tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41697654075563374932024-03-13T04:51:26.485-07:00Grasshopper To AntA proposed journey from user to creator, from consumer to producer, from taker to giver. A capturing of intentional transition. Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-32477213255931783712014-04-16T14:50:00.000-07:002014-04-16T14:50:30.302-07:00Spring Is In The Air<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Renewal</b></span><br />
<i>April, when I heard</i><br />
<i>Your lyrical low word,</i><br />
<i>And when upon the hawthorn hedge your first white blossoms stirred,</i><br />
<i> </i><br />
<i>Something strangely came--</i><br />
<i>Something I cannot name--</i><br />
<i>And touched my heart, and cleansed my soul with a reviving flame. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When the yellow gleam</i><br />
<i>Of your hosts that stream--</i><br />
<i>Jonquil, buttercup, and crocus--made the world a golden dream, </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Something, April, said</i><br />
<i>To my heart that bled--</i><br />
<i>Bled with old remembrance--</i><br />
<i>'Lo! the grief-strewn days are fled! </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Sursum corda!</i><br />
<i>Now,</i><br />
<i>When blooms the apple-bough,</i><br />
<i>April, of your pity, let your light rain kiss my brow; </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Heal me, if you will;</i><br />
<i>Bathe my heart until</i><br />
<i>I am one with your first primrose or the shining daffodil.</i><br />
<b> -Charles Hanson Towne</b><br />
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Springtime is a busy time for any gardener. There is much work to be done, and much beauty to be soaked in. I have most assuredly been busy, trying to eek out garden chores between unwieldy hours at work, and you know, personal life. So, I am behind, as usual. But only, of course, by my own self imposed schedule.<br />
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I have pruned all the trees in the back that weren't done by my landlord. My plum tree, cedars, birch, lilac, and ridiculous hazelnut. This left me with piles of branches to deal with. Not to mention, I finally talked to my neighbor about cutting back her walnut tree that hangs over my garden and shades half of it. Hubs and I chopped off what we could reach, increasing the amount of sun the garden will get (yay!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d8oNUAglCaI/U07qf04FS7I/AAAAAAAAAYA/Kkk8Gu3ubfY/s1600/IMG_2771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d8oNUAglCaI/U07qf04FS7I/AAAAAAAAAYA/Kkk8Gu3ubfY/s1600/IMG_2771.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Lots of walnut to chop up.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kRyDbkMcLgQ/U07qhw1JL0I/AAAAAAAAAYY/qGavuphKAZ0/s1600/IMG_2777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kRyDbkMcLgQ/U07qhw1JL0I/AAAAAAAAAYY/qGavuphKAZ0/s1600/IMG_2777.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Who says brush piles can't be fun?</span></td></tr>
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I started cutting up and stacking all that wood, but its a lot. After some research, I decided to do a couple Hugelkultur beds in the garden to use some of it up. If you not familiar with Hugelkulture, you can read about it <a href="http://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/many-benefits-hugelkultur" target="_blank">here</a>, or just google it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLekCoGiMxo/U07qgNzEeLI/AAAAAAAAAYE/7ZE0Scmq59c/s1600/IMG_2774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LLekCoGiMxo/U07qgNzEeLI/AAAAAAAAAYE/7ZE0Scmq59c/s1600/IMG_2774.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Hugelkulture FTW!</span></td></tr>
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I finally got the chickens fenced in. I let them out to graze, but I have to say, I am really loving not having chicken poo on my patio. They yelled at me for days, but have finally settled down. They are still mad at me though. We have plans to build a coop really soon, then, I will likely get a few more chickens.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ch23dXv8a4/U07qhHROSlI/AAAAAAAAAYM/x19uQ9UuDz0/s1600/IMG_2775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ch23dXv8a4/U07qhHROSlI/AAAAAAAAAYM/x19uQ9UuDz0/s1600/IMG_2775.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">These girls are not pleased!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0tgmc7dfUhw/U07qiNeNn3I/AAAAAAAAAYc/-4jXU1Yz4L4/s1600/IMG_2780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0tgmc7dfUhw/U07qiNeNn3I/AAAAAAAAAYc/-4jXU1Yz4L4/s1600/IMG_2780.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Marla says, "You Madam, are a jerk!"</span></td></tr>
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My starts are just about ready to plant out, and I have quite a few things to direct sow. I have big plans over the next few weeks. Until then, Happy Spring!Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-66779247749895807592014-02-24T16:29:00.000-08:002014-02-24T16:31:24.721-08:00Back To Basics<h4>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>You do not have to be good.</i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i> You do not have to walk on your knees </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>You only have to let the soft animal of your body </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>love what it loves. </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. </i></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Meanwhile the world goes on.</i></span></h4>
<h4>
<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">-Mary Oliver</i></h4>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I didn’t do so good at keeping up the blog. However, you will be happy to know that nothing happened over the fall and winter that bears mentioning. I became caught up in the work flow of life that does not lend itself to free time. I did begin a poppy seed head family of small dolls, but quickly abandoned them, when hours needed to be traded for money. All thoughts turned away from creation and instead focused on getting through. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I didn’t enjoy the holidays this year. Halloween and Christmas where dismal. Thanksgiving was a lovely bright spot, as we visited family in Seattle and spent a couple days exploring downtown from our airbnb.com rental (a fantastic service btw). I got swine flu on christmas eve and was sick for a solid month. During that sickness however, my oldest son came to visit, and that was a supremely magical time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">For any of you that followed the blog last summer and were following totals, I failed. I set out to harvest 500 lbs of food from my property. I did not make it. But, I came REALLY close. Some particular soul told me I was cheating since the majority of the food came from my fruit trees that were already here when I moved in. Considering that I pruned and cared for those trees, and hand harvested all the fruit, I am counting them. I harvested a total of 442 lbs of food last summer, just 58 lbs short of my goal. 192 lbs of that was what I planted. Here are my totals:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">10 lbs cherries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">10 lbs beans</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">1 lb strawberries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">9.5 lbs carrots</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">17 lbs onions</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">4 lbs rainbow chard</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">12 lbs lemon cucumber</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">62 lbs plums</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">1 lbs Blackberries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">12 lbs Victoria plums</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">145 lbs apples</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">3.5 lbs Corni De Toro peppers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">4 lbs Poblano peppers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">32 lbs tomatillos</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">10 lbs ground cherries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">16 lbs potatoes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">72 lbs tomatoes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">31 lbs pears</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">-FAILURES-</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Potato Buckets-</b> Apparently they were serious when they said use at least a 5 gallon bucket. While I did grow 4x my seed potatoes, I should have been able to grow 40 lbs of each type instead of around 4 lbs of each type. My free 3.5 gallon buckets just didn’t have enough space. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I will be trying again this year, but this time I will have a proper tower. When I harvested my yukon golds, they got washed, chopped, and thrown right in a pan. They made a most heavenly breakfast, the likes of which I lustily dream about. I can’t say enough good things about growing your own potatoes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Buried herb buckets-</b> In theory, this should have worked well. In my over zealous enthusiasm, I started the herbs too soon. There may have been a drainage issue, and I should have used better amended soil. So, I did not get to play around with the Valerian, or Meadowsweet. Bummer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This year, I think I am going to build an herb box right outside my front door. If you cook, growing herbs is a no brainer. It will save you tons of money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Garden planning-</b> I am positive that other people have made this mistake, but I feel fairly silly that I planned my garden layout in early spring . I notated shade zones and hours of sunlight, but didn’t take into account all the leaves that would be on the trees, nor the different position of the sun come summer. What that means is I actually had a lot less usable space than I had originally anticipated. I utilized the extra shade to grow greens and lettuces, but the chickens devoured them every damn time they found a way in, and I got NONE. No kale, no spinach, no romaine, no baby greens salad mix. Only chard, cause they don’t like it. Ha! Also, the side of the house and front bed definitely should have been better amended, nothing grew that well there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This year I will be properly amending all the beds first thing. I am planning on building a couple boxes to utilize, and possibly a couple of smaller moveable ones on wheels, so they can move in and out of the sun. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Irrigation-</b> I hand watered all season last year. That is a huge time sucker and I felt that sometimes I didn’t water enough. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This year, I am going to try to come up with some budget irrigation ideas and build them into all areas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">-Successes-</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It was all a success! I learned so much last year, by simply doing and experimenting. I loved every minute that I spent in the garden and can’t wait to do it again this year. Here is my current working list of things I will be growing:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Chinese red noodle bean</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Atomic red carrot</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Amarillo yellow carrot</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Lemon cucumber</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Parisan Pickling cucumber</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Boston pickling cucumber</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Lacinto kale</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">blue de solaise leek</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Parris island cos melon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Flashy butter oak lettuce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Rich sweetness lettuce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Oregon sugar pod peas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Japanese minowase daikon radish</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Pink beauty radish</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Amsterdam prickly spinach</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Gray zucchini</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Purple tomatillo</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Dad’s sunset orange tomato</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Black icicle tomato</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Purple bumblebee cherry tomato</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Cilantro</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">emily basil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">chives</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">dill</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">parsley</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">german chamomile</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">wild thyme</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">valerian</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">vietnamese mint</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">mammoth sunflower</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Other goals for this year</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Build a chicken coop with deep litter method, and get another chicken or two</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Learn how to make soap</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Brew beer and try making cider again</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Explore shrubs, ratafias, and fruit wine</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Paint more</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Learn to play guitar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So friends, lots in store. Stay tuned. </span></div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-30893141314015636002013-08-12T11:33:00.000-07:002013-08-12T11:33:16.187-07:00Victoria Plum Vanilla Jam<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hnDXuj-11Q/Ugkp1kmFoII/AAAAAAAAATE/sJQxng5QF3w/s1600/IMG_1501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2hnDXuj-11Q/Ugkp1kmFoII/AAAAAAAAATE/sJQxng5QF3w/s320/IMG_1501.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Victorias!</td></tr>
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<h2>
Victoria Plum Vanilla Jam</h2>
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This makes a beautiful golden jam that is hard to resist.</div>
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10 cups of Victoria plums, washed, pitted, and chopped</div>
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2 cups of vanilla sugar</div>
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1 cup of brown sugar</div>
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1 teaspoon of vanilla extract</div>
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1 lemon, juiced</div>
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1 Tablespoon of butter (if desired)</div>
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Add all ingredients to heavy bottomed pot and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, removing any foam. Cook 15 minutes, remove from heat, allow to cool. Reheat and cook another 15 minutes. Repeat until you reach desired thickness. If you want it smoother, hit it with a stick blender. Ladle into hot jars with 1/2 headspace, and process 10 minutes. Makes 5 pints<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCx47_y456U/Ugkp0Y_eVNI/AAAAAAAAAS8/Ns887d1luSU/s1600/IMG_1547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kCx47_y456U/Ugkp0Y_eVNI/AAAAAAAAAS8/Ns887d1luSU/s320/IMG_1547.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the works!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-88663364277507514572013-08-12T11:29:00.002-07:002013-08-12T11:29:58.485-07:00Plumageddon!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>-Mae West </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
Plumageddon has come! I have a medium sized italian plum tree that was FULL of fruit. When all was said and done, I harvested 62 lbs of plums off of it. Unfortunately, these are not freestone, and I don't have a pitter (I will be getting one before next season), so dear readers, I processed them all by hand. My hands and fingernails were stained for days, but it was worth it. They turn into delicious things.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KX7tkL8YbdA/UgknQlKwcRI/AAAAAAAAASc/GvXbPf__1ZY/s1600/IMG_1355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KX7tkL8YbdA/UgknQlKwcRI/AAAAAAAAASc/GvXbPf__1ZY/s320/IMG_1355.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About a third of said plums</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nbUmKzN_-tc/UgknQ1Ks3MI/AAAAAAAAASg/0SUWojmiNTw/s1600/IMG_1354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nbUmKzN_-tc/UgknQ1Ks3MI/AAAAAAAAASg/0SUWojmiNTw/s320/IMG_1354.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Processing by hand sucks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The first thing I made was <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-bbq-sauce.html">Plum BBQ Sauce</a>. It was a perfect combination of flavors, hitting your taste buds in waves. Beginning with sweetness, then moving right on into just the right amount of tartness. As soon as the tartness starts to fade, you feel the heat rise, and ride out the spice until you take another bite and start again. After using quite a bit of it, I canned the remainder, 4 pints.<br />
<br />
Next began the string of jams and a butter. We had been hitting up our local blueberry U-Pick pretty hard, and had quite a stock of those suckers, so, you will see them in a lot of these recipes. Plus, its just an all around awesome flavor combination, and makes a beautiful jam.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XauhchNMDgc/UgknQ4rgP4I/AAAAAAAAASo/oaorhDs6m8I/s1600/IMG_1378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XauhchNMDgc/UgknQ4rgP4I/AAAAAAAAASo/oaorhDs6m8I/s320/IMG_1378.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you smell it?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This came to pass in <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-blueberry-jam.html">Plum Blueberry Jam</a>, <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-blueberry-butter.html">Plum Blueberry Butter</a>, and <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-blueberry-vanilla-jam.html">Plum Blueberry Vanilla Jam</a>. To be clear, these plums can easily stand alone, like in this <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-ginger-vanilla-jam.html">Plum Ginger Vanilla Jam</a>. Or, they can be paired with other fruit like this <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/plum-apple-ginger-jam.html">Plum Apple Ginger Jam</a>. Sometimes you get volunteer plums from your neighbors tree that overhang your yard, and get to try <a href="http://grasshoppertoant.blogspot.com/2013/08/victoria-plum-vanilla-jam.html">Victoria Plum Vanilla Jam</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8Sw_cr0BYY/UgknRzGFn5I/AAAAAAAAASw/nG6vHrnycM0/s1600/IMG_1381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8Sw_cr0BYY/UgknRzGFn5I/AAAAAAAAASw/nG6vHrnycM0/s320/IMG_1381.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few jars </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
After all of that, I still have about three 1 gallon ziplocks full of processed plums in my freezer. Next round, baked goods, and possibly an attempt at plum wine.<br />
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<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food totals: 213.5 lbs since last post</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10 lbs cherries</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5 lbs beans</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lb 2 oz strawberries</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9.5 lbs carrots</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">17 lbs onions</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.5 lbs rainbow chard</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5 lbs lemon cucumber</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">62 lbs plums</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.5 lbs Blackberries</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">12 lbs Victoria plums</span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">145 lbs apples</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.25 lbs Corni De Toro peppers</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.5 lbs Poblano peppers</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4 lbs tomatillos</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 lbs ground cherries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">224.75 lbs to goal</span></div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-30750035255176785822013-08-12T10:31:00.001-07:002013-08-12T10:31:06.003-07:00Plum Apple Ginger Jam<br />
<h2>
<b>Plum Apple Ginger Jam</b></h2>
<div>
<b><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
6 cups of plums, washed, pitted, and chopped</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
4 cups of apples, peeled, cored, chopped</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and diced</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1 cup sugar</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
2 cup of brown sugar</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1 lemon, juiced</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
1 Tablespoon of butter (if desired)</div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Add all ingredients to heavy bottomed pot and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, removing any foam. Cook 15 minutes, remove from heat, allow to cool. Reheat and cook another 15 minutes. Repeat until you reach desired thickness. If you want it smoother, hit it with a stick blender. Ladle into hot jars with 1/2 headspace, and process 10 minutes. Makes 5 pints</div>
</b></div>
Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-79063318709630788302013-08-12T10:24:00.001-07:002013-08-12T11:38:17.563-07:00Plum Ginger Vanilla Jam<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8DzH0adeI_c/Ugkraal01vI/AAAAAAAAATk/4NrH1ByLqwU/s1600/plum+ginger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8DzH0adeI_c/Ugkraal01vI/AAAAAAAAATk/4NrH1ByLqwU/s320/plum+ginger.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tarty goodness!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Plum Ginger Vanilla Jam</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
This is a tart jam, please ignore if the tang is not your friend.<br />
<br />
10 cups of plums, washed, pitted, and chopped<br />
1 inch piece of ginger, peeled and diced<br />
2 cups of vanilla sugar<br />
1 cup of brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract<br />
1 lemon, juiced<br />
2 teaspoons lemon zest<br />
1 Tablespoon of butter (if desired)<br />
<br />
Add all ingredients to heavy bottomed pot and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, removing any foam. Cook 15 minutes, remove from heat, allow to cool. Reheat and cook another 15 minutes. Repeat until you reach desired thickness. If you want it smoother, hit it with a stick blender. Ladle into hot jars with 1/2 headspace, and process 10 minutes. Makes 5 pints<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-76447245426897406112013-08-12T10:15:00.001-07:002013-08-12T11:35:06.099-07:00Plum Blueberry Vanilla Jam<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wIerMf9Vx2o/UgkqnER7vbI/AAAAAAAAATQ/COUQL16fPWs/s1600/IMG_1485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wIerMf9Vx2o/UgkqnER7vbI/AAAAAAAAATQ/COUQL16fPWs/s320/IMG_1485.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plums and Blueberries, an awesome combo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Plum Blueberry Vanilla Jam</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><br />
<br />
This is a heavenly jam, and, possibly my favorite. It is made extra fabulous by the addition of Vanilla sugar. Make this sugar by adding a whole or already scraped vanilla bean pod to sugar, I use quart jars. Let sit for several months for best vanilla flavor. Refill when empty (use same pod) and start again.<br />
<br />
6 cups Plums, washed, pitted, chopped<br />
4 cups Blueberries, cleaned<br />
2 cups Vanilla sugar<br />
1 cup Brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract<br />
Juice of 1 lemon<br />
1 Tablespoon of Butter (if desired)<br />
<br />
Add all ingredients to heavy bottomed pot and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, removing any foam. Cook 15 minutes, remove from heat, allow to cool. Reheat and cook another 15 minutes. Repeat until you reach desired thickness. If you want it smoother, hit it with a stick blender. Ladle into hot jars with 1/2 headspace, and process 10 minutes. Makes 5 pints<br />
<br />Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-11502320176857877002013-08-12T09:44:00.002-07:002013-08-12T10:48:03.304-07:00Plum Blueberry Butter<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Crock Pot Fruit Butter</b></span></h2>
<br />
Adapted from a recipe on <a href="http://www.simplebites.net/blueberry-plum-butter-in-the-slow-cooker/">Simple Bites</a><br />
<br />
<br />
2 cups blueberries, cleaned and checked over for stems<br />
4 cups plums, washed, pitted, chopped<br />
2 1/2 cups sugar<br />
zest and juice of one lemon<br />
1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
1/2 teaspoon fresh grated nutmeg<br />
<br />
You can puree the fruit before hand in a blender or food processor, or do it later with a stick blender (this is what I did).<br />
<br />
Put all the ingredients in the crock pot and cook on high. Leave the lid propped open to let steam escape and butter to thicken. Cook 4-5 hrs on low, 6-8 on high. Stir occasionally. Once butter is to desired thickness, ladle into hot jars with 1/2 headspace and process 10 min. Makes 4 pints.<br />
<br />
You may want to reduce sugar if your plums aren't as tart as mine. Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-60285870484480826482013-08-11T21:31:00.003-07:002013-08-12T11:36:53.230-07:00Plum Blueberry Jam<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7RN5WjMXJP0/Ugkqm7OnPMI/AAAAAAAAATU/eGjTEIuUo5E/s1600/IMG_1373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7RN5WjMXJP0/Ugkqm7OnPMI/AAAAAAAAATU/eGjTEIuUo5E/s320/IMG_1373.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plums and Blueberries, who can resist?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></h2>
<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Plum Blueberry Jam</b></span></h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
6 cups fresh Italian plums, washed, pitted, and chopped<br />
4 cups fresh blueberries, washed and checked for stems<br />
4 cups of sugar<br />
Juice of 2 limes<br />
1 Tablespoon of butter if desired (to lessen foam)<br />
<br />
Add plums, blueberries, sugar, and lime juice to stock pot. On low heat, bring to a simmer. Add in butter if using. Simmer for 15 minutes, skimming off any foam, remove from heat and allow to cool.<br />
<br />
Reheat and simmer 15 minutes. Repeat this step until jam thickens. You will get a good feel for its set when it cools. Pack hot jam in clean hot jars, with 1/2 in. headspace, and process for 10 minutes. Makes ~5 pints.<br />
<br />Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-13634202260913606642013-08-11T21:05:00.003-07:002013-08-12T11:40:45.232-07:00Plum BBQ Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5xe27d5VU00/Ugkrw4iQ5BI/AAAAAAAAAT4/5cR5PPWeGag/s1600/IMG_1356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5xe27d5VU00/Ugkrw4iQ5BI/AAAAAAAAAT4/5cR5PPWeGag/s320/IMG_1356.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum BBQ</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Plum BBQ Sauce</b></span></h2>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
6 cups plums, washed, pitted, chopped<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar<br />
2 teaspoons mustard<br />
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated<br />
1 teaspoon coriander<br />
1 large onion, finely chopped<br />
1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped<br />
3 garlic cloves, minced<br />
1 jalapeno, finely chopped<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper<br />
<br />
<br />
Add all ingredients to a heavy bottomed stock pot. Stir to combine. Cover and simmer about an hour, stirring occasionally.<br />
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
Notes:</div>
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If<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>sauce is too thin, uncover and simmer until desired thickness is reached. This will make a chunky sauce. If you want it smooth, blend it in your blender, use a stick blender, or use your food processor. If your plums are not very tart, you may want to decrease the sugar. This recipe is based on tart italian plums. Omit cayenne pepper if you want less spice. Recipe made 5 pint jars for canning.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smooth and saucy!</td></tr>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-76021261809583584592013-07-25T10:49:00.000-07:002013-08-12T10:48:58.362-07:00Learn By Doing<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 20px; line-height: 25px;"></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>The doer alone learneth.</i></span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>-Friedrich Nietzsche </i></span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">Here we are again and it is time for some learnin'. Part of my new school of thought is "just do it, and figure it out as you go". I have the tendency to research the crap out something before I do it, leaving me, often times, with too many preconceived notions, and anxiety about the process. Which ends with me taking little or no action out of fear. While I still research (its my nature, can't help it), I set a limit, and focus on the overview, or any safety concerns. It has transformed the way I think about so many things. It doesn't have to be perfect or great, it may even suck, but I will have done it, I will have learned something, and I will do it better the next time. Now, on to garden business.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">I recently harvested enough lemon cucumbers to actually make something with them. I only had four, so it couldn't be big, and, I wanted something that could stick around for a while. I settled on some refrigerator pickles, and couldn't be happier.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">Pay no attention to the fig, I promptly ate that. I did have a bunch of beans that was not enough to make anything else with (besides, I'm the only one who eats them), so I decided to pickle them too, along with that tiny walla walla onion. First step is to blanch the beans. Throw them in boiling water for a minute or two, then throw them in some ice water, or under cold running water to stop the cooking process. For the beautiful Dragon Wax Beans, this removed most of their fabulous color which was a little disappointing.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blanch Those Beans!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next, I halved and thinly sliced the onion, diced some garlic, and peeled and sliced my cucumbers. The pickle juice is easy. Water, vinegar, sugar, salt, and some spices. I used coriander and mustard seeds for the spice, but you could use whatever you want. I chose rice vinegar for its more subtle taste, however, a white wine, champagne, or even apple cider would work. Technically, any vinegar would do, but darker ones would likely overpower those delicate lemon cukes. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peel and Slice!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, you just throw it all in a quart mason jar, throw it in the fridge, and let the magic happen. I held out about 30 minutes and it was awesome. The next morning, it was divine. Everything is transformed into a light, refreshing, condiment that is perfect for summer. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fill it up</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pickles! (and beans, yeah!)</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">On a side note, if you happen to not have an abundance of veggies, or, are getting one or two every few days, never fear! Just add them as you get them. I added in some beans the second day without blanching them and they were good, though not as good as the ones that were blanched. You cannot mess this up, it will be fabulous, and you will wonder why you waited so long.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;"><u>Refrigerator Pickles</u></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">3/4 c Vinegar</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">1 c Water</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">3 T Sugar</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">1 T Salt</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">1/2 t Coriander</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">1/2 t Mustard Seeds</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">2 Cloves Garlic, Diced</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">1 sm Onion, thinly sliced</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">4 Lemon Cucumbers, peeled and sliced</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">10-15 Wax beans, blanched</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 24px;">Blanch beans. Dice garlic, and thinly slice onions and cucumbers. Combine first 6 ingredients in a quart mason jar and shake to mix. Add in veggies and refrigerate at least 30 minutes.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food totals: 33 lbs since last post</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10 lbs cherries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 lbs beans</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lb 2 oz strawberries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9.5 lbs carrots</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8 lbs onions</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.5 lbs rainbow chard</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1.5 lbs lemon cucumber</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">27.5 lbs plums</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.25 lbs Blackberries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">438.25 lbs to goal</span></div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-28731932920988067702013-07-16T19:33:00.002-07:002013-07-16T19:33:44.428-07:00Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 20px; line-height: 26px;"></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember you will not always win. Some days, the most resourceful individual will taste defeat. But there is, in this case, always tomorrow - after you have done your best to achieve success today.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">-Maxwell Maltz </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The thunder chickens got into my garden again. Chickens have brains the size of my thumbnail. They are dumb on a level that challenges reason, and yet, they keep getting in. This time, Maven, the smart one, found a weak spot in the fence and pushed her way in. Of course she couldn't get out. But, that's ok, my husband found her just when she had finished stripping all the Kale plants of EVERY leaf, and eating all of the cabbage seedlings. Not to mention making a mess of the rows. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sad naked Kale</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Always reminds me of this...</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PMaRhSZp4Q8/UeYBbRb5VLI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/rHybYY9cego/s1600/001461_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PMaRhSZp4Q8/UeYBbRb5VLI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/rHybYY9cego/s1600/001461_29.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gimme that Kale!!!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite the girls' best efforts, I still have managed to make some progress. Everything is growing, flowering, fruiting, and becoming generally awesome. Both apple trees are full of apples and almost ripe. The fig tree is fruiting, for real now, and I think its going to be ridiculous. The pear tree has double the fruit of last year, and the plum tree has at least 1000 plums on it. No joke.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei5_XBI86bM/UeXvPtqd9fI/AAAAAAAAAPs/J6z3OJ7YOeg/s1600/plums.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei5_XBI86bM/UeXvPtqd9fI/AAAAAAAAAPs/J6z3OJ7YOeg/s320/plums.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum Crazy!</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The tomatoes are getting close. There are hundreds of them a week or two from being ripe. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjx4uHIC0S4/UeXvRKzrvBI/AAAAAAAAAQE/SkpKMrQxoYs/s1600/tomato+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hjx4uHIC0S4/UeXvRKzrvBI/AAAAAAAAAQE/SkpKMrQxoYs/s320/tomato+wall.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">West tomato wall, almost 6ft!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1CK9WzXIKTU/UeXvQFLiXRI/AAAAAAAAAPo/wd0Kh0n-gdw/s1600/san+marzano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1CK9WzXIKTU/UeXvQFLiXRI/AAAAAAAAAPo/wd0Kh0n-gdw/s320/san+marzano.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful San Marzanos, soon to be paste.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />I hilled, or "earthed up" the potatoes. Apparently, I was supposed to do that when they were about 4" and every 4" until the container is full. It is already time to do it again. Oops. They seem to be doing great though. I suppose I will find out when harvest time comes. Isn't trial and error fun? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXLKKitP3qw/UeXvP266LOI/AAAAAAAAAPk/CG4CTwqjj3I/s1600/potatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hXLKKitP3qw/UeXvP266LOI/AAAAAAAAAPk/CG4CTwqjj3I/s320/potatoes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hilling taters</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I finally got a cucumber! And, there are easily 20 more coming right away. I am pickling some of these bad boys as soon as possible. Hopefully I will have enough to do several jars of a few types.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tL8ntzx0ikw/UeXy0oyGAtI/AAAAAAAAAQU/qRxYjfvaZiY/s1600/lemon+cuke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tL8ntzx0ikw/UeXy0oyGAtI/AAAAAAAAAQU/qRxYjfvaZiY/s320/lemon+cuke.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Cucumber!</td></tr>
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<br />Got my first ground cherry too. It is definitely on the small end of the scale judging by the later husks. I ate it, and it did indeed taste of vanilla and pineapple. Amazing!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pquXNRQzHrI/UeXvOsMtCiI/AAAAAAAAAPU/QVivp7GyDbw/s1600/ground+cherry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pquXNRQzHrI/UeXvOsMtCiI/AAAAAAAAAPU/QVivp7GyDbw/s320/ground+cherry.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who knew?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ouw9ym8vwJs/UeX5qtU7XcI/AAAAAAAAAQo/74emYtQoefY/s1600/Gcherry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ouw9ym8vwJs/UeX5qtU7XcI/AAAAAAAAAQo/74emYtQoefY/s320/Gcherry.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ground cherry growing outside of the husk</td></tr>
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<br />I have 7 tomatillo plants. They are all full of glorious globes of wonder! The husks look like lanterns, and the flowers have attracted more bees than anything else in the garden.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vRj_XwOs25g/UeX5qXnMamI/AAAAAAAAAQs/taXTnem_coY/s1600/tomatillo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vRj_XwOs25g/UeX5qXnMamI/AAAAAAAAAQs/taXTnem_coY/s320/tomatillo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Tomatillos</td></tr>
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<br />The front yard has ground cherries in it too. My herb buckets didn't do as well as I had hoped, but, to be fair, I was overzealous and planted to early. And, from seed. Should have started them inside. Next year.<div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vUKeovGqYV0/UeXvPfz--9I/AAAAAAAAAPY/xO3X_i560ng/s1600/front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vUKeovGqYV0/UeXvPfz--9I/AAAAAAAAAPY/xO3X_i560ng/s320/front.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daisies, ground cherries, lavender, meadowsweet, <br />valerian, and a half finished bamboo border.</td></tr>
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The side of the house is really coming along. There are actually about 65 sunflowers in various stages planted here. The Oilseeds have yet to bloom, they should have bigger heads. I also have dragon wax beans planted along the back and in between the sunflowers. They are producing now after a slow start from being too leggy as seedlings. Again, overzealous. What can I say? I'm an anxious gardener.</div>
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Some things are working. Some things are not. I am learning a lot, experimenting, and getting dirty. A few weeks from now, and I will be in harvest and preserve mode. Looking forward to trying new recipes, preserving techniques, and another hard cider attempt!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Food totals: 11.75 lbs since last post</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10 lbs cherries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 lbs beans</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lb 2 oz strawberries</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9.5 lbs carrots</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5.5 lbs onions</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.5 lbs rainbow chard</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.25 lbs lemon cucumber<br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">471.25 lbs to goal</span></div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-13042288013383922322013-07-02T23:43:00.000-07:002013-07-02T23:48:18.348-07:00Potato Buckets <i>One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.</i><br />
<i>-Dale Carnegie </i><br />
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I have wanted to grow potatoes for a long time. As in, many, many, many years. I want to grow fabulous heirloom, rare, unusual, odd colored potatoes. Until this year, I have not had the space in whatever garden I had to grow them. During my garden research for this year, I looked at quite a few versions of the potato tower. An easy way to grow potatoes out of the ground. Easy to water, easy to harvest. No brainer. </div>
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There are "bags" you can buy that fit the bill. But, they were too expensive for me. There are plenty of DIY's out there using everything from buckets to bamboo mats. There is a lot of debate about growing them entirely in straw, or straw lined with dirt/compost, or straw bottomed with dirt, or layering of all of it. I went with buckets as that is what I already have, and in abundance. All the bucket DIY's say to use 5 gal buckets, but I happen to have 3.5 gal. So, we will see...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Supplies</td></tr>
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I started with 6 buckets and drilled holes in the bottom for drainage. This, for some reason took way longer than I had anticipated, and made worse by a dying battery. But finally, they were all drilled and ready to go.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drilled!</td></tr>
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I had in mind for some months now, to get some seed potatoes from a local feed store that is close to my house. I get my hay and chicken feed there already, and they had seed potatoes for 2.19 lb. Then, when I went to buy them (likely cause it is now July), they were half price! So, I bought about 4 lbs of 3 different varieties, all organic, for about $4.50.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZC04i4HZbc/UdO9AV4D9ZI/AAAAAAAAAN8/E4KNX6Kf0k8/s1600/IMG_1168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZC04i4HZbc/UdO9AV4D9ZI/AAAAAAAAAN8/E4KNX6Kf0k8/s320/IMG_1168.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic Cal Whites</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organic Kennebecs</td></tr>
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I added a layer of straw into the bottom of each bucket and placed in the seed potatoes. Then, I added a compost/soil mix. As the potatoes grow, I will add in more soil, like traditional "hilling". A very cool benefit of bucket growing is that when you are ready to harvest, you simply dump the bucket out and pick up your taters. I am growing these in my front yard where they can get more sun. In the back, they would have to be in the fenced off garden or my chickens would surely get at them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GrX_dUdeVV0/UdO9AucFAGI/AAAAAAAAAOY/nMBy3T6dkWk/s1600/IMG_1169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GrX_dUdeVV0/UdO9AucFAGI/AAAAAAAAAOY/nMBy3T6dkWk/s320/IMG_1169.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Straw Bed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All nestled in</td></tr>
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I had read that a pound of seed potato will yield 7-10 lbs of tubers. I don't know that I will get that much due to the smaller space, but, who knows? This is surely an experiment. I may not even get a pound, but I will get a better understanding of growing potatoes, and that is worth every penny and ounce of sweat to me. I am excited that I finally got some planted. I have no idea why I waited so long. I supposed it seemed overwhelming or to space intensive before. It is my intention to "put on" all those things I have "put off" for the right timimg/circumstance/money/etc, etc, etc... Potatoes, check.<br />
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Food totals:</div>
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10 lbs cherries</div>
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8 oz beans</div>
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1 lb 2 oz strawberries</div>
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5 lbs 2 oz carrots</div>
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6 oz onions<br />
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483 lbs to goal</div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-39012624444614453752013-04-08T22:39:00.001-07:002013-04-08T22:39:17.560-07:00Learning<br />
<i>A human being has so many skins inside, covering the depths of the heart. We know so many things, but we don't know ourselves! Why, thirty or forty skins or hides, as thick and hard as an ox's or bear's, cover the soul. Go into your own ground and learn to know yourself there.</i><br />
<i>-Meister Eckhart </i><br />
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I have always been told that being a "jack (or jill) of all trades" was a good thing. Knowing a little about a lot things. That is me. I love to cook, but I am no chef. I routinely burn, mangle, and fumble culinary creations. I love to sew, but I don't think anyone but me would wear what I make. I love to draw and paint, but lack the technical skill to express my vision. I love to write, but my fear keeps me from finishing projects. I could go on and on. <br />
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But, I have this pull, this desire, to really <i>KNOW </i>something. To be <i>REALLY</i> good at one thing. The closest I got was probably when I was a Macintosh computer tech. I worked on mainly about 10-12 models and knew them inside and out. I knew part numbers, locations of torx and phillips screws, shortcuts, and workarounds. I could take an MacBook apart and put it back together in record time. <br />
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Unfortunately, this information holds no value for me anymore, and I no longer <i>KNOW </i>a thing. I don't know if it is possible for me at this point to excel at one thing. Or, dare I say, if its even important. I just want to. I have known a few people, who have known since they were little, exactly what they wanted to to with their life. And, then they went and did it, and lived happily ever after. Maybe its because I never knew what I wanted to do with myself. Or, because I still don't. Maybe its because I want the satisfaction of expertise? Or, maybe it would be a knowledge notch before moving on to the 10,000 other things I want to know.<br />
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What is currently preoccupying my mind that is within the scope of this blog is: gardening on a self sustaining level, changing out my one trick pony landscaping for dual purpose plants and herbs, creating systems and setups that require less work and maintenance, and not burning dinner. <br />
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Here is some things from my world last week:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Had a bonfire and roasted marshmallows!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Planted a bunch of strawberry starts in the front yard with <br />my garden helper (to her right)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had previously dug this out and now am adding buried<br /> buckets in of Lavender, Valerian, and Meadowsweet. <br />In the back are daisies. Also I am adding in a <br />bamboo border from the bamboo in our backyard.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needs more bamboo.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is what it looked like when I started. This is <br />getting dug out and will have sunflowers, lady's mantle, <br />skullcap, and parsley.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My apple tree in the back is starting to flower</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My other tree, another variety.</td></tr>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-75466784751328023652013-03-27T19:37:00.003-07:002013-03-27T20:09:47.643-07:00Spring has come!<br />
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“All the spring may be hidden in the single bud, and the low ground nest of the lark may hold the joy that is to herald the feet of many rose-red dawns.” -Oscar Wilde</i></h1>
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Spring is here, and with it, that sense of renewal, of change, and new beginnings. The promise of awakening and growth is at every turn, on the street, in the fields, and in the cries of the morning birds. If you couldn't tell already, I love springtime. All of it. And never more than now, being where I am. There is no where I can go without seeing daffodils. Soon, the Crocuses (Croci?) will bloom and the Tulips will too. The heralds of spring in this neck.</div>
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Today was a good day here. Maya and I spent a good part of the day outside. She with the hose, me in the garden finishing laying down the hay. Who knew "making it rain" would be this fun to this kid. We are in the PNW for crying out loud.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make it rain momma!</td></tr>
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I had plenty of help from the Thunder Chickens. We chased them off all day. The lure of wriggling worms is so strong.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gimme some worms yo!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chickens about to take a dirt nap</td></tr>
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We added spinach and kale to our actually planted list. I am hoping for kale of epic proportions. I am tired of buying it. I am thinking that I won't have to anymore, as I planted A LOT of it. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hay!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All hayed out. I promise I'm done.</td></tr>
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Tonight we are enjoying this fine weather as a family on the patio, bbqing, listening to Reggae, and watching Maya show off her dancing moves. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy and Daughter</td></tr>
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Spring is here, and I am filled with the promise of what will be. New growth, opportunity, shedding my old skin for a better fit. </div>
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life is good.<br />
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-16327722530160827932013-03-20T00:00:00.001-07:002013-03-20T00:01:28.954-07:00Garden ProgressOur garden space is finally all dug up and leveled. A big thanks must go out to my Mister, as he kinda took charge of the digging and manned out 3/4 of it. I raked it level and weeded. Then began making the raised rows that will house my seedlings. Oh, and I weeded. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whew! Almost done!</td></tr>
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Then I weeded some more. And, did I mention I weeded? <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomatoes and beans will go here!</td></tr>
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As you can see from the pics, I still have a fair amount of weeding to do. I did, however, purchase a bale of hay to strew in the walkways. This will keep moisture in, and the weeds to a minimum. I will only have to weed the raised rows going forward. Each of these rows has now been double dug, and, minus more weeding, is ready for planting! </div>
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While getting the bale of hay at a local shop, I ran across strawberry starts for .75 and Walla Walla onions for 2.49 a bunch. I was entirely lacking onions, so this was a great purchase for me. I also have some strawberries in the front yard already, and I will be adding these new starts in tomorrow. The onions are ready for planting now, so they are going in tomorrow too. These will be the first things actually planted in the garden this year.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheap organic starts, yay!</td></tr>
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My plum tree is flowering, and even though I have not seen a bee yet, I am positive that this is going to be a banner year for this tree. I can't wait, I'm out of jam.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plum overload!</td></tr>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-52458109558899539432013-03-18T23:58:00.001-07:002013-03-27T20:26:49.721-07:00DIY Lotion BarsMy daughter has had patchy dry skin since she was a baby. I have used all kinds of lotions and creams and none work very well, or for very long. I also don't like putting lotion on her skin that is full of chemicals, when I know there are natural alternatives. I have been reading about lotion bars for a while now, so I decided to make some of my own. I used two Altoids tins I had been saving, as I couldn't find any of the molds that I own, of course. Here is what I used to make them.<br />
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1/2 c Organic Virgin Coconut Oil<br />
1/2 c Pure Beeswax<br />
Essential oil of your choice (my choice was lavender)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get your stuff together!</td></tr>
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Some methods I have seen call for using a double boiler. I did not, I just used a sauce pan on low heat. Add your coconut oil and beeswax to the pan. Since I just had a block of beeswax, I simply grated it, measured it, and added it to the pan. Add your essential oil. I used lavender, and about 15 drops. You can chose any oil you like or combination of oils. You can also add more oil if you like the scent stronger. When making this again I would probably add more than 15 drops, but that's just my personal preference.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the pot!</td></tr>
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Melt it all together over very low heat. Mine took about 10 minutes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All Melted</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonus!</td></tr>
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I decided I would have enough to fill an old lip balm tube I had been saving for just such a day, so I filled that up too. It turned out to be exactly the perfect amount for both the tins and the lip balm.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAN1uE50jIQ/UUgJS4NnEpI/AAAAAAAAAHI/Io1_-HeQjuc/s1600/photo-27.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAN1uE50jIQ/UUgJS4NnEpI/AAAAAAAAAHI/Io1_-HeQjuc/s320/photo-27.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect!</td></tr>
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Let them sit and cool completely before using. When they are ready, just rub it and let the heat of your hand melt it slightly. Then, rub it in wherever you need some lotion! That's it! Easy, cheap, and completely natural.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished tin</td></tr>
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<br />Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-75335160889023418452013-02-19T22:31:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:33:22.201-08:00DIY Deodorant. Oh yes, I did...I have been wanting to try a DIY deodorant for a long time. So long in fact, I have two empty deodorant containers just waiting for use. There is no doubt for me, that I would like to use something that isn't toxic, and includes natural ingredients. The trick though, is, does it work? Am I going to make this stuff, and stink like a dirty hippie half way through the day? Well, high time I found out.<br />
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The chosen recipe:<br />
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1/4 c Baking Soda<br />
1/4 c Arrowroot powder (or corn starch)<br />
4-5 T Coconut oil<br />
10 drops of essential oil<br />
A container to put it in<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uNqYh_tSoaM/USRjQGhqQiI/AAAAAAAAAFY/WFCDmQ__Wtw/s1600/deodorant+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uNqYh_tSoaM/USRjQGhqQiI/AAAAAAAAAFY/WFCDmQ__Wtw/s320/deodorant+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to go!</td></tr>
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<br />Start by adding in the dry ingredients. I whisked them together to make sure they were well blended.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EE3JCAKi2hE/USRkHoZtneI/AAAAAAAAAGA/2d1A6oYOzmc/s1600/photo-16.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EE3JCAKi2hE/USRkHoZtneI/AAAAAAAAAGA/2d1A6oYOzmc/s320/photo-16.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well Blended!</td></tr>
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<br />Add in the Coconut oil. I used a fork to blend in. Add in your Essential oil. I used Lavender, a little Sandalwood, and some flowery, unknown oil that is not labeled, and I forgot what it was. Both Lavender and Sandalwood have anti-bacterial properties, which I thought would be a perfect for a deodorant. After you mix in the oil, just stir it up into a paste. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7LN7gFK_Ss/USRkG-Q6ldI/AAAAAAAAAF4/ApOb7WJ-YcQ/s1600/photo-14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7LN7gFK_Ss/USRkG-Q6ldI/AAAAAAAAAF4/ApOb7WJ-YcQ/s320/photo-14.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes pasty is good.</td></tr>
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Next, put the mix into your container of choice. I used my empty deodorant container after washing all the nasty commercial stuff out of it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvWIEOLgG90/USRkE4YO5fI/AAAAAAAAAFk/FBZhUYKtYNM/s1600/photo-13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GvWIEOLgG90/USRkE4YO5fI/AAAAAAAAAFk/FBZhUYKtYNM/s320/photo-13.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to fill!</td></tr>
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I filled this one up and still had a lot left so I got my other empty and filled that up too. Notice my specialized tools.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3d8dO5h80U0/USRkRgaJ4wI/AAAAAAAAAGU/yuJ4OG0fmTc/s1600/photo-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3d8dO5h80U0/USRkRgaJ4wI/AAAAAAAAAGU/yuJ4OG0fmTc/s320/photo-11.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right tool for the job. Ignore bananas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After filling, they looked like any other deodorant, but smelled lovely, and were safe enough to eat. Eww, I know, but you <i>could</i>. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEhkRsAtroE/USRkEot0bUI/AAAAAAAAAFg/vC1PFPH3ya0/s1600/photo-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FEhkRsAtroE/USRkEot0bUI/AAAAAAAAAFg/vC1PFPH3ya0/s320/photo-12.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to de-stink.</td></tr>
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I put both in the freezer to harden up for a bit. The next morning, I grabbed one, put it on like regular deodorant, and squished my arms around. There definitely seemed to be too much on, so I wiped some off, and put on my work shirt. About 15 minutes later, I noticed that my underarms looked "wet" and realized that there was still too much on. I still have to scrub it out to see if it stains, so I will have to get back to you on that.</div>
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Coconut oil melts at a very low temp so applying like normal was not a good idea. I wiped it all off and applied again, this time just swiping my fingers over the top and rubbing into my armpit. I went to work and the real test began. </div>
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I want something that is non toxic and healthy, but also something that works. Testing it at work would be proof enough for me as I work in a very fast paced bakery. About an hour into my shift, I felt pretty good and warned my boss of my experimental deodorant project. That made my pits fair game, though she never said a word about it. When I got home, I smelled my underarms, and, to be honest, there was a little smell, but not anymore than with conventional deodorants. I am thinking I may need a little more than I put on, so I will have to play with that. All in all however, a complete success! I would probably recommend putting it in a jar or tin with a lid instead of deodorant tubes. I hope you try this or some other recipe, and replace that nasty conventional stuff!</div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-52520335783237427552013-02-11T23:13:00.002-08:002013-02-11T23:18:27.886-08:00Seeds Are Here!<br />
Wow! That was fast! I got the seeds from <a href="http://www.botanicalinterests.com/">Botanical Interests</a> on Saturday, and the seeds from <a href="http://www.bountifulgardens.org/">Bountiful Gardens</a> today. Not too shabby. The packets from Botanical Interests have a ton of information on them, and even more on the inside.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdaAKU_IxBA/URnlL7O4tYI/AAAAAAAAAEA/0jZjI59JXvI/s1600/photo-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EdaAKU_IxBA/URnlL7O4tYI/AAAAAAAAAEA/0jZjI59JXvI/s320/photo-8.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Botanical Interests packets with beautiful illustrations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am equally impressed with Bountiful Gardens. They have some very unique seeds I didn't find anywhere else, and I love what they are doing. I got my medicinal herbs from them as well as quite a variety of veggies. Though not as pretty as the Botanical Interests packets, these have a simple, natural beauty that is undeniable. And, their descriptions and information is outstanding.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bountiful Gardens packets</td></tr>
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So, next thing is to start these bad boys! I am on a pretty tight budget and ended up opting for free containers from work to start the seeds. Our muffins come frozen in these and we throw them out everyday. Seems like they would be perfect and the cost is definitely right. Each tray has 24 spots.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free Ain't Bad!</td></tr>
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The next thing I did, was finish clearing all the blackberry from my garden. It was a chore to be sure, but I got it done, and dug out a 4' x 17' stretch. Only a bajillion feet left. I am building garden muscles though, and that is good. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4BWOCrAl7e4/URnoTs4QKzI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lcjzL-ajITE/s1600/photo-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4BWOCrAl7e4/URnoTs4QKzI/AAAAAAAAAEs/lcjzL-ajITE/s320/photo-6.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No More Blackberry!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6X68t4CnB2c/URnoGttvA7I/AAAAAAAAAEk/yf_aEN6S32w/s1600/photo-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6X68t4CnB2c/URnoGttvA7I/AAAAAAAAAEk/yf_aEN6S32w/s320/photo-5.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Real Life, This Is 4' x 17", Pinky Swear.</td></tr>
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My girls were out in force, trying to get any and all worms that were exposed from my digging. I don't think a shovel full got turned without their being at least one worm in it. Good sign! I decided to start keeping an egg count. I have three chickens. Two Red Stars, and a Turken. I got two eggs since I started counting yesterday the 10th. They are very regular layers, each providing an egg a day usually. And, I no longer have any bugs in my yard. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden Helpers</td></tr>
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So, a good week! My goals for next week in the garden:</div>
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Dig out the rest of the garden</div>
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Buy fencing and put it up (to keep the chickens out)</div>
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Map out all my veggies</div>
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Dig out the beds in the front yard</div>
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Make a plan for herbs and medicinal flowers in the front yard or in containers</div>
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Trim everything else up. </div>
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-67145731372334641322013-02-05T22:35:00.000-08:002013-02-05T22:35:04.005-08:00Spring Is Coming!I finally, actually, ordered all my seeds for the upcoming season. I wish I had gotten my act together sooner, but alas, I did not. But, my seeds are officially ordered and on their merry little way to my eager hands. I am so excited, I can almost taste the green zebra tomatoes, the bull's horn peppers, ground cherries, and brandywines. <br />
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I also included some culinary and medicinal herbs like basil, parsley, meadowsweet, valerian, and lady's mantle. I can't wait to make some pesto, or a meadowsweet tincture, Or put my ass to sleep with some valerian root. <br />
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I dug out some blackberry today in the garden that I missed at the end of summer. I didn't get very far before my shoulder started hurting, so my hubby took over, and I gathered up those ridiculously pesky vines that he dug out and tossed in my direction.<br />
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It felt good to be in the dirt.<br />
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Here is my seed list for the upcoming season. All Heirloom and Organic. This does not include seed I already have or starts I may or may not be talked into buying.<br />
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Lavender, English, Tall <br />
Parsley, Italian Dark Green Flat <br />
Pepper, Chile Ancho/Poblano <br />
Tomato, Pole San Marzano <br />
Tomato, Pole Principe Borghese<br />
Tomato, Pole Green Zebra<br />
Tomato, Pole Brandywine Red & Yellow<br />
Tomatillo, Toma Verde <br />
Gourd, Hard-Shelled Long Handled Dipper <br />
Kale, Russian Red, <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Bean, Dragon Langerie Wax, Bush, <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Bean, Good Mother Stallard, Dry, Pole <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Carrot, Juwarot <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Cucumber, Lemon, <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Pepper, Corno di Toro Red , Sweet <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Spinach, Low Acid <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Ground Cherry, Aunt Molly’s <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Sunflower, Oilseed <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Basil, Sweet, <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Valerian <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Feverfew <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Meadowsweet <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Herb, Lady's Mantle <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
Skullcap<br />
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Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-42882541219396232262013-01-28T19:52:00.000-08:002013-01-28T19:52:40.079-08:00Non Toxic CleanerAbout a year ago, I switched from regular cleaners to natural cleaners. Most notably, using vinegar as an all purpose cleaner. It is completely non-toxic, safe for food contact surfaces, and a great disinfectant. Numerous studies have shown that a straight 5% solution of vinegar kills 99 % of bacteria, 82% of mold, and 80% of germs. Pretty great, huh?<br />
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My family has associated the smells of pine, lemon, and mountain fresh to clean rooms and surfaces, and didn't particularly care for the smell of vinegar, even though it dissipates quickly. So, I decided to change the smell. I steeped some lavender flowers in vinegar for about a month in a quart jar, and ended up with cleaner for about 4 months. Just add it 50/50 with water to a spray bottle. Not bad for free flowers I picked around my neighborhood, and some white vinegar that cost about 2$ for a gallon. <br />
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The cleaner was much improved, not only by the smell, but lavender has disinfectant properties, and is considered soothing by aromatherapists. The smell of lavender lingers much longer than the smell of vinegar, so I consider that a big success. I ended up making another batch, and have been happily cleaning with lavender steeped vinegar for about a year. <br />
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But Im tired of lavendar. So, I decided to mix up some orange cleaner. Orange oil has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, as well as grease fighting power. I added some peels to a quart jar and topped with white vinegar. You can add the peels as you go if you don't have a bunch, or you can save them up in the freezer in a bag, and start a batch when you have a jar full. You can also throw in tangerine, lemon, lime, or any other citrus peels you may have. Let it sit for at least 2 weeks, preferably a month. If you are adding the peels as you go, start your time when putting in the last peels. When the time is up, strain out the peels, cut 50/50 with water in a spray bottle, and compost the peels. Also, you can use full strength on really greasy stovetop messes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NWOL4330O8k/UQbl5ImThRI/AAAAAAAAADc/kCKXI-C0-rM/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NWOL4330O8k/UQbl5ImThRI/AAAAAAAAADc/kCKXI-C0-rM/s320/photo-2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steeping Oranges</td></tr>
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A word of caution to those with feline affinity. I have heard that cats don't like the smell of orange so use with care near their stuff.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-29465528344254311292013-01-16T00:02:00.002-08:002013-07-25T23:06:02.200-07:00Food issuesWhen I go shopping in a regular grocery store, I mainly focus on the outside. The produce, the meat, and the dairy. I do my best to avoid all the processed, packaged food, and bottles of flavored fizzy sugar that populate the middle.<br />
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I happen to work in one of these places, but fortunately, don't have to leave my little bakery corner unless Im sprinkling baked goods throughout the store. However, since hurting my shoulder at the end of November, I have been on light duty, and can't do my normal work.<br />
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So the other day, I had to walk the store, every aisle, and scan out of stock items. It took me forever, because I was amazed by the products I ran across. "Natural" and "healthy" products filled with unnatural and unhealthy ingredients. Sugar in fun shapes for your kid marketed as a healthy fruit snack. Oodles of noodle boxes with powdered chemical sauces., and umpteen other examples, across just as many food types, of confusing jargon and marketing loopholes.<br />
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Now, I know this stuff exists. I just forget. I also do, on occasion, buy some packaged food. However, I am at a point where increasingly, I seek out and find a healthier, better, alternative. It almost always requires more work on my part, and often it is not as cheap, but the payoff is huge in that I get a superior, healthy product that I know is good for me and my family.<br />
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When I was just starting my scan of out of stocks, a woman asked me "hey, you work here? Is this stuff any good?" waving a box of noodle side dish at me. I said that I hadn't tried it, but mentioned that I had tried the organic product on the shelf next to it and it was pretty good for box pasta. She rolled her eyes and said "Ugh, you're one of those" and walked off. Its true what they say about leading a horse to water.<br />
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Awhile back I watched a good documentary about food additives, artificial sweeteners, links between some additives and cravings, and deceptive strategies used by the food industry to schlep their stuff. Its called Hungry For Change and definitely worth a watch if you are at all interested on what is really going on with your food. You can watch it on netflix, or get it from their website <a href="http://www.hungryforchange.tv/">here</a>.<br />
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<br />Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-14754067411158661142013-01-07T10:22:00.000-08:002013-01-07T10:22:18.622-08:00Garden GrooveI always end up (not) planning my garden too late. It mostly ends up being what starts I end up finding, thrown into a poorly prepared plot or bed. But, how can I have a righteous garden if I don't actually plan it? The short answer is, I can't. The good news is, its the beginning of January! <br />
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My family and I moved into a cute little house last August that came complete with a 500 sq ft (17x30) garden space. I have never had so much space to garden in. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rfAyu0lEEpw/UOsIWug144I/AAAAAAAAADM/0hypA4Jyn5c/s1600/photo-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rfAyu0lEEpw/UOsIWug144I/AAAAAAAAADM/0hypA4Jyn5c/s320/photo-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poorly taken picture of new garden space. Its in there somewhere.</td></tr>
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As you can see, from the worst picture taken of a garden ever, the space is quite large. So, once my brain turned towards thoughts of the garden, I was immediately overwhelmed. I began by making a list of things we like to eat a lot. Then I added things we probably would eat more of if I grew them instead of bought them. Then, I got on the internet. That, my friends, is where things went awry. <br />
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If you have never perused seed catalogs before, let me just tell you, you will want at least 5 acres when you are finished. How can one resist names like Devils Tongue Lettuce, Black Valentine Bush Beans, Purple Plumed Celery, Cucamelons, Wonderberry, or Aunt Molly's Ground Cherry. Now my list is WAY too long. And then, the hubs chimed in. "I need a lot of space for my pumpkins".<br />
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I ended up finding a few sites for heirloom seed that send out catalogs. From what I hear, they come mid January. Hopefully, I will have a shorter list by then, but I doubt it. Here are links to three:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://rareseeds.com/requestcatalog/">http://rareseeds.com/requestcatalog/</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Annie's Annuals & Perennials</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.anniesannuals.com/mlist/default.asp">http://www.anniesannuals.com/mlist/default.asp</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">Botanical Interests</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.botanicalinterests.com/heirloom-seeds-catalogs">http://www.botanicalinterests.com/heirloom-seeds-catalogs</a></span></div>
Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4169765407556337493.post-41153055673826345672013-01-02T16:37:00.001-08:002013-01-02T16:37:17.125-08:00Today is the first day of the rest of your life!Today is the first day of the rest of your life! And too, this blog. I wish to chronicle my endeavors this year in becoming more self sufficient, live with more intention and mindfulness, and simplify. I also wish to find lost arts, and arts new to me, learn to play music, return to painting and writing, and not least, raise an awesome kid. A tall order for a period so short as a year. So, let's get started!<br />
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Here is a list of things that are immediately on my mind:<br />
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Have a righteous garden<br />
Growing at least 500lbs of food this year<br />
Making my own oil from an oilseed variety that I grow<br />
Canning more (waterbath)<br />
Learn to pressure can (hubs got me one for christmas!), and can the bejesus out of my veggies<br />
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<br />Madeleinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09156682025042417872noreply@blogger.com0