"My Little Piece of Heaven"

"Dreamscape"

2009-09-28T05:26:00.000-07:00

"What I must do is all that concerns me, not what the people think"
~Ralph Waldo Emerson"

I haven't written in here since March. I felt like I was walking through a maze instead of living. So much had happened. After burying 5 family members in what was such quick succession, I felt as if I had lost my way.

Fast forward to today. I still feel like I am in some sort of a haze and some days I still feel as if I still can't find my way. So below you will find the ramblings of a mind on fire. It might not make much sense, but it is where "my" head is right now; self-observation, and pondering.

By taking a closer look at myself, I realized that I had gotten caught up in what many call "The American Dream". The pursuit of a better life. The pinnacle of success. This idea has been around for centuries and "created" by those that decided what "they" thought was the best way to live . They set out the roadmap, and told us what it is we should be looking for. It has led to what is like a barren land

I find it amazing that to this day, so many of are still trying to find this elusive "Nirvana". It is why so many are on anti-depressants, mood stabilizers, and abuse drugs and alcohol. It is because, so many are trying to reach the goal set so many years ago. Everyone is heading in the same direction, and many are ending up someplace that they don't really want to be. It has led many to a barren land with little sense of refreshment.

Because we allow society to dictate what is: in, right, correct, and "normal", we set ourselves up for much disappointment. We are afraid to not appear ambitious, or as workhorses. We don't want to be labeled; slackers, or lazy, or no accounts. We don't want to be "different". We are afraid to stand up for what we individually believe in.

And so we get up each morning and go our separate ways to try to either better ourselves or to eek out some sort of living so that we can "fit" in.
In order to fill the voids and to pacify ourselves against the drudgery, we "buy" things that keep us tied to the jobs that we hate and people that we'd rather not be in the company of. All in the name of "The American Dream."

So what I don't understand is why we let other people decide what is the "right" way to live life. Why does success have a definition? What has happened to "individuality"? If I want to live in a tent in the woods and catch fish, and live off the grid, why am I considered eccentric? If I want to Homeschool my children and grow our food, why am I defined as a part of a "new trend"? If I'd rather not have the latest in video games, cell phones, computers, etc. why do people say that I am living in the past? If I am not infringing on the rights of others, why can't I just be myself and live the way that "I" want to live?
So many people are burnt out and unhappy . Yet, they can't find the way to what would truly fulfill them and bring them at least some contentment. Why? What is the missing piece of the puzzle? What is going on? And it is not just the pursuit of The American Dream, but so many other things that put us and keep us in "life ruts."

What has happened to families working together for the benefit of the unit? So many fathers (and many mothers too) are just abdicating their responsibilities in favor of "personal" fulfillment. When one person decides to just do the minimal or decides their contributions will be limited, it puts undue pressure on the other spouse, partner, or loved one. If there are children, the children suffer because the overtaxed parent simply cannot do it all and something will be sacrificed. With so many pressures to just make ends meet today, if one family member decides that they aren't willing to go the extra mile, then the whole family goes nowhere. That, or the person taking the brunt of the responsibilities burns out . How can one find true contentment and "truly" live if they are encumbered and without support of their efforts?

Will we ever find a way to really "live" if we don't teach ourselves to consume less; especially when our resources are less? Are we buying and accumulating "stuff" because we really don't know what we want in life, or how to get it? Do "things" just give us that temporary sense of contentment? That false "rush" that makes us feel that things are ok just for that fleeting moment? Because as long as we accumulate "stuff" we have to pay for it. And as long as we have to pay for it we will have to go to jobs that we detest. And as long as we go to jobs that we detest, we will be unhappy and turn to medication or other vices to cope. And it is through this despair that others will reap financial gain.

So what is the answer? I don't know that there is just "one" answer for everyone. Contrary to popular belief we are NOT a "One size fits all" Nation. It is our differences that make us a unique "unit". It is our uniqueness that we have abandoned in favor of "collective mediocrity". It is because of the mindset that "more is better" and that "we" are better if we have more, that causes the divisiveness among us, and the strain upon us.

I am of the belief that any "dream"should be defined by what makes us want to bound out of bed each morning. The things that we are passionate about, the things that we find meaning in. And no one should define what those things are for anyone else. It has to be a personal endeavor. But as we go about finding what makes us "light" up,there are still some particulars that need addressing. What so many of us seem to leave up to chance.

You have to KNOW what you want before you seek it. You have to be solid in your beliefs. You can't just "romanticize" things but have to know in the deepest part of your soul what you feel you need in order to thrive.

If you know that the life that you desire is not conducive to a family and children, PLEASE don't get married and encumber someone else. If you KNOW that you aren't "family" oriented and that the responsibilities that go along with it are not in your character or make-up, be a man or a woman and do not subject others to the limitations that you set for yourself.

If you just have to be with someone, make SURE that the person that you choose is as close to your value system as possible. Don't fall for that; Love is blind, love conquers all, they'll change for me, bullshit. Because it isn't, it doesn't, and they wont!! If you don't align yourself as close as possible to someone that has similar passions and perspectives, you'll spend your life floundering. And life is just way to short to constantly have to start over in it. It would be better to just be alone than to be with someone that has no clue, enthusiasm, or respect for the things that are important to you. Because there is no perfection to be found in ourselves or other humans, it is imperative not to make foolish choices, or ones laced in emotion.

Once we figure out what we need to thrive, we need to be aware of the sacrifices that might come along with it. We have to KNOW what we are "honestly" willing to give up, and what we are not. We have to erase the picture that society has created and paint our "own" portrait. We have to be willing to take chances and to fail. We cannot succeed "collectively" as long as we lack "individually".

American Dream? For me, there isn't one. I don't know that I want what everyone else aspires to. All I know is what ignites my passion. And these are simple things. I have to stop losing my focus on this. I have to stop allowing myself to be steamrolled under the constraints of things that have little to no importance to me. I have to set and "maintain" a "Personal Dream". A dream that embraces my children and those that make up my family. I have to continue to put in the work that will bring the components of my passions into my life "now" as I work towards the rest.

I find that every time I deviate from that path, I find myself in a place that I have no desire to be. It leaves me feeling suffocated. Short of breath. And if I ever stopped breathing....how would "my" dream ever come true?
Till next time...

"Loss"

2009-03-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

I have not been to my blog in a while. Mostly it has been due to school and just life in general. Lately it has just been due to something that I cannot comprehend. I probably would not have come here tonight but received an alert and an inquiry as to if I was o.k. (Thank you Smallpines). At first I didnt' know if coming to my blog of all places to discuss this would somehow minimize it. But in the past, my blog has been a place that I have been able to come to to share, think out loud, and to use as a catharsis. Plus, I have always believed that when someone takes time out of their busy life to ask of your well being, it is only proper to respond.

I was asked if everything is ok and it is with deep pain and regret that I must say no. I am numb. I am devastated. Last Saturday, one of my sisters and two of her sons (10, 11)
were brutally murdered. I could have just said that they had died, but with what they endured that explanation would have just been too simplified. They didn't just die, they suffered. It is being called a case of domestic violence. They will be laid to rest this Wednesday.
Something like this is very hard to accept, process and come to grips with. Hard to believe. It was and is just so senseless. I don't really know what to say.

But, I will encourage everyone who stops by here to love yourself, love and respect those closest to you and embrace each and every day. Life is short.

I will be back when I can. Till next time....

"Priorities and Bottom Lines"

2009-03-01T07:32:00.000-08:00

It has been raining here for the past three days. As I look outside of the window this morning it is snowing!!!! Snow is something of a big deal around here as it doesn't do so very often. My little one immediately wanted to go out in it. I love to see the innocence of childhood.

While I did incur some minor flooding, the constant, steady rain this weekend put me into a most reflective mood. When it rains, I like to go outside in it. It is during these times that I have some of my clearest thoughts. It is in the stillness of such moments that I find a keener sense of purpose. I feel my most grateful, I am my most thankful. I can truly live in the moment and take in everything around me. I can block out the "what ifs", and the "what ares" if only for a moment. I wish that moments like this could last forever. But alas, they can't.

I haven't been around "blogville" for a while. It seems that things are speeding up more than slowing down. With school, the boys, making sure the finances, and the pantries are in order, blogging has just not been given a place of priority.

And speaking of priorities, such things have been foremost in my mind these days. For me, that is akin to a stocked pantry, freezer, bills being paid and making sure that we have our "needs".

We are living in a very uneasy climate right now. Many people are losing their jobs, their homes, a few are even losing their minds. Save for the grace of God, go I. Some are finger pointing, blaming, and forgetting. Unbelievably, many aren't making any changes in the way they have been living even in our economic decline. Many are forgetting that the conditions that caused this recession, or depression or whatever label one wants to add to it, didn't happen overnight, nor will it disappear overnight. And allowing fear and anger to be our reactions to it won't make it disappear any faster. In fact, I am of the opinion that such reactions only serve to rob of us of the energy that we will need to put into place our own individual means of survival.

I think we would all do well to be at least thinking about a way to put into affect "habits" that will make our going less stressful in "uncertain times" as many are now calling them.

Because let's face it, without some monies, and the support of one another, our going will be a lot tougher.

Things like bartering, and canning, and gardening, and maybe even sharing residences with our families, and even some friends might become our "new" normal. Are we ready for those possibilities? Personally, I want to brush up on my baking skills. I'd like to figure out the best way if I have to eventually make my own dog food, or other things that I depend on others to supply. But,the most important thing at least for me is to make sure that there is always a roof. For the other stuff, there are alternatives. Those that came before us found ways around the electrical, even the plumbing. But having that roof, just makes dealing with the alternatives that much better.

The time has come upon those of us that garden to get our plans into action. Last year's garden has taught me what I need to be aware of this year. Not to overplant, and not to underplant either. My Spring Break will be coming up in a few weeks and I hope to take that time to get things into the works. Lots of clean-up in store for the preparations, but it has to be done. Lots of indoor re-stocking and de-cluttering needs to be done as well. Preparation is the key.

It all comes down to priorities and bottom lines. The bottom line is that we need to have some things as priorities. Because when it is all said and done, the only "hand" that we will be able to truly depend on dangles out of the bottom of our shirtsleeves."We" are the answer to the problems that we face. We will have to call upon our strengths, our energies, our wiles, and our knowledge, to put into affect a "Lifeplan" that will serve our own individual needs and those of our families.

So no matter what economic or other situations that surrounds us, if you are warm, and, fed, and among your family this first day of March, be grateful. If you still have a roof and a good chance of keeping it, be thankful. If you have enough money to buy gas to fill your tank this week, or insurance for medicines that you need to keep going, rejoice. If you still have a job, or savings, be humbled.Work hard now to set up a contingency plan that you might need later. None of us knows what tomorrow will bring to our doorsteps. Continue to find ways to take care of yourself, and even in times of scarcity, don't be too afraid to care for others. Best to all, Till next time...

"Happy Birthday To Me"

2009-01-30T06:59:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's the big "48" for me today. Nothing much going on just happy to have made it to another year. Yep, whoever made the cake in the picture sure had the right idea. A great weekend to all and "Go Steelers!!!!!" Hope everyone is well,

Till next time...

"On The Mend"

2009-01-09T09:30:00.000-08:00

School started on Wednesday for me and the routine begins. The past few weeks have been somewhat hectic, and quite emotionally draining.

My sister was finally laid to rest last month, the holidays ended(Thank God) and I had to really push myself to get back to where I needed to be. I didn't want to go back to school. I didn't think that I could handle it. I just wanted to go somewhere and rest and lick my wounds and not have to deal with much of anything. Unfortunately, my life does not allow for such luxuries so I sucked it up and got past the hardest door to exit; my own.

I decided to scale back on classes rather than not continue, to concentrate on what gives me the most difficulty and to take things from there. I had to set some limits for myself lest I become undone.

I went back and forth with the decision but made a decision based on what is right for me for a change. Not what others might feel is right for me. I have been riding on that train for too long now. It is time to get on another track. "My" track. That means that while I will always continue to be open for suggestions,when it comes to the final decision, I am going to listen to my own voice for a change. I will listen to my own body and learn not to doubt myself or to think that anyone else knows what is best for me. I plan to no longer be so easily moved or swayed to believe that a path that might work for someone else is the one that I should also follow. It will mean not always being so nice and non-combative. I have taught people how to treat me and now I will have to re-teach them. They will be told when they do or say something to me that I don't feel is acceptable. I feel that if I can respect them and their choices I should be given the same respect. Those that don't like those terms can find their way out of my life. I won't miss them.

I need to heal, and rebuild, and renew, and grow and move forward. I have spent a lot of years of my life both caring for and worrying about both my mother and my sister. They are both gone now and no longer need looking after. I can work my way towards relinquishing the guilt of wondering if I was doing enough or if I could have done more. I need to know turn that level of concern to myself so that I can be a better mother for my children and a better friend to those that I hold dear.

So yeah, I am on the mend. It is a slow process and I plan to take as much time as I need to make sure that I heal properly.

It is always the simple things that seem to help my soul to soar. So I plan to stick as close to them as humanly possible.

For instance, today started off very cold in the morning but now the sun is out and the air is warm. I decided to take advantage of it and to hang out my laundry instead of using the dryer. Just getting out there and doing something as mundane as that reminded me that I am on the right track. Most people would scoff at that, but I find it invigorating. I am of the variety that doesn't need diamonds or pearls to make them happy. Ok, maybe not diamonds, because I do have some Pearls that I simply love, but I digress. The point is, sometimes the smaller and the simpler the better. And usually these simpler things are always gems in and of themselves.Those are the things that I want my life surrounded by.

So as the weekend approaches there are things to do that will get done, but I'm not going to beat myself up over them if they don't. One day at a time. 24 hour compartments. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. Till next time...

"Catching Up"

2008-12-30T07:14:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I have posted so I figured I would at least stop by and do some catching up. The Holidays are just about over and it seems that so much has happened in between.

On December 9th, I received a phone call that I pretty much knew would come eventually. It was a call letting me know that my sister had died. It was a pretty surreal experience and sometimes it still plays in my head. They never said that she died, only that she had "expired". Expired? What, like a carton of milk expired? Like a coupon expired? Expired? I don't know why that word seemed to bother me so much but it did. But I pushed past that to take care of what had to be taken care of and now she has been laid to rest.

The Holidays for me will forever be a reminder of loss. Around Thanksgiving will always remind me of the loss of my mom and now Christmas will be the marker for the loss of my sister. Holidays are sometimes emotional enough without being tied to these kinds of reminders. But alas, it will be what I make of it.

All in all there wasn't much joy for me this Holiday season although I went through the motions for my children. Still I am thankful each day that I am still here and had the chance to participate even if mentally distanced.

As tomorrow looms and marks the end of another year, I find myself in a reflective mood. I won't make resolutions but I will set goals and plan to use them to make my life more manageable. Next week school starts up again for both myself and the children. I am in no way ready to go back to that stress, but know that resisting it will only add to the stress.

January will also make me another year older and will herald one child's "Sixteenth" birthday. With that will come the desire to drive and a continuing of all the other teenage angst filled situations. Oh joy....

I am looking forward to beginning the Spring garden though. I am already receiving my seed catalogs and am contemplating how to go about this years crops. I am looking forward to that more than anything.

Overall, when I think of 2008 it has been a mixed bag for me. There have been ups, there have been LOTS of downs, but hey, it wouldn't be life if it was anything different right? But the best part is that I found a way to make it through both extremes. And as we face a new year, a new governmental administration, and a continuing declining economy, I think that making it through counts for a lot. To everyone I wish a safe and Happy New Year!! Till next time...

"Memories"

2008-12-08T09:40:00.000-08:00

As a single footstep will not make a path on the earth, so a single thought will not make a pathway in the mind. To make a deep physical path, we walk again and again. To make a deep mental path, we must think over and over the kind of thoughts we wish to dominate our lives.

~ Henry David Thoreau~

This morning in my mailbox was an e-mail from a friend talking about Nostalgia. Many of the things enclosed in the e-mail made me smile. Made me remember. And while those times were not necessarily "The Best of Times" across the board, there were and still are a lot of fond memories connected to them.

Sadly, I don't have many fond childhood memories, after a certain period of my life, but the ones that I do have I have always treasured and protected. Most of them took place during the six years that I lived with my grandmother and the respective summers thereafter.

My family originally resided in South Carolina. It was where I was born as well. I left South Carolina a few weeks before my sixth birthday and would go on to grow up in Chicago Illinois. I remember most of the happiness and safety that I felt disappearing shortly following this move.But that's another story....

In South Carolina there were cousins and aunts and uncles and grandmothers and great-grandmothers providing direction, love, and needed discipline. There were gardens and red clay dirt, and memories that were formed in the kitchen and many meals that came out of those kitchens. Neighbors still looked out for you and were considered "Extended families". You knew that even if your own grandmother didn't see you doing something she would know by the time that you got home because the "Surrogate grandmothers" made sure she got the information. It was double for me because my grandfather's sisters lived right up the lane from us, so there was no hiding for me.

There wasn't a lot of money in the beginning and I remember times when my grandmother would drink coffee so that I could have whatever there was for breakfast. I remember having a bottle fashioned out of a coca-cola bottle and a nipple, filled with coffee. I remember taking baths in the tin tubs now used for feed. There were kerosene lamps and for a while an outhouse. Those were lean times, but I still never, ever, remember feeling like I did without. I only remember being happy.

I remember my great-aunt having my cousins and I pick beans and okra and tomatoes and greens from her garden to have for dinner. I remember the chickens that ran around the yard, the big black cauldron that was used to boil water for washing clothes. I remember feeling sad when great-grandma caught a chicken and either rang his neck or chopped his neck off with her small hatchet. I remeber a pot of boiling water,and feathers all over the kitchen. I forgot my sadness when said chicken filled my stomach at dinnertime.

The sheer quality of the fresh, homemade food was a delight in and of itself. To this day I can still remember the aromas, the tastes, and the absolute love that went into the preparation of those meals.

My grandmother and her mother were maids by trade. Over time, other family members became Educators, Principals, there was a Lawyer, some worked for factories, Coca-Cola, and other trades. Most of those relatives migrated North. My grandfather was one of the first Entrepreneurs in that little town that I grew up in. Eventually, he owned a laundromat, construction company,and was part owner of a funeral home. Unfortunately, he and my grandmother did not make it as a couple and she did not share in his eventual good fortune. Still, he always made sure that if we needed anything, we received it.

As I got older, I never understood why my grandmother and great-grandmother never got upset because they had to work as maids and clean and cook for others. As I matured, I understood that they did what was required of them to take care of us. Pride had its place, but family, family was priority!!! Still, I cannot remember one time when I heard either of them complain. They were a STRONG bunch of women in those days and I always admired that.

My great-grandfather had passed on before my birth, and my great-aunt moved back to South Carolina to live and helped my great-grandmother pay for the two tract houses and the parcel of land that they sat on. This aunt was a FIERCE saver and planner. She always extoled to us the need to save and prepare ahead. She and my great-grandmother took the back house and the front house was given to my grandmother and their brother, who was paralyzed. My aunt, a cousin and myself, were the other occupants. Everyone worked together to make sure that we had a decent life. We would converge to the back house for meals and afterwards, my great-grandmother would sit in her rocking chair and smoke her pipe. My grandmother was a quilter, and my great-aunt would regale us with stories of her life in the "Big City". God, how safe I felt in those days!!! This instilled in me an INTENSE love for family and a misguided expectation that EVERYONE else would have this same love for family as well. I would learn this wasn't so.

I remember Monday morning clothes washing which has ingrained in me a love of hanging my clothes outside to dry. I remember the time that my grandmother and her mother would put into cooking which has developed in me my own love of cooking. I remember being in the kitchen with them and taking in the sights and the smells and watching how they did what they did. Just thinking about it makes me well up. It is that part of my life that shapes the "authentic" person that I am. I know that I cannot duplicate the past, nor do I want to. But I do want to take those memories and use them as the diagram for my life now. They are memories that I cherish and have always loved.

I want to take the values and the wealth of information from those times and imbed them as a part of my life today. I won't do it the same way they did, because times have changed, and we have to move on, progress. Still, those things will be my foundation and will be a huge factor in the choices that I make in my present life.

It's good to be Nostalgic from time to time, but we still have to live in the present. I know that. We have to be realistic, we have to remember ALL that was involved, not just the good things. I know that too. But deep, deep, within me lies the base of my love for the unadorned, the natural, the simple things of life. This is who I am.

For me, those things aren't just a bit of nostalgia, they are home. Till next time...

"Choices"

2008-12-05T06:28:00.000-08:00

"A man either lives life as it happens to him, meets it head on and licks it, or
he turns his back on it and starts to wither away."
~ Gene Rodenberry~

I am still in a deeply reflective mood. There is so much that I want to share. Yesterday, I took a break between classes to write in my paper journal. There are several things that have been weighing heavily on my mind.

Writing has always been a catharsis for me. It is a way for me to get feedback and to take a second look at my thoughts.

One thought I have been tooling around with is the difference betwen people actually "living" their dreams and those that only "talk" about it. What was it that put them on the road to their desires and kept them there? There are some people that don't have a lot of money, yet, they are living what I like to think of as a "defined" life. They knew what they wanted and were not willing to to let anything stop them from achieving it. I wonder if it all boils down to "choices?" Are some willing to give up things that will propel them to their life goals while other are not? Does it have to do with what one deems as important?

If we are truly honest, how many of us "say" that we want to live a certain way yet our actions prove otherwise? How many of us just don't want to do the work or make the sacrifices, yet convince ourselves that we are actually doing the best that we can ? How many are willing to admit that they are really, only doing the best that they are "willing" to do? There is a big difference between the two. And usually this keeps us right where we are; stuck in the lane of "Dreams Deferred".

So I suppose we have to REALLY seek what it is that brings us the most pleasure. Would we rather have "things" or would we rather own our homes outright? Do we really deserve that vacation after a stressful year or would an emergency fund be more prudent? Choices.

When I look back over my own life, I realize that some events took place which contributed to making my goals more "difficult" to reach, But, I made the "choice" to give up on a lot of the things that I wanted to accomplish, or filed them under "impossible". I still have to sometimes drag myself kicking and screaming past this mindset. But now, I am willing to acknowledge that my "choices" will still serve to make the difference between my success and my failure. Now, I want to know what I was not willing to do before, that I need to do now to make things happen.

After careful meditation, I realize that I need to get to really know "me". I no longer need to know the person that was manufactured based on what other people thought or think I should be. From early childhood, I was never allowed to be an "individual". I grew up in a home where a "Cookie Cutter" persona was expected. I was told what I should do, how I should do it, who I should become, and how I should go about it. Any sign of individuality was stifled and labeled rebellion. So I "built" the person that I was told I should be from the blueprint given me. I have allowed "that" person to usurp my existence for far too long. I feel it is time for that person to hand back over control, and that I become the rightful ruler of my life.

I always thought that "simplicity" was the secret elixir that I needed in order to be happy. But I was wrong. While simplicity is one of the strongest elements, alone it is powerless. I first have to build a strong internal foundation. I have to work from the inside out. It will mean taking chances, and making mistakes. Maybe a LOT of mistakes. It will mean facing my fears. It might mean risking being thought of as foolhardy, or unreasonable. But if what I want is worth it to me, then I will have to accept these possibilities without contest. I realize now that I can be frugal, aspire to homestead, live off the land, whatever, but if if don't have that internal peace first, none of those things will make the least bit of difference.

For 47 years, I have made the "choice" to do it everyone's way except my own. I think some adjustments are in order. I have made the choice. I think I am long overdue. Till next time...

"Brainstorming A Bit of This and That"

2008-12-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

I've been in quite the reflective mood lately. Lots of things that I want to work on, incorporate, and pick up my step in. Tomorrow is the last day of actual classes, and I have two finals back to back next week. The weekend and the beginning of next week will be spent with my head in the books. I am looking forward to the Winter break.

I love not having homework for it affords me the opportunity to cook more in the evenings. When I have homework, I usually cook on the weekends and provide more "Fix it yourself" things doing the weekdays. It has worked very well for us so it is probably something that I will continue to use as I continue my education.

There is something about the fast approaching winter months that changes something in me. It brings out in me a sense of pulling in and cocooning. Actually, if I had my way, I'd probably cocoon most of the time. But since I am not rich and most likely never will be, I try to make a very concious effort now to use my time wisely if possible.

Between classes, I have been reading different material on budgeting, stocking-up, natural living, etc. One of my favorite reads is "Mother Earth" which was sent to me by a very dear friend. I can't get enough of that magazine. There are other magazines dealing with Homesteading that I get a glimpse of online, but there is nothing like holding the magazine in your hand and marking things and going over and over it. Until I was gifted with the magazine I would read it in the school library. It would always sooth my nerves after a hectic day of classes.

Some of the things that I have been reflecting on heavily is getting my stock-up back in order, savings, teaching my children financial accountability, being more financially conscious myself, and coming up with ways to build an emergency account. Although the dynamics of my household have changed, I am still the household manager and am therefore responsible for the financial goings on in my home. At the end of each year, I like to reflect over things and challenge myself to do better or at least work smarter.

One of the books that I am reading on "Simplicity" by Janet Luhrs, makes some very profound statements regarding financial independence. It is nothing that the average person isn't already aware of, but sometimes we all need a nudge to remind us of what we perhaps already know, but fail to do. Some of the points that I wrote down for myself are:

* If you don't want to work too much don't accumulate a lot of debt, don't spend the money.* While those words seem very simplistic, most of us "tell" ourselves that we are thrifty but allow the little things to keep us tethered to debt.

* When you have money saved, you have "Options". Without money saved you have "No" choices.* To that, most of us would say that with today's economy "who has money to save?" But if we are honest again about the little things and some of the not so little things that we feel are "needs" when they are really "wants", we would be surprised.

* You have to be willing to make certain choices and sacrifices that will lead to your larger life goals.* Usually when someone sees the word "sacrifice" they are immediately turned off. But unless you have a large income, sadly something will have to be sacrificed. You just have to ask yourself what is the priority.

* You have to create a financial plan to lead you to your life goals.*

I took a lot of time to meditate on this point. To REALLY ask myself what is my "life" goal. Many people feel that they know the answer to that question but really are basically just very vague.

* Financial success is not about being rich but about being smart with your money.*

I think this is an especially crucial thought as we ride the tide of our present economy. So many people are losing jobs and homes and have no emergency funds to at least tide them over until they can figure things out. Sadly, as Americans, savings is just not that big on our list of priorities. This is going to lead to lots of heartache many.

There were plenty of other points that I have been meditating on for my own circumstances, because I feel that the better equipped I am, less bumpy the ride.

Once school is out, I plan to do a deep pantry inventory to re-stock what I have used over the past six months, and it is time to take some time to put together my winter menus. I set a certain budget for Holiday shopping and so far am sticking to it, and I am planning on giving my children savings accounts instead of stocking stuffers this year. I have also set up 5 small goals to try and reach by next year's end. One will be a larger sustainable garden. I am looking forward to that one. I drive by the AG center here every day and see the sign for the program to become a Master Gardener. If I knew that I could work it around school I would have signed up yesterday. But, who knows.

I have just had a feeling of a pressing need to up my game as regards taking our economy seriously. I am not saying that we should panic or anything, but just daily make decisions that would serve to bring us closer to our life goal whatever that might be. That is my hope and my plan. Wish me luck. Till next time...

"Reflection"

2008-11-29T08:38:00.000-08:00

It has been raining here since around 3:00 p.m. yesterday. I love it. There is a possibility for thunderstorms throughout the day. I hope so. Something about rain and storms just relaxes and calms me. Rain unleashes in me a contemplative spirit. That is exactly how I am feeling today.

I usually do not like to watch or listen to the news. There is always more heartache than good usually. Yesterday's news was no exception. My heart goes out to all the families who lost loved ones in Mumbai. My thoughts and prayers also go out to those who lost loved ones in what I feel was a most senseless way; by Black Friday shoppers. Have we become so ingrained with the desire to have and to possess that we could trample a fellow human in the pursuit of a purchase? Obviously the answer to that is yes. It simply boggles my mind.

When contemplating these tragedies especially the Black Friday deaths, it just gives me all the more impetus to build upon my desire for a frugal, simple life. I want to get back to natural living as much as humanly possible. Restarting my garden this past summer let me know that this sort of life is where my heart truly resides. I have to admit that I have let other things over the years sidetrack me and keep me from my goals, but I am determined to turn that around in any way that I can. I will start again with baby steps, but I "will" reach my goals.

I have always been more of an unconventional person. I don't like to follow the crowd, and I don't like to do things simply because others are doing it, or somebody else feels that I should. I have nothing against suggestions, or advice, but I want my own voice to be the one that I hear the loudest. Over the years, I have relegated my own voice to the background and have been very unhappy in doing so. That needs to change.

The upcoming year is fast approaching. It is usually the time that we make resolutions, that are usually broken before the ink dries. I won't wait until then. I am going to use each and every day that I am blessed with "now", to continue to make the changes that I need to live my life in the passionate way that I crave. Each and every day I plan to incorporate more of the things that I love. As the tragedies that are reported on in the news shows, "Tomorrow is promised to no one". We have to do all that we can each and every day that we are granted a chance to do so.

So maybe that will mean that instead of rushing around trying to keep things in order all the time, I will grab a book, a cup of coffee and some time to just relax. It doesn't mean that I will let things go to pot, but it does mean that I will realize that it is alright to just "breathe" sometimes instead of trying to always accomplish something. Yet, there are certain things that I would like to do.

I look forward to planning for my spring garden. The thought of that really excites me! I want to learn to can, and to improve upon my storage techniques. I'd like to have a better savings plan in order. I want to teach myself to play my guitar. There are some home improvements that I want to try my hand at instead of letting them intimidate me. I'd like to continue working to make my home one of those comfortable places that the kids can bring their friends to for fun. Most importantly, I want to continue to strive for that feeling of family and belonging with my loved ones and friends.

I don't want to be one of those people chasing "The American Dream". What does that really mean anyway? No, I want to just live my life as close to my own "personal"dream as I can. For me that means learning to be as self-sufficient as I can. It won't be easy, it will mean lots of hard work, and it will perhaps mean bucking what most people consider "the norm". But you know what, when I look at all the other alternatives out there, I know that it is more than worth it.

Till next time...

"A Warm Welcome"

2008-11-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to send warm welcome to the new followers of the blog. Welcome Guyz and Earth Heart!!! So nice of you to stop by. A continued thanks to my other "faithful" friends who have been with me since the beginning. A VERY Happy and Safe Thanksgiving to one all. Till next time.....

"One Year Ago Today"

2008-11-25T15:42:00.000-08:00

Today marks the first anniversary of my mother's death. It does not seem like that much time has passed, but it has. Thanksgiving will always be tied in with her passing.

I have found that regardless of the dynamics of your relationship with your parents, their passing will always leave an indelible mark.

I came on here with the intention of writing something thoughtful, something heartfelt. I even contemplated using the letter that I wrote on her birthday this year.

But instead I will mark this day with simply saying that we remembered, and we will never forget.

"Long Time No Blog, Again"

2008-11-02T12:24:00.001-08:00

As usual,

it has been forever since I have taken the time to sit down and write something. I don't know what it is, but I have been so tired lately that even thinking about writing has been almost painful.

Just feeling rushed, and tired and pushed to get through each and every day. Updating my blog feels like a luxury.

So on yesterday, I decided that I would work most of the day to make sure that I had today off for the most part. I didn't want to have anything that was pressing or trying or "needed" tending. And since I stuck to the grindstone and got everything done, here I am.

I did take a bit of time this morning to go out into what is left of the garden.

I think that I have been neglecting doing so because as childish as it sounds, working in the garden makes it TERRIBLY difficult for me to want to get back to my routine.

It is like when I work outside, I am transported to a place that I don't want to leave. I don't feel the time constraints, there are no other people and their attitudes to deal with, little noise. I just get so wrapped up into it that I don't want to get back to the norm.

So I did a little raking and watering, and sweeping off the porch. I took in the laundry that I had hung out yesterday, and cleaned some things from the yard. I had the boys out to help with a thing or two before setting them free and we got the garbage ready for pick up tomorrow. I filled my watering bin back up, tidied up the hose, and then headed back inside. I have the basil that I planted sitting on a shelf next to the back door. The scent from it a constant reminder of some of the things that truly make me happy.

Tomorrow it is back to the routine and the rush, and the "must do's. I am looking forward to the end of this semester even though the Holidays are fast approaching. I got half of my shopping done already and will concentrate on the other half this month. I wanted it do it thoughtfully, but as quickly as possibly.

Yet, no matter how rushed, or pushed, or overwhelmed I have been feeling lately, I am still grateful that I have something to be rushed, pushed, or overwhelmed about. Got to find the positives.

Hope that all are well and that life is treating you kindly. Till next time....

"Long Time No Blog"

2008-10-16T16:19:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in it seems like forever. I guess I have just been either too busy or too tired, or too distracted to do so.

So much is going on as usual. I still haven't been able to pry myself from my constant desire to cocoon. If anything, I seem to want to do so even more lately.

I am once again having trouble in math and I am beyond frustrated. Things are going "Lightning" fast in this class. Before I can grasp one subject we learn two to three more. I am falling behind. I am still trying to stay positive, but some days are harder than others.

To top that off, so many people seem to be getting ever more rude and the world that we live in today just lacks care. It is as if every man/woman is for him or her self and more and more tension is mounting out there the closer we get to the election.

I am not one to talk politics or religion and prefer to keep my thoughts and feelings to myself and am most adamant about that. But the rumblings out there are most disheartening to me.

I still feel that if my foot were only long enough I would still be kicking myself in the ass for not making the proper preparations in my life so that I wouldn't be 47 and starting all over again. Life is not like it was ten years ago. Hell, it is not what it was 5 years ago. It's hard out here.

I think that we all need to take heed, and keep our eyes open in the months ahead. Maybe I am getting more and more cynical as I get older, maybe I am just a realist. But for whatever it is worth, I think that if it is a helping hand that you are looking for, it is a surer bet to realize that it is more likely to be at the end of your forearm.

Oh, what a cheery, welcome post to christen my new blog. Peace all,
Till next time.....

"For The Sake Of Mental Health"

2008-09-18T17:09:00.000-07:00

I had a completely different kind of entry prepared for this evening. I was about to hit send when I decided against it. It was full of cynicism, and doubt. It was full of more thoughts of just wanting to withdraw further and further into a shell. So instead of sending it out into the Universe, I deleted it and decided instead to work in my garden and cook. These two things are always a reminder to me of all the things that I still have to be grateful for.

I have been compiling some recipes over the last few weeks. Some of these recipes are for a change in diet that I have set up for myself. The other recipes are for the upcoming cooler days of fall and winter. It has been cool here for a few days and I pulled up a recipe for some potato soup. I have pulled up so many that I can't remember who to give credit for it. But it isn't mine. Still, I wanted to share it because I thought it was a quick and easy way to to make a favorite.

Since I am so busy, I need lots of quick and easy meals that I can make and freeze. I know that cooking from scratch is the best and the most healthy, but sometimes you have to improvise. I am all for that.

So here is the recipe that I pulled up for the soup.

Ingredients:

* 32 oz. Frozen Potatoes O'Brien

*2 Small packets White Gravy Mix( I chose Jimmy Deans)

*1 Large Chicken Broth

*Shredded Cheese

I also at the suggestion of the original recipe maker added cubed smoked sausage. You can also add pieces of bacon if you are really into meat and that smoky flavor.

Cooking Instructions:

Pour broth and potatoes in stock pot;heat. Once broth is hot, mix in both packets of white gravy mix. Heat to boil and simmer 20-25 minutes. Add cheese,salt and pepper to taste.

That is the original recipe and it came out delicious.

This bowl was still steaming out of the pot. Someone (not me) requested some for lunch. Once it has sat for a bit the consistency is MUCH thicker and the flavor is very full.

I also baked a German Chocolate cake for the others and have some Flax Seed cookies for myself. They are quite good and quite filling.

While the cake was baking and the soup was simmering, I went outside to work in the garden a bit. I had the "wee one" water the plants inside the makeshift greenhouse, and I took care of the rest.

Pumpkin up to the "Nogoodniks" of trying to jump the fence into my garden.

More Tomato beauty. I love it!

Close-up of the trellised pumpkins.

Winter squash and sugar snap beans next to it.

My only remaining cucumber plant( in the middle) trying to grow.

I could just feel a calm pour over me and I truly needed that today.

And for all of you following the saga of "Belle and Beau", good news. There is a reconciliation in the works. After seeing the headlines of the "Three B's: The Bailout of "AIG", the Buyout of "Merrill Lynch", and the Bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, Belle decided that Beau was right about not starting a family right now. They are continuing in counseling.

Well, that is it for this "Homestead". Have a "Fabulous Friday" everyone, and I will see you next time...

" Sunday"

2008-09-14T15:56:00.000-07:00

Well, today has been a pretty quiet day overall. I finished up dinner preparations, took care of the garden and have things almost ready for the upcoming week. Then it is off to take a nice hot shower, wash my hair and settle in for the night. I hate this part of Sunday because I usually dread going back to the routine. But, that being said, I consider myself fortunate to have a routine to go back to.

In the garden, I basically cleared some weeds from the aisles and raked into between them.

I watered the plants and made a few discoveries. I put a little manure around the roots of some of the first plants that were planted, and I trellised the pumpkins as they were growing into the sweet potatoes. I was about to clean out the bucket from the cantaloupes when I came across this.

It looks just like a little watermelon. The other little one that was growing fell off and I decided to just scrap the cantloupes. Now I hope to see the development of this new little find.

In my greenhouse, the plants are still growing. Not as much as I had hoped, but still growing.

The watermelons seem to have stopped growing. I was hoping that putting them in the greenhouse would help accelerate their growth but again, I think I planted too late in the season.But, I plan to grow earlier next year and more plentiful.

In the flower garden, the Hibiscus are still in bloom as are the Marigolds.

I am going toplant some mums as soon as things cool down a bit more.

Remember how these plants and how they looked when I first rescued them? They are really thriving now.

Overall, I had a very enjoyable day in the garden.

Well nothing else to see around here folks. Hope a good week is ahead for everyone and I will see you...the next time.

"Busy Saturday"

2008-09-13T16:41:00.000-07:00

Greetings and Salutations.

Before I get into my usual drivel I would like to send out prayers and wishes for speedy recoveries for all those affected by Hurricane Ike in Texas, and the survivors and families of all those affected by the train crash in Los Angeles. I hope that they get the help that they need speedily and that three years from now the Hurricane victims are still not struggling to get back to some sense of normality. And for all of us not affected, may we remember how fortunate we are, just how precious life is, and how in the blink of an eye it can change forever.

Now back to the drivel....

Over my way,it has been a busy Saturday. I woke up pretty early this morning. Didn't feel too great but pushed past it to do what needed to be done today.

There was the usual Saturday fare of chores, and today "The Wee One" had to work on his science project. He did a diorama of the "Okefenokee Swamp".

I had been looking for stuff for weeks and finally we...erm...he, put it all together. Uh...yeah, that's the ticket.

Here is the finished result:

A Close-Up

I have been slow cooking a roast since late afternoon that should be just about done now. I will make mashed potatoes and green beans to go along with it on tomorrow. There will be a baked good for them and I will more than likely subsitute asparagus for the mashed potatoes for myself. Cooking is definitely up there with gardening,and simplicity as the things that give me a sense of peace and joy. Ahhh, simplicity.

I have ironing to do for the week and the garden to water and check on for tomorrow. After that, it will be a nice hot bath and hopefully an early bedtime. I have a history test on Tuesday, so that will take up most of my attention for the next couple of days.

And speaking of the garden, there is trouble is "Paradise". Remember this happy photo?

Well today, things looked like this:

Apparently, Belle wants babies, but Beau says no because their work is seasonal and "Kid-Crows" would demand a more stable income. Seems that Beau enjoys only having to work a few months out of the year and isn't ready to give up that freedom just yet. I sure hope those two get it together because I need them to be focused....What?

Well, that's all from ye' olde Homestead today. Hope that Saturday has been kind to everyone and that Sunday is even better. Enjoy it, and make every second count. Till the next time...

"This and That"

2008-09-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

Well the test is over. I won't know how I did until Monday. I have decided not to think about it anymore. It will be what it will be and I did the very best that I could.

That being said, I came home feeling kind of out of it. I really can't explain it. I think a good word to describe it would be jaded. I just feel jaded right now. More and more each day I just want to find that little space that is calling me and go to it. Geesh.

To pacify those feelings, I went outside and walked around the "Homestead" today. I was going to take Pumpkin for a walk but couldn't find the leash. I thought she might enjoy a nice walk and I wanted to get out and clear my head. There are a lot of pitbulls in my area and sometimes the irresponsible owners just let them run free. Even my teenager warned me about going to far off the block and about the dogs. So I aborted the thought and just went into the garden instead.

I have so many trees around my house. With that comes leaves, pine straw and whatever else that comes from trees. I really need to get out and do a good raking and sweeping of the yards and driveway. It will be good mental and physical exercise. I will probably have to put it off until next weekend since the Science Project will take priority this weekend. Plus, I will have to break it down so as not to do anything to my back.

I must have been out there for at least an hour this evening. I had only planned to go out for a few minutes, but once I was there I started doing a bit of this and a bit of that. It made me feel much better just to have that bit of peace and quiet surrounded by my plants.

Each day I am surprised to find more tomatoes growing even this late in the season. Of the summer plants, here is some of what is left and the tomato plants still growing.

I also took the last measly serrano pepper off the vine.

A few more of these hot peppers are left as well.

Still a lot of green going on.

These are the peppers that I put under netting. Can you see it?

Every time that I think the Bell Pepper plants are done I find something else blooming. Guess I will just leave them alone and let them do what they will do.

Here's the little Aloe plant that I had given up for dead. I just sat it in the growing area and it was behind some of the buckets. Looks like it is trying to come back to life.

Look who else has joined the "Homestead"

Her name is "Belle". So that is why "Beau" is smiling that sheepish grin!

I have to work on "Mama's Corner" and plan to plant some Mums which were one of her favorites. I remember mums growing under the kitchen window once in the house I grew up in. I guess it is one of those things you remember when it doesn't happen often.

I have some reading to do but decided to just relax a bit tonight. I will do my reading in the morning before I head to history class. Tonight I just want to eat something, take a nice bath or shower and then head in for the night.

Well,that's it for this homestead for now. Hope that everyone had a good Wednesday. I'll look for you the next time...

"I'm Going, I'm Going"

2008-09-09T16:31:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I am supposed to be studying. But I can't seem to sit still. I am always tense like this the night before a big math test. I just have to walk away from it every few minutes or so.

I usually feel better when I stall...erm... write so I decided to go ahead and post a bit of what would have been my next journal entry.

My garden is looking kind of ratty as I haven't been able to do the usual maintainence. There are still some veggies growing from Summer's crop.

Check out my Pumpkins spreading out. Below is a night shot of them and selected other crops.

I have netted off the remaining peppers to keep them safe from the birds and I also got this little fellow to help me protect the remaining tomatoes.

Isn't he cute? I call him "Beau". Yes, he is "Scare-Beau". What?

Ok, I know, I'm stalling. It's back to the books. Be good until the next time...

"Peace and Quiet"

2008-09-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

I haven't made an entry in a week. I want to come over and share my thoughts but either I am too busy, too tired, or too distracted lately.

School has really heated up and I have so much to do to stay caught up. There are still the every day mundane things that need caring for and there is a need to keep on top of things that are concerning the boys.

My little man has a science project that is due next Monday. We will work on it this weekend. This past weekend was spent on homework, housework, and getting a spot of rest. I have my first major test on Wednesday in math and I will be studying that intensely for the next 48 hours. I have a history quiz tomorrow but am not very worried about that.

All day today, I have been thinking about cocooning. I just want to go into my room, shut the door, turn on a lamp and read. I don't want to go out or do anything. I just want to stay in and do nothing. It could be the weather, it could be me. Either way, I just want to cocoon.

We were under a Tornado Watch for a bit earlier this afternoon. The clouds did get very dark, the wind picked up, it was lightning and thundering a bit, and it rained hard for just a few minutes. It is still drizzling. Whatever it was seemed to have passed over us very quickly. I am glad for that. Tornadoes scare the heck out of me and there have been quite a few in surrounding areas over the years. We have been fortunate when they have touched down in our own area. While I wasn't feeling the tornado, I was hoping that we would get a good hard rain that would stick around for a bit.

I am REALLY looking forward to the "REAL" beginning of Fall and Winter. I am not just looking forward to the cooler weather, I am also looking forward to what goes along with the change. There are usually less people on the streets, things just seem to quiet down a bit. I feel the need for quiet right now.

I find myself seeking out tranquil little corners in the library. I look for secret little holes so that I can disappear into them. I simply crave them right now. I feel the need for anonymity.

I look forward to steaming pots of soup, doing more baking, and lots and lots of books to savor. No frills, nothing spectacular, just a slow paced retreat. Ahhh, there is NOTHING better than simplicity. Unless of course you are sharing that simplicity with someone you love.

But for now, I will put my reverie to rest.It is on to studying and preparing for the test. I hope everyone is off to the start of a good week. Keep it simple, and make it count. Till the next time

"What a Difference a Day Makes"

2008-09-01T15:13:00.000-07:00

I am bushed!!!

Today is the first time since school resumed that I feel like I REALLY worked in the garden. I have been out there doing the usual quick once over, but I haven't been able to take the time to do what I have wanted to. But that all changed today.

It has been overcast all day and a nice cool breeze is present.

I took the opportunity to move some things around and to put the finishing touches on my makeshift greenhouse.

I wrote in earlier posts of taking the tent and covering it in clear plastic to use as a greenhouse. I am excited to see how things will develop.

<---Back view

<----Back view

<--Side View

<--Inside View

<--Front

View

<--Inside View

I put the newly planted tomatoes, hot peppers and the watermelon plant inside for now. I truly don't think the watermelon will grow. In fact, I think they have had it. But I want to experiment and see how it does inside the greenhouse. I am hoping that the heat will help with their development since these kinds of plants need more heat. I have two great books that I am reading on greenhouses and other means of growing crops through the winter. I was surprised to find that glass boxes are also suggested.

I also moved some things around in the main gardening area. I will be putting down black fabric in the areas that have none, and will be finding some creative ways to add the fall crops to the area.

I put a few of my tools and supplies under my planting table and covered them with a tarp. I would love to have a nice roomy space for my supplies and materials. I have always dreamed of having a workshop. No, I can't build and I am not that savvy when it comes to the hands on, but I have a LOT of heart, passion, and imagination. I might not be able to put things together the way the instructions say to,but once I can see it in my head, I can usually come pretty darn close. I love power tools as well. I think they make me look cool!!! And we all know how much I want a truck. I don't know what it is, but I LOVE to haul stuff. Being back out in the yard today, just renewed my love for working outside, homesteading, and growing my own. It's a feeling that I just don't know how to describe.

And speaking of growing my own, this is the current state of the garden.

I don't know what this is, but several of the peppers had it and a few more of the tomatoes do as well.

Here are some of the things in the raised bed

<--Nice Pumpkins

<--Bad Pumpkin.

And FINALLY after a full summer this is my first cantaloupe tryingto come through: I don't know if the remaining days of summer will be warm enough. I am going to try to put it in the greenhouse as well. If I run the risk of disturbing it too much, I will put a plastic sheath around it instead.

Here are some of the plants in the other growing area.I was so excited to see these"

Beans!!!

Potatoes

Collards

Sweet Potatoes

I seem to be cursed when it comes to growing cucumbers. No matter WHERE I plant them, something finds them, tears the ENTIRE plant out of the ground and takes off with it. My cucumbers were growing so well. I am going to plant a few more seeds and put them in the greenhouse this time. Hopefully I can get at least a few to grow.

And on that note, look at what else is growing.

All together now....Awwwwwwww!!!!

So that is pretty much it from Garden central. My next project is to rake both the front and back yards and use the leaves for compost. I still have to get a few bales of hay, and start a few more projects. But for this week, I got a very welcome nature fix.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Labor Day,and here's to a good rest of the week.

Till next time...

"More Catch Up"

2008-08-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

It is the beginning of a four day weekend. I am ecstatic. I am tired. I do not feel very well physically. I do not have classes on Friday. Since I don't, I use it as a day for catching up on household duties such as grocery shopping, laundry, bills, and planning for the week ahead. I still got up at five a.m. My body is used to that now.

I got the kids off to school with the last one out of the door around 7:45. I made a phone call, and then I showered and headed out. As thankful as I am that I get to go to the grocery store and am able to get enough food to feed us, I HATE GROCERY SHOPPING!!! It is one of THE most taxing things that I do. I have always been very budget concious. Sometimes, having to be on a budget, I am always asking myself if I could have shopped better, or smarter. But with today's prices, I am just happy to come out with something in the cart. It is not time for my general stock-up yet, but with the kids back in school, and being back in school myself, I have to do "fill-ins". I look forward to the time when I can stock up enough to not have to go back to the store for a while. I am pretty close, but not totally there yet. I'll get there though.

On the bright side, I did get some re-useable grocery bags thanks to a fellow " Greeny".(Someone has GOT to show me how to link in here).

I often have an overflow of plastic bags and end up throwing them away. But research has shown( I would have put it here if I knew how to link) that these bags end up in landfills and can become mobile, and cause major chaos to wildlife and sea creatures. The results are heartbreaking. So while it might not seem like a lot, I hope to get more re-useable bags if it means getting one step closer to helping with this problem.

In Other News.....

Last night my little one was recognized for being a "Good Egg" at school. It was nice to see the children recognized and cute to hear some of the little introductions. Isn't he tall?

My little man is also struggling with math. Hmmm, wonder where he gets THAT from? I sat with him while he did his homework this week. It wasn't pretty. He is REALLY having a hard time. Each homework session ended with him in tears from the frustration of not getting it. Oh do I know how he feels!!! But, the school has recognized his problem and is giving him help, and I will continue to help him in the evenings.It is amazing how he gets high grades in everthing else, but the math; crash and burn. I am going to look for some software that he can do on the computer, and I bought him a small dry erase board. I know that for me, sometimes working out problems on the board or seeing them, in the manner that they were introduced in class helps. This way he can erase over and over if he needs to, before putting the answers on paper. I am also going to improve our study area while we have this long weekend. I have a larger dry-erase board, a cork board, and some other supplies to use in that area. I have some reorganization ideas that I want to implement in that area.

On top of that, his first Science Project came home today. He has to do something on the Habitats of Georgia. I'll have to get him to the library and get supplies,not to mention find the time to fit it in, with working with him on the math and other homework. I am tired already. I know, I know; Just Do It!!

My math is heating up and I am already having trouble as well. College Algebra is much more intense than the math that I just finished. But I study it, and work on problems every night. I have a tutor, and two math-labs that hopefully will get me through it. Fingers crossed.

So far, my history class is pretty easy. The lectures are getting better and a bit more interesting. Good thing that I enjoy history.

And speaking of history...it seems that some of my tomato plants and peppers are heading in that direction. I have found what looks like scalding or something. After the heavy rains from Fay, several of the peppers had this. On the tomatoes is something similar but not quite as bad. Plus, something has begun to eat what is left of the summer produce. New peppers and tomatoes are still growing but with the weather having been so cool for a few days, I don't know how much more they will grow. We'll see. The fall crops are starting to sprout and hopefully will be ready for planting soon.

It felt good to get outside today. I hung out several loads of laundry and walked around the garden. Unfortunately, my lower back, left leg, ankle, and foot have been giving me LOTS of trouble lately. Sometimes the pain radiates into the buttock and hip area. I went to the doctor and was told that it was "probably" Sciatica, but I am going to make another appointment with the foot and ankle doctor to get another x-ray done. I really want to spend at least one day in the garden since we have a long weekend, but don't want to push it. I'll play it by ear.

Other than being extremely tired, I am in a good place mentally. I am doing whatever is necessary to stay focused and just keep going and pushing past whatever I am feeling. I have a good study schedule in place, but with little man's issues, I am going to have to adjust it. But we'll do it. My mantra is: I am a strong, capable woman. I am determined, I am focused. I can handle it.

I have been trying to get everything done on Friday and Saturday, so that I can have at least one day off on the weekend. This worked well for me last week. So tomorrow, Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I plan to put in a full day of chores and plotting out the wee one's Science project. I have several pounds of meat to cook for the week, and Sunday's dinner to prepare. The boys will help with the cleaning and this weekend the grass MUST get cut. So I have a full weekend planned and look forward to the extra day off on Monday. I am "dreaming" of getting in some extra sleep or maybe even a movie. It is amazing the joy that I get these days from just the little things.

I hope to have more pictures the next time I write, but until then, everyone enjoy the long weekend. If you will be spending the Holiday with family and or friends, embrace it, and them. If not, still make it count.Till next time.....

"Catching Up Again"

2008-08-24T09:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, I had no idea that it has been the 13th since I left an entry here. I was under the impression that I had written one last week. Not!!

So I am making the time to do a brief catch-up, and to say some thank-yous.

When I logged onto my computer on Friday evening, imagine my surprise when I saw more comments. I didn't know what was up because I usually have three regular readers and they had already commented on my entry. After reading further, I realized that "Deb"( sorry I don't know how to link properly) was "Guest Editor" on Friday, and she was gracious enough to choose me as one of her picks. It was a very nice surprise. Thank you Deb!!! I would also like to thank each person that stopped by to check things out and leave very nice comments. It was most appreciated and I would welcome a visit anytime.

On the catching up trail, of course I am back in school and have set my focus on my classes. I had three but dropped down to two so that I had room for intense tutoring. I have always struggled with math and am in College Algebra right now. I wanted to hit it running and have been coming home from classes and immediately getting started on my homework instead of procrastinating. This attitude is serving me well thus far. This enables me to get my work done, and to be prepared, and it clears up enough time for me to supervise the homework of my children. There a backpacks to check, agendas to sign, and still paperwork coming home. This Thursday, my youngest is being recognized at this year's first PTO meeting. He is a "Pride of the Patriots". Here is the schools definition of the program:

" Pride of the Patriots is a character education recognition program. Students are recognized for their integrity and positive character, which are exhibited on a daily basis in the classroom. Positive character traits include, but are not limited to, responsibility, respect, trustworthiness,willingness to help others, loyalty, honesty, and courage. Each month, homeroom teachers select one student based on the following criteria; Citizenship;Positive daily interaction with teachers and peers;Respect for others and self and Respect for school policies and procedures."

So my young man was chosen as the August Patriot of his classroom. He will receive a T-shirt, and will be called up to the stage and introduced. Way to go "Young Un".

The teenager is taking French and seems to be enjoying it thus far. I worried about this particular class at first but so far he is taking to it. C'est Bon. Which I hope means "good" in French.

Besides Algebra, I am also taking World History to 1660. I have always enjoyed history as a subject. There are 210 people in this lecture class. I was a bit overwhelmed at first not being a big fan of crowds, but found myself a nice little seat out of the way. A plus of the class is that the teacher is funny and the information is interesting. Of course it is more interesting, and she is much funnier if I am not tired or sleepy.

On the garden front, some of the seedlings are already pushing through. I have been harvesting the peppers and using them in recipes. There are still green tomatoes on the vine, and a few hot peppers still budding. The watermelons are still babies and I really don't expect full size melons. I think they have become a novelty item in the garden. I just love looking at them. Next year, Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I will plant earlier in the season. This garden has definitely been a lesson and has taught me many things. It has been a Godsend, therapeutic, and an absolute joy.

Today it is rainy and I think we are getting the tail end results of "Fay" over in Florida. But I don't mind. As stated here before, I simply "adore" rain. I was tempted to go and spend some time with my youngest in the tent. But, the rain cover had blown off and it was just too wet and messy. The wind is a bit high on and off, but I don't care. As long as my house stays put and a tree doesn't fall over, I am going to happily enjoy this wet, quiet, afternoon. Today is a sneak-peek into the coming of Autumn. I am so looking forward to Autumn which is my second favorite season only after Spring.

I worked all day yesterday to ensure that I could have today off. I read a bit earlier this morning, had two phone calls come in, and my little one wants to hang out for a bit. I cooked today's dinner yesterday and until around six, I don't intend on doing a single thing. Around six, I will start the week's preparations. I will iron my outfits for the week, set out what I will wear tomorrow, have the boys do the same, and then I am planning on taking a long, hot, bath and turning in early.

So that is pretty much it for this "Homestead". I hope that everyone has a great upcoming week and I will see you..Next Time.

"Catching Up"

2008-08-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

It has been a few days since I have posted. With school back in session for the children sometimes, there is just not enough time to sit down and write something that feels worth sharing

I have also been spending the past couple of days de-cluttering and getting things back in shape for my own return to school on Monday. I have a LOT of things to tend to once I get back on campus.

Mercifully, the past couple of days have also been much, much cooler. We had some much needed and welcome rain last evening on through to the earlier part of this morning. I sat in the rain when it first began yesterday for a bit.

I cannot think of anything quite as peaceful as sitting outside listening to and watching the rain cascade from the heavens. Those are some of my favorite kind of moments. This was my perch for that special moment.

NO!!, I did NOT get so excited by the rain that I wet myself!!! I SWEAR that is rain in the seat of the chair!!! I SWEAR!!!

I did some cooking as well and spent a lot of time just deep in thought.

Skillet Cornbread

The makings of Spicy Chicken used for tacos.

The rest of the week will be quite busy. I was told to expect what I call a “pass-through” visit( A visit when someone is heading somewhere else, but needs a place to sleep. Sadly, this is true) from the boys other grandmother anywhere from tomorrow to Monday. I just love it when I know the exact date or time, someone will be coming to the house, and how long they intend to stay. There is nothing that I like better than to have to entertain a houseguest when I do not even know when they are coming, Plus, I had planned to get everything out of the way by Friday, so that I could have a nice relaxing weekend before I am thrown into the school mix. Nevertheless, life is full of the unexpected and one simply has to learn to “roll” with it. Iam in “roll” mode. I will simply work around it.

Things in the garden are still looking good.

Look at "Big Mama" Woot!!!

This one is really doing quite well.

These potato plants continue to push through no matter how many time I cover them with soil. No more room so I guess I will have to hope that a good crop will come from them.

More Peppers.

Look at this "little darlin".

Watermelon plants originally planted in-ground that were re-transplanted.

Memba Them?

They have come a long way!!!

I plan to begin seedlings for the fall crop on Friday.

I already have the seeds and will fill in the raised bed and use some containers.

I look forward to when the temperatures are steadily cool. Especially is this favorable when trudging around the college campus and you do not have an 18-year-old body.

I almost forgot. I finally was able to get a shot of my “Guardian Bee-Angel”. I have been trying to sneak up on him/her/it, but they were too nimble and I was not nimble enough. So I finally caught this wonderful little insect drunk out of it’s gourd on watermelon nectar. I hear ya’ bee.

Can you see my new best friend? He/She/ It/ is sacred to me.

So nothing, much else is going on around the old Homestead except anticipation of the fall garden, and constant dreams of one day having lumber, chickens, goats, and maybe even a cow. There are also hopes that this coming school semester will have a little mercy on me, the boys will do their homework without starting a civil war, and that I find a way to just get it all done. Fingers crossed.

Till next time…

"Choices"

2008-08-09T16:07:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed most of the afternoon in the garden. Mercifully, it was a much cooler day than the previous temps that we had been experiencing.

I have been in a pensive mood today. When I wasn’t in the garden I was inside writing and doing a bit of reading. I have basically been craving quiet and solitude today.

I think of all the things that I had on my “to-do” list for today. There were errands, and a major cleaning, and papers and agendas to sign for the boys. I had supplies to prepare to send to school and menus to plan. I even had meat in the fridge to grill. I had a bookshelf to re-stock and carpets to shampoo. But I knew that I did not have the energy to do much of anything. I didn’t sleep well last evening and was basically running on fumes. I had just decided to steel myself today and do what I had to do. However, that changed.

So instead, I gave myself a mental health day and did some of the things that I “wanted” to do. Now granted, I know that a person can’t always do just what they want to do, but sometimes we have to make room for that in our lives. I made room for it today.

I spent some time outside with my nine year old explaining to him why I love gardening/farming. He told me what I said was interesting and that maybe he would think about being a farmer too. I thought that was sweet.

I “babied” Pumpkin for a while and we played tug-o-war with one of her toys.

Several times, I just went out and overlooked the garden. There was no particular reason. I just wanted to be outside and enjoyed taking in the wonder of nature.

Things in the garden are really coming together. Every day that I go out there, something has changed in one way or another. I have a special “Bee” that has been coming around to pollinate the flowers in the garden. I can never get close enough to get a shot of it though. I call it “The Bee Fairy”. It usually comes around when I can’t see it, leaving behind the makings of some wonderful, fruitful plants.

The Hibiscus looks beautiful today.

I love color and they are in full bloom.

Some of the Marigolds that I planted from seed are sprouting, as well as some of the Zinnias. I can’t wait until they make their full appearance.

The tomatoes are looking great.

These are the "Triplets"

And this little beauty came off the vine today. Isn't she lovely?

Several new flowers are opening up on the pepper plants and the beans are still doing well in both spots.

Something is still eating the collards. I have some in different spots but all leaves seem to be compromised.

I just love the smells that come from the garden. Here is another little baby melon that I noticed today.

See her big sister behind her? She's got her back. ::whispering:: "Don't tell the other "Kidetables" that their melon siblings are my favorites."

I wonder if the cantaloupe plant is just going to flower and not produce this year. I might have planted way too late in the season. Either way, it has come a long way

and the yellow flowers still add some nice color to the garden.

I also picked up a jar of this today.

I am sure that it is not as good as homemade, but I wanted to try it after hearing so many good things about it.

I have never had Pesto before. I am not one that has ever really used many herbs while cooking. But, I do like to try new things. As for the results, I didn’t love it, but I didn’t hate it either. It is definitely something that I will make again. It is interesting and something that I think with time I will acquire a taste for So Pesto is a new addition to my kitchen. Thanks for the suggestion FM.

Since I took today off, tomorrow, rather thangrill, I am going to slow cook the meat in the oven. I am going to concentrate on the living room and bookshelf as my main areas of attention. I am delegating some of the smaller tasks to the children, and I am setting aside thirty minutes to one hour, to take care of the school needs. I will plan to knock out one thing on each day of next week so that the weekend can be spent preparing for my return to classes.

Tonight, I am going to take a nice hot bath, and try to get to bed a bit early. I need some sleep and the boys will be up with their father. I can feel the bubbles cascading around me now.

Happy Saturday evening to all. Make it count.

Till next time…….

"In Memoriam/Life's Little Reminders"

2008-08-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Today, the comedian Bernie Mac died. He was only 50 years old. Honestly, I was not that much of a fan of his off color humor, but I did enjoy watching his family oriented show that was on Fox. It was a show that I could watch with my children and that my boys enjoyed. While I am not one to be crazed over “celebrity”, the affinity that I had for Mr. Mac comes more from his life story than his celebrity status

Mr. Mac and I are roughly 3 years and 9 months apart in age. We both grew up on the South Side of Chicago, and were reared in environments that contained little joy. Both Mr. Mac and I took in the children of relatives that made bad choices. For him it was a sister-in-law, for me a sister. He took care of a niece and her daughter, and I, two nephews. One of my nephews now lives with his father. The other, I adopted and have raised since he was one. He is now a teenager. Even with resources, Bernie Mac could relate to how difficult such an undertaking is at times. I enjoyed the way he tried to inject humor into the situation, and his tough-love approach.

Bernie Mac also spoke of how being in a joyless environment compelled him to try to make other people laugh. I understand this as well. I have often depended on my wit to make up for what I feel are my insecurities, and to bring a smile to someone else's face.

Although the dynamics of our relationships with our mothers were different, we both lost our mom’s at early ages. He lost his mother at sixteen when she died of cancer; I lost my mother to depression,though she didn't pass until last November. However, I believe that we both came out stronger individuals through our respective experiences.

I am saddened for his family and by the fact that he died at such a young age. Whenever someone dies, and especially far too young, my first thought is always; Did they find any happiness in their life? Especially when I know that a person struggled in life, grew up without the love of family, or faced any kind of hardship. Did they find any happiness in their life? I just think that is so very, very, important to do. It is my fond hope that Bernie Mac did.

Each day we are constantly reminded of just how short life is. There are so many things that we have to do, take care of, resolve, correct, and tend to. But we still have to remember that none of those things will matter if we are no longer around.

I did not feel well when I retired last night and today I amstill not feeling the best. I hit the door running this morning with errands and MUST do’s and I had a list of things that I felt had to be taken care of today. In the middle of it all, I turned on my computer and learned of Mr. Mac’s death. I went into my garden instead. Those things will keep. I needed the reminder.

Rest In Peace Mr. Mac.

"TGIF"

2008-08-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

Thank God, It’s Friday!!! We have the second day of school under our belts before getting back fully into the swing of things next week

After getting the boys off this morning, I started with garden duties. The garden is looking good and there is a continuation of color. I cannot wait until the red peppers turn red and a few more tomatoes ripen. I know that a mother is not supposed to show favoritism, but I am in love with my baby melons. They have melted this mama’s heart. I find myself pampering them every morning. I am just in awe of them. I guess when you witness the beginnings of something you have only ever seen in a grocery store it is just fascinating.

After garden duties, I cleaned up after my ~~cow~~ Pumpkin. I filled her trough with food and sat out her water. I showered and dressed, grabbed a quick bite to eat and headed out for errands.

I almost broke my neck on the stairs on my way out. A piece of the carpet that is on the steps came loose and my shoe got stuck under it. I took it off(the carpet, not the shoe) and added the steps to the long list of other things that need attention.

I had several stops to make and two stock-ups to complete. I started with meats and lunch supplies. I did pretty well and stuck to my budget. Upon getting home, I realized that a bag of my lunch supplies remained at the store. The cashier and bagger were talking so much that they forgot to put my purchase in my cart. I called the store and had them tag the bag and I will pick it up tomorrow. I would have gone back for it, but after arriving home realized that something didn't smell right about my car. Thank God, I had the wherewithal to notice. My car is out of oil. I don't want to think about what would have happend to my engine had I not checked it. The frustrating thing is that I just recently had an oil change. Obviously, the individual who did my oil change did not put enough oil back in. There are no leaks and the oil light didn't come on. For the sake of public decency, we shall call it an oversight. I also did some comparison shopping on car batteries. I have narrowed it down to two places for the purchase. After using the coke to clean off the corrosion, I think that I will be able to hold off on the battery for the time being. I don't plan to put it off to long though.

I think I did pretty well on rounding up the school supplies. Here is what I came back with:

In the photo is:

4- Spiral 1-subject notebooks

18- Packs of 150 sheet paper at 3/1.00

2- 1” Poly-Binders

30- 2 Pocket, prong folders

1-Pink Girly folder for me with a suede cover.

What?

6-Composition notebooks

1- Bottle hand sanitizer

2- Packs mechanical pencils

2- Packs dry erase markers

1- Water color paint

1-Box of 12 coloring pencils

20- Bic Cristal pens

6- Large pink erasers

1- Zippered pencil case

1- Box 64 crayons

48 pencils

2-Packets notebook dividers

2- 3 pack boxes of Puffs tissues

And, a double box of Excedrin. Yes, I needed this item and will continue to need it in the future.

After coupons and Buy one get one free, it all came to

::Drum-Roll Please::

$ 32.76 Not too bad.

Later in the day, I spent some time doing a walk-through of the house and figuring out what needs to be done. I made a list of things that are a priority like my car, laundry, shampooing the rugs a good general cleaning, and a hair appointment. Next, were things like fixing the carpet on the steps, the mailbox, finding a way to clean up the weeds growing out front and working out a good yet flexible schedule to accommodate some changes that will go into effect when I begin school. Plus, there is the garden to look after.

I thought I started classes on the 15th, but instead it will be the 18th. I need to head to the campus on the 15th to drop my British Literature class which I really dread doing. But with the intensity of the College Algebra plus World History up to the year 1600 I am afraid to overload. There will be lots of reading in conjunction with the History, as well as papers and possible projects. I will also need to tutor for several hours a week and will have to spend as much time as possible in the math lab. Not to mention all the homework. I will be so glad to get math behind me finally so that I can carry at least five classes and catch up on my hours again. It will be a crazy time but I would like to finish school before my children are my classmates.

I was able to get a head start on laundry today and had more school forms to fill out. Thanks to my ~~goat~~ Pumpkin, I also had to get a headstart on the vacuuming. There was paper torn up from the living room, to the hallway, and through the kitchen. Thanks Pumpkin! Love you....

I took everything out of the freezer and re-stocked it with the newer things on bottom. I still have to divvy up the supplies and plan menus for the next couple of days. I want to grill some meat so it can stretch a few days. I already have to be out of here first thing in the morning to tend to my car, and to finish picking up the staples for stock-up. I have backpacks to check, agendas to sign, and a bookcase to restock.

On top of all that, I had the mother of all headaches today. Excedrin FINALLY dulled it, but after the Excedrin, I got a stomachache. Oy!

Still,lots to do, but it must get done. And it will.

Hope everyone has a great weekend. Make every second count. And don't take too many Excedrin.

Till next time….

"IN THE RED"

2008-08-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

Well,

Today was the first day back to school. Back to early mornings and early bedtimes. For the most part things went off without a hitch. I was half expecting to have to drag bodies off the mattresses, but it wasn’t necessary.

The boys didn’t seem excited or disappointed. I guess they had just resigned themselves to the fact that summer break is over and once again, it is time to hit the books.

(Yes, it is that dark when the first farm hand...erm child gets on the bus)

(And then there was light!!)

Snazzy New Kicks.

Once I got the boys off to school, I went out into the garden to do an early morning watering. I did my daily inspection and took care of whatever needed tending.

The plants are looking much better after shifting some of them to shadier spots and a good watering.

I am beginning to see some color in the garden. The theme seems to be red:

Things are looking better.

Even my potatoes are starting to bud:

And speaking of red, that is where these school lists seem to putting the old checkbook. I have two supply lists to take care of this weekend. I went into my stock-up bin and was able to get a few things out of there, but with three of us in school, obviously I have not been replenishing it enough. Therefore, it is time for a stock-up while some of the things are still on sale.

Also it is time to re-stock my meats and some smaller items. I cannot believe that it has already been a month since I stocked the freezer. There are a few meats still there, but not enough to last for more than a week. I love stocking up. Some like a day at the spa, I stock-up!!

There is just something fulfilling about a freezer, a pantry, and shelves all stocked with food and other necessities.

I got both my Algebra and History books on yesterday. Two books were 190 dollars and one was used!!! Thank goodness that we can use a portion of our student loans in advance to get our materials.

Then there was the car trouble yesterday that fortunately I was able to take care of. That was an episode all in itself.

Today was a big day for paperwork too. Let me tell you, I HATE PAPERWORK!!!! But, it is a necessary evil so I knocked it out while the boys were at school. I got bills paid, filed away necessary papers, filled out the various school forms for the children and organized the remainder of the bills by due date. It was a BIG relief to see the basket go down and finally empty out.

I am thankful that summer will soon be ending, but I am going to miss the ability to not to “have” to be somewhere as well as a more laid-back schedule. I have to start going over my Algebra and getting my things prepared for school now. I am still under the “Math” 8 ball, but am just going to dig my heels in and do the very best that I can.

Back to school always reminds me of the closeness of fall and things quieting down. This year for me, it brings the addition of planning my fall crop and a harvest of things already planted. Academically, it means a fresh start and further achievements.

I will miss the lazy(more like hazy, crazy, humid) days of summer but it is time to say goodbye and head back to the books and a fresh dose of reality.

Till next time……

"Busy Day"

2008-08-05T18:05:00.000-07:00

Today was a busy day on the homestead. I started the day by washing clothes that took up three lines to hang out. I made a huge skillet of pork for pork tacos, and I had to do some tinkering in the garden.

Some of my plants are wilting!!

The temperatures have been absolutely brutal. I am trying not to over water, but at the same time, I don’t want them to dry out either. The worst hit is my pepper plants. This one is basically dead. First, it started to wilt, then upon closer inspection, I realized that bugs had eaten through the entire root. I will probably lose it. Two of the other started to wilt as well, but not as bad. I moved them to a shadier part of the growing area and hope that it will do the trick. I love these little veggies and would hate to lose them.

Remember the half-dead plants that I got from Wal-Mart, well after working with them they look like this now.

The mosquitoes are also bad. Even after putting on Deep Woods Off, they still ate me up!!!

I still am praying for some rain or something to cool things down. This has really been one of the hottest summers ever.

Tonight was also Open House for the kiddies. Of course, no one thought to turn on the air. I can just imagine how hot it will be for my youngest son during recess. I hope the teachers at least keep the children hydrated if possible. I know that last year they gave them small cups of Gatorade and sold it for 75 cents a bottle. I’m planning to make sure that extra drinks are in the lunchbox.

The High School was almost worse than the grammar school. No air, too many bodies, and CHAOS!!! But, we made it!!

I am not ready for school to start back for any of us. It seems as if we just got out and already it is time to head back. However, I am thankful that for the most part we had a good summer even when some days weren’t as pleasant as others.

Well, it’s time to get things settled for the night. Tomorrow is haircuts, school lunch, and supply shopping. I’m tired already.

Till next time.

"Still Living and Learning

2008-08-04T16:02:00.000-07:00

I spent another day in the garden. I had quite a few things that I wanted to work on. As usual, the day was brutally hot, so I put on a bandana around my head, a small hand towel on top of the bandana, and my straw hat on top of that. The towel not only helps to block the sun, but it helps to keep the creepy crawlies from going down your shirt. But I digress

I started the day working on my compost. I added a few more things to it, I turned it, and then I wet everything down and put the top back on it to cook.

After that, I worked on cleaning out the main gardening area. I decided to put the raised bed inside the fenced in area as it gets better sunlight and is not exposed to Pumpkin and or “Peter Cottontail’s” spawn. I saw a small bunny sitting in the very area that I had the raised bed. It was small enough to squeeze right through the fence. I tried to sneak up on it to take a picture, but it was too fast. That or I am too slow.

After hand-pulling weeds again, I raked the dirt over a few times to loosen up rocks and anything else that needed to be removed. I then put down a few pieces of black fabric weed material.

Once I placed the raised bed in its new home, I then filled it will soil and some compost and the put the grid on top.

I started filling it in with some of the seedlings that were more than ready for transplant.

I also replanted two of my pepper hot pepper plants that were not thriving at all. After carefully inspecting the soil, I found bugs at the base of one and the other was obviously not draining as well as it should have. I am hoping that in the new soil they will come around. I put in the two of the pumpkin plants and filled the back row with beans. I rigged up some netting so that I can hopefully train the bushes as they get taller and stronger. I won't add anything else until later for fall planting.

I also planted a container of beans in the other area against the fence. I hope to train them to grow upwards depending on the fence for stability.I am going to have to keep a close eye on them to make sure that the birds don’t feast on them.

Here are some of the baby watermelons making an appearance:

I am so excited to see them growing!!!

However, I think that one of the most important things that I did today was to refocus some misinformation that my children became privy to this weekend.

Apparently, it is the belief of some, that the contributions that a woman makes to the household are meaningless unless there is a paycheck involved. It is of no merit if she cooks from scratch, cleans, does laundry, handles the budget, shops frugally, raises the children, cares for the pet, does as much home and auto maintenance as she knows how, religiously brainstorms way to keep more money in the home than goes out, and also goes to school. No, according to the opinion of some, these are the things she is “supposed” to do. I wonder how many women these days would accept that line of thought and still "willingly" do those things? Granted, today prices are high and two paychecks are better than one.But isn't it just as important and helpful to work hard to make sure the money is distributed properly? Also, granted is the fact that I am aware that I am not employed. However, I am working on it. In the meantime, I do the things that I do without contest as my way of contributing to this household, until I can fully contribute to a household of my own. No, what I do might not “earn” me a paycheck, but at the very least, I think it should earn me some respect.

Still, I plan to lead my children by example and to involve them in as much of what I do as I can. Today I started with this:

I want my children to know that all work should be valued no matter what it is or who does it. Moreover, if living as a unit, everyone should contribute and everyone’s contribution should count. At least that is the way “I” think it should be. But hey, I’ve been wrong before.

Till next time…..

"All in a Day's Work"

2008-08-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

I am ~~old~~ tuckered out tonight. I spent over five hours working in the garden today. It was brutally hot. I almost abandoned the idea of working outside today, but when I got started, I just couldn’t stop. I had several projects that I have been needing to get to and just went full tilt.

One of the first projects that I worked on was re-potting some plants that I had bought at a buy one get one free sale. I think the brutal temps have forced the vendors to get rid of as many plants as they can. And because I am a ~~idiot~~ “Plant Whisperer” now, I just think that I have to take home all needy plants and nurse them back to health. I have turned my planting table into a “Plant E.R.” These are my medical clothes:

Here are two of my patients: One came back to life a little after repotting and water. The other one, well, we'll see what happens.

A second project is the continuation of the flower section of my Chill Center”. I really would like toturn it into a nice little area that I can go to think, write, and maybe even read a little. I just love to go and look at the flowers, view their progress and think of ways to improve it. I am still trying to figure it out, but for now, it has gone from this:

To this:

I hope to periodically add some more flowers, and hopefully the ones in the long boxes will start to grow.

My third project was to put together my raised bed. It was very simple, but until “my” brain can decipher the instructions, it is just like a foreign language to me. But….once I do comprehend what I see, I am good to go. Here are the various stages of this project:

Now all I have do is to is fill it with the soil and put in the plants. I might have to find another space to place it in the yard. It is suggested that it be placed in an area that gets at least 6-8 hours of sun per day. It is also suggested that this place not be near trees which it will be if it remains in this spot. I will have to re-configure a few things before I put in the soil.

Using the manual screwdriver to put in the screws with hands still sore from hours of sketching, coloring, cutting fabric swatches and freshly cut from yard work yesterday was no fun. I went inside to get the battery-operated screwdriver only to find that both rechargeable batteries were dead. When I asked about the batteries, I was met with a very condescending, cavalier attitude. I was tired, and hot, and had throbbing hands. Cavalier and condescending were a dangerous combination with which to approach me. Rather than go farther with it, I just went back to the manual screwdriver. I figured ten to twenty is way to long to be away from the kids, the dog, and the garden for pre-meditated assault and battery.

I also washed linens today and hung them on the line. As I worked, thefreshly washed scent from the linens was incredible. The smells brought back so many memories of my summers spent with my grandmother when I was younger. Every Monday was wash day and one of my favorite sights were the white sheets hanging on the line. I can smell the bleach and detergent just thinking about it. Line drying is absolutely one of my favorite things. Because ~~I am country as hell~~ it brings back so many fond memories of the times in my life when I was able to be a kid and felt safe.

I love the many lessons that I learn from spending so much time playing in the dirt. I don’t know if anyone else remembers the commercials back when “Do It Yourself Home Perms” were popular. Well today, I almost stumbled (stumbled being the operative word here) upon another “Do it yourself” entity. Mine would have been called: “Do it yourself Hysterectomy” courtesy of these:

You don’t wanna know.

Overall, it was a good day, and the tired that I feel is a good tired. I worked on projects, saved plants, built a raised bed, hauled soil (with assistance) and worked with various tools. After a nice meal, and a nice hot bath, the only tool I want to see now is the one that will open this:

Till next time…

"Reflection"

2008-08-01T18:12:00.000-07:00

"We are distracted from many things in life by fear, which stops us penetrating into places where the heart wants to go. Not to be scared and to be faithful to oneself calls for real courage. The heroes... are truly brave: they are afraid but they surpass themselves and aim at that place where there is no room for fear."

~Andrey Prikotenko~

* The entry below was written on Tuesday, July 30th.

Today,

I realized just how important it is to realize the small pockets of beauty that we have in our lives. I finally get the old adage to: "Stop and smell the Roses". Far too many of us are so stressed out by our lives that we don't realize that we aren't living them but are truly just going through the motions of doing so. I think that I fall into that category much of the time.

I went outside for just a bit to gather my thoughts and to just breathe for a minute. I went over to the new flower garden, and to just peer at the beauty of the flowers sent a certain calmness my way. I just stood and took in the majesty of the flora. From where I stood, I looked around at all that I had been doing the past month and a half and how with just a little faith, and lots of effort, I had begun the transformation of my backyard into the beginnings of a long held dream.

While gazing at the flowers I thought of my mother. My mother loved flowers but was always afraid that she couldn't or didn't have the know how to do certain things. She projected that realm of fear on to me and to my siblings. There was very little encouragement for us to try new things, to take chances, or to just live. Most of my memories of my mother are of her being sad, scared, and unhappy.. This was her lot in life up until her death, last November. My heart ached that this was all she knew about life. Somedays, it still does. I know and always knew that this wasn't and isn't what I want for myself, or my own children.

Sure, I'm a novice and most of the things that I have done have been done from the seat of my pants. But I know that I would rather not know what I am doing and still go for it, than to just think about it. I want to reap the small surprises that come from my efforts. I am no longer satisfied to to remain just an observer through my thoughts, wishes, and dreams.

From early childhood I have always had a lot of responsibility placed upon my shoulders. I have always had to make the best decisions, the right decisions. So many other people have always depended on me. It meant always having to be on, to stay on top of things, to always be in control. But if nothing else, this garden has taught me that I can't control everything or make everything alright. That sometimes no matter how much care and effort you put into things, sometimes they just won't grow, they just won't thrive. So you have to count your losses, take the lesson and re-plant.

Gardening/Farming/Homesteading, whatever you call it can be an arduous trek, but but you won't find one more fulfilling.Sometimes it can be overwhelming, sometimes you ask yourself; "What was I thinking?" But mostly, you are in awe of the beautiful bounty that rests only a few steps from your reach. Such is the same for life.

As I stared at my flower bed, my vegetables, which I consider my "little pockets of peace", I am reminded of the importance of clinging to the simple things, and remembering that sometimes we can fail to see the blessings because we are so focused on the bigger burdens. I am reminded that I have to fight tooth and nail to find the small pleasures, even when the larger, more unpleasant things loom. I just want to be happy, and to find peace. I'm not looking for an easy life, but I am going to require of myself, to promise myself that I build a a life that is full of the things that are important to me. I have neglected doing that for long enough. I think I owe it to myself.

Ahh, Clarity.

A Little Catch-Up"

2008-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm finally back to writing. I had a stressful few days doing making up work for a class. I had forty-eight hours to turn in a project and study for a test. Let me tell you, DON'T try this at home folks. It was a long, arduous, forty-eight hours, but I am proud to say that my hard work paid off, for I got a 100% on my project. I guess no sleep makes me more creative..hmmm, who knew, but I digress.

I only got a chance to step into the garden a little bit at a time. But that was then and this is now and I am happy to have the work behind me and the chance to get back to my "little piece of heaven".

Things are looking nice and green on the Homestead. There was a nice, hard, long rain last night so the plants got a good watering. The plants in the propogation area are ready to be planted.

I really have to stop saying it and really do it. I have just been so very, very, tired these past couple of days. I think that I am mentally constipated as well. Next week, my boys are back to school and then I follow the week after. Being on campus yesterday was just a reminder of how hectic things are going to be. But that is life and it is too short to not take the bad with the good. But back to more important things.

There is some growth in other areas of the garden as well:

The cantaloupe is growing so long that I had to put it on a table so that it wouldn't just be on the ground.

I had to elevate the watermelon as well.

Even the peppers are finally starting to make their appearance:

All in all, the vegetables are not doing that bad.

Look at the flowers:

Back inside, I decided to do a little cooking. That is always good for mental constipation. I decided to partake of my favorite vegetable: Bok Choy.

This isn't from my garden, but it will be. I have seeds and those babies will be dirt bound once the weather cools off.

I turned it into Chicken stir-fry. There is actually some asparagus, carrots, red bell pepper and yellow squash in there too. Guess the bok-choy just covered it up.

But one of the best parts of my day was finding this ready for me outside. ::Starting up music and singing to the "Miss America Theme Song:: "Here she is..........

Yes, my first ready to eat baby of the season. She's red, she's ripe, she's beautiful. I love her. Hold me. I just stared at her for a while. I took in her majesty, her awesomeness. So overwhelmed was I by her presence that a few seconds later........

I sliced her up and put her in a sandwich...what? It's a tomato for God's sake!!!!( not much left when you share the small dear with others who want to partake of the first fruits. Darn, those selfish farmhands of mine!!!)

Seriously, there is nothing better than growing your own food, and realizing the true fruits of your labor. It feels amazing. I can't wait for future progress.

Till next time.

"Pay Dirt"

2008-07-28T16:12:00.000-07:00

I woke up around 4:30 this morning. I just couldn't go back to sleep. I tried to read a bit and even that didn't put me to sleep. I finally just did a bit of meditating until I felt myself getting drowsy. I meditated on how I was going to do some things in the garden, on having to get back on task with school, and just my life in general.

I did a few more things before falling back off to sleep and then finally getting up when I heard the doorbell ring. It was the DHL guy bringing me the materials for my raised bed. Woot!!! I didn't take a picture of it because it is wrapped up, but I will take a picture of it as soon as it is put together. I was SOOOOOOOOOO excited.

Right after that I left the house to run an errand and to get some gas. I got a scratch off card for 2.00 as well. The funny thing is that I didn't even look at it again until I had gotten in my car. I was a bit chagrined when I did because it actually wasn't the one that I asked for. But as things would have it, that 2.00 netted me 100!!! ::Still doing happy dance::

After putting a little away, I went to Home Depot. I needed a few small things anyway and decided to look for seeds and for what they had on clearance. This is what I came back with:

Not the trowel or the gloves or the cutter, or the little yellow chair, but the plants and the boxes and the soil. This just happens to be my work station when I transplant. I was soooooooo very happy to be able to get a few little things to help me get my yard at least partially set up before I head back to classes next month.

After transplanting them to the boxes, this is the result:

In the first two boxes, I replanted Marigolds and Zinnias. The ones that I put directly in the ground did not prosper. I'd like to see what happens to them in a container. The third box has Tropical Hibiscus, and the yellow flowers are Zinnias in the foreground and yellow Marigolds in the back. The pinkish looking flowers that are really red and white are also Zinnias. Home Depot had a buy one get one free sale on some of their plants and a nice mark down on others. I just sat them out for now until I figure out how I want that area to be.

Here is close-up of the flowers: Aren't they pretty? I am hoping that they continue to bloom and are healthy.

I also re-transplanted a tomato plant. This is what fell off in the process:

Hopefully they will continue to grow in the sun. I also re-planted the watermelon plants that were not making any real progress directly in the ground. We'll see what happens.

I also planted my potatoes today. I buried them deep in a nice sized container. I can't wait to see what happens.

I need to get the Pumpkins and the beans that have sprouted into the ground. I am hoping that I can do that plus put together my raised bed as a weekend project.

But even more fun almost than found money is the little treasures that you find in your own backyard. This is my "Home Shopping Network". Yesterday, I needed to retrieve something from my shed. I hadn't been in there to give it a good cleaning in quite some time. Plus, some new things were added that just cluttered things up even more. While in the shed, I began pulling things out and found a treasure trove of things that I can use in the garden;

I was so happy to find these two storage containers and both of them have lids. I can keep my extra soil, and mulch in them to protect them from the rain. I found my wide rake top as well. I have the handle but couldn't remember what had happend to the rake. I also found the two tomato cages standing in front of the darker storage bin. I had them back from when I had my last garden and had put them away for safe keeping. In the lighter blue bin was a wide variety of pots, baskets and smaller storage boxes that will definitely come in handy in the garden. I was also able to fish out and use this old tool box:

I can both store away and lock my tools inside so that I don't have to bring everything outside each and every time I come out to work. I saw a great barn-like shed at Home Depot today that is my dream to one day have to store all my supplies. Here is my trusty pocket knife. It really comes in handy when I am outside.

All in all, it was a GREAT day on the Homestead!!

I also decided to attach to this entry my vegetable of the week. I am still working on trying different veggies and fruits to see if they would be something that I could attempt to grow in my own garden. Today's choice was:

"The Artichoke".

I have never had an artichoke before and don't even know how to cook it. But I plan to figure out how and then partake of it. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Till next time......

"A Good Tired"

2008-07-27T09:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a very busy day. I was intent on getting an area of my yard ready for the fall planting. I wanted to have a weed free spot that would hold not only some raised beds, but some containers as well. I plan to use both methods on my homestead.

The day was very overcast but always quite humid. I went out around 8:30 and raked the entire backyard which had a nice accumulation of leaves and some pinestraw. I put some in a pile for future composting needs and used the rest to further fill out "Pumpkins Poo" spot.

After I finished raking, I started hand weeding the "Fall" section using a small hand weed puller and scissors. Let me tell you, this is NOT easy or for the faint at heart. And speaking of faint at heart, I discovered something else in my yard yesterday, but more on that later.

Although the area that I was working in did not have a lot of grass, it had lots of roots, and tuffs of grass and weeds in scattered areas. This is only a partial area. It looked something like this:

So I took to the ground alone at first but later on in the morning called in my trusty "Farm Assistant" (ie, "Teenager) to assist.

After much toil we yielded good results which I neglected to take a good before and after picture of. But, it did get us ready to face the task that was the goal: The laying of the weed material: The blackened area is where we used to burn things when we were allowed to burn and weren't under drought conditions. As you can see, the tufts of weed and roots are gone.

Here it is after completion from two different angles.

So now that I have the beginning touches on my area, I can start to fill it in. I won't have to worry as much about the weeds and things growing back, plus it gives me a nice visual to build from as to placement and what types of plants I will use there. I will still need to put a fence around it since Pumpkin and other animals won't be able to run through or pick over the plants that will go into the raised beds, or the shorter containers. But one step at a time. I still have fencing left over from my last project and just need a couple more wood stakes and some bird netting as I have a lot of fence sitters in this area.

And back to the faint of heart portion of this story. While doing the weeding yesterday, I saw something in the yard that looked very odd. I had seen many various types of bugs in the yard including a spider that had a body that reminded me of patent leather. I'm serious!!! But among the tufts of grass there was something that looked like a grasshopper/spider mutant but different from any grasshopper/spider mutant that I had ever seen. The antennas were longer and looked thicker, more rigid, and its body looked like it was plated in armor. I mean when you live in the country and are exposed to all sorts of wildlife, insects, etc. you never know what will show up. So I watched it, it watched me and I couldn't figure out if it was alive or dead at first. So I got a stick, starting poking it and upon further observation realized that this is what it was: (this is also a close-up of the weeds that were pulled as well)

From first glance and with sweat in your eyes (yeah, that's it sweat) could you tell that your nine year old left his toys out and your puppy found it and deposited it in your work spot? Nah, me either!!!!

So after a day of discovering a "new" species of insect, and after raking and laying weeding material, I came inside and did what every homesteader/gardener/farmer does:

I MADE CORN!!

I de-cobbed( is that a word?) it and sauteed it in some butter, and had it with a T-bone steak and a small baked potato. Can you say DELICIOUS!!! Because it was.

All in all it was a very good, although exhausting day. Today, I am feeling the work in my knees, thighs, and upper back and shoulder muscles. I wanted to go out and do some transplanting today, but might need to give myself a day of rest in-between for saftety sake. After all, if I throw my back out again, everything will come to a halt.

It is just so difficult to not go full tilt when you are working on a dream, but especially a dream deferred. This is my passion, rapidly becoming my heart, and even though long coming, my life.

"A Day on the Homestead"

2008-07-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

Today was a very tiring day. I hadn't really worked in my garden with the exception of watering since I got back to town last Monday. I haven't been feeling well. I have a sore throat, some body aches, and just a general feeling of malaise. Plus, my back is a little dicey. I would go out and look at the plants, see if something needed tending but I didn't feel up to really getting out there and working to my full capacity.

I decided that had to stop today. I have some new plants that need to be transplanted and I wanted to get my fall gardening area situated. So I got up this morning with the mindset to set those things in motion.

One thing that has slowed down a lot of my progress was the leftover debris that I moved out of the chill center and onto the other part of the yard. Remember the very first photos of the areas that I needed to work on?

This is how it looks today. I made a section for flowers that only a few buds are coming up in. Plus, Pumpkin likes to use it as her play area and today I saw her use it as her personal toilet. So I put up a barrier to keep her out.

This entire section will one day be transformed into the chill area. This is where I will house the grill, hopefully a gazebo, a table and a few chairs. I hope to go around the borders of the fence with flowers.

I also decided to use the "Toxic Turtle" to plant some flowers in as well. It will hold a nice mound of soil and will be a different sort of flower pot.

I also raked the yard today. I added some more soil, and leaves, and pine straw and the bin of materials from the house into the compost bin to continue cooking. I also added fresh leaves to the area of the yard that I am trying to train Pumpkin to do her business in.

I strung out a load of "Teenager's" laundry and I went through the plants to get rid of dying leaves and to check on each thing individually. The cantaloupes are growing so good that I put them on a bin to give them some height. Look at all the pretty yellow flowers:

Here are a few of the other plants:

Pepper flowers are budding and so are the watermelons:

But, I will have to say that "THE" most fulfilling project that I took care of today was this: remember when this section of my yard looked like this when I transfered the junk pile over:

Well, here is what it looks like today:

This morning, teenager and I systematically took every piece of the debris to the dump. I had been trying to get a truck to no avail but knew that if I didn't get this area cleaned up soon, I would have to go back to school and fall planting would be imminent. So yesterday while out, I bought a nice, heavy duty piece of tarp, draped my trunk and the rest was history. What was wet, nasty, too bug infested or downright rancid, I broke down as best I could and placed it in 39 gallon bags. I was so focused on the job at hand that I neglected to take pictures which I am now regretting. It took 5 trips to the dump but I got the area clean, was able to transport it, albeit slowly to the dump and now my area is ready to get ready for the fall planting. Can you say HAPPY? It was a VERY hard, back-breaking job ( and my back is dealing with it tonight) but I plan to rest this evening and just do some minor planting tomorrow. So all in all I had a VERY busy, yet VERY satisfying day on "Ye Olde Homestead".

"I'M BACK"

2008-07-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it back. I got home yesterday but was EXTREMELY tired!! The flight was VERY tiresome with no air and having to sit on the tarmac for an hour after boarding.

I am assuming that due to the high cost of gas they are cutting down on the air-conditioning. There were little bursts of air coming from shoots directly above our seats but for a large plane and seats so close together, you would think that ESPECIALLY during the summer they would be more considerate. But, I guess this is one of the effects of our crumbling economy and the things we will have to get used to. Flying now feels not much different from a "Greyhound Bus" ride. You now get a cup of water rather than the individual bottles of water. Two passengers share one can of soda or juice, and now you have to buy snacks. So many people had bags of fast food and drinks on the plane. This was something I had rarely if ever run into when flying in the past. But the most important thing is that I made it there and back safely.

Even though I was only on the plane for a little over two hours, my body showed me just how tired that I was. All those late nights and early mornings finally caught up with me. On the upside, I was able to sleep like a log while in New York and hated that my trip was so short.

It was a great visit. It was too hot to really do all the walking that we usually do each time I am there. Still, there were nice meals, cafes, and the feel of the city. I found myself lost in the street markets looking at all the produce as we walked by and feeling a certain sense of "kindred" as the beautiful fruit and vegetables were stacked high by their vendors. It made me even more excited about my own garden back at home.

And speaking of my own garden, things were fine. I was in contact with my son and he did as I asked him with the watering. I was only gone for 3 days, but in that time, some VERY nice surprises awaited me when I returned.

When I last posted on Thursday evening, I placed a picture of the pumpkins and beans that had begun to sprout, here is how they looked on Thursday when I took the picture:

Here is how they look now:

Can you say: "THAT'S INCREDIBLE!!!!! When I walked out onto the porch I almost fainted. I was SHOCKED to see the progress in that short period of time. I don't know when I was able to shut my mouth!!! Obviously the plastic, makeshift greenhouses that I had put over the plants REALLY did a wonderful job. I am STILL in shock!!

Here are some more shots of the seedlings:

These are the beans.

Snap Beans

Spinach

Onions

The only thing yet to sprout is my lettuce. I will keep watching it and if no results happen, I will simply re-seed it and see what happens.

All in al the garden looks great. Here are the other plants:

The first flower on the watermelon plant.

Another tomato hiding under the leaves.

After pruning some of the dead yellow leaves off of this tomato plant, the leves seem to have turned so green!! On the other side is two little tomatos peeking out.

Overall, even with the intense heat, my little piece of heaven is still heavenly.

"I'm Leavin' On A Jet Plane"

2008-07-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

Well, I'll be heading to the airport around 4 a.m. to catch a flight taking me to New York. Manhattan to be exact. My trip was a gift given to me by a dear friend in behalf of the efforts that I put forth to pass a math class that I had failed 3 times. I guess the "4th" time is the actual charm!!! It was a VERY welcome surprise and will be a much needed respite before heading back to school next month and starting the next phase of math.

I am leaving my garden in the hands of my 15 year old. I spent time with him in the garden this evening instructing him how to water the plants and look after things for me while I am gone. Fingers crossed. To help lessen the load on him, I purchased an 18 gallon plastic container. I filled it with water and showed him how to fill the watering can and how to water the plants at the root not on the leaves. I figured it would be safer to water from the can than from the hose and possibly damage the already flowering fruit. I further instructed him to fill up the container each evening so that all he will have to do is to fill up the can and water. Again, fingers crossed!!! I keep hearing George Michael's song: "You Gotta Have Faith" rattling in my head.

On the day that I purchased the 18 gallon container, I had another brainstorm

Why not use some of these containers in the garden. They are sturdy, and tall which would provide a good growing base for the heavier fruited vines and what have you. I could place them against the sections of my fence for support for the vined vegetables like beans. They would also appear to be nice and spacious for onions, and potatoes and other root vegetables. Plus, they would be a lot cheaper and more convenient until I can get raised beds. I know that I won't be able to afford a lot of raised beds or the materials to make them, at least not right away, but I don't want that to deter me from planting. So until I can get the raised beds going, I am going to use these containers. I just have to make sure that I have enough drainage holes and read that if larger containers are sat on bricks it will provide even better drainage. I can grow a lot of potatoes and onions, and beans in one of these babies!!!

I also thought that these storage drawers were interesting:

Already sectioned off, seems deep enough and with two side by side some nice plants can come out of it. When I think of all the drawers that I threw away from old chest of drawers I could kick myself. I think that flowers would like nice in something like this for the chill center.

Just trying to think of some ways to use what is available, more easily accessible, or already on hand.

And speaking of hands, let's hear a big round of applause for the already "budding" appearance of the plants that I just germinated last Sunday. Say hello to my little friends:

The Pumpkins:

The Beans: Kind of Blurry

And More Beans:

Don't know why those shots came out so blurry but hope that you can see the growth.

Well, that is all for "Ye Olde Homestead" today. I hope to see you guys in a few days. Till then, take care and for Goodness sake, Miss Me!!! :-)

"Around the Homestead"

2008-07-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

After tending to the inside of the Homestead, I ventured out into the heart and soul of it: The Garden. I looked around to see what needed to be done and did a few things here and there. First, I checked on the progress of the produce:

The cantaloupe before:

The cantaloupe now:

If you look closely, you can see various tendrils hanging from the vine. How exciting. Also, small buds are appearing as well.

The watermelon plant also seems to be faring well: To the right is a close-up of a little bud that is breaking through.

Here is one of the surviving Sweet Potato and Collard plants:

The tomatoes continue to grow:

My peppers are growing tall like crazy: You can see the buds that will soon open to flowers and then peppers.

If you use your imagination and look real close, you can see the one bud that is coming up where I planted the zinnias and marigolds.

All in all, things are looking good in the "Garden-Stead".

Some other observations I made in my yard is the need to save to get someone to cut down some trees. After the last storm, this branch broke off.

We have had a huge tree fall down during a bad storm before. I don't know if it is clear in the picture but it lying down and rotting. When the men were clearing the property directly behind my house for a tract of 236 homes they cut it into several pieces.

From this spot to the darker trunked tree in the background is also a part of our property line. If I could afford to have some of the trees cut and the land cleared, I could extend my garden back here. Or if I was zoned, I would have 1 cow, 1 rooster, 6 chickens and 2 goats. I know, wishful thinking. Hey, a girl can dream can't she?

I forgot to add this picture to the entry of the day before. This is how the tent looks with the window open and the protective cover taken off: Quite the makeshift greenhouse.

And last but not least, here is a photo my one farm animal: Pumpkin in her "Pup Tent"

Get it? Pup Tent...she's a pup, that's her ten.... Ahhhh, Shaddup!!!!

"I'm A Little Bit Country"

2008-07-16T15:37:00.000-07:00

Today was a busy, busy, day. I am planning ahead for my trip on Friday. I want to have as many things done as possible and have things ready for the "Menfolk" to care for themselves.

I did a bit of laundry and put up my "DIY" clothesline. It's not perfect but it does the trick:

I have always loved clotheslines to dry clothes for as long as I can remember. My grandmother and great-grandmother used to wash clothes in a huge black pot similiar to a Witches cauldron when I was a little girl. I used to love wash day as I remember the clean linens hanging on the line to dry in the sun and the breeze. Although it was hard work they never complained about it. They just did what they had to do. I remember watching them and always saying that I wanted to do the same thing when I grew up. Many of my friends over the years have told me that it was too "country" or too backwoods to hang laundry on a clothesline. They said they'd never do it. I wonder what they will say in the future as gas and electric prices continue to rise and they have to take out a loan to pay their bills, LOL!! One of my aunts lives in a very nice neighborhood, has a lovely home and she has landscaped her yard into one of the most beautiful around. Still to this day, she dries her clothes outside on a clothesline. I guess I was not the only that enjoyed watching the women that came before us use this means of tending to their clothes.

I woke up in a cooking mood and decided to try a few things. One of the items that I had planned for the "main" household meal, not to be confused with my own vegetarian fare was some potato pancakes. I had them all ready to go and to add to the household menu of: Pork chops, mac and cheese, green beans, and skillet cornbread. I was alternating between doing laundry, cooking the pancakes and answering the door. Unfortunately, I stayed at the door too long and all but two of them burned too bad to salvage. These were the only ones that I could save. I'll just have to make them again the next time I make mashed potatoes.

Here is the skilletcornbread:

And here is the requested pan of fudge brownies with icing:

I would like to call this section of my entry: "I'm Just Wild About "Ruta" and she's Just Wild About Me"

At the prompting of a friend, I was challenged to try a different vegetable each week. I took up this challenge not only because I thought it was a good idea but also because I wanted to try new things and consider them for my garden. A similar prompting from another friend has made me a lover of asparagus, a vegetable that I swore I would never eat!!! My other friend suggested "Rutabaga". I had seen them in the store but never even thought about purchasing one. That is until now.

I took my trusty rutabaga and diced it and shook a bit of salt and pepper and some canola oil and popped a few pieces in the oven:

While prepping these, I kept popping raw pieces into my mouth. I AM HOOKED!!! There is a delicate sweetness about them. To me they are like a cross between a carrot, a potato, and a yam. Scrumptious. Since they were so good raw, I did this:

That's right, I sliced them up and tried them with a bit of ranch dip. YUMMY!!! I was nice enough to share this bunch and they were very well liked both roasted and raw. I set aside one bunch to boil and try mashed, but decided to keep those to add to a stir-fry for tomorrow. Thanks "FM" for the challenge!!!!

I also set up a larger composting bin in the kitchen for scraps. As I was putting the rutabaga peels in, it triggered a memory for me. I wondered what the peels reminded me of and remembered that not only did my grandmother and great-grandmother raise chickens, they also raised a few hogs. It flashedback to me that as a little girl, it was my job to take what they called "slop" out to the pigs. I remember turnips and potato peelings were a huge favorite. It is amazing how one thing can make you remember another:

While tiring, it was a good day. Hooray for simplicity!

"Contemplation"

2008-07-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

Nothing much happend on "Ye Olde Homestead" today. I spent most of the day reading, researching, planning, salivating over seeds, making up a wish list and trying to visualize what I want to do with "My Little Piece of Heaven".

I spent the morning reading "Square Foot Gardening" by Mel Bartholemew. I think that his method of growing plants is a very good, clear, and concise way to approach growing all sorts of plants. I personally still like the old fashioned look of row gardening, but love the easier and more efficient way of Square Footing.

The book showed all kinds of things that can assist in making a garden grow and many of the sites that I perused today got me thinking about how I could duplicate what I saw from what I have.

I think the tent idea is going to work great. I saw some various Greenhouses for purchase and didn't really see much difference in them and my tent. They were all domed shaped and the purpose of them is to protect the plants while they grow. There is nothing that I will have to build, or put together and with the more serious of storms, I think that the tent will hold up even better than a pre-fabricated or homemade greenhouse.

Another item that I saw was a plant warmer. It is very costly. As I studied it, I wondered what is the difference betweeen it and a heating pad?

I mean it heats up ,the heating pad heats up. If carefully watched and used the same amount of time, why can't you substitute it? I plan to experiment. Hey, how did others invent and find things out if not by experimentation?

Another thing that was suggested in the book was a steel rod trellis with trellis net. It didn't look hard to build, but appeared to be a two man job to get the pieces together and then to string the netting. What they created looked so familiar. Then it dawned on me that I had seen something similar except kids were kicking a ball into it:

This is almost the exact same rendering of what was made in the book. The upside, if you don't have a truck to bring home the pieces due to length and don't have anyone that can help you, you can get this soccer goal at Toys R' Us, for almost the exact same price as it is sold in the book, or perhaps close to what you would pay for in gas, materials, and manpower. This is used as a trellis for vine plants and is supposed to be the absolute best growing environment for them. I am using Bamboo right now, and that is what another friend said that she will be using. What I like about the net trellis is that it is moveable I could sit my containers of vine plants right against it to train them. I really like this idea and one way or the other plan to duplicate it.

My head has been racing all day with anticipation and hope, and ideas of how to further turn my backyard into a sustainable, area. I am in awe of the whole process and every fiber of my body tingles with anxious anticipation for the time that the whole vision is finally realized.

"I'm Easy Like Sunday Morning"

2008-07-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day. I got up early and put two small roasts and some spices into the crock-pot ( Currently, I am the only one doing the vegetarian week), then headed out to the yard. I had Marigolds and some Zinnias to plant and wanted to get them done before it got too hot. The sun was just beginning to heat things up when things got a bit dark and the sun disappeared. I was grateful for this but afraid that a cloud-burst might spoil my plans. Fortunately, it was just overcast. I was able to work with a nice cool breeze going.

I went over to my experimental section where I sowed the Marigolds and dropped in a few Zinnias. I am not what one would call an organized gardener and just want to see what springs up along the way. This is the area that I planted in:

I want to put some lawn edging to keep my puppy off the area. I saw some the other day while stocking up for a dollar a piece for three sections. That is a lot less expensive than the brick edgings that I wanted to use. I was going to use the rest of my garden fence,but will save it to put around my raised beds. I will have to keep her from running through there as well. She likes to tear through the garden but is still cute as a button:

After planting the flowers, I straightened up the back yard a bit. I picked up a lot of things that were strewn by last night's storms. There were several branches and other debris scattered across the back yard. I put all the tools into the tool holder:

After that, it was on to the "Germination/Propagation Station". I started in small containers: Onions, Lettuce, Spinach, Broccoli,Pumpkin, Winter Squash, Sugar Snap peas, sweet peas, green beans, and will add potatoes to the mix. Here is my experimental section. I will use my raised beds for the late fall plants.

After a while, the cool breeze turned into very strong winds. A few drops of rain fell but nothing serious. I went inside to get a cake ready to go into the oven only to hear a VERY strong pick-up in the wind. I was afraid that my newly planted seeds would blow off the porch. I didn't have any tarp to set upon them as a wind guard, so used my raincoat to cover them and anchored the shelf with an old ten pound weight.

While doing this, I again began to think about a greenhouse. Then I had an epiphany. Sitting on the porch is my son's tent/playhouse. I wondered if I could turn it into a greenhouse. It is waterproof, windproof, and will get warm enough to help the plants develop with having the sun scorch them directly. I can just pick him up another one to put in the yard. I will contemplate on it further. I might have found my answer.

Once I was finished outside, I went back inside to get the cake going. I finished it and finally got it into the oven. I also finished up the sides to go with tonight's dinner. Here is the cake:

And here is tonight's veggie plate:

Yes, things are looking good in the garden, or on the "Homestead" as my other "New Age" farmer friends and I call it.

No better way to spend a nice Sunday morning.

"Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch"

2008-07-11T18:13:00.000-07:00

After taking care of the stock-up for the day, I went outside to take a look at my babies. I am beginning to see even more progress.

Here you can see the buds on my peppers starting to form. I was so excited!

If I knew how to do photoshop, I would have put in an arrow to show where there is also a little bud on my cantaloupe plants. If you look closely at the upper right hand portion of the plant you can see it.

I also splurged on a clearance container and one more transplant. This is an Icebox Watermelon plant. My inground watermelon plants are showing some life but still aren't growing as much as the other ones. I spoke to someone yesterday while out and was told that sometimes the first batch doesn't grow and you just have to keep planting. I also researched some accounts of watermelon grown in containers. I decided to experiment. We'll see what happens. Here it is:

The silver pot sitting next to it was one that I found in the shed from my last garden back in 2004. Wow, I can't believe I haven't grown anything since then.

While at the grocery store today, I also picked this up to try as a part of a challenge presented to me by a "Farmer Friend" to try something different at least once a week. This was my choice:

Yes, the trusty Rutabaga. It was a hit in another household so I want to see if my tastebuds will give it "Two Green Thumbs" up as well.

For snacking, I picked up some yogurt, some trail mix, some fruit and cereal bars and two of my favorite fruits:

I look forward to the day when I will only have to walk a few feet to get this wonderful treat from my own bounty.

And last but not least, tonight's vegetarian dish was a simple vegetable stir-fry.

The star of the show was one of my absolute FAVORITE greens: Bok Choy. It was DELICIOUS!!!! I am hoping that I can grow that in my zone. I could eat Bok Choy all day and not tire of it. It is usually expensive so I don't buy it too often, but I found it for 92 cents a pound and got a pound and a half. I love the white stalks almost as much as I do the very tasty green it is attached to. I threw in some frozen asparagus stir-fry for a bit more crunch and color. I was too hungry to wait for the brown rice to cook so just opted for white tonight. But I must say that it woke up my taste-buds and was a welcome, welcome treat.

Here's to continued progress!

"Taking Stock"

2008-07-11T17:46:00.000-07:00

Today was a long day. I got a nice, early start to get to the grocery store. For the past two weeks I have begun to work on a manner of shopping that I had gotten away from: Stocking up. I used to swear by it and then things changed, finances changed, life changed and I let that change. Since the household is run on a weekly pay basis, I would divide the 4 checks up as to how things were paid. The first check usually went to a big stock-up of groceries and the last 3 checks were divided equally among what was due for the month. It was a pretty good system. But as I said, when things happen you have to adjust to them and my budget faltered under the changes.

Since then, I have been determined to get back on the right path, and today I was able to put it back in motion. With an extra check this month and holiday pay, I decided to use this good fortune to our advantage.

I took a lot of time this week doing inventory and meditating on how and what to stock up on. I know that in the beginning, my approach will have to be systematic. To get household members aboard, I have to remind them of the good that came from shopping for the month, cooking from scratch, and substituting some favorites for healthier choices. Right now I think they are all happy to see the house teeming with food.

My usual stock-up takes at least two days as I have a small car and can't bring home everything on the same day. I usually start with the meat and some perishables, then concentrate on staples and lastly paper goods, household products: ie: dish detergent, soap, deodorant, toothpaste, cleaning supplies, laundry supplies. I doggedly track down sales and stay abreast of the local markets,Target and K-Mart for sales on laundry products, cereal, and even some of the products that are a regular part of my menu. I do have a membership at Sam's club but sometimes find that I can do just as well or even sometimes better stocking up locally than I can buying in bulk. There are still some items that I depend on Sam's for like lunch supplies when school is in, but to save on gas this summer, I have turned my eye locally for bargains. It works for me.

Here are some of my shelves and my chest freezer since the stock-up:

Is it all healthy? Of course not. At least not yet. It is a process and I have to "re-introduce" things into my menu gradually. Plus, I am not so enchanted by the whole process to not be honest. I know that once I return to school next month, time will be almost non-existent. So I will have to depend on some packaged helpers. But, I'd rather throw in some meat, open some vegetables, make a salad, and a basket of nice warm bread than pull up into a fast food drive through window because I am too tired to cook completely from scratch. I do what I have to do for my personal situation.

My teenager loves to make brownies and I won't have the time to help him step by step from the kitchen the way that I would like to. So I stocked up on his favorite Betty Crocker brownies at a dollar a box. An egg and a bit of oil and he can still cook and get the feel of the kitchen. I will miss the summer months because I have really been able to feed the from scratch "itch". I will still incorporate it into my Sunday meals. I call it my "Big Sunday" and will at least have that to look forward to.

All in all it was a productive day and most importantly, it gave me the joy of rebuilding what I had been neglecting.

"This and That"

2008-07-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Nothing went on in the garden today. I had some appointments to attend to and it rained a nice bit today which canceled out any garden activity anyway. That's ok. I have some very important things coming up next week and need to focus on getting some things into place and used today to help offset that. Tomorrow is a stock-up day for groceries as a part of this journey also involves frugality.

I have always believed in stocking-up as a shopper. It is a way to help cut down on costs if done right, and it also helps should any crunches come along and they ALWAYS do. I remember reading where one woman who was laid off took a part of her severance package and stocked up on a year's worth of non-perishables in her basement. She didn't know when she would find another job and was going to have to live off of her savings, and whatever was left of her severance package. I have heard of other families doing the same. They stock up their homes and "shop" if you will from their own pantries.

As the economy is continuing to spiral out of control and more and more families are affected by this, frugality, stocking up and returning to cooking from scratch and from whatever produce is homegrowned can help to offset skyrocketing prices.

One way that a friend and I have been discussing to cut back on our grocery bills as well as concentrating on overall better health is to introduce some vegetarian meals. We are working on vegetarian dinners this week and hope to continue to incorporate this as a regular part of our meals.

This is my offering for tonight:

A simple baked potato and some cucumber slices. I also have corn on the cob and blueberries and bananas for anyone that wants a simple dessert. I like my potato plain with a dab of butter and maybe some sour cream, but opted for just a pat of butter this evening. For the others there are toppings like cheese, and ranch dressing and anything that they can find that they like to pile on top.

I will be relying heavily on vegetable stir-frys for the most part. That is something everyone likes. I have a book on vegetarian meals as I was a vegetarian for 3 years back in my early twenties.

My garden has reignited within me the urge to push myself to get back to basics in as many areas of my life that I can. It is and will be an ongoing process. There will be sacrifices to be made, choices, and much discipline necessary. But I am encouraged to push and try as hard as I can when I think of the alternatives.

"Clearance"

2008-07-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

Today I worked on mostly clearing areas of the yard. I have it sectioned off as to how I want to cultivate it. It is not easy work. I am working with a paltry budget and lots of things that need to be done. But, instead of it being a discouragement, I now find it as a challenge and get excited every time that I progress. The first job that I tackled along with "The Teenager" was the area around the fence that I planted the sunflower seeds. I can't wait to see what they do.

As I was clearing and planting, I came across this little one:

I guess I scared the poor creature because it promptly peed on my glove. Sorry little one.

Here are some more areas that I worked on clearing out:

Once I rent a truck or my oldest "decides" to drop by with his truck, I can take my refuse pile off to the dump and will have a very nice, sunny section to place further plants.

In this section, I plan to plant some marigolds or maybe zinnias:

This is a triangular section that I plan to add some more soil to. It will be a part of the "chill" center where I will put the table,chairs and hopefully a screened gazebo or an umbrella and stand. I already have the grill in this area. I want a part of the yard to be a place where we can cookout, sit in, read, or have some carefree picnic lunches. Some nice plants or greenery will make this area even nicer.

Once I am done with the sustainable portion of my backyard and get some different crops going, I want to work on my front yard. It has been neglected for far too long. Here are some of the areas that I plan to concentrate on:

This is an area in front of the house where I plan to clean out, hand till, and plant some flowers.

And speaking of plants, my elephant ears are coming in:

The area also needs some maintainence. Since I have been in school, there has been little time to even think about outside upkeep. All that has, and is going to continue to be different.

I have a bench out front that has been sitting in my yard for a couple of years now. I would like to grow some flowers around it or pot some flowers and put them on both sides of the bench.

I think my bench might need to be redone. LOL. This is a nice area after looking at this pic that some wildflowers might look good grown into it. The tree it sits under provides lots of nice shade. The only downside is that my son's basketball hoop is very nearby and as rough as they play it might get trampled. Perhaps some decorative fencing in this area would be the answer for that.

For the most part, what I will need is time. Time to put together what I like to call my "Farm Subsidy". Time to work out in the yard and balance school and the responsibilities of home and raising my children. Time to figure out more about the soil, and the best plants for my zone. It is a process but a process that I wouldn't dream of giving up.

"Today's Progress"

2008-07-08T17:06:00.000-07:00

Today was another progressive day. I potted the pieces of aloe that Martha sent me. I also saw some nice growth with my peppers and tomato plants. I don't know if the watermelon and greens were planted too late, the soil not rich or deep enough or what, but the growth has been minimal at best. Plus, something is eating through most of what I have planted in the ground. I am looking online to figure it out and am planning on writing my local extension office to see what I can find out.

This was an earlier picture of my tomatoes and peppers:

This is how they look today:

I have thin pieces of bamboo holding up the peppers and will either use more bamboo or tomato cages as the tomato plants yield heavier fruit.

Here is the aloe that Martha sent me. I hope that these pots will suffice for now and that the roots catch and grow.

My cantaloupe in the orange container is growing as well. Then:

Now:

There were times today when I was out in the garden that I felt overcome with emotion. Emotion for "finally" listening to the call of my heart that has for years been begging me to get more involved in my dream of "living off the land". Emotion for soon having to return to school and the books so that I might secure a job that will provide adequate care for myself and my boys, as we will soon embark into an unknown future. Knowing in my heart that this is the kind of life that I have always craved deep, deep, down in my soul. There is nothing like nature. There is nothing like working in the soil and reaping the benefits of the sweat of your brow. Absolutely nothing. It is a calmer, it a free therapy. It clears your mind and keeps things in perspective. It seems to me to be the way that things were supposed to be from the beginning. I have found that not only will it provide me physical sustenance, but it will also serve to feed my soul..

"Getting Back on Task"

2008-07-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

I am finally getting back on task. The past few days I have been very, very, ill. I think it might have been some kind of virus. Whatever it was it took me out. I haven't felt that bad in I can't remember when.

I felt discouraged and tired and just couldn't keep my eyes open. Every inch of my body ached and I had a lot on my mind. I am thinking about how to present my Theatre project and have to read and study 6 chapters of information. Information that is boring and seldom on the Professor's test. I know that I just need to get it over with, but it is hanging over my head, stressing me out and very taxing. It will be hard enough when I have to re-tackle the algebra next month. But, it is what it is.

To kind of catch up and get my mind on other things, I went out in the yard today. I did mostly clearing, composting and filling in the compromised areas of the fence. I was able to use some of the dirt that was under the stack of leaves to glean some dirt from. This is the area of leaves that I cleared out today.

Before:

After:

An extra bonus of the leaves was a spot underneath the dirt was pliable enough to get dirt to fill in the compromised area of the fence.

The jet black dirt is topsoil that I had put out there a few weeks ago. The leaves and dirt that I got from the refuse area is the lighter colored dirt directly against the fence.

This is a better picture of how I used the leaves and straw to act as filler. The leftover that wasn't used for compost I used to smother the immense poison ivy that is on the other side of my fence. I paid 800 dollars to have the poison ivy roots cut and to have straw as a cover. This summer you would never tell that anyone had done anything to the area at all. The green mass in the background is just some of the poison ivy. Any excess clippings or anything else that comes out of the yard that I can't use will be used to smother the poison ivy.

The happy smiling face is the box that is full of compost. I guess he is happy that his belly is full of cooking compost!

Once I clear out the junk in this area, I am going to plant my Sunflower seed plants. I am hopin they will also add some privacy at that end of the yard. On each side of the fence I plan to plant something. Especially something with vines. I hope to plant both blueberries and either scuppernongs (muscadines) or cherries next summer. Strawberries are a definite as well. I hope to hone up on as much information so that I can plant sometime in March right after the last frost has passed.

All in all, I got a lot done today and felt pretty good while working. I don't know what it is, but just being outside and working hard makes me forget about almost everything as long as I am busy. I cherish it.

I almost forgot. The mailman delivered a very special package from Farmer Martha in Florida.

Thank you Farmer Martha!!!

"Don't Fence Me In, or The Lessons Learned For Today"

2008-07-07T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today was a LOOONNNGGGG day. I am tired. But it is a good tired! I finally got the fence around my garden. Being a novice, and not always understanding how to do things the way "other" people do them, I just went with my gut instincts, how it appeared in "my" head and did it. Is it the best fence? Probably not? Is is the worst? Of course not. But it is up, and my veggies are safe from trampling. That's a good thing. The finished product is below.

My for a time, disgruntled employee, LOL!

While working in the yard today, I also learned several lessons:

* If you are going to wear work pants, make sure they fit and don't fall off in the yard.

* Pray you don't get diarrhea( which mysteriously disappeared once I started working) on the day you decide to put up a fence.

* Never tempt the fates by even thinking to yourself: "God, what would I do if I had to do this all over again.

* Not stroking out when halfway done you realize that the fence is upside down and you have to do it all over again!!

*Thank God you bought 400 feet of twine.

*Never allow your children to grow up on a diet of video and or computer games and tv.

* Realizing that your 15 year old can't tie a knot, hammer a nail, or measure. ::sigh::

* Pray for more patience as you teach your 15 year old how to tie a knot, hammer a nail and measure.

*Male, 15 year old fingers are sometimes too thick for the intricacies of tying off twine.

* Female, 47 year old fingers are sometimes too thick for the intricacies of tying off twine.

* If you still don't want to stroke out, don't take the passive-aggressiveness of your 15 year old personally.

*Don't become passive-aggressive yourself and deny your 15 year old assistant a break because he pissed you off royally.

*Remember your assistant is a 15 year old teenager who would rather be devouring a diet of video games, the computer and tv.

* Don't wish that you could say "Poof be gone" to your soon to be ex/housemate that stands at the back door and tells you how "he" thinks you should do it.

* It's ok to mumble quietly to yourself "Shut the Hell Up" to your soon to be ex/housemate.

* I need a wife.

*I feel "Kick-Ass when I weilding tools.

* Realizing that although a novice and don't really know what the hell you are doing, you grew some balls and did it anyway.

And the top lesson that I learned today was:

*Remembering why I started my garden in the first place:

Results!!!!

"Further Progress"-Part 3

2008-07-07T20:00:00.000-07:00

A close-up of some of the garden growth.

Results. I can't wait!

"Further Progress"-Part 2

2008-07-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

This is where the piles of junk ended up.

This is pile number one. In this pile,

There are things that I can take to

The dump in my car.

This is the pile of leaves, grass clippings and paper.

This will be used as ingredients for compost.

This is the pile that is either too big, or too

Nasty to get into my car. An air conditioning

Unit is to be added to this pile, as well as

A few more things too big to take.

This pile is the salvage pile.

It contains things that I can

recycle and use for the garden.

"Further Progress"

2008-07-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

"Further Progress"

I have been working today on various things.

Lots of decluttering and figuring out where

I want to set up my stock-up and

how I want to continue with the yard.

This was how one of the sections that I am working on looked like.

Here is how it looks today

Still lots of work to do, but it is a start.

"All In A Day's Work-Part 8

2008-07-07T19:44:00.000-07:00

All The Planting Is Complete!!!

"All In A Day's Work-Part 7

2008-07-07T19:43:00.000-07:00

"All In A Day's Work-Part 7

Plants in place.

" All In A Day's Work-Part 6

2008-07-07T19:41:00.000-07:00

Right before the planting.

" All In a Day's Work-Part 4"

2008-07-07T19:40:00.001-07:00

This is the black bag method.

Here is where I put a slit in the

bag and will sit the plant in the slit.

This is supposed to warm the ground

keep out the weeds, and give the plants

a better growing environment.

The clips are from an old over

the door shoe holder that I used

wire cutters to clip off. The arcs

were already formed and saved me

the time and energy of having to cut

and bend wire hangers.

"All In A Day's Work-Part 5

2008-07-07T19:40:00.000-07:00

Getting Dyl involved in the the "Back to Nature" project.

"All In a Day's Work Part 3

2008-07-07T19:38:00.000-07:00

This is the area that I planted the greens in.

I also put the sweet potatoes on the end of

this row. I hope that the two can grow together.

If not, lesson learned.

"All In A Day's Work Part 2"

2008-07-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of the black bags and hooks that I used o hold them down. This is also the area that I planted the watermelon in. The rocks on the

"All In A Day's Work" Part One

2008-07-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

"All In A Day's Work" Part One

This was the work that Dyl and I did the other day. We were cleaning out the section of the yard that will either be the pool area, or the faux patio area. It is infested with ants, and the old deteriorating wood from a huge desk, table and other things that have just been sitting in the yard for well over a year plus. I decided to separate it into 4 piles.

1. Things that I can take to the dump in my car.

2. Leaves, grass trimmings, and things I can use for compost.

3. Things that I cannot get to the dump in my car.

4. Things that I salvgaged to use in the garden.

That made the job seem much less overwhelming. I can't wait to see what I can do to the yard before it is time to head back to school.

"Beginnings"

2008-07-07T19:16:00.000-07:00

This journal is going to be where I share my progress as I find my way back to the "Simple Life". Living simply has always been a very, very, important thing to me. It has been a dream that I have had ever since childhood. I have always seen myself on a small piece of land, living independently of the grid, growing my own food, raising a few animals. I have never made it to the "promised land" so to speak, due to life and other things getting in the way.So I figured that I had to decide" that I was going to take baby steps and incorporate small things into the life that I had until I could get to the point where I wanted and needed to be. I started working on this in early and mid-June. The accompanying photos and blurbs will track my progress.

This is my story, these are the steps I am taking, this is my journey.