It takes superhuman willpower at this time of year to pass by blooming baskets and flats of annuals. I constantly tell anyone who asks, "Wait till after Mother's Day to plant most annuals and tender veggies." It's good advice. But it is hard advice to follow. Do as I say, not as I do, I guess. So when I went to the garden center yesterday—a sunny, breezy 70-degree day—it took all the resolve I could muster to NOT buy the gorgeous baskets of annuals. I watched people roll them in red wagons out to their cars. Jealously I spied as they loaded their vehicles with begonias, coleus, petunias and more. Alas, I had to turn away. But I resisted the urge. I did it. Then I treated myself to an overly generous chunk of chocolate and some ice cream—my other willpower challengers.

— Michelle Byrne Walsh