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A new journey begins, blogging, breast cancer, Cancer, Cancer Foods, Cancer Journey, Cancer lifestyle, change, Hardware Store Life, Healthy eating, heart health, journey in life, Life experiences, Life In Wilkes, March, Nutritious foods, recipe, Resilence, seasons of life, Southern food, Wellness, women’s health, Works in Progress

Cancer Journal #5- Simple Switches for a Lifetime of Health

March 8, 2026 hardwarelifewife 4 Comments

I’ve been attempting to learn how to play Mahjong. This tile game has been around for many years and has become extremely popular recently. When the opportunity to learn to play came my way, I decided to try my hand at this tile game, and laughing with good friends an extra healthy benefit ☺️.

Sometimes in the middle the midst of a game, I can sense that the tiles I need to complete my hand are not coming to me. It’s time to pivot. When playing Mahjong, hopefully this insight comes earlier in the game than later… Is there potentially another hand that I can easily switch to… making a swap for success???

Mahjong Tiles on the mat before the game begins!

Recently, I was talking with another cancer patient, who is also a good friend and it’s worth mentioning that I have relied on his own personal experiences with cancer as my own cancer health journey has unfolded. Carl and I often discuss the “good foods” for cancer patients, and discuss the research behind it. Carl said something very insightful in a recent conversation. Looking back, I’m not even really sure what foods we were discussing at that time, but what he said definitely stuck with me. What Carl basically said that totally describes the evolution of how cancer has impacted my food choices… it is the simple swaps that creates the lasting change, adding them in slowly over time.

In reflection of that conversation, have been just that! Cancer has brought about the time to pivot… just like my Mahjong game analogy!

My dietary switches haven’t been a sprint to the finish line but a slow, steady pace of change, with the focus on nutrient rich foods to fuel my body through this cancer journey. I’m very thankful for dear friends who have been down this path of healthy eating during treatment and yes, even after active treatment, who have been able to guide me through this new way of eating. Thank you fellow cancer survivors and friends… your support means the world to me!

Food plays a key role in prevention…“you are what you eat”, as the old saying goes … it is true! Our overall dietary choices impacts inflammation, metabolism, and yes, future disease risk. Being diagnosed with Breast Cancer has definitely changed what I consume. The nutritional needs of a cancer patient focuses on the maintenance of muscle mass, while combining healthy eating as well as boosting the immune system. In order for all that to happen, simple swaps have been necessary for better health.

Instead of potato chips I have made purple sweet potato chips!!! A fun little swap

Breast Cancer patients need a good portion of protein each day (90 grams). Please keep in mind, these recommendations are for women… men your recommendations may look slightly different! Good sources of Lean animal proteins… chicken and fish, eggs, and whole grains. Beans/legumes are all good sources of protein. I’ve been experimenting with lentils recently as a new additional swap. I recently made a lentil casserole… lentils, mushrooms, and veggies. We enjoyed it!

My cancer dietician used the analogy of imagining a deck of cards as a guide for protein on your plate. That “deck of cards of protein” on your plate would be equivalent to around 28 grams.

Chicken is a dietary staple. I was struggling to figure out how to boost my remaining white rice in my pantry to add more nutritional value… added frozen veggies and saffron and it was a definite improvement!!!

According to the cancer dietary guidelines, some Proteins need limiting…red meat! Ugh!!! Red meat lovers… this one is hard! Red meat consumption (18 ounces week) and another suggestion…eliminating processed meats (sandwich meats, bacon, sausage, hot dogs, pepperoni, etc)!!! That’s right… BACON!!!😬

Why??? Processed meats are considered a class 1 carcinogens. These types of meats include chemicals that can increase risk of developing certain types of cancer like colon cancer and other cancers. More research is ongoing but it is definitely worth noting this.

Based on my research, and discussions with my cancer dietitian… I am trying to make half of each meal fruits or vegetables. Vegetables are a powerful source of not only fiber but nutrients needed in the body. The goal is to have at least 25g of fiber and LESS than 25g of sugar a day. Folks, that’s not a lot of sugar… bye, bye dessert! 😳

Cruciferous vegetables are fantastic for cancer patients… broccoli, cauliflower, red cabbage, Brussel sprouts

As a result of these new switches over time, I have begun to decrease my carb intake since last November. Pasta is pretty much a thing of the past for me and I don’t miss it. It is also worth noting, Carbohydrates and sugar are important in maintaining a healthy diet and I haven’t totally ignored them.

Instead of pasta… I have moved to a full plate of steamed vegetables with some spaghetti sauce. It is absolutely one of my favorite switches!!

Let’s move onto the elephant in the room… Sugar. Sugar is found in two forms.. natural sugars and added sugars(processed sugars). Natural sugars are the way to go! Natural sugars that are found in whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, milk, vegetables and grains…these are considered complex carbohydrates.

Breakfast fruits (natural sugars) with Low sugar Yogurt gives me a punch of protein too!

The body processes complex carbohydrates more efficiently and slowly. It is more work for your body to digest complex carbohydrates than digesting simple sugars. Processing simple sugars can create spikes of glucose in your body. Complex carbohydrates contain fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals in addition to natural sugars. All of these nutrients are important to overall energy, health and immunity.

So here’s the kicker for cancer patients… Every cell in the body requires glucose for fuel, including cancer cells, AND glucose also feeds the cells in the rest of the body. We cannot pick and choose which cells get what nutrients/fuel… the phrase sugar feeds cancer cells is somewhat true!

The fact is that all cells, including cancer cells, need sugar in the form of glucose to generate energy. All Cells use glucose the way cars use gas for fuel. Normal cells use a reasonable amount of gas, but cancer cells are like gas guzzlers! 😳

Cancer cells are like cars with the accelerator stuck to the floor, using glucose at higher rates because they are dividing at much faster rates than normal cells.

*Cancer cells definitely don’t use a speed limit!!! 😬*

What is absolutely amazing… dietary switches and changes can limit that gas guzzler impact!!! If those changes or swaps aren’t made, diets in high in added sugars and ultra-processed foods can continue to increase inflammation over time. Chronic inflammation isn’t great for overall health.. which can lead to a weakened immune system…opening the door for other diseases or yes, maybe even a cancer reoccurrence!!! No way!!! , I definitely don’t want that, so the switch is on!

All this being said about the necessity of cancer nutrition, I’m not depriving myself of a special treat every now and then. I definitely will enjoy a side of French fries or tots with a meal every-once-in -a while or my favorite comfort food. AND it worth saying, that Eating out can be a challenge. My overall palate has begun to change and I physically need more vegetables and fruits to balance out my diet, that can be hard to find at certain places.

Stuffed flounder with crab and shrimp on a bed of hash browns… a little treat with lots of good stuff still on the plate… spinach included!

Making switches in my diet has been an ongoing learning process… eating and shopping for great cancer fighting foods. I grocery shop now by turning labels over before I buy. It will stay on the shelf if the sugar content is too high or nutrient value is too low. It has been a journey to find new products and recipes that will fit this lifestyle change, permanently. Has my grocery shopping list changed? Absolutely! Am I spending more money??? Ummm… probably not. My swaps have changed in the nature of what stays in my pantry and refrigerator, AND some things just aren’t worth the purchase anymore!

Have I actually shed a few pounds??? Possibly, but my overall activity level has dropped significantly due to surgery recovery, sickness, and now radiation treatments. My goal is to get back to “normal-ish” soon! Allowing my body to rest and recover has been a process for me, adjusting my cancer mindset.

Chicken tortilla soup loaded with beans has been a great addition to post radiation meals… during radiation, boosting protein intake is necessary

Living through Cancer has been a definite challenge. Taking things one day at a time, navigating through a myriad of research, eating with simple swaps, constant appointments, recovery, rest, and ultimately, the HOPE of NED (no evidence of disease).

HOPE… a simple reminder as I walk into the cancer center each visit 💕

Hope and faith is definitely important in the cancer journey mindset. Here’s something to consider as someone who has never been through the cancer journey and for the overall cancer mindset… Just because active cancer treatment ends (surgery, constant appointments, scans, chemotherapy, radiation) doesn’t mean the fight is over. The cancer fight never truly ends for a cancer patient/survivor.

For those who have not been diagnosed or had a family member who faced cancer, here’s something worth mentioning… Often times cancer patients are faced with taking medications for several years following the active treatment schedule (ie: surgery, radiation, chemotherapy) AND The Appointments still occur (which maybe less frequent), bloodwork, and scans are required years afterward. Cancer is always in the rear view mirror of your life as a cancer survivor. It’s just a different phase of the cancer journey.

Pink morning skies are extra special this March as I have begun Radiation Treatments

This is also my story. I will be on estrogen suppressant medication for 5 years after radiation therapy is completed this month. The side effects of these medications necessitates a healthy lifestyle. Using the dietary simple swaps, physical activity, and much more will be a long term lifestyle change not only for medication necessities, but in hopes to prevent a cancer reoccurrence.

Core Power protein shakes has been a great find!!! These a good boost when needed.

My ultimate hope for you is that YOU can use these simple switches and include them in your daily routine. I simply started out last November initially with increasing my own mindful awareness of my fruit and vegetable consumption… the first swap and step… slowly adding more swaps over the last 4 months. You too can do this for better health if that’s a goal for yourself and your family in 2026, beginning with one simple swap.

Salad loaded with spinach, red cabbage, broccoli, carrots and cauliflower, simple switch for my cancer healing journey

**Thank you for your continued prayers and please pray for other cancer patients who are walking this journey that you may not be aware of.**

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Cancer Journal #3… A Unique Path to Healing

February 5, 2026 hardwarelifewife 1 Comment

“*Surrender your path, don’t worry about your timing or speed. Walk with joy.”*

Have you been following the Walk of Peace by the Monks? I actually didn’t know about this event until they were walking through Georgia several weeks ago. Richard was talking about this unique event one night a dinner. My interest was peaked and I began following their journey from that point forward. It has been an amazing experience to watch them walk this path, enduring all types of weather conditions from Texas to Washington DC, their final destination.

*Walk for Peace… a journey rooted in kindness, creating awareness of inner peace, and mindfulness*

My path to healing from this cancer feels like a similar journey. I may not be literally walking 2,300 miles, but I’m still moving forward, one day at a time with a specific goal in mind, my return to good health.

“*Sometimes the path isn’t always easy”*

What I have learned thus far is each person’s path to healing from cancer is uniquely different. Breast Cancer isn’t a “cookie cutter” disease.

Even though you may have had the same type of breast cancer as someone you know, the details are unique to you… such as… the size of the tumor, whether cancer was present in lymph nodes, estrogen positive tumor, was the tumor fast growing… and I could go on… but you get the gist. It’s a lot!

“Comparison is the thief of Joy”… so true!!! Your cancer plan of treatment will be unique to your cancer diagnosis and it’s difficult to compare it with anyone else’s journey. Similarities are common, but your path is uniquely shaped by your cancer and your mindset.

***These were my surgery socks… the nurses loved them. Thanks Barb*** 💕

I lost a friend to cancer this past week. She had a different diagnosis from me, and her battle with breast cancer was inspiring. Laura was a true warrior. Laura always had a kick this cancer attitude. When she started her chemotherapy treatment, she wore bright, colorful socks to “sock it to cancer”. She was a tremendous advocate to me when I began having concerns and questions about my micro-cysts in 2020. I felt better after talking to her as I began the navigating the path forward.

*“Be bold enough to choose your own path and strong enough to follow it.”*

I was upset to learn recently that Laura had relapsed, and her time was growing short. As word of her passing came to light, I was deeply saddened. Laura led with a warm beaming smile always, and her beautiful soul matched her life.

I was also trying to wrap my mind on potential future cancer relapses, and how to move forward. For sure, the ONE thing that all cancer patients experience, in their journey that isn’t unique… the fear of reoccurrence. Will it happen to me? That reality of cancer is often hard. Yet, I wanted to recognize Laura’s fight. I felt led to carry on Laura’s colorful sock tradition, one day at a time.

*Sock it to Breast Cancer… an easy way to show support to a family member or anyone you might know who is fighting cancer , a daily reminder to say a prayer for them as you get dressed each day.*

I’m currently at a in-between stage… recovering from surgery and waiting for completion of healing before next steps happen. My surgery went well, no cancer in lymph nodes, all margins were clear after the cancer tumor was removed. I have met again with my medical oncologist and we are discussing medications moving forward AND, I’m currently waiting to begin radiation. I have an appointment this week to meet yet another doctor, my radiation oncologist.

Several people have approached me saying how much they appreciated my cancer blog posts and my bold choice to write about it. My decision to write about my cancer journey is not based on gaining support of others but the opposite, as a way to offer support to those who might need it… if Cancer finds them or a family member. Navigating the Cancer pathway isn’t always easy.

*Just like a snow covered road, you need a good navigator and 4×4! Thankful for my family, friends and medical professionals who are helping me navigate this cancer.*

AND I have questions… lots of them!!! The internet and social media is a total vacuum of information, some good, some information probably not very useful… luckily, I have amazing doctors who can advise and guide me and who take TIME to answer my questions in compassionate manner.

*The path back to Wilkes from Winston Salem is often a reminder of the beauty of our home. Thankful for the Mountains that welcome us back home each trip. A small blessing in my cancer journey.*

After cancer surgery, it might be easy to assume, the cancer is gone! Get your life back to normal, and just eat what you want! But, surgery completion is just a starting point on my cancer journey. Often Breast cancer patients will need either radiation or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy can capture any remaining microscopic cancer cells that are present unseen by the human eye. Chemotherapy is a much more invasive to the body systems, for those who have a higher stage or risk of cancer returning.

My Oncotype score was on the lower end, so Chemotherapy was not needed! Thankful 💕

As I have been in this “in-between stage”, I have intentionally chosen to focus on what my body now has become accustomed to, eating more Whole Foods… Maximizing my potential for success in this fight. Why did I choose this??? Less processed foods and added chemicals in my diet is a good thing to reduce any future cancer risk and this will help me maintain a healthier lifestyle overall. We will all benefit from this simple shopping adjustment in my family.

In my “internet vacuum of research”, reading my manual from the Cancer Center, talking with other cancer survivors, and I have even participated in discussions with a cancer dietitian! I have learned that what you eat is just as important as exercise, and any medications you may take. All of these factors work together to defeat the cancer. Maximize!

*Hydration is key… the choice to drink Lemon water all day, not only for Cancer recovery, but I also had a kidney stone flair in the midst of my cancer diagnosis. That was not fun!!!*

With this Whole Foods approach, I’m concentrating on eating healthy proteins 90grams… limiting sugars 25g, using fruit as a natural source of sugars that my body needs, fiber 25g(beans, whole grains, natural fruits/vegetables) and of course hydration is key!!

*We switched milk brands prior to my cancer diagnosis, glad we did that! I can grab protein in this milk!!! And you can make a great homemade hot chocolate with this milk brand too!*

Protein Hot Chocolate 2 servings: 2 cups Fairlife milk, 2 T cocoa, 2T Monk fruit, dash of vanilla, 1/4 c chocolate chips, and cinnamon for extra cancer fighting power. Warm milk over low heat, add cocoa, monk fruit, stir well. Once well incorporated, add chocolate chips to melt, dash of vanilla flavoring, and dash of cinnamon. Stir well until chocolate is dissolved and milk is warm. Enjoy!

In my mind, being intentional about what I put on my plate each day or even what I’m snacking on can make a world of difference in my recovery. So, what IF I decided to go back to “my old normal” routines, ways of eating, could that spur a cancer reoccurrence?? Maybe, maybe not… but why take that risk? Healthier habits can help my body in other areas as I move into the next portion of my path, Radiation and Estrogen suppression medications.

*My mom found this low sugar, high protein yogurt for me over Thanksgiving… I absolutely love this brand!!! Tried a few others but this one is my favorite.. Aldi brand by the way*

When two trees are joined together like this one pictured below, it’s called inosculation. The trees themselves… trunks, roots and branches physically morph into one. The location of the where they connect can be different. My photo capture shows them morphing at the base. Inosculation happens when the friction between two trees causes the outer bark of each tree to scrape off at the point of contact… creating an opening to connect together .

This is where I’m at on my cancer journey. My old life is merging into one with my cancer, the friction, sharing it as one. Merged together forever, creating a new path.

*Inosculation at the base… marriage of two trees… Creating a Union of the Path*

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Rooted in Wilkes

July 14, 2024 hardwarelifewife 1 Comment

Last Spring I was basking in the sunshine, kneeling in my front flower garden, while planting one of my favorite “memory flowers”, a little white geranium. I should provide a bit of background on a “memory flower” for those who are new to my blog. A “memory flower” is a specific flower or plant that I have associated with special family members/friend that either gifted the plant to me OR I have sweet memories associated with the flower. My personal connections to flowers and what I plant in my garden is deeply rooted… linked to my personal life experiences and memories of those who I love and those who are no longer with us.

Read more about Flower Memories in the blog post: Flower Power

As I carefully took that “memory flower” out of the small, green container and placed it into my hand, I realized the root system of the tiny, white geranium was extremely shallow and weak. I began to cringe. My first thought was that the white geranium wouldn’t make it.

White geraniums are a staple in my containers every year. This planter in my garden has a nice healthy mix of summer annuals

After lots of TLC, it did survive the long, hot summer season but it didn’t thrive like some of my other plants that had a stronger established root systems when they were originally planted.

This shallow planting experience began an instant stream of thoughts about, “Being Well Rooted”. How would that translate into my understanding of my own life experiences?

Beginning with the concept in mind, establishing a good root system offering a deeper and stronger bond to the plant, conveying nourishment to all the branches…This began a spiral of thoughts. What roots have I established in my life? Am I well rooted in Wilkes?

*All images used in this blog post are courtesy of our beautiful Wilkes County. I hope you find a few familiar places or maybe even some new places to explore.*

Life is different here from anywhere else in the world. The pace of living is slower. It’s a great place to live and raise a family. Wilkes is simply HOME. My Roots are here. That part was easy to discern.

This blog post was created out of my life experiences and memories… remembering and honoring those who helped me to establish and discover my Roots and in good time, cultivated my unique story.

A Bit of Personal Perspective: A Foundation of Memories

I grew up in Wilkes County, surrounded by the beautiful, majestic mountains as our daily view looming at our back door step. It was the perfect blue mountain scenery that surrounded me and greeted me, and hugged me from the distance. As a rambling traveler moving away from and returning to our county borders, a definite welcome sight, the Blue Ridge in the distance, whispering, “Welcome HOME”.

I spent my “kid summers” wading in the creek that was located in the woods behind my house. No shoes were ever needed on a hot summer day. Running in the grass, barefoot, was the order of the day. As a kid, summer days seemed endless… these days were marked with sweet memories. From eating a watermelon wedge, soaking up the last bite of summertime sweet goodness to a full on chase and catch of lightning bugs, all were definite summer staples. I can remember being absolutely giddy with excitement about the opportunity to put those little, bright yellow bugs into a mason jar and watch them blink away in the dusk of a humid summer evening. Then finally, reluctantly, releasing them from the jar before heading inside before my nightly slumber ensued. Summers were filled with the beauty of the natural world that surrounded me in Wilkes. Wonderful childhood memories marked by the love of family and HOME.

Growing into My Roots

Eventually, I grew up and went away to college and enjoyed the experience that a larger city offered. I came HOME to Wilkes often during those college years to visit my family. Little did I know, ultimately, I had unlocked my ROOTS. My foundation was strong and I was slowly beginning to find my center.

Each return trip back HOME was so similar… marked by the familiar smells of freshly cut grass, and sometimes, with the pungent smell of manure which signaled, the hard work of local farmers. The sights of rolled hay fields, and corn fields in full view abound in my memories.

The sounds of nature … birds singing cheerfully, and crickets chirping their solitary song each evening at dusk. You could also listen to the church bells ringing in the distance calling out to its members singing a soulful little tune on Sunday mornings. The sounds that are mostly removed from the ears…heavy traffic, sirens, and other street noise that tends to dominate city life.

And if you could pause long enough and listen… the rambling sound of race cars in the distance could be heard certain times of the year. You just know, if you live in Wilkes, when to expect and hear the humming sounds of race cars churning around the race track. I could always hear the roar and hum of race cars rumbling through the woods when the wind carried just perfectly from my childhood home.

Thankful to see North Wilkesboro Speedway open again!

And lastly, the pinnacle view, that I always took for granted, as a young person, the mountains in the distance, all signaled that I was HOME. Those beautiful mountains, served as a big hug from my surroundings here in Wilkes County, HOME. All familiar, and part of my heart and soul from my own life experiences. Memories branching out becoming my ROOTS.

A view from my front yard… we are blessed to have Mountain View’s everywhere

Finding Support and Growth

After College Graduation, I found myself returning HOME again, looking to fully take up ROOTS as an educator in my community where I grew up. Those formative years provided me with a sense of belonging to a welcoming community, where Southern hospitality still exists and I’m grateful that we live in such a friendly place.

I found work and I began to prepare for the future. I worked in middle school education for over 25 years before retirement. I enjoyed teaching. What I discovered in my educational years, Creativity was at the utmost importance as I planned my lessons to make middle schoolers feel more engaged with their learning, but, it still had to be challenging. Creativity was a central element that has become part of my internal root system.

Sometimes we realize that change is happening, and I knew it was time to concentrate on my ROOTS again. People can be easily replaced at work with another person, but you can’t be replaced at home. HOME and FAMILY an essential part of my daily being, deeply rooting me back to where I needed to be, HOME.

Initially, my vision of work after retirement was not what I anticipated. The ultimate reality that happened… Staffing changes, COVID, and other factors have put me in the forefront along the side of my faithful husband and partner who definitely welcomed me with open arms. We are now ROOTED in the hardware industry that had such strong roots and ties within our local community.

Branching Out

When retirement came, it was a bit a relief. I was utterly exhausted. I had been as they say, “burning the candle at both ends”. I had been working as a full time Mom, as an educator, working as a part-time business owner for our hardware store, blogging, and lastly, beginning to care for my aging grandparents. My life was extremely full.

We have found a rhythm at work inside our “old school hardware store” and have launched headlong into helping our community as we can through our business ownership in Downtown North Wilkesboro.

In the last few years, Richard and I have worked alongside other Downtown Merchants, to form The Downtown North Wilkesboro Merchants Association, and we both actively participate in this group. You may recognize this group, as we have worked to create, The Spooktacular Festival for our community when the Greenway Trail of Treats was cancelled a few years ago.

The Hardware Life: A Life Lesson in Grafting

Wilkes County hosts a Peach Festival in July and Apple Festival in October, so the tradition of farming is central in our community. Fruit farmers often graft their fruit trees to create a new variety. The act of grafting… taking one plant cutting and merging with another, creating a unique union and the growth of a new species.

One of the quickest ways to send information out to our hardware store customer base was using the different creative tools that social media platforms offered. I literally had to dig deep into these tools and just go for it. Over the last 9 years, we have slowly grown a loyal audience on Facebook and Instagram, growing and expanding our hardware community. We have been able to share our product offerings, and our staff personal skill sets that make our hardware store a unique shopping experience for our customers.

My blog has continued to grow since I began, The Hardware Life Wife in 2018. As a novice writer, the blog pieces were fairly short and without pictures. I have learned more about the “how to blog process” as I have had the time. Initially, I honestly couldn’t devote much time to it. It was mostly a “summertime project” and I worked on blog posts between planning school lessons while I was still teaching full time. My blog has been a wonderful ROOTED creative outlet for me to share with others.

After a few years of consistent blogging, it became a goal of mine to add as many authentic pictures as I could to help break up the longer content pieces that I was now writing. Photographs provide a visual experience for the reader, adding an extra dimension, or as I could say “branch” to the story that is needed.

Drawing upon my experience as an educator, I knew that I must give reluctant readers a reason to engage with my blog, as my writing pieces grew into more lengthy content. Another overall goal was to increase my blog readership.

Using these new goals and being ROOTED in educational experience, I decided to use “Chunking”. Chunking is breaking content down into smaller sections. I could use photographic images to further break down the information which would help the reader to stay focused on the writing content and the images adding to the overall narrative. Grafting in action!

The use of stock images was not my intention, so I opted to insert my personal images into each blog post where I could create a more vivid reading experience for my readers.

Surprisingly, my personal photos were well received. I was stunned. This new finding was giving me the confidence and the opportunity to share more of my personal photography for which, I’m thankful and extremely grateful. I have been able to “branch out” and graft my core ROOTS into new areas of creativity and it has been an amazing journey!

Slowly, my heart has been wrapped around creating more beautiful images to share with my readers. My love of photography has grown and developed over the last few years. Seeking my ROOTS of creativity… ROOTED in my heart, showcasing everyday life in Wilkes County as I see it through my life lens using my camera, Rooted In Wilkes. All of the images you see today are all my own, with the exception of the photo of myself and Richard. I hope that you find these pictures add to the story.

Closing Thoughts: My ROOTED Experience

I must admit that one does not have to be a native of Wilkes to enjoy the beauty our area. The sights, sounds, and scenery of our greater community where I grew up and discovered my ROOTS. As I age, my appreciation of the beauty of my surroundings has grown. Anyone can Experience life in Wilkes if you are willing to take a moment to “branch out” and look for new opportunities and places in your nearby surroundings. Grafting opportunities are endless. Change is constant. So no matter wherever you find yourself, share your roots/story with others.

*All images used in this blog post are courtesy of our beautiful Wilkes County. I hope you found a few familiar places or maybe even some new places to explore.*

The beauty of Wilkes is all encompassing and deeply rooted in my life and for that, I’m grateful. I encourage you to go ahead and make some deep roots here. I found HOME, multiple opportunities to grow into my ROOTS, expanding my branches of creativity and learning, and how to GRAFT when needed. My ROOTS have allowed me to stop and slow down to appreciate the small things in this world, which ultimately are the BIG things in life. I think you will be glad that you took time to be Rooted in Wilkes.

*This piece is dedicated to all friends and family who have been such a supportive influence upon my ROOTS growing up in Wilkes County.*

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May 2024 Gardening Guide

May 7, 2024 hardwarelifewife 3 Comments

May is a wonderful time to be in the garden! Here’s a quick rundown of some of the BEST days according to Blum’s Almanac to plant, fertilize, harvest, or weed. Mark up your calendar to remind yourself, save this link, and head on down to Wilkes County Hardware to begin the Gardening season strong! Let’s get growing!

Tutorial on How to Read The Blum’s Almanac

**Seed Beds: The BEST time to begin planting new seeds… May 10-12,20-22**

**Transplant Days in May: 2-3,6, 29-30**

Get growing with a fantastic potting soil medium. This potting soil is “the workhorse of potting soils” and hands down my favorite! A MUST Use for transplanting!!!

Baccto is definitely in order to refill your planters this Spring. Yes, you should replace the potting soil in your planters each year by switching out the old, spent soil.

Our repeat gardening customers love this potting soil AND it is a fantastic value!!!

Here’s an interesting fact… Other potting mediums price their bags per quart or by Cubic foot(based on volume of product and additives) but not this brand! Baccto is priced by the gallon, making this a very affordable option and a much better value for quality potting soil! The price point, $8.99, for 25 pounds, $13.99 for a 50 pound bag, both competitively priced! It might be time to make the switch in 2024.

LASTLY, As a FULL service hardware store, we will LOAD these heavy bags into your vehicle for you!

**Great Value!!! These two gardening gloves retail for LESS than $3 a pair!**

**Prune to Encourage Growth: May 2-3,6,25-26,29-30**

**Destroy Weeds 1, 27-28,** Wilkes County Hardware has a good selection of different types of weed control products. Ask us about what your garden plan looks like, we can help you make the best decision for your garden care.

**Chemical Fertilizer: May 10-12, 20-22**

**Harvest your May Flowers, or crops using this Gorilla Cart…** now available at Wilkes County Hardware. **BEST Days to harvest in May: 1,4,5,23-24,27-28,31**

May Garden Tips:

1. Water well, especially small containers… these small containers act like a “crock pot” on a warmer day, cooking those plants inside! Yikes! Go big when it comes to container gardening. You will water less. When watering with your water hose, water at the soil level not directly on the plant surface.

**WCH recommends watering your plants in morning. Stop by Wilkes County Hardware for a new watering can, water hose, or sprayer.**

**WCH Recommends: Zero-G watering is soooo much easier with this lightweight hose!!!**

2. Have a plan when it comes to making your garden Deer Resistant

Be proactive in keeping pests at bay. Wilkes County Hardware has a good selection of deer repellents. Be vigilant about your routine when it comes to spraying your plants. We recommend spraying your plants at least every two weeks… AND more frequently after heavy rainfall. I have also found that my deer became “immune” to the pods… If one method doesn’t appear to be working well for you, then it is time to switch it up. I’m currently using the deer spray and granular to keep activity to a minimum in my yard.

3. Insects are inevitable as the weather warms up… these creatures come out of their sleeping slumber. Don’t wait to see what happens next, stop by Wilkes County Hardware to learn about your options.

4. You have Gardening Power! You can do this in your own time and space. Do what works well for you and keep on growing and improving.

Your garden is not only the outward sign of beauty for your home, it’s also a reminder of hope and resilience to bloom even in difficult circumstances.., and lastly an opportunity to showcase cherished memories of those you love. Let’s get planting!

almanac gardening, April, blogging, flowers, garden, gardening, hardware store, Hardware Store Life, hummingbirds, Natural World, old hardware stores, Plant Lady, seaonal change, Shop Local, southern living, Spring, Spring Gardening

Spring is Here! Garden Essentials 101

April 6, 2024 hardwarelifewife 1 Comment

April is here and the Gardening season is upon us! I have prepared for y’all a quick list of TEN basic gardening essentials that are selling quickly AND are just all around good to have basic gardening supplies. All of these items are found inside the hardware store as the 2024 gardening season begins.

Spring Garden Essentials 101

1. Pair of new Gardening gloves

Why replace those old, dirty, grungy gloves??? First of all, the wear and tear factor of your old gloves, notice any holes??? You probably need to get rid of them. Then you must consider the dirt itself… soil does what is does… soil has bacteria and fungi that are constantly breaking down organic matter, wearing gloves just makes good sense as you garden. Been fighting in the weeds already??? Notice a patch of poison ivy? Definitely replace your gloves after the exposure. It’s definitely a good idea to get rid of those old ones for a new pair. I must admit I’m guilty about this one!!! I haven’t replaced my gloves 🧤 lately so this will be on my to do list first 2024!

**These basic garden gloves start at about $3.00 a pair at Wilkes County Hardware**

2. Potting soil– Get growing with a fantastic growing medium. Baccto is definitely in order to refill your pots this Spring. Our repeat gardening customers love this potting soil AND it is a fantastic value!!! Other potting soils price their bags per quart or by Cubic foot(based on volume of product and additives) but not this brand! It’s priced by the gallon, making this a very affordable option and a much better value for quality potting soil! As a FULL service hardware store, we load these heavy bags into your vehicle for you!

**This potting soil is “the workhorse of potting soils” and hands down my favorite! The price point is well above the competition priced at $8.99 for 25 pounds, NOT per quart like the box store!!!!**

3. Fertilizer– As you are planting, add a bit of fertilizer it will go a long way to help you during the growing season increasing the bloom potential for your flowers and adding nutrients to your plants.

**Sprinkle into soil, mix well and water well.**

4. Deer repellent- This is a vigilant and necessary action in our area. It is also very frustrating for homeowners who have a high deer population in their areas to work so diligently for months on creating a beautiful landscape to wake up the next morning to find their hard work all eaten up by 🦌 deer. Ugh!!!

In order for this product to work well, you MUST reapply after a rain storm, or weekly to keep those pesky deer out of growing gardens.

FYI: On a personal note, I have had to switch methods from using pods to sprays/ granular to keep deer activity to a minimum in my yard. If one method doesn’t seem to work well, don’t feel guilty about moving to another method to see if you can minimize the damage to your plants.

**Wilkes County Hardware has a variety of Deer Repellents available for purchase**

5. Water hose/replacement sprayer nozzle – If you water frequently during the spring and summer months, you need to evaluate the wear and tear on your water hose and also consider the consistent sun exposure on your water hose! Did you accidentally leave your water hose outside during the winter season??? It might be a good idea to replace the old worn hose or stop by to pick up a new hose washers, or replacement sprayer.

**I highly recommend the Zero-G water hose! It is a lightweight hose and easy to water gardens without dragging a heavy hose.**

6. Weed control spray– As the weather warms up the weeds seem to grow better than flowers 😳enough said right ??? We keep a variety of different type of ready to go sprays and concentrate weed killers suitable for your specific needs. Stop by to chat with us about your garden care needs soon!

**A variety of weed control products are available at Wilkes County Hardware from earth friendly, 2-4D, to total vegetation control.**

7. Long handle Gardening Tools– Shovels, rakes, hoe, weeding tools…My goodness!!! The list is long!!! It’s now time to check and evaluate your gardening tools. Do they need to be sharpened, OR do you need a new handle???? Before you begin the gardening season, consider the cost of a replacement handle or purchasing a new tool. Wilkes County Hardware can help you with tool sharpening, replacement handles or finding a new tool.

**Scuffle hoes have become quite popular with our customers and sell out frequently**

**I love this long handle tool to get into a smaller space or help with weeding**

**Can’t find in the hardware store? Ask us to order it for you!**

8. Hummingbird feeder- Hummers are on the way back to your yard in April. That’s right… these birds are repeat customers in your yard so be prepared! Hummingbirds are migratory birds & they will be eager to find a full feeder. Hummingbirds will return to the same source of food each and every year, if it is readily available. Be ready with a full feeder for your busy little hummingbirds.

**Hummingbird feeders beginning at less than $10**

Creating A Hummingbird Habitat: A Few Tips for a successful season

A. Hummingbird feeders ideally should be placed 15-20 feet from a window. Shrubs and trees nearby for resting areas for hummingbirds as they feed, and a have water source close by like a bird bath or a fountain.

B. Hummingbird Feeders should be cleaned out every few days as the temperature begins to warm up and feeder should not be placed into full sun.

C. Hummingbirds will be attracted to all the beautiful colors in your yard/garden. Yes, you can plant certain flowers that will attract hummingbirds. Vines, certain perennials, and tubular flowers are welcome sources of nectar.

D. Your Hummingbird feeder should be easily visible for your enjoyment and easy to spot by the hungry little hummingbird. Ideally the same location each year!

E. Lastly, use clear nectar in your feeder only. Yes, hummingbirds love the color red, but nectar is clear in its most natural form…the beautiful red, tubular flowers that hummingbirds love to feed from in nature. If you wish to attract more hummers, then go for a red hummingbird feeder and clear nectar.

9. Hand clippers- I cannot tell you how many times I have misplaced my handheld clippers that I frequently carry around as I’m working in the garden. It’s always good to have an extra pair!

10. Watering Can- Watering is a task that is ongoing the entire gardening season. Treat yourself to a new watering can from Wilkes County Hardware

11. Bonus : Some of y’all might be saying, she can’t count, she only said TEN.. but I HAD TO throw in a bonus… The Gorilla Cart– easy to maneuver, pneumatic wheels, durable tub, dump cart feature. This cart is on my shopping list too y’all!

Something about digging in the dirt is just good for the soul each and every Spring. Watching those beautiful blooms create new life and seeing the colors abound in the garden, simply a pleasure and brings a smile to my heart. My hope… this blog post gets you excited and ready to garden. We are ready and waiting for you to stop in and pick up a few gardening essentials all the while, sharing a few stories about your upcoming projects and goals for 2024 Gardening season. Let’s get Growing!

The Hardware Life – A wife's journey into the hardware business