the time you want to put them in the garden. Although you might not think that's as much fun, they often carry the varieties that do well in this area and you don't really need the 25 tomato plants (unless you are Tony!) that you'll get from seeds anyway. 3 or 4 plants will feed your family and your friends. For every option in the garden that slips away, there will be several to take it's place. Take it slow your first year and you'll have more fun with it. Add more garden space each year if you want to but don't try to do it all right away. Never forget we do this because it's fun. If it turns out to be too stressful, then plant a couple shrubs where the veggies were going to go and find a different hobby. "Experts" say that most people go through 3 major career changes in their lifetime so picking at least 3 major hobbies seems OK too. You'll be fine and so will your garden. You'll discover parts of it you like and parts you don't. I learned to garden from women (Mother, Grandmother, Aunts, GreatAunts, and Crazy Garden Friends) who were committed to veggies as well as flowers. But I discovered that growing my own food was no fun for me. I believe that's why God made Publix. So I tossed the tomato plants and put in more cat's whiskers and coleus. I'm happy. Publix is happy. It's your garden and there is no right and wrong other than what's dictacted by the sun and the weather. You haven't screwed up and everything will be OK. Keep us informed and don't forget to ENJOY! Kate (PS - we really...

I've heard the ads on the radio and they are very convincing. Lucinda Basset is a survivor of anxiety and overcame it on her own. Now she provides her method for others. The tapes are not cheap and apparently her approach is common sense and self-talk, but sometimes we need to be reminded of the common sense approach to things. For myself, just saying "calm down, your fears aren't real, you're just being anxious" has had a BIG calming affect when I feel very anxious. Taking several deep breaths also helps. I've had anxiety all my life (without panic attacks) so I am not saying it's easy, but it is possible to overcome, or at least reduce, without meds. Jen Here is a link that might be useful: Lucinda Basset

Hi Elaina You mentioned that when your baby Hannah passed away, you got very close to Rachel and that she became your little shadow. I think Rachel got used to and really close to you all, that now that she sees everyone going about their business, she is used to all attention. She probably feels insecure and that's why she wants all of you together all the time. She is very attached to you all. I don't think there is anything wrong with her. It's going to take time for Rachel to get used to seeing everyone doing different things and going to work or school. Just reassure her that she is loved and that daddy will be home later and that her older sister will be back later from school. I think what would help is giving her a wallet full of pictures, or make a small hand size book with pictures in it of the family, and everytime she cries or stays crying give her the picture book, and tell her that you all love her very much. Before Rachel's older sister leaves, have her give Rachel a big hug and a kiss and have her say,"I love you." After that just have her leave without staying and saying goodbye. The goodbye will make it harder for Rachel. I hope this helps you in any way. I have 3 children. 3yr.old boy, 5 yr.old girl, 8 yr.old girl. May God bless you and your family! Bianca

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