That itchy feeling on your arms and legs after picking tomatoes, the wonder as you see how big the cucumbers get that started as small seedlings, the satisfaction of eating a meal made entirely from things you grew yourself: These are some of the sensations I remember from having a garden as a kid.

There isn't anything quite like the satisfaction of growing your own food. Gardening is not only for old ladies; everyone should get their hands dirty. Growing your own garden is a great way to spend time with your family and/or roommates and get outside, with summer fast approaching. I've always had a garden at my house, and some of my greatest memories from growing up have involved my brother and me picking tomatoes at night with flashlights, or neighbors daring me to eat hot peppers. It's important to know where your food comes from, and growing some of it yourself, even if it's just a small lettuce plant on your windowsill in the city, can give you a newfound appreciation for food and what it takes to get the finished product on your plate.

Gardening isn't only for people with big yards in the suburbs, either; lots of places around the city have community gardens where people in the neighborhood can plant and enjoy being outside in the summer. So if you are starting a new tradition with your family, or getting more involved in your community, gardening is a great and rewarding activity.