Homebodies - Thinking about spring...

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Published on Saturday, March 4, 2017

By Rita Friesen

The Neepawa Banner

Topics for spring conversations include gardening, spring cleaning and summer plans. So, in that order: Chatting about prairie gardens, I thought about ground cherries. I recalled that in my mother’s garden, they self-seeded from year to year. The vegetable is related to the nightshade family: tomatoes, cape gooseberries, Chinese lanterns. They are also known as husk tomatoes. There was a time when the Chinese lanterns self-seeded in my garden (becoming noxious!) and I thought for a moment that I had ground cherries! Some describe the taste as citrusy, and some as pineapple.  Not at all like a tomato in my experience. The fruit is a bright orange/yellow encased in a sandy colored papery husk. 

The topic came up while my friend was studying the catalogue from heritage Harvest Seeds based out of Carman. Bottom line is that an order of these were included in the order - Aunt Molly, a Polish heirloom prized for its blemish free fruit, good size and wonderful flavor. The plant thrives in patio containers, I will find room for some. Having thoroughly discussed the ground cherry and its place in my memory as well as in my garden, I was delighted to have one garnish the creme brulee dessert served at my birthday supper up at the Elkhorn Resort. It tasted just as wonderful as I remembered.  

Double service on this topic – I started spring cleaning this week and that means that I have begun a long stalled project. The paneled wall in the spare bedroom now has the oil based undercoat required before painting. Should have waited a little longer on that one! The stench of the oil based paint permeates my home. A candle is burning but so far, I do not have a headache or upset stomach. Borderline but not mature or full blown. The longer hours of daylight have revealed a cob web, doggie breath on the picture window and more dust bunnies than any two rabbits could have produced!

Stay tuned for summer plans. I don’t know if I am coming or going! In truth, I am doing both. A holiday to France is in the planning stage, with family to visit family, another to the East Coast, one place I truly desire to re-visit.  I will host family this summer, from far and near. Our summer is just long enough to get everything done.