Steve, We get most of our day to day spices from our CSA. They provide parsley, basil, cilantro, dill, thyme, tarragon, etc. I use some fresh and also dry them and that gives us what we need most years. In fact I frequently give some away each spring when I discover I've got too much! For more exotic things, like curry powder, I think your idea is a great one. Now all I have to do is remember to do that rather than buying a bottle of something which I won't use up.

Another thing we get from the CSA and grow is garlic. I made garlic salt for the first time last month, the recipe made a CUP of the stuff. I gave away 2/3rds of it. Boy is it pungent when fresh!

Thank you all for the input!