Gardening for Greenhorns

When The Husband and I moved from the East to the West coast we were prepared for a lot of differences.  What I am continuing to be struck by is the small ways in which these differences make themselves known.  I knew that if you wanted to plant anything in a garden in Virginia you should aim for after the last frost but still pretty early say April/Mayish.  (You shouldn't actually take my word on this as I was never actually the one to do the planting.)  When it got around to late May/June here in Washington and I wanted to plant some sort of herb/vegetable garden I was sure it was too late.  I can't remember the last time we had a frost and even though it's been raining the temperature has been picking up, so I assumed the growing season started much sooner.  What I then learned is that if you don't care about growing things from seed (and let's face it I couldn't keep a pot of grass alive in college so herbs/vegetables were going to be a stretch regardless of what stage they started in) you could start a garden pretty much anytime between May and early July.  Thus, a couple of weekends ago The Husband and I found ourselves creating this:

Pretty Popsicles for Parents (Or Other Adultish People)

In most parts of the country June means summer.  Schools are letting out, no one wants to sit in an office all day, the sun is shining, and a pool or beach quickly becomes a necessity.  While the kids munch on avocado popsicles shouldn't there be something just for the adults?  How about a variation on a Maple Brown Derby Popsicle?  Let's spend the afternoon combing maple syrup, bourbon, and orange juice (or grapefruit if you prefer).

Shockingly Satisfying Popsicle Surprise

It's the end of May.  You've just spent Memorial day picnicking, parade watching, attending weddings, grilling, and spending time with family and friends.  It's time to pack everything up and get back to the daily grind.  There's only one problem...it's still sunny and you aren't ready to be done lounging around outside.  You want more freeziepops, burgers, brats, and salads.  But you also know that the time wherein you are expected to wear clothing which showcases your pasty whiteness is just around the corner and you do so want to try your best to look decent.  I have an utterly shocking revelation for you!  A one-of-a-kind dessert so unthinkable you'll most likely doubt it's very existence.  It's sweet, cold, and yet almost completely healthy.  I have one now awaiting me in the freezer with an enticing combination of food I love and food I never thought I would like.

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, may I present to you the Avocado Popsicle!