In 2010, I purchased this farm from my grandparents and dove straight into yard work. Back then, I was also starting my work life, so big ambitions—hauling in loads of plants and installing elaborate hardscaping—had to wait. Instead, I opted for elbow grease and tackled every task I could manage: ripping out sod, moving the vegetable garden, and filling empty beds with sale price perennials and trees (some of which I later transplanted as my vision evolved). Over time, I began to discover my own sense of garden design, a journey that continues to evolve to this day.

Those early years felt like my own personal garden school. I used to think people who claimed they learn something new daily were overachievers. Now, I know that learning is part of every day: pests in the garden test your resilience, a drought year teaches you adaptability, and a dying plant becomes an opportunity for something new. Gardening has a way of keeping you humble and on your toes.

This year, I've learned to trust my instincts. I have a vision for transforming my backyard, and while it felt overwhelming, my dream pushed me to plant 18 trees all in one day to create an intimate "garden room." More on that later. But all that to say, we can do hard things!

Alright, with hot coffee in hand, let's catch up on everything that's happening.

Let's talk about some happenings.

April was a busy month both in the garden and for my cookbook travels. Here are some of the travel highlights:

• California: At the beginning of the month, I spoke to a garden club in Santa Barbara. It was fun to meet with others who garden in a completely different climate from mine. They loved seeing the broad expanses of Iowa land surrounding my home. Then, I had a book signing and conversation with my friend Jane Lynch at Godmothers in Summerland. I was so honored that Jane agreed to interview me, and it felt like we were sitting around the kitchen table for a chat! A few evenings beforehand, we met for dinner at a local restaurant that's a favorite of Carol Burnett. I think we even sat at "her table."
• Georgia: My friend Chaz from Linen & Flax has been asking me to visit her for years, and this spring was the perfect opportunity. I stopped by her amazing home store in Roswell, Georgia, for a podcast taping (Chatting with Chaz) and book signing. We had quite the turnout!
• New York: On a Tuesday, I found out about an opportunity to appear on Live with Kelly & Mark, and I said yes (of course!). I flew to New York City the following Sunday and taped the show on Monday, giving some important spring gardening tips. I've always dreamed of sharing what I know on a TV show and meeting Kelly and Mark was an absolute treat. They were truly so warm and genuine, along with the entire show's crew.

What a month! I'm tired after all the travel, but very energized. Years ago, I didn't even think I would ever write a cookbook, and now I feel so humbled by the cheerleaders each of you has become in my life. Your stories and joy about the book and videos I make give me life. Onwards to more of it all!

Let's talk about food.

I'm picking asparagus daily, and as I type this, I realize I forgot to pick it yesterday! I'm sure I'll have some giant spears now! Asparagus can be like zucchini; if you miss it one day, it's huge the next. Oftentimes, I drizzle it with olive oil, sprinkle it with kosher salt and black pepper, and roast it at 425°F for 6-10 minutes. I like it crisp, tender, and never mushy.

If you're also bursting with asparagus or have picked some up at your market, try making my asparagus and roasted potato frittata or my easy asparagus tart that uses puff pastry. You can also see all of my asparagus recipes for more inspiration.

It feels like it's been ages since Easter, but it was only a little over a week ago. This year, we filmed a full 45-minute episode with five recipes for one of my favorite holidays. I love creating holiday menus, but always want to ensure the recipes are adaptable for any time of the year. Each recipe works great for any occasion, so don't be turned off that it's centered around Easter.

FYI: The brown butter banana cake we made in the episode has become Mom's favorite.

Let's talk about the garden.

A lot has happened in the garden! Here's a snapshot of what transpired in the last 30 days:

• Mowed and mulched my perennial borders for my chop-and-drop method (picture below)
• Trimmed and fertilized all of my panicle and arborescens hydrangeas
• Transplanted the broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and lettuce seedlings
• Direct sowed the spinach, arugula, radish, Swiss chard, carrots, and salad mix seeds
• Planted 18 new trees in the pathway garden (check out my YouTube video about the process)
• Moved some of the over-wintered plants out of the plant room

All of that said, there's a lot on the horizon that will occur in May:

• Plant tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and okra
• Plant some zinnias
• Pot up the hanging ferns for the front porch
• Put together annual containers around my farm and Mom's farm
• Repot the fig trees (I do this every couple of years to freshen the soil)
• Freshen the cut edge around some trees and flowerbeds
• Remind myself to cut some flowers weekly to enjoy indoors (currently, lilacs are ready!)
• Clean the garden shed (this is on the list every month)

Let's talk about Kip.

My garden helper and lead supervisor, Kip, is doing very well. He loves it when I spend more time outdoors so he can as well. He follows me around, always with a frisbee or stick for me to throw. Eventually, he gets tired and flops over on his side for a while before bringing me another toy. I feel like I can see his mind working: "Oh, maybe Kaleb really wants that other toy!"

The only thing he doesn't like is that he gets dirtier when outside and, in turn, has to endure more frequent baths. He hates baths and even knows the word. How do I know? Because he tries to sneak away when I say it. But it's good for him (I have to remind myself).

Every day, I feel lucky to have Kip in my life. He has been through so much and still has the best attitude. Along with the garden being a constant learning lesson, watching Kip's perseverance has been, too.

If you're like me and have been feeling the excitement of the garden season, let me know! I love to know what others are doing and how the season is treating them. Until next month, I hope you stay safe and healthy. Talk to you then!