I first met Peppermint Jim back a couple of years ago in person in Michigan.  He’s had an impact in Michigan where he helped to save his family’s heritage mint farm from foreclosure.  He did this through hard work, and with the help of loyal customers.  Jim believes in using organic farming practices that help build up the soil and protect it from poor farming practices that harm the earth with dangerous chemicals and destructive, or careless techniques that don’t look beyond the season’s current harvest.

I have to say that I was impressed with the man’s knowledge not only of those issues; but also, the intensive passion he shares for mint farming and for supporting struggling independent producers who are trying to make a living in a very competitive world.  He’s done this by not compromising his faith or his belief in doing things in such a way as to honor God’s creation.  He does his best to educate others and to provide products that promote health and well-being for the consumer as well as the environment.

In fact, Jim supports Southern Arizona Green Chamber of Commerce and Mrs. Greens World Care to encourage green practices in communities and businesses.  The Tucson Arizona community is familiar with this way of thinking and it is a great place to connect with like- minded people.

In the May edition of Guideposts magazine you will find an article on Peppermint Jim and the story of his legacy from the role that his family’s heritage mint farm played in his professional growth; to the place that he is in now and, the direction that his experiences are leading him to, in the future.  Don’t miss it…get the May 2011 edition of Guidepost’s magazine to learn more about Peppermint Jim and his life partner, wife Lilian and the role that their mint based business will play in the forward thinking communities who are wise to a greener and more sustainable world.

Jim has taken his knowledge, passion and purpose to Arizona and is introducing community members and loyal customers to his new line of products.  His commitment to sustainability is contagious and he educates others to this way of farming.  He is an encouragement to other farmers and independent producers of consumer goods; to do what they know is right and to have an opportunity to provide a living for themselves by bringing products to the marketplace that envelope all that they believe in.

You can see Peppermint Jim’s line of pure mint oils, body care products, farming tools, his handmade candies and goodies as well as his soil rejuvenator which feeds plants from seedling to bloom/harvest.  You can find out more about what’s good for you and your family at Peppermint Jim

A touch of Spring

Where I live in Michigan, winter weather gets to be a little overdrawn.  Winter seems like it is never going to end.  My way of coping is to dive into seed catalogs and gardening magazines.  It is like feasting on dessert after you have been on a starvation diet.  All of those plants with their lovely greenery and colorful blooms just lights up the soul and lifts the spirit.  Not only that, but when you are trying to buy fresh produce you quickly realize the high cost of fresh fruits and vegetables during the winter.  Cold frame gardening can help relieve the burden on your wallet if you build a couple of frames to supplement your produce needs.

I have discovered a way to try to get around that next winter.  You may find the idea of cold frame gardening interesting as well if you also live in a colder environment.  Some vegetables and herbs can be grown even in zones 5 where it gets cold and stays cold for months on end.

The summer season is relatively short for growing garden fresh produce; so anything that extends my growing period is a welcome thought.  Cold frame gardening may just be the answer.  People from baby boomer age may already be familiar with cold frame gardening but for those who are not; permit me to tell you a bit about growing produce this way.

I have not yet tried it however, I am assured from reading up on the idea that many items can be grown this way.  The idea is to use old window frames as a lid, or the top, of the box that you will construct to grow your vegetables in.  The window is positioned facing south, on a slant, on the top of the four walls of your box and attached by a heavy duty hinge.

Preparing the area where the cold frame will be placed is important.  The area must be dug out deeply into the ground.  Gravel or sand can be put on the bottom layer with composted or rich soil layered deeply over the top of the gravel/sand.  Then you need to either purchase a pre-built, manufactured cold frame or build one.  If you are going to build one you can start by considering these instructions or come up with your own design.

The back of the box of your frame should be slightly higher (18 inches x 14 inches in the front) so that snow and moisture can run off.   Now as for the width of the box, three feet seems to be what most people suggest because you want to be able to reach the plants & vegetables with ease without damaging other plants while you are reaching in to harvest them.  It might be warm in the box; but, you will be on the outside so you will want to limit your exposure to the cold temperatures by being able to get in and harvest quickly.

It is suggested that using the foundation of your home is one way to protect your cold frame from the wind and it may also provide a bit of additional warmth.  People who have greenhouses have also been known to build them on the south side of the structure to harness the warmth and protection from the wind.  If these are not possible, then you can actually insulate the walls of the cold frame with stiff styro-foam board.    When you build the cold frame there are some things to keep in mind.

* use untreated plywood (no chemicals) or use cedar lumber which lasts a long time

* put a layer of gravel deep under the soil for drainage

* in areas of extreme cold, heat tapes or pads can be put under the gravel underneath your planting soil (care must be                taken though when using electricity where you will be digging & watering  to avoid getting electrocuted.

* you will need to prop something under the window to let off steam so as to not “burn” your plants

* a hook latch and a heavy duty hinge in the back to keep the window in place during high winds

If you are interested in a visual example of a cold frame you can go here to look at this version of a cold frame: http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-to-build-a-cold-frame-for-your-garden.html  That illustration shows clearly the idea of a cold frame and how it should work.  Of course, you can come up with your own design that works with the supplies you have.

Weather can be unpredictable and you will need to check on your growing plants daily to ensure that they aren’t getting too cold or too hot.  If you are expecting extremely cold temps you can cover your cold frame with old blankets or rugs.  However, should you choose to cover them…it is important to remember to uncover them again once the danger of the extreme weather has passed so that they can continue to get sun to grow your plants.

Now as to what types of vegetable or plants that is up to you.  But, how wonderful would it be to be able to go out and harvest a salad for your supper from your cold frame?  Or perhaps some herbs, or rutabagas, carrots, beets, cabbage…etc.  You get the idea.  Maybe some fresh garlic or onions would be fun to try to grow.

Or if you get cabin fever and are tired of looking at pure white snow everywhere you look…why not plant some lovely pansies or hardy type flower that has some color and can restore your winter worn soul to joy; just be reminding you that life is ready to burst forth once that snow melts.

Your cold frame garden could also be a great science project to include your children on.  Generations ago, our friends and relatives had to be creative to make their store houses of food last.  They couldn’t just run to the grocery store as easily as we do today.  I am for anything that helps us to be a bit more self sufficient these days and this is something that I really would like to try.  There are health benefits to doing your own gardening as well, getting up and moving is good for the body.  Gardening is emotionally satisfying; and, controlling how your vegetables or herbs have been grown is good too.  You can grow them without the use of pesticides or other chemicals which is a healthier way to grow your food.

Planting your seedlings in your cold frame in the Spring can also speed along your garden plants that you will put in your garden instead of having to wait until the commercial greenhouses open on Mother’s Day in May. The cold frame can be used to harden off your seedlings before they make the transition from the hothouse to your garden once the possibility of frost has passed in your gardening zone.

If you could build a cold frame and could plant anything your heart desires…what would it be?  Or maybe you have already tried this…write in and tell us about your experience.  We would love to hear from some of you seasoned gardeners.

If you are doing the same…would you take the time to sort your coats for your various family members and see if there happen to be any gently used warm winter coats that could be donated for those in need.  Children grow and often need to be refitted for larger sized coats.  If their previous years coat is still in good condition; why not wash it up and take it to be donated to someone who could use it?

Make sure to check and make sure that all the zippers work and that buttons or velcro are still intact and useable.  If you happen to be blessed financially and have the means to donate a new coat even better.  There are many people who struggle to stay warm in the cold winter months and let’s be honest… those coats sitting in the back of your closet, unworn, aren’t doing anyone any good.

How do you find coats for kids collection sites?  Watch your newspapers for announcements…check your child’s papers from school…paying special attention for announcements about coats for kids.   Often you will even see fliers or signs in front of businesses that advertise the fact that they are collecting coats.  Please take the time now to gather up any unused coats, prepare them for donation; and, make sure that they are doing what they are designed to do…protecting people from the cold elements.  Thank you ahead of time!

         I have a suggestion…after you have abused all of your willing friends and neighbors by giving away as much extra produce that you can…why not consider donating to your local food pantry or food banks, local commission/council on aging, or department of social services?  If you can’t keep up with the canning/freezing/or giving away…please do NOT let it go to waste.  Not everyone has the room or the ability to garden.  Fresh fruits and vegetables is important for health and well-being.  Many folks are having to get a big portion of their groceries from a food stamps program, a food pantry/food bank, or a commodities program.  Getting enough food to “save up or preserve” for winter isn’t always an option. 

        Due to financial situations, many elderly who live alone, and many families, will do without having access to healthy fresh fruits and vegetables because they can’t afford to purchase it.  Giving to those who are in need is a great way to give back to your community and to share the blessings that you may have been blessed with.

         I have a great friend who goes by the name of Mother Connie on Twitter (@Motherconnie).  She started up a wonderful blog to HELP people learn how to make healthy and delicious meals; with the food items that they get from a food pantry/food stamps, or commodities program.  I would like to ask you to remember during this season of harvesting that others would love to be blessed with your extras.  Please donate to your local communities pantry or program in the name of,  The Food Stamps Cooking Club Blog.  Then leave them the information to give to their clients about how to go to her site and get some great tips/recipes.   The website address is: http://foodstampscookingclub.com/blog/ . 

          Drop in and say hi to Mother Connie; it would make her day, and her night, to know that she was able to help someone out by getting something that they didn’t know what to do with from the food pantry.  She is a fountain of knowledge and she isn’t stingy with her help!  Tell her Rainy sent you!  She will make you feel right at home.  Blessings!!!

       In the entrance of the yard, is the driveway.  When you first drive in, you see two very large, showy lilac bushes of a reddish grape color; and, one of a light lilac pink splash on the opposite side of the driveway.  Straight away, dead on is a very old and dilapilated arbor that had made a statement attesting to it ability to outlast anything newly purchased. 

          Oh, to be sure, the lattice work is warped here and there; a little out of alignment with it’s orginal design..but, that is alright…it has staying power.  Besides, the arbor has been integrated with the beautiful coral trumpets that push through the white, peeling slats of the lattice work and the dark, shinny green foliage of the trumpet vine itself.  Its aged vines have woven themselves throughout, until they are somewhat tree-like in their strength.  The vines are twisted and knotted like an elderly great -grandmother’s hands that have lovingly provided for her family over the years.  It has earned it’s bends and twists by being adaptable to the growing environment.

        If, I were so bold and destructive, why I could cut the lattice work and unweave it from the web of vine; but, I admire the arbor’s desire to stand there and make a statement about it’s ability to stand and deliver.   It’s a bit tilted despite it’s original, solid 4 x 4 construction, many a year ago. 

         Now, I forgot to mention the airy and pristine white of the delicate, bridal veil (white spirea) bush that stands next to the grape colored lilac bush.  As you drive around the tear drop shaped circle drive, you will pass a strand of four differing types of apple trees.  As we speak here, they are in various degrees of dressed up pink and white star shaped blossoms that flutter to the ground as the beautifully scented air mixes a smell to rival the best canned air freshener you can buy on the market. 

         At the foot of the apple trees are the day lillies of varying colors…still just sporting their dark, spiky green foliage.  They are awaiting warmer weather to dot the canvas with their showy, single and double petaled flowers.  In between this are a few scattered rose bushes that are struggling to survive the occasionally, and unpredictably waterlogged clay soil that is mixed with the rocky gravel from the driveway.  Under laying this is the emerald green myrtle ground cover with it’s beautifully, low to the ground peri-winkle star shaped flat flowers.  In a tarzan attempt to stretch to great feats of purpose is a purple wisteria that took many years to finally bloom; after almost being consumed in a fire.  It’s  drooping  grape -like cluster of flowers look lush over the homemade arbor going into the secret garden area. 

        As you enter that…there is a hugely over large honeysuckle bush that defies any attempts to keep it in line; with the limited pathway to the small wooden bride that crosses over two largely neglected man-made ponds.  They are filled with a burst of lemony yellow irises that are almost ready to appear.  Along behind that, is a beauty bush that smells like  cinnamony cloves when the weather warms it’s pretty pale pink, deep bell -like flowers that the bees can not resist buzzing.  Behind those bushes are some more lilacs…this time in the common lilac color along with a new younger white lilac that has chosen to produce some double blossoms.  Here and there I have added one of my greatest loves; that is asiatic and oriental lillies.  The oriental lillies have the strongest scent…they are clove-like in scent…and at night… they entice you to walk among them and just inhale for the joy of it!  There are some that are white- and some that are scarlet with a deeper magenta accents…they are called stargazers.  Those are the lillies that inspire a person to a sensual awakening.

        If you continue to travel on…there is a small straight row of  medium pink peonies  mixed with some crowding bishops weed with it’s tall spiky white flowers which resemble Queen Anne’s Lace but to me doesn’t quite measure up.  A green grape grows on the corner of the pagoda here.  Then, there is the campfire area where we will be spending much time this summer. 

        Crossing the driveway once again you see the main garden in the center of the teardrop driveway.  There is another small man made pond.  This one has a wooden deck built around it with a wide variety of flowers meant to produce a richer tapestry of colors and smells.  Here you will find japanese koi in the pond along with some black and some gold fish.  There are water lillies still to come…some white, some pink, one yellow.  Only the pink one smells, much to my sadness.  Surrounding this pond is another apple tree, also in full blossoms at the moment.  There is at the foot of that…some variegated hostas, sweet lilly of the valley, some bleeding hearts, more rose bushes, some ajuga with it’s deep purple, spring flowers that are low to the ground.

         Around the perimeter of the teardrop you will find a mix of perrenials and annual flowers.  There are multiple day lillies, roses, catcuses, virginia bluebells, a wild rose bush, snap dragons, moss roses, irises, tulips-some that are flaming yellow with red streaks or, as I call them…my pretty painted ladies.

          Around the waterfall, is some wild butterfly weed, some pink mallow, marigolds, dark purple clematis on a fancy metal trellis.   In a half of a blue barrel is planted some annuals , some geraniums…and what I am told is called, the American running bean-or as Thomas Jefferson  (deceased American President) once called the most beautiful bean plant ever created.  That is an unusual plant.  In the fall, it gets a deep burgundy pod (looks like an overlarge green bean pod).  During the summer, it gets a two toned flower a light pink and a darker purple petaled flower climbing up the vine.  Truly lovely to look at.

           Around the chicken coops we have planted some pear trees, some more day lillies, a current bush, some blackberries, and some rhubarb.  Turning to the right…you will see a chainlink fence that surrounds the food garden.  The fencing is a necessary evil to protect against the maurading deer and rabbits that come to feast on the bounty that is my yard.  I dont mind sharing a wee little bit…however…the stems and leaves that they leave behind …truly don’t amount to much food for the family. 

         So, I suffer the indignity of the fence and disquise it behind a wall of morning glories who are more than proud to show their pretty pantaloons of pink, white and purple as they flutter in the breeze.  As a backdrop behind the food plants, I make sure that i plant two rows of dancing sunflowers…just so that the birds are tempted to come and graze; hopefully they are gratefully distracted by the tempting sunflower morsels that they leave the garden produce alone.  Ha…it is my attempt to find a balance between the need to grow food and nurture nature.

         In my garden you will find peace, you will find artistry, you will find butterflies and hummingbirds, and a few random bees.    The garden was meant to please and to instill a desire to admire beauty.  The wind chimes tickle the ear with their different tones from a high tinkling to a throaty singing; I love them all.  Mix in the flapping of the United States flag and the Marine Corps flag as they snap in a brisk wind and you have a day to brag about.  During this Memorial weekend…it is a sense of patriotic pride that causes me to look up and remember why that flag is allowed to fly free…because our military men and women have fought for and defended this country to give us the right to live freely.  They deserve our respect and gratitude not just on this weekend…but every other day of the year for the sacrifice they have given.

          I am most thankful for my painted ladies…I can dine with them, I can sit and stare…they don’t seem to mind a bit.   I can relax in my own back yard and enjoy the freedoms earned by our miliary men and women around the globe; my own family members have served and, I am proud of them.  I try to thank members of the armed forces whenever I can.  In fact, I encourage you to send thank you cards to this non-profit project at:  http://www.make2tell2.com/ .  They deserve our thanks and our support. 

            In honor of those who serve our country daily, I will try to find an opportunity to post a picture or two of  my yard this year!   I hope that when they come home, from whatever post they have served at; that they would have a garden of peace to enjoy as well.   Please pray for our service people…they can never be thanked enough for what they go through.   Would you like to see some pictures of the painted ladies?  Or have I described them well enough?

       Parvo-virus is a virus which mainly affects their digestive systems.  They get weak, they lose their appetites and they get dehydrated by getting bloody, smelly diarrhea.  I remember when a litter of our puppies had it…the vet told us to check their gums to see if their gums were a healthy pink color or, if their gums were lacking color and looking white-ish.  We lost several puppies before we knew what we were dealing with.  It cost alot of money to save the others.  It was a very helpless feeling to see them so sick and weak; it still makes me sad to think about it.  I remember one of the puppies, that I adored, couldn’t even lift his head.

       When the weather starts to warm up you may begin to see animals who are affected by the virus.  Any place that has been exposed to the parvo-virus has the ability to infect your dogs.  Your home or property can be infected from an infected dog; or, it could be contaminated by fecal matter on the bottom of someone’s shoes.   The virus has staying power and can live in an environment for up to 9 months to a year, once  that environment has been exposed.  The incubation time for symptoms to appear is generally 7-10 days.   Cleaning products are not very effective for killing the virus…however, cholorine does appear to kill the virus.   The best thing you can do for your dogs is to prevent them from getting the virus in the first place. 

        Your dogs and your puppies can be vaccinated for this virus and they should be.  Older dogs should get a vaccine once a year; puppies, need a series of shots every 3-4 weeks starting at about six weeks of age until they are  about 20 weeks old.  

        If your dog or puppy becomes listless, doesn’t want to eat or drink, or shows signs of  bloody diarrhea; then you need to seek medical care for them right away.  Treatment is usually antibiotics and IV’s to rehydrate the fluid levels of the animal, as well as keeping their body temperature at the appropriate level.  The vet must also balance the electrolytes of the dog/puppy.   Even once our puppies came home from the veternarian’s office we had to give them electrolytes; we bought packets of it from Tractor Supply stores.   In some cases, vets must give affected dogs blood transfusions.   Many dogs die from this virus; those that get immediate medical treatment stand a better chance of survival. 

        Once you have seen a dog suffering from the Parvo-virus, you will never forget it.  The devastation is horrendous…the symptoms unforgettable.  Please vaccinate your dogs for this virus so that you are not put in the position of watching your dogs suffer and die.

       Growing your own fruits and vegetables is a good thing if you have the space, the time and the energy.  I think it will be nice for the Obama’s family.  For those people who say, what about all of the taxpayers money for their food…understand…Presidents and their families pay for their own personal groceries.  Sasha and Malia will be able to see the food growing process and take joy in it.  It is a learning experience growing your own food, and the Obama’s will know where some of their food is coming from and how it is grown.

         How cool would it be to have the girls do a blog about growing the fruits and vegetables?  There really is so much to learn and the opportunities to share that information would be plentiful.  After all, anyone who has ever grown produce knows that much of your success comes from planning your garden, making a commitment to nurture it with water, sunshine and fertilizer…and then, learning how long it will take and how to go about harvesting what you have grown. 

          In previous generations, it the lessons would also include how to preserve the produce to last throughout a long winter; thereby, adding to the family’s food supply.   Back then, growing a garden wasn’t just for the priviledged…it was a necessity.   With our country going through these difficult times financially, I suspect many families will be getting back to the basics and planting their first gardens out of necessity.  The cost of grocery shopping has risen substantially; so planting a garden can help reduce the cost of putting meals on the table for some.

        For those who live in cities, there are community gardens that people can share or you can do container gardening.  Gardening isn’t just for farmers or people who live in the country.  You can even plant herb seeds in small containers in your window sill. 

        I think it is a  White House garden project is a wonderful thing that may just inspire others to plant, grow and enjoy flowers, fruits and or vegetables.  Stop taking time to pick a fight and go plant something !   You might find out that you enjoy it.

       Sometimes i wonder if this show wants to stay on the air…they sometimes choose an occasional person or two who will obviously not be able to compete with equal abilities dancing wise with their competitors, they choose people who are controversial just because they can, and they keep making it difficult for families who want clean family entertainment to watch, when they choose to focus on things that are definately not family friendly!

         Another thing, what is it about Maksim and his partners….he comes across as very talented but, also very domineering.  He had his partner Denise Richards in tears last night…I remember that happening with some of his other partners.  I think eventually he mellows out a bit over the season..but, you have to wonder how his future marriage with Karina will be as she does not appear to be a door-mat.  That must be one relationship full of fireworks.

          You can always tell the competitors who are overwhelmed with nerves.  I felt very uncomfortable for Ty Murray (Jewel’s husband).   He did not feel comfortable and it was obvious; I thought he did well enough for the first time out…but the judges werent very encouraging.  Another competitor who was not dancing naturally was Belinda Carlisle…she was very stiff.  Then, Steve Wozniak who danced with Karina was definately having a good time; but, he is going to have to work very hard to keep up with her.

        By far, the most impressive part of the show last night was the two new replacement competitor.  There were two who were supposed to be a “surprise”.  Both Jewel and O’dell were injured in practice in the last week or two and needed to bow out of the competition.  They are being replaced by Holly Madison (former girlfriend of Hugh Hefner of Playboy fame) and Melissa Rycroft (young woman dumped by the Bachelor).  Holly had less than a week of practice and Melissa had less than 48 hours.  They both were pretty competent with their dancing which was a pleasant surprise…i had been worried Melissa would be put in the position of being embarassed twice in one week by the ABC network.  Good job Melissa!  Do you have a favorite competitor this season?  Do you think Dancing With The Stars could do anything in particular to improve their show?

      The season finale had him picking Melissa…ahhh…happy ending…but then wait…no…he changed his MIND people after hurting Molly from Michigan.  She told him when he let her go that he was making a mistake.  They all say that by the way…but Molly knew it deep within her soul after the night they spent together before the finale.  But, let her go –he did.  By the way…she left with dignity and grace…well, as much as is possible, in that situation.  

        Jason proposed marriage to Melissa…they were engaged…she bonded with Jason’s son Ty.  She was going to be his step-mother.  They were going to parent him together.  Wow…what does this do to a child emotional development?  Not to mention the adult females in this show? 

       Tonight…Jason came on the show…”After the Rose” and declared that things had changed  with him and Melissa during the six weeks following the season of the Bachelor.  He said that Melissa knew that things had changed…and that it was his intention to break up with her tonight in front of thousands of viewers…because he had to follow his heart because he couldn’t stop thinking about Molly.    How much respect does that show to any of the participants?

       He  broke it to Melissa; and, even though she seemed to understand that things weren’t perfect…that they were going to work on things; it was obvious that she was devastated…and very angry at being publically embarassed.  Who could blame her.  She left and Molly arrived not knowing anything.

      The host then proceeded to ask her questions about what she wanted to know about the situation with Jason dumping her for Melissa.  Of course, the usual questions was why, and when did he know…that kind of thing.  Then Jason comes on and professes his undying love.  She looked incredulous..and almost looked as if she expected that the show was pranking her.  Then, I found, myself floored to find them kissing and looking for all the world like everything was going to be A-ok.

       My sympathy meter had been going into overload for Molly…then Melissa…back and forth.  All i could think when the show was over was…The bachelor probably needed some professional help to sort out his true feelings.  Maybe he is just in love with falling in love.    Finally, they said next week will be part two of After the Rose.     What the heck?

       What  bomb shell is going to be on that show?   Is Melissa going to show up pregnant with Jason’s child and throw a monkey wrench into the “relationship” that he has rekindled with Molly?  I kept thinking…this man has real commitment issues  or something. 

         This kind of emotional flip flop will work against him i think in any relationship he enters into.  I would expect he is going to get alot of flack from people who were rooting for their favorite lady.  All i can say is…they both were beautiful ladies inside and out…and…really…maybe this is the year to end this psychological torture rack that makes us viewers a party to. 

          What about his ex-wife?  Will she come out of the shadows to address Jason’s issues?  Will she come forward to correct any negative impressions of what kind of wife/mother that she was to Jason or Ty?  It was kind of implied that she just no longer wanted to be a wife and mother… as viewers we never really knew her side of things.  I mean maybe, just maybe…the failure of their marriage wasn’t all one-sided…most marriages that fail aren’t one- sided in the blame department.  Sad show!

See possibly related story:  http://writeasrain.wordpress.com/2009/02/25/the-bachelor-jason-mesnick-under-pressure/

        Jason has narowed down his choices to two beautiful, intelligent women.  Now the show has been running teasers that Deanna is coming back right before the rose ceremony…where he makes his choice.  Many fans are posting their unhappiness about this dramatic intervention.  The teaser tells us that Deanna tells Jason, You haven’t proposed yet.  This can only add to the confusion and frustration of that moment.  How will things end? 

           Jason is under pressure to make a choice and his choice doesn’t just affect him…it affects those women, their family and friends as well as Jason’s young son.  Will he or wont he choose one of the two women, Molly or Melissa; or will Deanna throw a wrench into the season by putting herself back into the equasion?  I dont think that the viewers are going to appreciate the emotional manipulation on this season finale!  Who will become Jason’s fiance or will anyone?  Will anyone on this show live happily ever after in love and marriage?  The fact is…this is a reality show…a bit out of the realm of a typical romance; but there is a child involved so hopefully, there is more than attraction, passion and a desire for fame.

Possibly related story:  http://writeasrain.wordpress.com/2009/03/03/the-bachelors-choices/