Boundaries: What they are; Why we need them; and what happens without them

A boundary is a limit or edge that defines an individual as separate from others.

Pretty  simple, huh? This concept may seem silly to talk about, but boundaries are necessary to survive and be happy.

"I used to think the worst thing in life was to end up

alone. Its not. The worst thing in life is to end up

with people that make you feel alone." -Robin Williams

Boundaries: What are they?

Boundaries are the invisible lines that define your personal space, values, and limits. Boundaries are necessary to establish a sense of self, protect your well-being, and maintain healthy relationships. Boundaries can be physical, emotional, or psychological in nature and serve to establish a sense of identity, autonomy, and personal space. They define where one person ends and another begins, delineating personal rights, preferences, and responsibilities.

https://youtu.be/rtsHUeKnkC8

Boundaries: Why do we need them?

Boundaries play a crucial role in maintaining healthy relationships and individual well-being. They help individuals establish and communicate their needs, desires, and values while respecting those of others. By setting boundaries, people can protect their physical and emotional space, avoid feeling overwhelmed or taken advantage of, and foster mutual respect and understanding in their interactions with others.  

Without boundaries, we may find ourselves constantly giving more than we can handle, feeling resentful and overwhelmed, and experiencing negative consequences such as anxiety and depression. By setting clear boundaries, we can communicate our needs and expectations to others, prioritize self-care, and create a sense of safety and security in our relationships.

Boundaries can manifest in various ways, such as personal space, privacy, time management, emotional availability, and communication styles. They can be flexible or rigid, depending on personal preferences and cultural norms. For example, some individuals may have wider personal space boundaries, while others may prefer closer proximity.

The benefits of setting boundaries:

Setting boundaries has many positive rewards for a person such as:

• Preserving your mental, emotional, and physical health.
• Promoting self-respect, self-care, and self-esteem.
• Encouraging open and honest communication.
• Building healthier relationships based on mutual respect and understanding.

How to Set Boundaries:

You can get a free "Setting Boundaries Worksheet" here.

 Reflecting on Your Needs:

Before you can set boundaries, you need to know what your needs are. Take some time to reflect on what's important to you and what you need in order to feel safe and comfortable. You can do this by:

• Self-reflection to identify personal values, priorities, and limits.
• Becoming aware of emotional and physical responses when boundaries are violated.

Communicating Boundaries Effectively:

When communicating your boundaries to others, be clear and direct about what you need by:

• Emphasizing the importance of clear and assertive communication.
• Using "I" statements to express boundaries without blaming or attacking others.
• Practicing active listening to understand others' perspectives and foster healthy dialogues.

Implementing Boundaries:

Setting boundaries can feel overwhelming at first. Start with small, manageable boundaries and work your way up as you become more comfortable.

• Set boundaries gradually, starting with low-stakes situations.
• It is important to remain consistent in enforcing boundaries. Consistency is key to establishing healthy boundaries and building trust with others.
• Say "no" when necessary, establish time and space for self-care, and define expectations in relationships.

The Consequences of Having No Boundaries:

• Increased risk of being taken advantage of or manipulated.
• Overwhelming feelings of guilt, resentment, and exhaustion.
• Damaged relationships due to lack of clear expectations and communication.

Setting boundaries is not about being selfish or controlling. It's about taking care of yourself and creating healthy relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. With practice and patience, you can learn to set boundaries that work for you and improve your overall well-being.

It is important to note that boundaries are subjective and vary among individuals. They can be influenced by personal experiences, cultural norms, upbringing, and individual personalities. While boundaries are necessary for healthy relationships, they should also allow for open communication, empathy, and mutual understanding. Striking a balance between personal boundaries and interpersonal connections is essential for fostering healthy and fulfilling relationships.

Here are a few articles you may find helpful about setting boundaries:

• Psychology Today: How to Set Healthy Boundaries
• Harvard Business Review: The Importance of Setting Boundaries at Work
• Mindful: The Art of Setting Boundaries
• Healthline: How to Set Boundaries and Improve Your Relationships
• Verywell Mind: How to Set Boundaries with Family Members

Diva's battle with Pancreatitis

My baby, Diva, is so sick with pancreatitis again.  2 years ago she almost died from it because I did not understand what was happening to her.  Now I am always on the look-out for the symptoms because once a dog has pancreatitis, there is a very good chance that they will have it over and over again. It is like the pancreas has been reset to be extremely sensitive to fat in the diet and responds immediately to any high-fat item ingested.

Diva has been showing the symptoms of this illness for a few days and I took her to the vet to be tested (there is a blood test for it).  Of course, it came back positive and she was given IV fluids and new medications and sent back home.  However, her symptoms did not improve so I took her back for an ultrasound of her abdomen.  

The ultrasound  showed a very inflamed pancreas and possible gall bladder involvement.  She stayed overnight to get more IV fluids, but now I am ready to go pick her up and bring her back home.  I don't like it when she is gone!

So, I have decided to post some information here about pancreatitis in dogs in case someone else needs this information:

Pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas, a gland located near the stomach, becomes inflamed. This condition can affect dogs, and it can be a serious health issue if left untreated. In this post, we'll discuss the causes, treatment, why there is a chance of recurrence, and how to help your dog with pancreatitis.

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of pancreatitis in dogs, including:

• Obesity
• High-fat diet
• Trauma or injury to the pancreas
• Certain medications
• Infection
• Autoimmune disease

It's worth noting that while any dog can develop pancreatitis, certain breeds are more prone to it, such as Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels.

Treatment of Pancreatitis in Dogs

The treatment of pancreatitis in dogs depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may only require a short period of fasting and supportive care, while more severe cases may require hospitalization and intensive treatment. Treatment options may include:

• 
  Intravenous fluids to correct dehydration
• Pain medication to manage discomfort
• Antibiotics to treat or prevent infection
• Nutritional support to maintain the dog's weight and health
• In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged tissue or drain fluid from the pancreas.

Why There is a Chance of Recurrence

Pancreatitis can be a recurring condition in dogs, and there are several factors that can contribute to this, including:

• Obesity
• Feeding a high-fat diet
• Failure to follow a recommended diet after the initial episode
• Certain medications
• Underlying health conditions

How to Help Your Dog with Pancreatitis

There are several things you can do to help your dog if they have pancreatitis or to prevent it from occurring again:

• Follow your veterinarian's recommended diet plan, which will likely be low-fat and easy to digest.
• Avoid feeding your dog table scraps or high-fat treats.
• Keep your dog at a healthy weight.
• Monitor your dog for any signs of recurrence, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
• Be sure to follow up with your veterinarian for regular check-ups to ensure your dog is staying healthy.

Just to reiterate, pancreatitis is a serious condition that can affect dogs, but with proper treatment and care, it can be managed. If you suspect your dog may have pancreatitis, it's important to seek veterinary care right away. Following your veterinarian's recommended treatment plan and making lifestyle changes can help reduce the chances of recurrence and improve your dog's overall health and quality of life.

Further reading includes:

Pancreatitis In Dogs: Signs to Watch For

Pancreatitis In Your Dog

Pancreatitis in Dogs

Silenced No More: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women

 Because May 5th was designated by the Congress to be National Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Day, I decided to go ahead and post this.  I wrote it a while back and have been thinking about whether to post it here or not. Since there is a national day assigned to this issue, I decided to go ahead and post it.

I feel quite strongly about this issue and have for some time now.  If you are unaware or uneducated about this issue, it is time for you to know about this problem. It is unbelievable that in today's world, this is such a huge issue.  It sometimes feels as if our world has gone crazy!

This is a long post because its purpose is to educate on this issue.  We touched on this problem once before here, but this post delves even deeper into the subject.  We as a society must act to improve the response to each incident as well as to learn why this is occurring.  Only with education on the topic can we actually make any progress.

The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) is a devastating reality in North America that disproportionately affects Indigenous communities. MMIW refers to the alarming number of cases involving Indigenous women who have been reported missing or found murdered under suspicious circumstances. Despite the severity of the issue, there has been a lack of action and attention from government officials and law enforcement.

Definition of Missing and Murdered

Indigenous Women (MMIW)

The term MMIW encompasses a complex societal issue that has affected Indigenous communities for decades. It refers to cases involving missing or murdered Indigenous women, including trans women and girls, who have been reported as gone missing or found deceased in suspicious circumstances. This issue impacts not only individuals but entire families and communities, leading to intergenerational trauma.

Importance of Discussing MMIW

The high rates of MMIW highlight the systemic racism, marginalization, poverty, lack of access to resources such as healthcare, education, housing that are faced by many Indigenous peoples in North America. The impact goes beyond just statistics as it disrupts entire families and communities leaving long-lasting effects on their mental health. Discussing this issue is essential for addressing the root causes contributing to this epidemic.

Indigenous people are more likely than any other racial group in Canada to experience violent crime and harassment so it is imperative that we support their communities through these times. Their culture also plays an important role which leads us into our next section

Brief History of MMIW in North America

The history behind MMIW dates back centuries with colonization being one main cause for such violence against Native American women. There has been significant damage done including separating children from their families during boarding schools era where cultural practices were prohibited. These policies have resulted in intergenerational trauma, which has only amplified the problem of MMIW.

Despite the long history of this issue, it wasn't until the 1980s that Indigenous communities began organizing to draw attention to it. Additionally, actions from governments and law enforcement have been slow and inadequate due to systemic racism entrenched in our institutions.

This has left families of MMIW feeling unheard and neglected by those who are supposed to serve them. The need for continued advocacy and education surrounding MMIW is crucial in order to address this issue head-on.

High-Level Overview of MMIW

Statistics on the number of missing and murdered

Indigenous women in North America

The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women is not just a local or regional concern, but rather a global one. In North America, there have been thousands of cases reported over the last few decades.

According to reports by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), over 1,200 Indigenous women have been killed or gone missing in Canada between 1980 and 2012. Similarly, the US Justice Department found that Native American women experience murder rates more than ten times higher than the national average.

It's worth noting that these numbers may be underestimated since many cases go unreported or are not accurately recorded. Additionally, many families of MMIW face barriers when attempting to report their missing loved ones to law enforcement agencies due to systemic racism.

Factors contributing to the high rates of MMIW,

such as systemic racism, poverty, and lack of access to resources

There are numerous contributing factors that perpetuate this human-rights crisis. Systemic racism is arguably one of the most significant contributors as it creates an environment where violence against Indigenous women is normalized and justice for these crimes is often neglected.

Poverty also plays an instrumental role as it can lead to a lack of access to resources such as transportation and safe housing. The historical trauma experienced by Indigenous communities due to colonization has also contributed significantly.

The introduction of colonial policies such as residential schools led to cultural erasure and intergenerational trauma which affect many families today. This trauma can create additional challenges when seeking support from law enforcement agencies who may not understand how historical injustices still affect present-day realities.

Government response to the issue

Governments across North America have been criticized for their handling - or lack thereof - regarding this issue. In Canada, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was launched in 2016.

The inquiry's final report declared that the ongoing violence against Indigenous women is a form of genocide. Similarly, in the United States, the Savanna's Act was signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2018.

The act aims to address issues such as improving data collection on MMIW, increasing coordination between law enforcement agencies, and training programs for law enforcement officials. Despite these efforts, there is still much work to be done as Indigenous communities continue to face disproportionate rates of violence.

The Impact on Indigenous Communities

and Families Affected by MMIW

Indigenous communities and families are disproportionately affected by the issue of MMIW. The loss of a loved one to violence can have a significant impact on a community, and the loss of an Indigenous woman is particularly devastating due to their important role in their communities as life-givers and caretakers. The trauma experienced by Indigenous families who have lost loved ones to MMIW is often compounded by systemic racism within law enforcement systems, which can lead to poor treatment or neglect of cases involving Indigenous women.

Furthermore, the impact of MMIW extends beyond just the immediate family or community. The issue has significant intergenerational effects that have been passed down through generations since colonization.

The loss of Indigenous women not only affects their families but also has broader implications for Indigenous cultures and traditional knowledge systems. It is crucial that we understand the depth of pain and suffering that MMIW has caused across generations if we are to address this issue effectively.

The Role of Law Enforcement in

Investigating Cases of MMIW

The lack of proper investigation into cases involving missing or murdered Indigenous women is a longstanding issue. Law enforcement agencies may not take these cases seriously or prioritize them properly, leading to incomplete investigations or unsolved cases.

This lack of accountability contributes significantly to the high rates of MMIW. Additionally, there are concerns about mistreatment and discrimination against Indigenous people by law enforcement officials when reporting crimes.

These problems are magnified when it comes to missing or murdered Indigenous women, resulting in mistrust between affected communities and law enforcement agencies. Proper training for law enforcement officials on issues related to MMIW would be beneficial in addressing these shortcomings in investigations while also serving as a step towards repairing relationships between police departments and affected communities.

The Intersectionality Between Gender-Based

Violence and Colonialism

The intersectionality between gender-based violence against Indigenous women and colonialism is a critical aspect of understanding the issue of MMIW. The legacy of colonization and forced assimilation policies in North America has resulted in systemic racism and oppression against Indigenous peoples, including gender-based violence. The effects of colonialism are far-reaching, resulting in social, economic, and cultural disruption within Indigenous communities.

These disruptions have led to higher rates of poverty, homelessness, addiction, and mental health issues among Indigenous people. These factors all contribute to the increased risk of MMIW.

It is essential to acknowledge the historical context behind this issue if we are to address it effectively. Addressing colonialism's legacy requires a comprehensive approach that considers economic, social, and cultural factors alongside legal reform.

The Importance of Cultural Preservation

in Preventing Further Cases of MMIW

Indigenous cultures hold knowledge systems that have sustained their communities for generations. Preserving these cultures is crucial when addressing issues like MMIW as they provide valuable insight into strategies for prevention or intervention.

Cultural preservation can also serve as a form of healing for Indigenous communities affected by MMIW's intergenerational impacts. The revitalization of traditional practices can support individuals' wellbeing while serving as a means to build stronger connections between individuals within their communities.

Understanding niche subtopics within the larger issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women is vital if we are to address this issue effectively. Only with a comprehensive understanding can we begin working towards true justice for murdered or missing Indigenous women while also taking steps towards building healthier relationships between law enforcement agencies and affected communities.

The Untold Stories of MMIW

Behind every statistic of a missing or murdered Indigenous woman, there is a real person and a family left in grief. One such story is that of Ashley HeavyRunner Loring, who went missing in 2017 while studying at college in Montana.

She was last seen at a party and her disappearance was not reported until four days later. Despite extensive searches and investigations, Ashley has never been found.

Her sister Kimberly Loring believes that if Ashley had been non-Indigenous or from a wealthier background, the response to her disappearance would have been more urgent. Another heartbreaking case is that of Tina Fontaine, a 15-year-old girl from Sagkeeng First Nation who was found dead in Winnipeg's Red River in 2014.

She had run away from her foster home and was reported missing only days before her body was discovered wrapped in plastic and weighed down by rocks. Tina's death sparked national outrage and led to renewed calls for action on MMIW.

These individual cases show the devastating impact that MMIW has on families and communities. They also highlight the systemic issues at play that contribute to Indigenous women being disproportionately affected by violence.

The Historical Context of MMIW

The history of colonization and residential schools in North America has had lasting effects on Indigenous communities, including the ongoing issue of MMIW. For centuries, Indigenous women have faced violence at the hands of colonizers and settlers who sought to exert power over them.

The legacy of residential schools is particularly relevant to understanding the disproportionate rates of violence against Indigenous women today. These government-funded schools were designed to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture, often through physical abuse and cultural genocide.

As a result, many Indigenous families were broken apart or punished for practicing their own cultural traditions. This legacy continues today with ongoing injustices towards Indigenous peoples such as land thefts, water contamination, and systemic racism.

Non-Indigenous Allyship in

Addressing MMIW

As non-Indigenous individuals, it is important to recognize our role in addressing the issue of MMIW. One way to support Indigenous communities is to educate ourselves and others about the issue. This can involve reading books or articles written by Indigenous authors, attending rallies or events focused on MMIW awareness, and donating money or time to organizations working towards justice for Indigenous peoples.

It is also important for non-Indigenous individuals to listen to Indigenous voices and follow their lead in addressing this issue. This means centering the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous women and supporting their leadership in creating solutions to the problem of MMIW.

The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) is not one that can be ignored. The staggering statistics, the heartbreaking stories, and the systemic issues that contribute to this problem demand our attention.

It is crucial that we continue to have conversations about MMIW and take action to address it. This includes holding governments accountable for better responses to cases of MMIW, educating ourselves on the history and context of violence against Indigenous women, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives aimed at preventing violence against women, and protecting cultural practices and traditions.

There are many articles available online on this topic.  They truly will break your heart to read them. Here are a few that you might want to see:

https://mmiwusa.org/

https://www.nativewomenswilderness.org/mmiw

https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/mmiw-how-help-how-get-help-n1277833

https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/

Blooming in Oklahoma: A Comprehensive Guide to Gardening in Oklahoma

The Beauty and Benefits of Gardening in Oklahoma

Since I currently live in the state of Oklahoma, I am trying to learn how to have a decent garden here.  It is not as easy as it sounds.  Oklahoma weather is unpredictable, hot and dry 6 months of the year, cold, icy, and windy the other 6 months. Because of the weather problems I was looking for information about gardening here and, of course, found another "rabbit hole".  This time I did not bite and very carefully found my information without being lead on a goose chase! So, here is what I found.  I hope it helps you as much as it is helping me.

Oklahoma is a state located in the southern central region of the United States. The climate of Oklahoma can be unpredictable, with hot summers and cold winters.

However, despite these challenges, gardening in Oklahoma can be very rewarding. The soil in Oklahoma is generally rich and fertile, with a wide range of soil types to choose from depending on your location.

Gardening is not only beneficial for personal enjoyment but also for community building. It promotes physical activity, which is essential for good health.

Gardening also provides an opportunity to produce fresh fruits and vegetables that are healthy and free of pesticides or other harmful chemicals. Another advantage of gardening is that it helps you connect with nature.

When working in the garden, you become more aware of the cycles of life and how everything is connected. You'll also get to observe insects such as bees and butterflies, which play a crucial role in pollination.

Overall, gardening brings people together by promoting cooperation through sharing knowledge and resources such as seeds or tools. Community gardens provide an opportunity for people to meet their neighbors while enjoying the benefits that come from growing their own food.

Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out on this journey, there's no better time than now to plant seeds and watch them grow! In the following sections we'll explore some tips and techniques for successful gardening in Oklahoma regardless if you're growing flowers or food crops!

Choosing the Right Plants for Oklahoma

Native plants that thrive in Oklahoma's climate

One of the keys to success when gardening in Oklahoma is to choose plants that are well-suited to the climate. Fortunately, there are many beautiful and hardy native plants that thrive in Oklahoma's hot summers and cold winters. Some popular examples include Black-eyed Susan, Purple Coneflower, and Indian Blanket.

These wildflowers not only add color and beauty to your garden but also provide important nectar sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies. In addition to wildflowers, there are many types of shrubs and trees that are native to Oklahoma.

For example, Redbud trees are known for their vibrant purple-pink flowers in the springtime while Blackjack Oak provides beautiful fall foliage with its orange-red leaves. When selecting native plants for your garden, be sure to consider factors like soil type, sun exposure, and water availability in order to ensure their success.

Best annuals and perennials for gardens in Oklahoma

While native plants can be a great starting point for your garden, don't hesitate to incorporate some non-native varieties as well. Many annuals like Zinnias or Marigolds grow quickly from seed or transplants and provide a burst of color throughout the growing season.

If you're looking for perennials that will come back year after year, consider plants like Coneflower or Daylilies which are both low-maintenance options with showy blooms. It's important when selecting any type of plant to read up on its preferred growing conditions including soil pH levels required sunlight hours per day.

One essential aspect of gardening is setting up your plants' environment so they can be healthy throughout their lives. By doing research early on about what types of flowers will grow best given your specific conditions you can save money by not having lost investments in plants that are not suited for your garden.

Preparing Your Garden Bed

Tips for Soil Preparation and Fertilization

Before planting anything in your garden, it is crucial to prepare the soil properly. Oklahoma's soil is rich in clay, which can make it difficult for plants to grow. To improve the quality of the soil, add organic matter like compost or manure.

These materials help break up dense soil by improving drainage and providing nutrients. Another important aspect of soil preparation is fertilization.

Soil tests can help determine what nutrients are lacking in your plot of land so that you can add appropriate fertilizers. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are essential minerals for plant growth.

When applying fertilizers, be sure to follow instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm plants and pollute nearby waterways. Also, consider using natural fertilizers like bone meal or fish emulsion as opposed to synthetic options.

Raised Bed Gardening Options for Those with Poor Soil Quality

Raised bed gardening is a great option if you have poor soil quality in your yard or if you want more control over the type of soil used for your plants. Raised beds are essentially large containers filled with a mix of high-quality topsoil and compost. To create a raised bed, first choose an area with good sunlight exposure and level ground.

Then build a frame out of wood or other materials that will hold the growing medium in place. Fill the frame with a mixture of topsoil and compost until it reaches about six inches from the top.

This will allow enough space for plant roots while also preventing excessive water runoff during heavy rains. Overall, preparing your garden bed takes some effort but will pay off in healthier plants and bigger yields come harvest time!

Watering Your Garden in Oklahoma

Strategies to Conserve Water During Droughts

Oklahoma can experience long periods of drought, so it's important to use water wisely in the garden. One way to conserve water is by using a drip irrigation system.

This method delivers water directly to the base of plants, reducing evaporation and waste. Mulching around plants can also help prevent moisture loss and keep soil temperatures cooler during hot summers.

You can use organic materials like straw or wood chips as mulch. Another strategy for conserving water is by collecting and reusing rainwater.

Install a rain barrel near your garden to catch rainwater from your roof gutters. You can use this stored water during dry spells, reducing the amount of tap water you need to use.

Best Practices for Watering Plants During Hot Summers

The heat and dry air in Oklahoma can cause plants to wilt quickly, so it's important to keep them well-watered during hot summers. The best time to water is in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and there's less chance of evaporation. Water deeply but infrequently, rather than shallowly and frequently.

This encourages deep root growth, making plants more resilient during droughts. Use a watering can or hose with a nozzle that allows you to adjust the flow rate for different types of plants.

Avoid getting foliage wet if possible, as this can encourage fungal diseases. By using these strategies for conserving and distributing water effectively in your garden, you'll be able to enjoy healthy plants even through Oklahoma's hot summers and dry spells!

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

The Most Common Pests and Diseases That Affect Oklahoma Gardens

One of the biggest challenges you will face as a gardener in Oklahoma is pests and diseases. It seems like no matter what you do, something always finds its way into your garden to chomp on your plants. Some of the most common pests in Oklahoma gardens include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles.

These insects can cause significant damage to plants by sucking out sap or chewing on leaves. When it comes to diseases, blight is a widespread issue in many Oklahoma gardens.

This fungal disease can quickly spread throughout your garden if left untreated, causing leaves to turn yellow or brown and eventually fall off. Powdery mildew is another common disease that affects many types of plants, including roses, squash, and cucumbers.

Natural Ways to Control Pests Without Harming the Environment

As tempting as it may be to reach for chemical pesticides when dealing with pests in your garden, it's important to remember that these products can harm not only the insects but also other beneficial creatures like bees and butterflies. Luckily, there are many natural remedies you can use to control pests without harming the environment. One effective method for controlling aphids is by spraying them with a mixture of water and dish soap.

The soap suffocates the bugs while leaving your plants unharmed. Another natural way to deter insects from snacking on your plants is by planting companion flowers like marigolds or nasturtiums which are known for repelling harmful bugs.

When it comes to diseases like blight or powdery mildew, prevention is key. Proper soil preparation before planting can help prevent fungal diseases from taking hold in your garden beds.

Regularly clearing away dead plant debris from your garden can also help reduce the risk of disease. If you do end up with a fungal infection, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to treat affected plants.

Harvesting Your Garden's Bounty

When to Harvest Fruits, Vegetables, and Herbs Grown in Oklahoma

One of the biggest rewards of gardening is harvesting the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor. But it's important to know when to pick your crops so they're at their most flavorful and nutrient-dense.

In Oklahoma, timing is everything as the weather can change quickly and drastically throughout the growing season. For vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers it's best to wait until they're fully matured on the vine before picking.

This ensures they'll have optimal flavor and nutrition. However, with root crops such as carrots or beets, it's best to harvest them early while they're still small since large root veggies tend to be woody or bland in taste.

Herbs like basil, mint or cilantro can also be harvested earlier in their growth cycle as long as there are some mature leaves present. Snip off individual leaves or pinch off a whole sprig using scissors or your fingertips.

Tips on Preserving Your Harvest Through Canning, Freezing, or Drying

There are a myriad of ways you can preserve your garden's bounty so you can enjoy fresh produce year-round. Here are a few tried-and-true methods: Canning: This method involves processing food in jars that have been sterilized by boiling.

It's great for high-acid foods like tomatoes which can be made into sauces that last months without refrigeration. Pickling vegetables like cucumbers or green beans is also easy with this technique.

Freezing: This is one of the easiest ways to preserve food since you simply need a freezer! Blanching (briefly boiling) fruits and veggies before freezing helps retain their nutrients and flavor.

Frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries make great additions to smoothies or baked goods. Drying: This method is perfect for herbs, fruits, and some vegetables.

You can use a food dehydrator or simply hang them up to dry in a warm spot. If you don't have a dehydrator, using an oven on low heat can work as well.

Dried herbs like oregano or thyme will keep their flavor for months and make great additions to soups and stews. By preserving your harvest through canning, freezing or drying you can enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor long after the growing season has ended.

The Benefits of Gardening in Oklahoma

Improved Health

Gardening is an excellent way to help maintain a healthy lifestyle. Not only does it provide a great source of exercise, but it also encourages the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. By growing your own produce, you can ensure that the food you're eating is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals.

Additionally, gardening has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Spending time outside in nature has a calming effect that can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Food Security

Oklahoma is no stranger to natural disasters like tornadoes and floods. In times of emergency or economic hardship, having a home garden can be a valuable source of food security.

By growing your own produce, you can provide for yourself and your family even if grocery stores are closed or supply chains are disrupted. Gardening also promotes self-sufficiency, which can be empowering in times of uncertainty.

Community Building

Gardening is an excellent way to build relationships with others in your community. Community gardens bring people together who share a love for gardening and provide opportunities for individuals to learn from one another.

By working together on a shared project like a community garden, people are able to develop friendships and strengthen existing relationships across age groups and cultural boundaries. There are numerous benefits to gardening in Oklahoma including improved health, food security, and community building.

Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, there's never been a better time to start cultivating your own garden space! With some basic knowledge about the climate and soil conditions in Oklahoma coupled with tips on plant selection, soil preparation strategies for watering plants during hot summers which we have discussed above - anyone can create a thriving garden that will provide enjoyment and nourishment for years to come!

Here are some other articles you might enjoy:

• Oklahoma Garden Planning Guide
• Best and easiest vegetables to grow in Oklahoma
• Oklahoma: Vegetable Planting Calendar
• Home Gardening in Oklahoma

Cats in your garden?

 This spring, I was so ready for the cold to leave and so when it started to actually warm up a bit, I decided to fill my front flower bed with pansies (they are winter flowers, after all) because I longed for color in my life.

I cleaned out the bed and went to the nursery and came home with 2 flats of beautiful pansies.  I got all different types and colors.  I planted the little plants in my front flower bed and stood back to admire their beauty.  I was so pleased to see the bright colors in my flower bed.

Fast forward to the next week.  I get up very early and like to go outside to drink my coffee and sit to look at the yard and such.  I love listening to the birds early in the morning.  They are so energetic and loud.  So, I go outside, sit on my bench and start to drink my coffee when I look over and see that two of my pansy plants have been dug up and are now laying sideways beside the flower bed.  I am not a happy camper. Where I once had a full, beautiful flower bed with gorgeous pansies, I now have a gaping hole in the middle of the flower bed where my lovely flowers used to be!

Well, down the "rabbit hole" I went again looking for ways to deter these cats from my garden without hurting them.  I found numerous articles online, but they all basically say the same thing.  

1. Make sure there is no food available nearby for the cats.

2. Be sure all cracks and holes are covered so as not to provide them a place to hide.

3. Use some type of deterrent, with the most common listed is citrus peels (since cats cannot stand the smell of them).  There are other things listed like rue, lavender, and pennyroyal that you can grow in the garden alongside your flowers.  Cats also cannot stand the smell of those plants.

4. Use some type of prickly ground cover on your flower beds.  Pine cone needles, bark, or mesh grocery bags spread out and pinned down.  Another suggestion was to use chicken wire across the bed--your plants can get through it but it is uncomfortable to the cats feet.

5. Get some type of deterrent such as a motion activated ultra sonic device that emits a noise that the cats can hear but you cannot.  Also, try to add flashing lights or motion activated water sprays to deter those pesky cats.

6. Finally, try TNR to help reduce the number of cats available to use your garden for their personal potty.  I have done TNR when I lived in Austin, TX and I know that it works to reduce community cat populations.  Eventually, there are no more cats in the community.

7. As a last resort, trap and take them to a rescue or shelter.  I personally do not accept this one because I know for a fact that if you do this, that cat will be put down almost immediately because they are not adoptable.  I cannot be a part of ending the life of a perfectly healthy animal just because it is doing what it is programmed to do.  I believe it is my responsibility to find a way to coexist pleasantly with feral or wild animals.

Now that I have researched my problem, I am off to the store to get some oranges and lemons to peel and then put those peels in my flower bed.  I'll wait a while to see if this works.  If not, I will move on down this list (but I will never use #7).

Here are a few of the articles I found if you want to check them out for yourself:

• https://www.neighborhoodcats.org/how-to-tnr/colony-care/keeping-cats-out-of-gardens-and-yards-2#:~:text=You%20can%20try%20orange%20and,%2C%20peppermint%2C%20eucalyptus%20and%20mustard.
• https://www.alleycat.org/community-cat-care/humane-deterrents/
• https://www.thespruce.com/cat-repellents-to-keep-cats-out-of-your-yard-2132573
• https://www.imustgarden.com/repel-cats