A Word About My Dad

My Dad - an exchange student in Paris in 1959, trained as a Geographer, who specialized in G.I.S. (Geographic Information Systems, computer mapping) - gave us a connection to France, and an open and globally-minded view, including an appreciation of other cultures and our own responsibility to be understanding and compassionate citizens and travelers in the world. Growing up eating french bread at almost every meal, the lasting ties he had with his French host family that he shared with us, and hearing him speak French, influenced my own decision to be a French major in college, and choose to study abroad to learn another language.

He suffered a severe stroke right after retiring from being a professor in 2004, and has had a long journey to where he is now. Two years ago, he declared June 16th "Daughter's Day" - and this year, we celebrated in Vermont, where part of the day involved putting in a little garden for him outside of the bedroom where he'll be staying much of the summer.

He chose corn, squash, and beans - a trio of compatible/companion vegetables traditionally grown together by Native Americans. (They are called 'The Three Sisters'). I had heard of this combination, but didn't remember exactly how they were supposed to be spaced and placed together for optimal benefit (I found this link just now - should have checked online before!). The beans are a nitrogen fixer for the corn (although not until the second year of planting in the same place, and so on). The corn provides a stalk for the beans to grow on, and the bean plants add some stability to the corn stalks. The squash plants help to keep the weeds at bay and retain moisture in the soil (because of their large leaves).

The plot we made was a lot smaller than the suggested one in the link above (but still took a lot of effort!), and has only one squash plant (a zucchini - we figured one was enough!). We put marigolds around the edge, and a couple of basil plants. Nula, the dog, was cheering us on (and chasing bugs). It may not work as well as we envision it, but hopefully will be successful enough to produce some food. It will be fun to see what happens! Check back later this summer to see how they're doing....!

I just want to take a moment here to say a word of thanks. I am proud of my Dad, and what he has overcome to be able to help me put that plot in the earth. Also, if it were not for my Dad, I would not even be here!... but I also would not have the freedom to be pursuing this transition -writing this blog - with as much ease or sense of support.

Happy Father's Day, Dad! (Thank you)