Thanks! I might be in the land of denial re: depression, but I've also had too many other things vying for attention. We have two younger kids, so sunlight hours are usually split between them and my job. Once they're asleep I have 2-3 hours to do all adult things: talk to my wife 1:1, hang out with friends, meal plan, game, unwind, etc. They do like the garden, and help, but they're only in it for a portion of the time it takes to actually do anything.

Us all getting sick cost us two weekends. My wie it a deer and I had to get her a new hood and replace a headlamp, which cost another weekend.

The reason why I prefer seeds over home cheapo starts is to have more variety of plants. We do have a local nursery that has an epic selection, but they're a little further away. Stating seeds is also fun, and like you said it can be cheaper if you're somewhat judicious about how many types of seeds you buy.