Before You Go Bananas: 3 Simple Rules

If you read this post (and thank you, as always, friends who do!), you’ll notice two things, one of which I should say up front, to be fair.  First, this is the inaugural post to showcase the blog’s new look (thanks so much to Dave for all the time, help and encouragement!)! It’s in-progress, and fingers crossed will continue to be ever-evolving, but hopefully the format is improved, more streamlined and accessible,...

My New Favorite “Must Use”: Knife Shre...

So, we’re attempting some new “crops” in our small but generous raised beds this year, and I’m learning by necessity about thinning. You know that feeling of arrival that is borderline bittersweet with the realization that the eager anticipation is about to end? I’m not necessarily talking about achieving a hard-earned goal, or even being mid-way through a much longed-for vacation. It’s...

Spring on a Plate: Roasted Squash, Bean, Potato an...

In spite of this spring’s uncooperative weather (which has vacillated temperamentally between bouts of hail, raging banshee-like winds, and everything in between), our garden is beginning to sprout! In our compact little back yard, we’ve squeezed in some added ambition this year, increasing from two to three raised beds, and finally starting composting. It’s nearly June, and having endured the quick demise...

Quick post: Inflation Frustration= More Motivation...

The National Inflation Association is an organization that believes the largest financial crisis is yet to come, and is dedicated to preparing Americans for hyperinflation, aiming to help people survive and even prosper in the difficult times ahead. Taking such a stance, it’s no surprise that press releases from the NIA are of a sobering bent. For instance, a recent warning notes how while disaster looms, our population...

Quick post: The Farmer’s Garden

You know, as tense and turbulent as our economic situation has been of late, there are a few glimmering silver linings. In general, people are more conscious of the impact of each decision, and have been able to find reassurance in reaffirming what is truly most valuable to them. Tighter budgets have also aligned  in many instances with a heightened focus on sustainability, reflected in increasing interest in home gardening....

Greener Gobbling

This post includes a recipe for lentil and bean loaf.   So, it seems sacrilegious for  us omnivores to leave turkey off the grocery list on Thanksgiving, but this past weekend I experienced firsthand how it can indeed be sacrificed without marring a festive spread…or, at least, it doesn’t necessarily have to be quite so center stage. I was really excited about cooking a veggie Thanksgiving for my friend...