Isn't that dill?

"Dill" was slang in my home town for something really fabulous. Anything could be dill or dilly, but I don't think dillest was on the list. Also, just about everyone had a nickname, so "Squeaky's outfit was really dill," or "Wasn't Kitzy's party just booku (i.e., beaucoup) dill." This year the International Herb Association chose Dill as the Herb of the Year (2010).

Our first class of the third year of Lakeside's Herb Study was on fennel and was led by Jan Hilty, Master Gardener, OSU Extension, Delaware County. She owned an herbal decor and products business; she lectures on herbs and has written many articles about the uses of herbs.

Here's our Herb Study 2010 schedule--meet at the train station at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, drop in or regulars. After the meeting we go to the herb garden which is near the pavilion, for hands on and watering.

June 30: Painting a tote with fresh herbs ($3.00 for the canvas tote)

July 7: Making Herbal soaps

July 14: Making dried herb blends

July 21: Winter and summer savory

July 28: Field trip to Schedel Arboretum and Gardens in Elmore ($23 for admission, tour and box lunch)

August 4: Herbal gifts from the kitchen

August 11: Herbal brunch potluck

August 18: Borage

August 25: Folklore and magic of herbs