The Chatter

Since I have had kids, I have tried to “make” a gift for the mother, step mother, mother in law, grandmothers, etc. for Mother’s Day.  Not only does this keep the cost in check, it is easier than shopping for six different presents.  Last year, I made Salsa Gardens, everyone loved them so much, they are hoping for a new garden this year.  I did not plan on doing the same project two years in a row, however, since it has been requested, I might as well.

For the Salsa Garden, I bought a large terra cotta pot at the local craft store.  I then let the kids paint it cream.  I then put paint hand and foot prints of the kids, all over the pot.  This I felt gave it a personalized feel and everybody loved it!  After it dried for a day, I then sprayed it with sealer so the paint will not chip!  (Mine is still outside and in good condition).  The paints and pots only cost a few dollars.

Next, fill the finished pot with potting soil.  I then potted a container tomato plant, they cost about $3 - $5. each, in the center.  Then I added cilantro seeds and onion seeds.  Seed packets are not that expensive and one pack is enough for multiple pots.  You can also add a small pepper plant to the pot, however, tomotoes and peppers don’t do well growing together.  So, I gave a pepper plant to each seperate for them to plant where they wanted.  With the card, I attached a recipe for Salsa.  Chop all veggies, add some lime juice and garlic.  Refrigerate before serving.

The pots turned out great and as the summer went on, everyone told me that they made and loved there salsa.  Now, I have to think of a new garden for this years gifts.