Under the Solano Sun

For centuries, many cultures linked mistletoe, a member of the sandalwood family Santalaceae, to life-giving power, fertility and peace. The Romans celebrated with mistletoe at the festival of Saturnalia. In 18th century England, a kissing ball of mistletoe evoked romance and goodwill.

It's one of the world's most important food crops. It's incredibly productive, and in Solano County it can grow almost year-round with some frost protection. In the home garden it's insanely easy to growwith the right conditions it's pretty much effortless. It's the potato.

As a young child growing up in Asia, I learned how to use chopsticks almost immediately after mastering use of the fork and spoon. Now, even having lived here in the US all my adult life, I am as comfortable using chopsticks as western cutlery.

I had a peaceful day tinkering in the garden today. I am usually tackling urgent work obligations and handling stressful fire drills, but I was able to set everything aside and focus on my happy place. It was a tranquil day spending time reconnecting and tending to a few garden needs.

Since the days are getting shorter and the nights longer, there is a way to brighten up your garden for nighttime viewing. One way is to add some lighting to your garden. Lighting will help to reflect the colors in your garden.