Wait, you can grow your own vanilla?

Yep, apparently you can.
While picking up a few exotic Orchids to keep our place cheery through the dark, cold winter, I scored a small Vanilla plant at our local garden center for only $12. (Some people might not be impressed with this, but I'm originally from Phoenix, where the only options we really have for houseplants are Aloe and Pothos.) Part of the Orchid family, these delicious beans are native to Mexico (WAY further South than where I'm living) I'm not sure how they'll do in my kitchen, but I'm optimistic. I've only killed one other plant before (A coconut tree, which is mean to even sell in my climate zone because they don't stand a snowflake's chance in Hell...In fact, the term should be "...doesn't stand a Coconut's chance in Bavaria!")
Once these beans are ready to pick and dry, I'll be rolling out all sorts of Vanilla goodies. Homemade Vanilla Extract, Vanilla Ice Cream (but vegan) and anything else I can find.