Vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage are also interesting additions to floral designs. There are limitless possibilities―grapes, melons, oranges and pomegranates to mention a few.

Be creative! As St. Thomas said, “The same spirit who hovered over the water at the beginning of creation hovers over the mind of the artist at work.”

Find more creative ideas in Come to the Table, a celebration of food and fellowship. It’s a tribute to the blessings of God through stunning photographs, inspiring writing, and delicious recipes.

Fruits and vegetables, that is. You don’t have to do all that hard work of tilling the soil and nurture plants from seed; there are pick-your-own (sometimes called “UPick”) farms and orchards close to . . . almost everywhere. Pack a picnic and make it an outing for the whole family. Spend a few hours in the fresh air and come home with the freshest possible produce at prices way lower than the grocery store. Added bonus: when kids pick their own veggies they may be more likely to eat them. A quick online search will find crop calendars, farm listings, recipes, and more. For example, strawberries are now in season all across the south, blueberries are about ready in Florida and Texas, and fresh oranges are available in some areas (marmalade, anyone?). Our readers in the north may have to wait a bit before they pick. Happy harvesting!