tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-796207467798762662024-03-13T10:08:38.235-05:00Miss Effie's DiaryRantings of a woman bound to make history.Miss Effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07840863444770266279noreply@blogger.comBlogger979125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-74328981677026352382021-10-15T07:55:00.000-05:002021-10-15T07:55:39.145-05:00The World's Oldest WIPOne of my current projects is the decluttering of the house. And a major thorn in my side has been my sewing room. <div><br></div><div>Yea. I won't post a picture ...yet. But I am making progress. Garbage has been going out. Decisions were made. Things went to the thrift store. </div><div><br></div><div>I have been finding WIP's. Lots of WIP's. You know. Works In Progress. Those projects that were started and never finished. </div><div><br></div><div>Enter this pillow. I embroidered it 40 years ago!! Forty!! </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7u6FOkQS8bs/YWd_VyTm4uI/AAAAAAAAJEg/Wa3oOblgAwIBidBLVH0cYgT8AXukPrehgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172749318363-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7u6FOkQS8bs/YWd_VyTm4uI/AAAAAAAAJEg/Wa3oOblgAwIBidBLVH0cYgT8AXukPrehgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172749318363-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>I remember what a fun project it was. </div><div><br></div><div>Candlewicking and so many embroidery stitches. I loved it. </div><div><br></div><div>So why did I toss it into a tote and left it there for 40 years??? Ok ... maybe because I didn't know what I wanted to do with the back. </div><div><br></div><div>I had run across a piece of vintage pillow ticking ... and BINGO! It was going to work!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7nIPrckWPq8/YWd_TcmkRvI/AAAAAAAAJEc/UQJwb59PRhETZ2md4OWmCim8TBDEkyKXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172731186249-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7nIPrckWPq8/YWd_TcmkRvI/AAAAAAAAJEc/UQJwb59PRhETZ2md4OWmCim8TBDEkyKXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172731186249-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>So I quickly stitched that together and stuffed it. </div><div><br></div><div>And it is ... DONE! DONE! STICK A FORK IN ME, IT'S DONE! </div><div><br></div><div>Sorry .... I shouldn't have shouted. 😔</div><div><br></div><div>Now to get back to my knitting so it won't be an ancient WIP! </div><div><br></div><div>Hopefully, next week I will do the sewing room reveal. Maybe. Organizing that could easily become the World's Oldest WIP.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lo2v9uLYPF0/YWd_O3Fv1aI/AAAAAAAAJEY/3v08iVt2RAsOkw0bTQEL3W5UNbGq6iBEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172718308213-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Lo2v9uLYPF0/YWd_O3Fv1aI/AAAAAAAAJEY/3v08iVt2RAsOkw0bTQEL3W5UNbGq6iBEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634172718308213-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-91751503514861214462021-10-11T22:08:00.000-05:002021-10-11T22:08:35.211-05:00Wooly Caterpillars and Winter Dreams<div>According to the wooly caterpillars, the Farmer's Almanac, and countless meteorologists .... we might be in for a cold rough winter. Of course, I swear they say it every year! </div><div><br></div>Always one to be prepared, I have started winter prep. My pantries, freezers and cupboards are full. The propane is contracted. The storm windows are on. My Audible account has credits just waiting to be used. <div><br></div><div>It is time for the important stuff. The stashing of wool. The browsing of patterns. Cutting coupons so I can add just a bit more to the fiber budget. Ramen, anyone???? Yes ... it is time to knit.<br><div><br></div><div>This week's life project is creating a plan for my winter knitting.<div><br></div><div>Last winter, I spent most of my time knitting. And knitting. And knitting. From the moment I learned to knit, my mother would say "A pair of knitting needles will cure more problems than a bottle of Valium".</div><div><br></div><div>Although my mother's attitude toward mental health issues is highly dismissive (pull yourself out of it!!) ... she was right about knitting. The rhythemic click of the needles and the repetative motion of throwing yarn AND the daily dose of Lexapro, got me through the 20-21 Winter of Isolation.</div><div><br></div><div>Last winter's fiber accomplishments included a small throw,</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zaGJfdFYw3g/YWTuJ1l0AyI/AAAAAAAAI0w/lMOIM69JUc4L8dyE3TO4iEpbJ2tW0HMAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004500987999-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zaGJfdFYw3g/YWTuJ1l0AyI/AAAAAAAAI0w/lMOIM69JUc4L8dyE3TO4iEpbJ2tW0HMAwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004500987999-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div> the largest afghan I ever knit,</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nv3dWOk8cyk/YWTuFVGFPmI/AAAAAAAAI0s/6MoWz0l57cAouv7Im0e4G4L7qkW_GWjSQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004483655067-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nv3dWOk8cyk/YWTuFVGFPmI/AAAAAAAAI0s/6MoWz0l57cAouv7Im0e4G4L7qkW_GWjSQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004483655067-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div> a pair of socks</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LZWZUXRsVTM/YWTqyuGzy-I/AAAAAAAAI0Y/EOPFi-qNfoYgeJ823Qowl5ZK9CE868B1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634003640655478-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LZWZUXRsVTM/YWTqyuGzy-I/AAAAAAAAI0Y/EOPFi-qNfoYgeJ823Qowl5ZK9CE868B1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634003640655478-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div> and 4 sweaters. Okay .... 3 sweaters and a piece of cardboard in the shape of a sweater. Can we discuss felting?????? Or should that have been <i>CUSS </i>felting????</div><div><br></div><div>So now ... I am planning for this winter's knitting. </div><div><br></div><div>First up on the needles ... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0NsrPD89lFc/YWTquPhNHwI/AAAAAAAAI0U/YRWCV1QIvWo8XzJszbMC_upO_nt09Mu7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634003628372584-3.png" imageanchor="1">
</a><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0NsrPD89lFc/YWTquPhNHwI/AAAAAAAAI0U/YRWCV1QIvWo8XzJszbMC_upO_nt09Mu7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634003628372584-3.png" width="400"><br></div></div><div><br></div><div>This is the Autumn League Pullover. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AASIhUqwVZc/YWTuA3Y7-nI/AAAAAAAAI0o/9KGQDL_JxXEvXIIvuXz9HkAEKQVQpE0rQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004479430547-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AASIhUqwVZc/YWTuA3Y7-nI/AAAAAAAAI0o/9KGQDL_JxXEvXIIvuXz9HkAEKQVQpE0rQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634004479430547-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>I have done some changes to it. It is knit from the top down ... once you get to the place you divide the sleeves from the body ... according to the pattern, everything is knit flat. Well ... I don't HATE seaming. But I LOVE the feeling of being DONE when all the knitting is completed. </div><div><br></div><div>So I knit the body in the round till I reached the ribbing. The ribbing is split on the sides so I made the back ribbing a little longer than the front. And then ... I knit the sleeves in the round. Whoever decided we needed 12" circular needles was brilliant! For decades, 16" circulars were as short as you could get. I love knitting on double points but a 12" circular for sleeves is easy!</div><div><br></div><div>I am on the 2nd sleeve ... so after finishing the neckline ... it "might" be done shortly after the weekend. It's a wool/silk blend so a very nice weight for layering. </div><div><br></div><div>Next ... is a project I wanted done for the spring of 2021. The Classic Tee sweater. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AnfDtqPZRNk/YWTwSq7H4QI/AAAAAAAAI08/blUXrEcFeWw9dWE3sTdd8DCgnu4wXCjywCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005062777045-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AnfDtqPZRNk/YWTwSq7H4QI/AAAAAAAAI08/blUXrEcFeWw9dWE3sTdd8DCgnu4wXCjywCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005062777045-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>I have Malabrigo Arroyo in Indiecita. I think the subtle shades of blues, lavenders and greens will be nice. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HGFlAx2hVSg/YWTywlCD8XI/AAAAAAAAI1I/_e1BgelZNYMe7CPuQxAIyIdEClhtj_2_QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005681686978-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HGFlAx2hVSg/YWTywlCD8XI/AAAAAAAAI1I/_e1BgelZNYMe7CPuQxAIyIdEClhtj_2_QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005681686978-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>And finally, I want something cozy and I think this will fit the bill! </div><div><br></div><div>This is the Common Ground hooded cardigan. I think it will be perfect for a quick run to the chicken coop or curling up with a book on the sofa. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rhsMYMVSlew/YWT1OuyxLzI/AAAAAAAAI1U/z1naif02u8cCK7tGvXdDPQdq1MZ832jdgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634006325255613-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-rhsMYMVSlew/YWT1OuyxLzI/AAAAAAAAI1U/z1naif02u8cCK7tGvXdDPQdq1MZ832jdgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634006325255613-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I am leaning toward a silver gray. To make me look taller ..... you know, from head to toe. 😉</div><div><br></div><div>So that is my winter knitting plan. I am certain there will be some changes and additions and I just know I will need another afghan!</div><div><br></div><div>And I am POSITIVE I will never ever put a 100% alpaca sweater in my front load washer on the wool cycle no matter how many times I have washed cashmere. Just sayin'. 😭</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2MBcnrAKRys/YWT73pznqFI/AAAAAAAAI1k/bK5Hzf9xdLE3t1TxqYo-Rt13gke01dB2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634008007644071-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2MBcnrAKRys/YWT73pznqFI/AAAAAAAAI1k/bK5Hzf9xdLE3t1TxqYo-Rt13gke01dB2QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634008007644071-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>Cardboard, I tell ya!</div><div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jndKoj35CnI/YWTyscpmGAI/AAAAAAAAI1E/98SEl65Wq7gdU2QtzQLswq7lY7Lhk8REACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005676769680-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jndKoj35CnI/YWTyscpmGAI/AAAAAAAAI1E/98SEl65Wq7gdU2QtzQLswq7lY7Lhk8REACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1634005676769680-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div></div></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-47335410454161375692021-10-08T21:49:00.000-05:002021-10-08T21:49:32.134-05:00Crumbled blueprints ... Erased dreams<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--WHIvCWzjYw/YWECC1Ie1FI/AAAAAAAAIv0/RCV8qOkhlFkccT6Ih31T44CPqZvGgK68ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747463744494-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--WHIvCWzjYw/YWECC1Ie1FI/AAAAAAAAIv0/RCV8qOkhlFkccT6Ih31T44CPqZvGgK68ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747463744494-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div>I think I am slowly emerging from the land of the zombies. <div><br></div><div>The first year of widowhood has often been described as walking through life in a deep fog. And it is. </div><div><br></div><div>But I felt more like a zombie. Not only was my darling husband, life-partner and best friend was dead .... but so were my plans, goals and dreams. </div><div><br></div><div>This summer has been a struggle to get my feet back on the ground, open my eyes and step forward into life again. And life is nothing without dreams ... so I am trying to dream again. </div><div><br></div><div>I have divided my life into three categories. Three categories or segments allows me to focus on specific areas of my life. </div><div><br></div><div>We all know that life is not like pie with distinct, straight pieces. Its like cobbler ... everything is all stirred together and no edge is crisp. But this post is all about my dreams and goals ... so let me pretend!</div><div><br></div><div>My three life pieces are .... </div><div>Career </div><div>Home</div><div>Personal</div><div><br></div><div>I want to talk about <i>Career </i>today. </div><div><br></div><div>Ok ... maybe that isn't the right term for this period of my life. <i>Career </i>sounds so high heels and tailored suits to me. I guess that is a definite improvement over pantihose and girdles. 😉</div><div><br></div><div>My <i>career</i> is about dirty fingernails and muddy knees. I have to admit at 67, flower farming is a bit of a physical struggle. And I was ready to say ... 20 years has been enough. </div><div><br></div><div>But its not. And I have ideas and goals and Pintrest files galore and as long as I have pictures pinned .... I can't quit! So the orders went in for plugs and seeds and wayyyy tooo manyyy perennials ... AGAIN. </div><div><br></div><div>I have been working on tweaking hours in my mind. And although I have <b>GREAT</b> employees/helpers ... I am still a one-woman show. </div><div><br></div><div>I do know I will have a regular evening you-pick. At this point ... I am thinking Monday evening. I also know I will be closing at noon on Saturday .... that falls into the "Personal" category!</div><div><br></div><div>But I also think hours need to expand on Thursday and Friday. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sdNvR1y6W6k/YWECB_lEmmI/AAAAAAAAIvw/4uW_jJFNM-Yszcomk3Vr-eg_eGJ30AAQACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747456376937-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sdNvR1y6W6k/YWECB_lEmmI/AAAAAAAAIvw/4uW_jJFNM-Yszcomk3Vr-eg_eGJ30AAQACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747456376937-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>Classes have been fun on the farm and those will continue and expand. I also found that I love having events on the farm and that is a must-do part of my business plan.</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e7u3D7cX5u0/YWECACId54I/AAAAAAAAIvs/-NsVAQ_5iC4hw9AgHeHtfIj7efeo2UCgwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747448013153-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e7u3D7cX5u0/YWECACId54I/AAAAAAAAIvs/-NsVAQ_5iC4hw9AgHeHtfIj7efeo2UCgwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1633747448013153-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>There will be a few price changes .... you-pick buckets will stay the same at $25. But photo shoots have been $25 <b>FOREVER!! </b>And that has to change for me to be able to offer unique, fun photo areas. </div><div><br></div><div>I am not sure where I am heading ... but there are steps moving forward and not backward. And after 18 monthes of trying to keep my head above water, even little steps on solid soil feels good.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-78323214102309707702021-02-10T10:03:00.000-06:002021-02-10T10:03:30.802-06:00Bootstraps....I think we can all say that 2020 was nothing but a dumpster fire. <div><br></div><div>For me, the fire burned deep and hard. On April 2, 2020 ... Honey passed from respiratory failure. No ... it wasn't COVID. It was listed as community spread pneumonia. But ... we were blessed to spend every minute together and we talked and laughed and loved those last few days together. And I cried to have lost the gift to world that was my Honey.</div><div><br></div><div>So now ... now I try to heal. </div><div><br></div><div>Finding myself alone on the farm has been a challenge. Winter always brings more challenges. Frozen water ... icy conditions ... drifts taller than I am. But with creative solutions, very good friends and the knowledge that I come from tough stock ... I have been getting by. </div><div><br></div><div>My love of flowers is deep in my heart ... but I have to admit that last year, gardening and farming was a struggle. </div><div><br></div><div>Every place I looked ... Honey was there. Yet ... he wasn't. The ache from my broken heart paralyzed me. What to do next? How to do it? And I struggled ... even with help ... to maintain this little farm. </div><div><br></div><div>So now .... now I try to heal. </div><div><br></div><div>I have discovered alot about myself in the quiet of this dark COVID winter. About my strength ... my faith ...my abilities ... and my needs. The world threw its worse at me last year .... and I survived. Maybe a bit worse for wear ... very tearful ... a little dented and bent ... but I survived. </div><div><br></div><div>Spring arrives in 6 or 7 weeks. With 12+ inches of fresh snow on the ground and sub-zero temperatures predicted, spring is never precise in Iowa. And some days ... like today ... it looks like it may never come. </div><div><br></div><div>But it will. </div><div><br></div><div>And hopefully, I will be ready to face it. </div><div><br></div><div>But for now ... now I try to heal</div><div> </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div> </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-36703688545610826022019-11-17T10:29:00.001-06:002019-11-17T10:29:14.523-06:00Drifting and Bobbing ....They say life is what happens while you are making other plans. <div><br></div><div>All summer we schemed and talked and planned how to add more flowers to the farm. With a new greenhouse and potting shed, we would save shipping charges and be able to plant some flowers in smaller quantities. And by using cool flower planting methods, we would have more flowers earlier in the season. There would be variety. </div><div><br></div><div>And then, Honey contacted pneumonia. We discovered that his lungs are weaker than we thought. There are still questions about a solid diagnosis and we are now in the hands of specialists.</div><div><br></div><div>All the fall plans and winter dreams went flying out the windows ... to be replaced by blood tests, scans and doctor's appointments.</div><div><br></div><div>He is calm, deliberate and determined to heal. </div><div><br></div><div>And then there is <b>my </b>reaction to all of this. </div><div><br></div><div>Which can only be described as "<i>Chicken Little moves to Miss Eff's</i>"!!! Yikes!! </div><div><br></div><div>I can tell you how I handle it .... <b>NOT</b> well! So not well, I ended up at Convenient Care with a panic attack. </div><div><br></div><div>One Thursday morning, I felt myself fainting. Heart pounding. Dizzy. Light- headed. I just knew it was a panic attack. </div><div><br></div><div>OK ... I <b>thought </b>it was a panic attack. I was <b>sure </b>it was a panic attack. Chest pain, fainting, hyperventilating, bit of nausea . Oh yea, kind of sounds like heart attack symptoms. </div><div><br></div><div>So this short, chubby 65 year old woman decided ... hmmm, I <i>should</i> have this checked out. So we went to have my panic attack confirmed. Chest x-ray, EKG, blood test.</div><div><br></div><div>And I was diagnosed. </div><div><br></div><div>According to the nurse practitioner.... <i>You are perfect. </i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div>I asked her to repeat it .... twice. Loudly. I needed to make sure Honey heard her. 😊</div><div><br></div><div>OK ... I had a panic attack. Which is <b>not </b>perfect. </div><div><br></div><div>My darling Honey would tell you that I am a control freak. Not that I want to control him .... or other people. But yes, I want to know "the next move". What is next on the list ... a phone call to make, a task to do, a project to do.</div><div><br></div><div>And now ... I don't. I don't know what to plan ... where to go .... what to do next. And it is then ... the panic attacks set in.</div><div><br></div><div>In this season of uncertainty and fear .... I find myself drifting and bobbing with no control of my life.</div><div><br></div><div>I haven't ordered a plug, a seed or a plant. There are no charts or maps or planting dates listed. There are no visions of pretty gardens dancing through my dreams.</div><div><br></div><div>Maybe this week will bring answers. </div><div><br></div><div>"Chicken Little" sure hopes so.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-34755983786540772172019-10-31T11:28:00.001-05:002019-10-31T11:28:00.687-05:00Cooking .... Cooking .... Cooking <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zGKPB_JD-bI/XbsLjpkZwwI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/DbtxZu99J7ECTU_lI0KRljcWdzEFGA-4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572539222733582-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zGKPB_JD-bI/XbsLjpkZwwI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/DbtxZu99J7ECTU_lI0KRljcWdzEFGA-4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572539222733582-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><div><br></div><div>In the past six weeks, I have fixed more meals than I ever have in my entire life! Which is a LONG time.</div><div><br></div><div>We have eaten out once since September 24. It has been great on the budget but it's been really hard on my struggling mealtime creativity. </div><div><br></div><div>The other thing .... we were simple breakfast people. A cup of coffee and a piece of toast. Maybe a grilled cheese and ham sandwich. AND we each took care of ourselves. </div><div><br></div><div>Times have changed. </div><div><br></div><div>Honey needs lots of protein and we want him to put on a litte weight. So breakfast has become a much bigger deal. </div><div><br></div><div>There is another issue. </div><div><br></div><div>Cooking for two people ... three meals a day ... is HARD! </div><div><br></div><div>My fridge is full of leftovers that I am trying to use up in new ways. Yes .... lots of extras have been frozen for future meals but there are still leftovers. </div><div><br></div><div>Today... it was taco filling. I had used 1/2 pound of ground beef, pinto beans, a small diced potato, green chilies, hominy and herb-seasoned (Mexican) tomatoes. We used street taco tortillas... they were delish!</div><div><br></div><div>But I made enough to feed the masses. </div><div><br></div><div>☹</div><div><br></div><div>So ... for breakfast for Honey ... the taco filling became a hash replacement. Topped with cheese and jalapenos .... there are 3 good protein sources already. (Ground beef, pinto beans and cheese) </div><div><br></div><div>But like every super cool restaurant ... I topped it with a fried egg. And some Sriracha sauce ... to heat things up!</div><div><br></div><div>Honey liked it and ate it up!</div><div><br></div><div>Which is a good thing cuz I am certain this over-cooking event will happen again ... soon. Have you seen me make spaghetti sauce???</div><div><br></div><div>You can tell me to buy a "Cooking for Two" cookbook .... but I will still throw everything into the pot! Besides, I own two of those books. <br></div><div><br></div><div>Until I learn balance (HA!!!) .... I will share my sort-of creative struggle to use the leftovers. </div><div><br></div><div>As I tell Honey ... you might have to deal with it. Cuz I am dealing with it .... and we all know how I handle things!!</div><div><br></div><div>Stay tuned ... I promise the next blog won't be about food. 😊</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-24392046516434989132019-10-26T09:31:00.001-05:002019-10-26T09:31:39.868-05:00Place on the Grain ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DC9w0ByAvm4/XbRYwjHzDLI/AAAAAAAAAZg/2DRG3uHKySwMmUDDuo9tyCf1_GAPqJC2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572100267599217-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DC9w0ByAvm4/XbRYwjHzDLI/AAAAAAAAAZg/2DRG3uHKySwMmUDDuo9tyCf1_GAPqJC2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572100267599217-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So ... in my quest to get Honey healthy again, I have been trying to increase the protein content of our meal. </div><div><br></div><div>For those of you who don't know, a little over a month ago, we rushed Honey to the hospital .... burning up with fever and gasping for breath. A few days in the hospital and a new fashionable-oxygen-tank-accessory later ... we are slowly adjusting to a different normal. </div><div><br></div><div>We don't get out much now ... and now that our flower season is done ... I have been having a lot of fun stretching my cooking muscles. </div><div><br></div><div>Most hip and cool people knew about grain bowls. But ... I am talking about us ... so no, we had never made grain bowls. </div><div><br></div><div>Oh ... I had eaten rice and meat bowls that were smothered in cheese at our local not-quite Mexican restaurant. But these are suppose to be healthy. How do I begin?? </div><div><br></div><div>It turns out grain bowls are the perfect medium for leftovers and creativity!</div><div><br></div><div>Who knew?!?!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IS8W4dhnnvg/XbRWXIeSvnI/AAAAAAAAAY8/S-IpnS65Uig9mK8mBe3nL8bL0XFKb4iYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099665835772-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IS8W4dhnnvg/XbRWXIeSvnI/AAAAAAAAAY8/S-IpnS65Uig9mK8mBe3nL8bL0XFKb4iYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099665835772-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div> <br></div><div>First ... start with 1 to 1-1/2 cups of grain per bowl. I used a tri-color Israeli couscous but brown rice, farro, barley, quinoa, lentils, wheat berries are all great in a grain bowl. The grain can be cooked ahead when you have a little time. </div><div><br></div><div>Next ... you want to add some protein. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lcpJnH46A_8/XbRWUFe4sjI/AAAAAAAAAY4/DtMzO4-BNwsgJAHtqdGVH_yMuxPFB1YiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099653847509-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lcpJnH46A_8/XbRWUFe4sjI/AAAAAAAAAY4/DtMzO4-BNwsgJAHtqdGVH_yMuxPFB1YiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099653847509-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>I made a simple vinaigrette of lemon juice, white wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic and seasonings and marinated a boneless skinless chicken thigh for about an hour. This the perfect time to use up that leftover salmon, chicken or steak. I used about 3 ounces of meat per bowl. </div><div><br></div><div>Adding beans of some kind is important for protein and fiber. My first grain bowl was Mediterranean-inspired so I used chick peas. Black beans and pinto beans are on my list ... you might like black-eyed peas or fava beans. </div><div><br></div><div>After I had cooked the chicken ... and was letting it rest ... I quickly stirred the beans in the skillet to heat. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FyttOg600pk/XbRWRA-AoxI/AAAAAAAAAY0/VWSoSP_FtWMEAKsFPs7IugjYtnxn6flCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099640041917-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-FyttOg600pk/XbRWRA-AoxI/AAAAAAAAAY0/VWSoSP_FtWMEAKsFPs7IugjYtnxn6flCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099640041917-3.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>Time to add some veggies. Ok ... this is where leftovers come into play. </div><div><br></div><div>I quickly sauted a half of zucchini, a couple of mushrooms and a red pepper. I can not begin to share the number of veggie combos that you can use. You want to add about a cup of cooked vegetables per bowl. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YS0unFqLotU/XbRWOKMgZ7I/AAAAAAAAAYw/o0O1IMuaHvADONap9fi2-QHh_9HzssyMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099626269321-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YS0unFqLotU/XbRWOKMgZ7I/AAAAAAAAAYw/o0O1IMuaHvADONap9fi2-QHh_9HzssyMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1572099626269321-4.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Crunch is an important element of a grain bowl. I added some sliced cherry tomatoes, olives and a good feta cheese in brine. Fresh herbs are lovely on bowls .. as are nuts, roasted seeds and dried fruit.</div><div><br></div><div> I finished it off with some of the vinaigrette dressing I made earlier. For safety ... never use the leftover marinade that you used for meat. Make sure you make plenty to start.</div><div><br></div><div>So .... some truth in blogging. </div><div><br></div><div>I LOVED this. One skillet ... a couple of bowls ... and I cleaned out the fridge. </div><div><br></div><div>Nivarna. </div><div><br></div><div>Honey .... well, he is a meat and potato guy. He did humor me ... and ate all of it. It might have been a bit too salad-like for him. And, Lord knows, salads are often considered a side dish ... not a main dish. </div><div><br></div><div>But I think I can win him over. </div><div><br></div><div>Maybe. </div><div><br></div><div>If I am lucky. </div><div><br></div><div>🤣</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-6461382355731778142019-10-20T09:21:00.001-05:002019-10-20T09:21:02.241-05:00Life goals and Chicken Pot Pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D_5AiNA0Bro/XaxtTMACaHI/AAAAAAAAAYM/Z7j3c4etE5QlHQsuxUx6_Ul4I7r05mEbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581248179062-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D_5AiNA0Bro/XaxtTMACaHI/AAAAAAAAAYM/Z7j3c4etE5QlHQsuxUx6_Ul4I7r05mEbwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581248179062-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><div><br></div><div>A cool fall day seems to call out for comfort food. </div><div><br></div><div>In this house, we eat a lot of soup. But somedays we need something more substantial. We need pot pie. </div><div><br></div><div>I have tried lots of recipes for pot pie but this one makes me happy. I like the way there is no crust but a delicious layer of biscuit dough that bakes into the creamy gravy. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oWE0UVUk1kk/Xaxsl2UFrxI/AAAAAAAAAYA/giUDFsEtHzAcqiD-WOekm8LD6jxf9rWSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581065702783-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oWE0UVUk1kk/Xaxsl2UFrxI/AAAAAAAAAYA/giUDFsEtHzAcqiD-WOekm8LD6jxf9rWSwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581065702783-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div><br></div><div>Yea ... THIS!</div><div><br></div><div>This recipe comes out of Aunt Kate's only cookbook.... <i>Mrs. Peterson's Simplified Cookbook. </i></div><div>This cookbook was published by the People's Bottled Gas and Coke Company of Chicago. </div><div><br></div><div>There I go .... just throwing out names. Like Aunt Kate. </div><div><br></div><div>Aunt Kate was my great-grandmother's sister. </div><div>I think she could be described as feisty, stubborn, determined and talented. According to family lore, she bicycled from Ohio to Illinois. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2D2rQa-2s-w/XaxhqoVXwtI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/HHyW5X--2aIB696H-IvBMtr7F4LJinZLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571578245809259-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2D2rQa-2s-w/XaxhqoVXwtI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/HHyW5X--2aIB696H-IvBMtr7F4LJinZLACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571578245809259-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>She was an incredibly talented seamstress. She owned two dress shops, one in Roseville, IL.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WJGUGlKLx9M/XaxhhvUKK5I/AAAAAAAAAXM/JhkhLJOwMmUV6iV-JgoX2P8UwlQYtLkDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571578239760477-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WJGUGlKLx9M/XaxhhvUKK5I/AAAAAAAAAXM/JhkhLJOwMmUV6iV-JgoX2P8UwlQYtLkDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571578239760477-3.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>She is the sassy babe on the right! </div><div><br></div><div>I never cease to drool over this photo. The building, the lace and the scissors that hang from chatelaines on their waists. </div><div><br></div><div>Auntie, as she was known, broke a lot of barriers. </div><div>After marriage ... she moved to San Francisco. Her only child died there .... she survived the great earthquake. Divorced, she came back to Illinois to care for my great-grandmother's children as great-grandmother battled tuberculosis. </div><div><br></div><div>Somewhere, she ended up living with my grandparent, my mother and her sisters. She gardened and sewed. And left behind bits and pieces of her live. A pair of knitting needles. A thimble. An old dresser. </div><div><br></div><div>And <i>Mrs. Peterson's Simplified Cookbook. </i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div>Years ago, Granny (my grandmother) gave it to me. Tattered. Worn. No notes. No writing. But with this great recipe. Enjoy it on cool fall day. </div><div><br></div><div><b>Meat Pie </b>(and my notes/clarifications)</div><div><br></div><div>2 lbs meat (I used boneless, skinless chicken thighs)</div><div>2 large potatoes</div><div>1 large onion</div><div>1 cup celery</div><div>3/4 cup diced carrots</div><div>(I add 8 ounces sliced mushrooms)</div><div><br></div><div>(I saute the veggies and meat in 2 Tbsp of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper and other seasonings ... I add 1 tsp dried thyme and 2 tsp dried parsley. I cook it until the chicken is cooked through. I add 1/4 cup flour and cook. Add 2 cups chicken stock and cook until thicken.)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7sVW2eadqv4/Xaxsa1GT74I/AAAAAAAAAX4/4ujRM1sZfUYOuaujUgM5REF1sqqp_VwcQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581026557713-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7sVW2eadqv4/Xaxsa1GT74I/AAAAAAAAAX4/4ujRM1sZfUYOuaujUgM5REF1sqqp_VwcQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581026557713-2.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>(At this point, I add frozen peas.)</div><div><br></div><div><b>The crust</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div>1-1/2 cup flour</div><div>3 tsp baking powder</div><div>1 tsp salt</div><div>3/4 cup milk</div><div>2 Tbsp fat (lard or Crisco) </div><div><br></div><div>Cut the fat into the dry ingredients and stir in the milk. Knead lightly on a floured board and roll out to 1/2". Cut to fit and cover the casserole dish.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AjabODi2qbk/XaxsYlArc1I/AAAAAAAAAX0/kGZMOseadhQw89cJQwonDdyajmG99EGWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581015311810-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AjabODi2qbk/XaxsYlArc1I/AAAAAAAAAX0/kGZMOseadhQw89cJQwonDdyajmG99EGWQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1571581015311810-3.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Cut a few holes to let the steam escape. </div><div>Bake at 450 degrees for 20 minutes. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div> </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><br></div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-69223813820820019932019-01-10T08:49:00.002-06:002019-01-10T08:57:03.505-06:00Winter projects, summer dreamsMost of our friends do their decorating/remodeling projects in the summer.<br />
<br />
Ahhh ... but as you know, we don't work that way.<br />
<br />
The list is really really long this year.<br />
<b>REALLY </b>long.<br />
<br />
The first job to do/finish is the tv room decorating project.<br />
<br />
Really early last spring, we had some foundation work done on the house. The 120 year old sill was twisting and rolling away from the house. Which created some interesting photos that I am certain my insurance agent doesn't want to see!<br />
<br />
Bottom line, we had to pull up the carpet, part of the subfloor and remove some drywall to do the repair.<br />
<br />
Now it is time to put everything back together.<br />
<br />
Vinyl abestos tile was under the carpet with several plywood patches from old floor registers. I knew I couldn't handle looking at brown and tan tile for several months.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, I had bought an area rug for the living room and had it stored upstairs.<br />
<br />
It fits perfectly!!!<br />
So instead of carpet ... hardwood flooring will go directly over the old floor with the area rug over the top.<br />
<br />
I had also bought a pair of second hand wingback chairs for the living room.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKGL6TLUBQw/XDKzEw_cc7I/AAAAAAAAAUY/ilFVe2IgZ0EybIHfQcRGk6K9dw_8pLCCQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20181022_095307_556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKGL6TLUBQw/XDKzEw_cc7I/AAAAAAAAAUY/ilFVe2IgZ0EybIHfQcRGk6K9dw_8pLCCQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20181022_095307_556.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And with a little magic from Tack and Hammer studio .... l got these fabulous recliners!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pyWFc1TjzlY/XDKPAmdHPlI/AAAAAAAAAUE/tuN8uNTiX9091PcboqKI1obilYF34QuhACEwYBhgL/s320/IMG_20181022_095307_553.jpg" width="256" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now it is time to pick out paint! And get rid of that awful brown and cream tile!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Choosing paint has not been my strong suit in this room. The room has strange lighting and lots of shadows which makes it difficult for me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Currently ... the walls have three samples of cream or beige or tan. Gray might work but I can't live with gray. Fortunately, Sherwin Williams came to the rescue and with sample paint, I chose Kilim Beige. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beige can be kind of boring to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But the furniture and rug will make the room much more interesting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07jk3dKPiaQ/XDK4cxsyYgI/AAAAAAAAG5U/yLTHfTGZhwYVZcfTuAn6Qfsfmm-H3crrwCEwYBhgL/s1600/20190106_105633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07jk3dKPiaQ/XDK4cxsyYgI/AAAAAAAAG5U/yLTHfTGZhwYVZcfTuAn6Qfsfmm-H3crrwCEwYBhgL/s320/20190106_105633.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tomorrow ... I will make final selection of paint and flooring. Honey, on the other hand, will do some replacement wiring!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will keep posting pictures!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And summer dreams .....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How does this look? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iy9XIjv0OXE/XDaYIMuG0UI/AAAAAAAAG5c/UuEr4coHUg8UzdIndJzntOd6BHPpVeLFQCLcBGAs/s1600/065cfd93f75db940479163eb7205a766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iy9XIjv0OXE/XDaYIMuG0UI/AAAAAAAAG5c/UuEr4coHUg8UzdIndJzntOd6BHPpVeLFQCLcBGAs/s320/065cfd93f75db940479163eb7205a766.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Or maybe this?????</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CIdwAr0xCm8/XDdQF6yQ-UI/AAAAAAAAG5o/fqGHTVrgOdsA3nrTSzwl2vNdnkpYPamXwCLcBGAs/s1600/4a6b99a25e4edf95d625ae5af38339aa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CIdwAr0xCm8/XDdQF6yQ-UI/AAAAAAAAG5o/fqGHTVrgOdsA3nrTSzwl2vNdnkpYPamXwCLcBGAs/s320/4a6b99a25e4edf95d625ae5af38339aa.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ok ... maybe this one???</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Obkmt7l8a9k/XDdToWg93NI/AAAAAAAAG50/-fyBu1NPvHceW_4Utt_vKYZOQCi3YcgGQCLcBGAs/s1600/986898fd8882bfcf644749109d21b34d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="317" data-original-width="400" height="253" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Obkmt7l8a9k/XDdToWg93NI/AAAAAAAAG50/-fyBu1NPvHceW_4Utt_vKYZOQCi3YcgGQCLcBGAs/s320/986898fd8882bfcf644749109d21b34d.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can dream about these all day!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-6919499177551236832019-01-02T19:08:00.000-06:002019-01-02T19:08:40.383-06:00And we begin again ... 2019So again, I will making a few resolutions. And I can bet the farm that I will fail. But hope springs eternal and I will try again.<br />
<br />
If nothing else ... I am stubborn.<br />
Go figure.<br />
<br />
Let's begin with the first one.<br />
<br />
<b>1) I will blog regularly. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Okay ... my frustrations with the Gods of social media continue to soar. I love staying connected with my friends but seriously Mark Zuckerberg! The fact that I like my Cheerios soggy should not be of any interest to you. And what if I told you about sprinkling Sun-Kist raisins on my soggy Cheerios??<br />
<br />
I would delete my FB account in a heartbeat ..... but where would I connect with you? So you will still find me there ... but hopefully I will talk here more often.<br />
<br />
Just so you know .... the fact that this platform is owned by Google is not lost on me.<br />
<br />
<b>2) I will continue our journey toward a zero waste lifestyle.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Okay ... this is much harder than I thought. My goal has been to eliminate single use plastic from our life. So the bamboo toothbrush was easy. Taking the canvas bags to the grocery store ... piece of cake! I even take my own containers for a doggie bag. We have even reduced our garbage to less than one chicken feed bag a week.<br />
<br />
But eliminating plastic wrap and plastics from the grocery store is so hard!<br />
<br />
Recycling is good and we do that well. We compost everything we can. And all paper waste is shredded to go under mulch to help block weeds. But the first word in ReduceRecycleReuse is <b>REDUCE. </b>And that for me is the struggle.<br />
<br />
My next goal is the cleaning aisle. I make my own laundry soap .... which uses products that are packaged in cardboard. But floor cleaners, paper towels, window cleaner, toliet bowl cleaners ...... I have a long journey to reach sustainability there.<br />
<br />
<b>3) Declutter .... and declutter some more.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Honey and I came into our marriage with two households full of <i>stuff! </i> We had at least two of everything.<br />
<br />
That was one thing. But then .... we worked on his house/her house and tried to make it our house. So we added a picture here, a chair there. We gifted books to each other or additions to our hobbies.<br />
<br />
Now .... instead of being in control of our stuff .... our stuff controls us.<br />
<br />
And that is over .... <b>NOW.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
So I am asking this respectfully .... please, please, please do not gift anything to us without talking to us. We need nothing and my yarn/fabric/craft stash is overflowing.<br />
<b><br /></b>
Those are my goals.<br />
<br />
Hopefully, I will meet goal number one ... and talk to you next week.<br />
You can remind me if you would like.<br />
<br />
😉<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<br />
<br />Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-73869007166682895072018-07-03T13:22:00.001-05:002018-07-03T13:22:57.888-05:00Want a Cracker?A while back, I had a request for a cracker class.<br />
<br />
I dug up a couple of my favorite recipes and spent some time researching other recipes.<br />
<br />
One recipe I found was for Homemade Graham Crackers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zbpGC_YVoCs/Wzohz3Sxy3I/AAAAAAAAAR8/GRHlZynCB1k1CCD7e409OTZP1ieSEvE6QCLcBGAs/s1600/20180630_162126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zbpGC_YVoCs/Wzohz3Sxy3I/AAAAAAAAAR8/GRHlZynCB1k1CCD7e409OTZP1ieSEvE6QCLcBGAs/s400/20180630_162126.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now .. I quickly decided that a homemade graham cracker could be a winner. I mean, how could I refuse a slightly thick, slightly soft, not-so-sweet cracker? It has to be strong enough so it can be dunked in milk or coffee and not crumble. Well, until thaaaat moment ... and it is gone!!<br />
<br />
So ... you need the recipe.<br />
Now.<br />
It is s'more season.<br />
<br />
Before we start, let's talk about flour.<br />
<br />
A grain of wheat is made of three parts .... the endosperm, the germ and the bran.<br />
<br />
When all-purpose white flour is made, the endosperm is ground finely and the germ and bran is not used.<br />
<br />
When whole wheat flour is made, the endosperm, germ and bran are all ground together to give a uniform texture. You can use whole wheat flour in this recipe but graham flour makes a more pleasing product.<br />
<br />
Graham flour is a blend of the two. The endosperm is finely ground. The bran and germ are coarsely ground and mixed together. Graham flour is a little lighter than whole wheat flour and has a pleasing texture. Graham flour is easily found in grocery stores. It should be stored in your freezer at home to keep it from becoming rancid.<br />
<br />
Here we go ....<br />
<br />
<b>Homemade Graham Crackers</b><br />
<br />
Mix together in a bowl and set aside:<br />
<br />
1-1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1-1/3 cup graham flour<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt<br />
<br />
Cream together with your mixer:<br />
<br />
1 cup softened butter<br />
2/3 cup dark brown sugar<br />
3 tablespoons honey (I used honey from <i>our farm</i>!!! Squeallll!!!!)<br />
1 teaspoon high quality cinnamon<br />
<br />
Once the butter mixture is creamed, add the flour mixture in small amounts until all is incorporated.<br />
<br />
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for 2 hours.<br />
<br />
On a lightly floured bowl, roll out to 1/8" thick. And cut into the shape you want. I use a 2-1/2" biscuit cutter.<br />
<br />
You can take the scraps and roll them out again.<br />
<br />
Place on parchment paper about 3/4" apart.<br />
<br />
Bake at 350 ° for 16 minutes or so, rotating the cookie sheet half way through baking.<br />
<br />
I like them a little soft but you might like them a little crisper.<br />
<br />
But I do know one thing .... you are going to like them!!! Now I am going to try out homemade marshmallows!<br />
<br />
<br />Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-70362279704259165102018-06-26T11:50:00.000-05:002018-06-26T11:50:06.780-05:00Don't Judge Me!!!Ok. I am just putting this out there.<br />
<br />
I am not going to make a blanket statement for everyone but this works for me.<br />
<br />
When I am depressed, I buy plants.<br />
<br />
And lately .... I have been fighting the urge to curl up in fetal position and pull my favorite blanket over my head. Seriously. It hasn't been good.<br />
<br />
Years ago, I bought shoes.<br />
<br />
But with plants, I get flowers.<br />
Or tomatoes.<br />
<br />
Boom.<br />
<br />
And I do my little part to fight global warming and to help cool the environment. Plus ... playing in the dirt is good for my mental health.<br />
<br />
So the other day, when events in the news were destroying my faith in humanity ... my darling Honey took me plant shopping. And where do I go to receive such intense and healing foliar therapy?<br />
<br />
I go to the Flower Factory in Stoughton WI.<br />
<br />
The Flower Factory is one of the largest perennial nursery in the Midwest and just south and east of Madison. It is a pleasant drive from the east coast of Iowa.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_hVNBvGNzo/WzI-kEtTkJI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/w0vQfoIi6EwIJFIGv2qTKiwwj7gbo089ACLcBGAs/s1600/20180625_124734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l_hVNBvGNzo/WzI-kEtTkJI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/w0vQfoIi6EwIJFIGv2qTKiwwj7gbo089ACLcBGAs/s400/20180625_124734.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
It gives me a chance to touch and feel plants that I rarely find locally.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0msICBM1OME/WzI_QWltJjI/AAAAAAAAARE/_RbZCWhkS2scaZoyThTOpLMJpXo0IBmdwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180625_123420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0msICBM1OME/WzI_QWltJjI/AAAAAAAAARE/_RbZCWhkS2scaZoyThTOpLMJpXo0IBmdwCLcBGAs/s320/20180625_123420.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Like this great amsonia. Look at that touchable soft foliage! It just calls you to fondle it! I didn't buy that one.<br />
<br />
I bought this one ... Amsonia tabernaemontana-salicifolia.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDROTPfez8o/WzJBqLeoxBI/AAAAAAAAARQ/M2_oM6YSuU8PYzU0LtldlDFHupDmg9LKQCLcBGAs/s1600/3e1e967b6a16143f6e63c0f08e5f53e6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDROTPfez8o/WzJBqLeoxBI/AAAAAAAAARQ/M2_oM6YSuU8PYzU0LtldlDFHupDmg9LKQCLcBGAs/s320/3e1e967b6a16143f6e63c0f08e5f53e6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Quaking Grass Nursery<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It blooms in late July and August. AND IT IS BLUE!<br />
<br />
Never enough blue in the garden .... particularly at that time of year.<br />
<br />
One of my favorite features of The Flower Factory is the topiaries in the gardens. There are bunnies and an almost life-sized horse. But my favorite might be this cow.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nleII9VmU-A/WzJSEnltbhI/AAAAAAAAARg/AaPg08tDLlc8grPzAfsh-5dE3siZ7gl2wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180625_123409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nleII9VmU-A/WzJSEnltbhI/AAAAAAAAARg/AaPg08tDLlc8grPzAfsh-5dE3siZ7gl2wCLcBGAs/s400/20180625_123409.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I need a giant cat. Or a chicken.<br />
<br />
And sometimes, I need inspiration.<br />
<br />
Like this garden/structure/vines ...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DVYjWciTjjM/WzJR5-BD84I/AAAAAAAAARk/MYTLKrXdLhwWKVmVeUTdztqLoLECYFb4wCEwYBhgL/s1600/20180625_123837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DVYjWciTjjM/WzJR5-BD84I/AAAAAAAAARk/MYTLKrXdLhwWKVmVeUTdztqLoLECYFb4wCEwYBhgL/s400/20180625_123837.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Sometimes ... I see something makes me go ... "Ohhhhh". And I will have absolutely no idea what has grabbed my attention. This is one of those times but I can guarantee that something in this picture will influence the farm in the future.<br />
<br />
We left The Flower Factory inspired, refreshed .... and maybe, a bit poorer.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvCJx6kSufQ/WzJUORniolI/AAAAAAAAARw/BdEPXbnRHJI68D821ZD4_TRXUK4I4cUeQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180626_090457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvCJx6kSufQ/WzJUORniolI/AAAAAAAAARw/BdEPXbnRHJI68D821ZD4_TRXUK4I4cUeQCLcBGAs/s320/20180626_090457.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Nahhhh ....<br />
<br />
As long as there is room in the car .... there is still money! I must not have spent it all!Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-90602209469811971062018-06-07T10:03:00.001-05:002018-06-07T10:03:55.601-05:00Wildflower update ...So about a month ago, Honey did this .....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6S7IK7Rqzw/WxiENEYqLcI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ODAN0wqnTPst3z655BTLZ2awXxL9MlAvgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180507_100306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6S7IK7Rqzw/WxiENEYqLcI/AAAAAAAAAPQ/ODAN0wqnTPst3z655BTLZ2awXxL9MlAvgCLcBGAs/s320/20180507_100306.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And if you are anything like me, you thought this was crazy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VALJAEYkLrA/WxiE96r2CPI/AAAAAAAAAPY/fMx8Bh5_zCYqWRZ0WVigu1yQC8V2MmioQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180507_100450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VALJAEYkLrA/WxiE96r2CPI/AAAAAAAAAPY/fMx8Bh5_zCYqWRZ0WVigu1yQC8V2MmioQCLcBGAs/s320/20180507_100450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And the verdict <b>is</b> still out but currently..... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He is right ..... and I may not be absolutely correct just this one time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That is all I am saying.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As you can see, we ran the rototiller thru the grass without removing the sod or killing it with herbicide. Our goal is to fill this with a mix of perennials and self-seeding annuals. And normally, I want every speck of grass out of the garden. But we really want a casual wildflower look so having some grass growing there is not offensive to us. I hope we end up with a little bitty meadow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We started by planting 64 "Double Scoop" Echinacea in the cranberry color. The echinacea is a perennial that will help anchor the bed. No doubt fancier than our native echinacea, it will be strong color and presence along the road once it is established. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since we planted this one month ago, I am amazed with its progress. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The bed is filling up with sunflowers, bachelor's buttons, cosmos, coreopsis, calendula and zinnias. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WHW8Uvpf77U/WxlFt-IqC8I/AAAAAAAAAP8/rlKWR6wWwAMYyzjIXac7aFffLEXKhclMQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180607_094518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WHW8Uvpf77U/WxlFt-IqC8I/AAAAAAAAAP8/rlKWR6wWwAMYyzjIXac7aFffLEXKhclMQCLcBGAs/s320/20180607_094518.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunflowers are on the right and a marigold on the left.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
The sunflowers are a mix of what I had ... so there could be some serious re-seeding along the road. I may have to re-think that!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlfAvW1yTYM/WxlGiGGoT6I/AAAAAAAAAQE/eZozvibq4NkWJoBLOo4AnCCRrA8Fm3y9wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180607_075546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MlfAvW1yTYM/WxlGiGGoT6I/AAAAAAAAAQE/eZozvibq4NkWJoBLOo4AnCCRrA8Fm3y9wCLcBGAs/s320/20180607_075546.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The cosmos have really seeded nicely. So the availability of great foliage plus blooms is always nice. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally ... there is this. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBe0WSgXWDQ/WxlHgSAtrmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/mMnTdg5bHB8fZBZqo5J0wbDLNbUXN5UVQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180607_075538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBe0WSgXWDQ/WxlHgSAtrmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/mMnTdg5bHB8fZBZqo5J0wbDLNbUXN5UVQCLcBGAs/s320/20180607_075538.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Yea.<br />
<br />
I am not sure on this one. We could have a weed extraordinaire ... or I could have some great blooms.<br />
<br />
It is time to do some some more research.<br />
<br />
Anyone taking bets????</div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-53957036833494489632018-05-27T17:53:00.001-05:002018-05-27T17:53:05.164-05:00Progress .... or not. Spring is always so hard.<br />
<br />
Honey and I start working in the garden between 8 and 9 am. Before then, it is a mix of household chores and chicken chores. (And trust me, my house is seriously neglected!) But we do need to eat and clean clothes are kind of nice to have!<br />
<br />
And we weed.<br />
And plant.<br />
And weed.<br />
And mulch.<br />
And water.<br />
And repeat.<br />
<br />
And we make progress.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k4LrA8H2NCs/WwYn1cuOSiI/AAAAAAAAANw/q4YR5LJE5mgF9xMbIILlYtb-0l5TjwQEQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180523_133814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k4LrA8H2NCs/WwYn1cuOSiI/AAAAAAAAANw/q4YR5LJE5mgF9xMbIILlYtb-0l5TjwQEQCLcBGAs/s320/20180523_133814.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here, we have 3 - 60' rows. One row has hazelnuts, one row has raspberries and the final row has peonies, lady's mantle, allium and a few other plants.<br />
<br />
They are clean and mulched.<br />
<br />
They are beautiful.<br />
<br />
And then .... there is this.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0rLtgZzRq8/WwfTy4jUFSI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zDaQnGkmGpsJTW16YbfqCtM_-bMIb27ggCLcBGAs/s1600/20180524_080409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W0rLtgZzRq8/WwfTy4jUFSI/AAAAAAAAAN8/zDaQnGkmGpsJTW16YbfqCtM_-bMIb27ggCLcBGAs/s320/20180524_080409.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yep ... my total moment of shame. (Unless you asked to use my bathroom this week! Color me mortified!!!)<br />
<br />
Well ... at least you know we are not using herbicides!! Look at all those dandelions!! We do have very happy bees.<br />
<br />
Ok ... don't look behind the curtain!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-je321I_NaLw/WwqXIus5xUI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/kx24DITin_IdDXaxJXRMLzzkHaFfPm2tACLcBGAs/s1600/20180517_175948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-je321I_NaLw/WwqXIus5xUI/AAAAAAAAAOQ/kx24DITin_IdDXaxJXRMLzzkHaFfPm2tACLcBGAs/s320/20180517_175948.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Look here ....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eH4MIIYsMX0/WwqWnZr9r0I/AAAAAAAAAOI/iOAlvEV4uJcTMPhCvGNa8QPJB9Af8hrPgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180525_172244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eH4MIIYsMX0/WwqWnZr9r0I/AAAAAAAAAOI/iOAlvEV4uJcTMPhCvGNa8QPJB9Af8hrPgCLcBGAs/s320/20180525_172244.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Maybe here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VWFJkdue6TM/Wws1tYPaHhI/AAAAAAAAAO0/OZjUHE3cB0k_uykHp8sA3lD9EibPhPtUgCLcBGAs/s1600/20180527_152930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VWFJkdue6TM/Wws1tYPaHhI/AAAAAAAAAO0/OZjUHE3cB0k_uykHp8sA3lD9EibPhPtUgCLcBGAs/s320/20180527_152930.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Most defintely here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C3PzCHPZdCs/WwsTMrSVxHI/AAAAAAAAAOo/zyoXkLvPED4Y156-rtjCtjgdPXfczyyHQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180525_173210_953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C3PzCHPZdCs/WwsTMrSVxHI/AAAAAAAAAOo/zyoXkLvPED4Y156-rtjCtjgdPXfczyyHQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180525_173210_953.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But every day it is another step forward to another year in the garden. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And I. Can't. Wait. </div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-64353091607940307352018-05-18T14:42:00.001-05:002018-05-18T14:42:33.821-05:00Quick!!! Cook Something!!This time of year, the days are long.<br />
<br />
Two things are happening. We are working in the gardens or we are sleeping.<br />
<br />
Period.<br />
<br />
No housekeeping. No entertainment. Little to no laundry.<br />
<br />
But guess what?<br />
We are still hungry.<br />
<br />
Yea .... we have to eat.<br />
And Honey does not think Cheerios is an appropriate meal for supper.<br />
<br />
Oh ... we could order a pizza or grab a sandwich. But we don't do fast food.<br />
Well .... not that kind of fast food.<br />
<br />
This is one of my go-to meals during the busy spring season. Thank God, it is also egg season!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_ch5nCPru0/Wv8cXmh6HAI/AAAAAAAAANA/D-hQA5fi1p45jmfXJ88eZ9GTqN8CS3L8wCLcBGAs/s1600/20180517_184213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_ch5nCPru0/Wv8cXmh6HAI/AAAAAAAAANA/D-hQA5fi1p45jmfXJ88eZ9GTqN8CS3L8wCLcBGAs/s320/20180517_184213.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a Dutch Baby pancake. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And this .... is my supper saviour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can eat them plain.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can eat them sweet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You can eat them savory. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This can be the bases of some really good meals. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Preheat your cast iron skillet in a 400 degree oven. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Combine the following:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4 eggs ... at room temperature </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3/4 cup of flour</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3/4 cup of milk ... at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dash of salt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 tsp. sugar (sweet variety)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/2 tsp. vanilla (sweet variety)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beat the ingredients until smooth. You can use a blender but I use a wisk.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHVjR6gmkCI/Wv8d2MDtFcI/AAAAAAAAANM/2kjYhNITZaEV7p0waWwRbbb7LUiAZFNmwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180517_181311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHVjR6gmkCI/Wv8d2MDtFcI/AAAAAAAAANM/2kjYhNITZaEV7p0waWwRbbb7LUiAZFNmwCLcBGAs/s320/20180517_181311.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take your heated cast iron skillet and swirl 3 tbsp. butter until melted. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pour the batter into the skillet and bake for 18 to 20 minutes at 400 degrees. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have filled them with fruit .... such as sweetened strawberries or blueberries.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Or you can have them savory ... filled with sauted mushrooms .... or creamed ham and peas.... or even cooked greens.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But more importantly ... you can have fast food without going through the drive-thru. I don't have to change my dirty jeans!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And THAT is a win in my book. </div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-15925375101602609542018-05-14T08:04:00.003-05:002018-05-14T08:04:49.170-05:00The news from the garden ....The garden is slowly progressing.<br />
<br />
Most of the annuals have been planted and most are thriving. The north east winds we experienced in April were brutal to the ranunculus and the lisianthus. Fortunately, the ranunculus is beginning to rebound.<br />
<br />
The lizzies .... well, one row .... not so much! Wind burn on those baby lizzies was a death knell. Ok ... I planted 1100 lizzies. There will be lots of lizzies.<br />
<br />
Most of the annuals are growing and looking good. I am pleased.<br />
<br />
There are some issues with some of my fall seeding.<br />
<br />
Last fall, I planted cerinthe. Sometimes, it is called Honeywort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YRGetLeQeU/Wvj6pN5vh0I/AAAAAAAAAL4/Cou8-pEOUV44Pb952q5i0YHRZapIQ0UcwCLcBGAs/s1600/d44ffa847131a987f2069ea66bcfa740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="235" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YRGetLeQeU/Wvj6pN5vh0I/AAAAAAAAAL4/Cou8-pEOUV44Pb952q5i0YHRZapIQ0UcwCLcBGAs/s1600/d44ffa847131a987f2069ea66bcfa740.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Photo from Fine Gardening Magazine</div>
<br />
Now I have grown this before only to have it self-seed <b>everywhere.</b> And it wasn't popular. And it wasn't as good as cut as I would like.<br />
<br />
But I just can't ignore a pretty face like this! And years have passed. I planted seeds last fall but they haven't emerged. After buying another batch of seeds ... I will try again.<br />
<br />
I have been getting containers planted. Several are looking really good.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Pk5mlZLIuM/Wvj_l4xTp5I/AAAAAAAAAMI/7NQb8ETbSIoOvZez7CXeDqPy-gIivvILQCLcBGAs/s1600/20180505_102029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Pk5mlZLIuM/Wvj_l4xTp5I/AAAAAAAAAMI/7NQb8ETbSIoOvZez7CXeDqPy-gIivvILQCLcBGAs/s320/20180505_102029.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I am totally hooked on using lots of foliage in containers. Caladiums, coleus, ivy and ferns have such differing textures and colors so with only one flower, a great container can come together.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-roRK9XVHs/WvmA5etjSyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/AvkKW2t9R643DGVplgbEasMaCjtETLLawCLcBGAs/s1600/20180508_095026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P-roRK9XVHs/WvmA5etjSyI/AAAAAAAAAMY/AvkKW2t9R643DGVplgbEasMaCjtETLLawCLcBGAs/s320/20180508_095026.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
These new urns are on each side of one of the arbors. I love the farmhouse look they give ... with just a bit of flair. It will take a few years but there is a clematis growing up one side and the David Austin rose, Abraham Darby on the other side.<br />
<br />
I have been working on adding more scent to the garden with the addition of more herbs, climbing roses and honeysuckle. But I was thrilled with finding this fabulous addition to my containers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxWhNI6vg1k/WvmCw2PcqpI/AAAAAAAAAMk/43TOPQV7NuQ7HcB7IL4aYXP1jO-6yjExwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180513_182852_272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxWhNI6vg1k/WvmCw2PcqpI/AAAAAAAAAMk/43TOPQV7NuQ7HcB7IL4aYXP1jO-6yjExwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180513_182852_272.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is sooooo fragrant! It is Star Jasmine. It is amazing. You need to brush against this as you walk into the Summer Kitchen.<br />
<br />
The bottom line is ....<br />
<br />
WE ARE GETTING THERE.<br />
<br />
Gardening is very magical but not magic. It takes time ... we are praying for flowers to grow as quickly as possible. The cutting garden opening will be approximately June 9th.<br />
<br />
Depending on how my garden grows.<br />
Like Mary, Mary Quite Contary.<br />
And I might have been called contary ... once or twice.<br />
<br />
That is all for the news you can use from Miss Eff.<br />
Progress reports will come.<br />
<br />
<br />Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-40282906851713726102018-05-09T08:52:00.001-05:002018-05-12T08:41:22.504-05:00Questioning our SanityOur friend Matt suggested that we should plant more flowers in our front yard.<br />
<br />
I quickly poo-poo'd the idea.<br />
I mean <i>Really???</i><br />
More to weed?<br />
<br />
Our front yard is large. Like 200' × 250'.<br />
And it all about proportions.<br />
<br />
That means a little 6 foot by 8 foot garden would look like a pin dot on a piece of paper.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, Honey decides that he wants less to mow.<br />
<br />
Cue the rototiller.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfK6P2ekzTk/WvGMIyIaf4I/AAAAAAAAALE/FQ_5Oiu2Ye8WgGi_5CxYz31KDImwjtRBwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180507_194434_119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BfK6P2ekzTk/WvGMIyIaf4I/AAAAAAAAALE/FQ_5Oiu2Ye8WgGi_5CxYz31KDImwjtRBwCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180507_194434_119.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So this is happening.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mX_T82LGGQY/WvGMZB7Gc_I/AAAAAAAAALM/H7L8D4tEyGUG1BQtBt3NbR0G41MQTx-FACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180507_194434_120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mX_T82LGGQY/WvGMZB7Gc_I/AAAAAAAAALM/H7L8D4tEyGUG1BQtBt3NbR0G41MQTx-FACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180507_194434_120.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This bed will run along the road. It is a difficult area to mow. There is one area that you don't mow .... you use the string trimmer. At another place, you are sitting on the edge of the mower seat, leaning to counterbalance the slope. It doesn't look that steep ....but Honey hates mowing it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are working on a "wild flower" bed. This will be a mix of native annuals and a pollinator mix. We sowed the pre-package mixes along with self-seeders like bachelor's buttons, calendula, sunflowers, celosia and zinnias. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Honey started by mowing as short as possible and raked the grass. He then used the lawn rake to de-thatch the area. A light tilling ... helped to break up the soil without turning up too many weed seeds. Then Honey raked again to remove clods and grass.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Being next to the road ... this stretch of grass is dry, compacted and full of gravel. To help its fertility, Honey broadcasted a simple 10-10-10 fertilizer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We mixed all the seeds together and <b>heavily</b> seeded it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
HEAVILY.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like twice-as-many-as-needed heavily. OK ...the filler made it hard to tell how much we were spreading.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But with its location and the conditions ... that may be a good thing!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, Martha would say that!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I felt that the garden needed some "anchor" plants. So I selected these raspberry echinacea to plant in this area. I have started with 64 plants. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EPokq44mAew/WvL4HE36oKI/AAAAAAAAALc/GeoIYKgsENohAgFOHmEfAFQXSeckOwydACLcBGAs/s1600/ced49d90f6fc93d382a478fd4dc7a12d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EPokq44mAew/WvL4HE36oKI/AAAAAAAAALc/GeoIYKgsENohAgFOHmEfAFQXSeckOwydACLcBGAs/s320/ced49d90f6fc93d382a478fd4dc7a12d.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Photo from Monrovia. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also planted some "Mexican hats" ... a native rudbeckia. A great pollinator it should self-seed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6nUI54qQ3FA/WvL54_Xm-XI/AAAAAAAAALo/ES9YilHRPIoqwWpahIMeSVme0KbR1qzgACLcBGAs/s1600/8c584bf37daffb722ec63d1ddc1c1898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1150" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6nUI54qQ3FA/WvL54_Xm-XI/AAAAAAAAALo/ES9YilHRPIoqwWpahIMeSVme0KbR1qzgACLcBGAs/s320/8c584bf37daffb722ec63d1ddc1c1898.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will be adding some daylilies and other perennials as I change some gardens. With the addition of a few herbs .... dill and borage .... I hope this will be a native wildflower bed that will be a perfect draw for bees and butterflies. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Wish us luck. This is <b>NOT </b>a once-and-done project. But with careful maintenance, we should have a fun and welcoming border. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And now Honey doesn't have to mow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That just might be worth it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-4050591687931096082018-05-06T09:07:00.001-05:002018-05-07T20:50:56.247-05:00Mindful...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UM8sTwaMGr8/Wu726wYQMMI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/snaJDyjaPqgPZMPRhJb1nb6MXKIeWhDpACLcBGAs/s1600/615030a3fcf0660eb7640aefd8b44ec0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="474" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UM8sTwaMGr8/Wu726wYQMMI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/snaJDyjaPqgPZMPRhJb1nb6MXKIeWhDpACLcBGAs/s320/615030a3fcf0660eb7640aefd8b44ec0.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
<br />
I have a great tee shirt that Deborah Nieman Bohle gave me .....<br />
<br />
<i>Gardening is cheaper than therapy ...</i><br />
<i> and you get tomatoes.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
How very true!<br />
<br />
If you have read this blog ... or have known me for the past 40+ years, you know that I suffer from depression and its best friend, anxiety.<br />
<br />
This winter has been hard. Really hard. Fetal position hard.<br />
<br />
Now ... I am not looking for sympathy. I have been living with this for 2/3 of my life and I have taken medication and used various coping mechanisms.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y454Kb4kjDM/Wu74owPK_pI/AAAAAAAAAKE/DXStcsqeSGEwRr2WG0jWPhbne-iRtr7qACLcBGAs/s1600/9be87fe85079965a47f6d38de0ae9748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="769" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y454Kb4kjDM/Wu74owPK_pI/AAAAAAAAAKE/DXStcsqeSGEwRr2WG0jWPhbne-iRtr7qACLcBGAs/s320/9be87fe85079965a47f6d38de0ae9748.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I definitely struggle seasonally with mental illness. Winters are hell. Normally, I have can work my way out of the depths of misery by knitting and sewing. That was not the result this year. My mind sees the world as scary .. dark ...lonely. And the only safe place is found being curled up on the couch watching daytime tv.<br />
<br />
My depression magically dissipates with the arrival of spring and the ability to play in the dirt. I try not to wear gloves so my hands have skin to soil contact. Within a month of digging and planting ... I feel lighter. I feel joy. I feel confident and strong, instead of feeling inadequate and worthless.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCikEjcS-uY/Wu76fVh0bpI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/0GM_DzApO5YO2s_cje2tgblHWzAXMsaSQCLcBGAs/s1600/fe6c1994c347f408134ad53c4dee3a89.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCikEjcS-uY/Wu76fVh0bpI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/0GM_DzApO5YO2s_cje2tgblHWzAXMsaSQCLcBGAs/s320/fe6c1994c347f408134ad53c4dee3a89.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In the last 10 years, we have learned that soil is magical. A British oncologist was working with mycobacterium vaccae to cure lung cancer. It didn't work. But the patients' quality of life improved.<br />
<br />
Research went forward and it was found that those lovely mycobacterium vaccae increase seratonin levels like Prozac does. No wonder my garden is my happy place.<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1096039651"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1096039652"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBe9tNlEorc/Wu79SZ9p0JI/AAAAAAAAAKc/2hxOLFeyi24nxArmaeGq19yyEekuLGQXwCLcBGAs/s1600/a97a6320341b3d3a37b8e0e3d029d622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="291" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBe9tNlEorc/Wu79SZ9p0JI/AAAAAAAAAKc/2hxOLFeyi24nxArmaeGq19yyEekuLGQXwCLcBGAs/s1600/a97a6320341b3d3a37b8e0e3d029d622.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, our cold .. long ... forever winters leave me with 4 or 5 monthes of mental darkness. Sunny bright winter days can be joyful but cloudy, dreary Januarys are the worse!!<br />
<br />
And I know .... I AM NOT ALONE.<br />
<br />
But I have to do something. I have decided to take it into my own hands ..... literally. I want to get down and dirty.<br />
<br />
I want a greenhouse.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sclekZAMAkI/Wu8BbGufdJI/AAAAAAAAAKo/rgMqYjGJVNsjgOR3oXB-YqD9j0_yeDT8wCLcBGAs/s1600/a6ad2179f707b71a79ed9f9776a1dab4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sclekZAMAkI/Wu8BbGufdJI/AAAAAAAAAKo/rgMqYjGJVNsjgOR3oXB-YqD9j0_yeDT8wCLcBGAs/s320/a6ad2179f707b71a79ed9f9776a1dab4.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
<br />
<br />
But of course, there is a catch.<br />
<br />
It is my 125 year old farmhouse. And it has its own set of issues and they may be a priority.<br />
<br />
Okay.<br />
<br />
They are the priority.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PtRU2DVxLU/Wu8C5gY9NdI/AAAAAAAAAK0/CoFHa-Tz9YcIGDtDTSAFgidw_jVJwsu8ACLcBGAs/s1600/cab887afe907bdb1846c0df1b01818d1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1552" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0PtRU2DVxLU/Wu8C5gY9NdI/AAAAAAAAAK0/CoFHa-Tz9YcIGDtDTSAFgidw_jVJwsu8ACLcBGAs/s320/cab887afe907bdb1846c0df1b01818d1.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I will continue to dream.<br />
<br />
But once I get an idea in my head .... I can't shake it.<br />
<br />
I could do a crowd funding thing. But THAT would skyrocket my anxiety!!<br />
<br />
I hope you can help a little ... if you can bring a friend ... or introduce someone new to the farm ... it would be HUGE!!!<br />
<br />
Or if you haven't been to the farm in a couple of years ... stop by!<br />
Help me build this little dream!<br />
<br />
And maybe .... just maybe ... you will discover the magic that comes from playing in the dirt.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-88879523552402895652018-05-02T08:29:00.000-05:002018-05-02T08:29:45.397-05:00Buggin' Out ..... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxlmm5usa0o/Wt4XqCLmRpI/AAAAAAAAAII/ntTrUZFTvTs2aD9jBlmDo8lKuc1CuIfnQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180422_161743_275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xxlmm5usa0o/Wt4XqCLmRpI/AAAAAAAAAII/ntTrUZFTvTs2aD9jBlmDo8lKuc1CuIfnQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180422_161743_275.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I swear this year is going to be the year of the pollinators at Miss Eff's.<br />
<br />
We have been diligently trying to bring more beneficial insects, bees, praying mantis and ladybugs to the garden.<br />
<br />
I see lots of new gardeners freak over the perfectly cut circles in the leaves of roses and lilacs. And me .... I am doing a happy dance because the leaf cutter bees have come to the garden!!<br />
<br />
Yea ... the leaves may resemble swiss cheese but ya all know how much I love cheese!<br />
<br />
So to that end ... we have been adding some new features to the farm.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tN5kzOHBC2k/Wt4cCf89p4I/AAAAAAAAAIU/yLOd6oVpoY4-a-2VrjRb-FIXbxnCM_D9gCLcBGAs/s1600/20180417_140700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tN5kzOHBC2k/Wt4cCf89p4I/AAAAAAAAAIU/yLOd6oVpoY4-a-2VrjRb-FIXbxnCM_D9gCLcBGAs/s320/20180417_140700.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Just above is my very complex bee and butterfly waterer. Tomato cage + clay saucer + glass rocks (or pebbles) ..... Add water and the bees or butterflies will land on the stones and drink. We are "fostering" a bee hive this year. I have read it is surprising how much water they go through.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmVsjY6ZXQ0/WuW2CfODvKI/AAAAAAAAAIk/FBQEFJlq2loh1gCCSlHGGSgI7bTZahbdQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20180406_081628_679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmVsjY6ZXQ0/WuW2CfODvKI/AAAAAAAAAIk/FBQEFJlq2loh1gCCSlHGGSgI7bTZahbdQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20180406_081628_679.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a small butterfly waterer that I got off Etsy. I love this beautiful hand blown glass ... it is so sweet tucked among the blooms. But it is tiny and has to be refilled regularly. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have regularly planted food sources in the garden for caterpillars. Dill, fennel, parsley, and Queen Anne's Lace are loved by many caterpillars. We know that monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed .... so we leave as many milkweed plants as possible. I don't want them to take over the garden so if they self-seed in the wrong place ... I pull them out. I hope to add more perennial ornamental milkweed in a border this year. Pretty, perennial and useful is always good. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-88kp8PLX3o8/WuW5Ocel5KI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ViBQbn8-yV0ma9qs1xfWvfnIOEYdiITqwCLcBGAs/s1600/20160909_114646_002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-88kp8PLX3o8/WuW5Ocel5KI/AAAAAAAAAIw/ViBQbn8-yV0ma9qs1xfWvfnIOEYdiITqwCLcBGAs/s320/20160909_114646_002.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So as we try to make our farm friendlier to beneficial insects and pollinators .... please don't freak out! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Explore the garden.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Watch the bees gather work in garden. Look at the yellow pollen on the bees. Notice the plants they love.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13i8q8b2Rwo/Wum7EYQhfoI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/HV-rBT862cYGNay_48MTnHp0UmzJtGO6wCLcBGAs/s1600/20170930_143352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-13i8q8b2Rwo/Wum7EYQhfoI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/HV-rBT862cYGNay_48MTnHp0UmzJtGO6wCLcBGAs/s320/20170930_143352.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are welcoming them to the garden. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m_PVg2gqTEg/Wum8CqppTjI/AAAAAAAAAJc/8m_tmQnSR6k0wpb2qSaJ87UhR05XPZgJwCLcBGAs/s1600/20180430_122246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m_PVg2gqTEg/Wum8CqppTjI/AAAAAAAAAJc/8m_tmQnSR6k0wpb2qSaJ87UhR05XPZgJwCLcBGAs/s320/20180430_122246.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And you are totally welcome to come and join them. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just don't pollinate! That is not the type of "wild life" we are hoping to see!</div>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-56446192614101316482018-04-18T16:33:00.001-05:002018-04-18T16:34:00.765-05:00Gardening on January 108<p dir="ltr">I am certain 2018 will be known as the winter that would never end. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It is currently January 108 ...  or if you insist on following the calendar, April 18.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It is cold, wet and currently we are getting a "wintery mix". Whatever that is, it is miserable out.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Personally, I think hell has frozen over. </p>
<p dir="ltr">So .... as I have 1100 lizzies, 800 snapdragons waiting to be planted ... I can't wrap my mind around anything but gardening. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Yesterday ... I was brave. Or stupid. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It was a lovely day ... the sun was out and although I was bundled up in my sweatshirts, I had to garden. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I ordered more perennials this year. I had earlier planted "Becky" daisies and "Apricot Beauty" foxglove. They are looking really good!! In spite of freezing temperatures, sleet and snow ... they are thriving.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So yesterday .... I planted lavender, dianthus and "Camelot" foxglove.  I received another box of 250 plants ... fortunately, they were coming out of cold storage. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I planted more dianthus and one of my favorite varieties of rudbeckia, Maya. These cold stored plants happen to be short lived perennials .... so they will emerge from the soil ... just like the best of my perennials. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Our spring flowers have yet to appear. Oh ... the peonies are showing a bit of foliage, tulips and allium are emerging .... but NO blooms. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I did find 5 daffodils in bloom.  Five! Out of 500. <br>
My percentage isn't very good, is it?? But I am certain we will see more. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Honey has been spending his time spreading mulch and re-organizing the veggie garden. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The garden will show up. <br>
I hope. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Until then, you will find me blowing on my plants, trying to keep them warm. <br>
What?!? You said I was full of hot air!!</p>
<p dir="ltr">Never mind. Just tell me when you think winter will leave Iowa. </p>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-56601219958604388512018-04-13T16:50:00.001-05:002018-04-13T16:56:44.162-05:00Getting Greener<p dir="ltr">I have been trying to add more and more salads and greens in my diet. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This is one of my favorite. I think it is Spring in a bowl. And this year, as we have yet another April snow storm forecasted, we need more Spring in a bowl. 2018 .... the winter that will never end.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As there are no really recipes for salads, I will share what I throw together.</p>
<p dir="ltr">First ... I do a nice spring mix blend of greens. These were harvested from our cold frame.  Yea ... that makes me sooo happy. As we still are learning how to make the most of our cold frame, today's harvest was a win.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I blanch 1 pound of asparagus that has been cut into 2" pieces. After blanching it for 2 minutes, I plunge into ice water. Dry it well and add to the bowl of greens.</p>
<p dir="ltr">A thinly sliced red onion (about 1/4) and some sliced radishes (also from my cold frame!) add a little heat.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The grated zest of one lemon and shaved  parmesan cheese finish the salad.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I often forget how easy it is to make salad dressings as I grab another bottle of Ranch dressing.  That bottle of dressing is filled with multi-syllable words and tons of preservatives.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Did you know that Ranch dressing is considered a food group in the Midwest? Yep ... fruits and veggies, grains, meats, oils and fats and Ranch salad dressing. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Well .... let's try to walk away on that one.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I have filled my cupboard with flavored olive oils and vinegars. One of my favorite is a gremolata oil ... a mix of garlic, lemon and parsley. It is the basis of this dressing.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I do a simple ratio .... 1/3 acid and 2/3 oil.<br>
I start with squeezing the lemon and add white wine vinegar if necessary. One minced clove of garlic and a teaspoon of dijon mustard add a little more flavor, along with a little salt and pepper to taste. Add the 2/3 gremolata olive oil and shake. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Finally ... taste the dressing and add a teaspoon of sugar or honey if the taste is too sharp. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I think it is the lemon zest or the asparagus ... but the result is a fresh light salad that is worth a try.</p>
<p dir="ltr">And if enough of us try this .... maybe Spring will finally come. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Maybe. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K2NyjIcv5co/WtEmuuYDRzI/AAAAAAAAAHM/nBI74xPmiVwHb-qadyKqv26yHysGp4CIACHMYCw/s1600/1523656270230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K2NyjIcv5co/WtEmuuYDRzI/AAAAAAAAAHM/nBI74xPmiVwHb-qadyKqv26yHysGp4CIACHMYCw/s640/1523656270230.jpg"> </a> </div>Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-11208749253500301152018-04-11T21:02:00.001-05:002018-04-11T21:02:10.248-05:00And so it begins ....<p dir="ltr">Spring has been slow to arrive to the east coast of Iowa. </p>
<p dir="ltr">The lingering cool weather and late season snow storms have reminded us ... this is still the Midwest. And Mother Nature continues to let me know that she is in charge.</p>
<p dir="ltr">But today ... the sun was warm and welcoming. We jumped into the garden today .... even though another round of cold weather and possibly snow, is on its way.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Honey and I tried to release the perennial beds from their winter doldrums. Tucked under leaves and weeds was the lush green growth of the columbine and delphinium. We cut back peonies to see the "eyes" of the peonies emerge. The garden residue from 2017 was burned.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I filled containers with fresh potting soil. I severely under-estimated the size of my new pots and only bought four bags today. </p>
<p dir="ltr">As I was filling the pots .... I realized I have no sense of volume! Just like putting away supper's leftovers, I have too much supper for the too small Tupperware! Unfortunately, with potting mix ... I have the opposite problem.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I stretched the potting mix by filling the bottom third with those awful Styrofoam packing peanuts. I know they will eventually end up in the landfill but maybe ... just maybe ... they can live in the bottom of my pots for several years.</p>
<p dir="ltr">We worked hard today ... planting perennial flowers and sowing lettuce in the vegetable garden.  Even after a long hot shower, my muscles ached. And again, I regret another winter spent at the sewing machine and not in a gym.</p>
<p dir="ltr">But ... sore muscles and all ... the garden proves to be the ultimate healer again. Just seeing the tulips and daffodils pushing through the soil thrills me. The tiny bachelor's buttons seedlings are coming up. Even the dried stems of lavender release their scent. The garden is coming alive again.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Today ..... all is well with my soul.</p>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-37477549792122271962018-04-09T12:44:00.001-05:002018-04-09T12:47:56.362-05:00The Scent of a GeraniumSo, have I told you about my addiction to the BBC?<br />
<br />
Really???<br />
<br />
You didn't know about my love of Midsommer Murders, Escape to the Country or my total tv crush on Monty Don?<br />
<br />
I really don't care about the Royal wedding ... but can I see the garden????<br />
<br />
Now mind you, I have never left the USA but I am certain I can find my way through Sissinghurst simply because of a very worn copy of a Vita Sackville-West book.<br />
<br />
One of the reasons I love English cottage gardens is the detail to the senses. The soft touch of the leaves, the vibrant colors ..... and my favorite ... the scent.<br />
<br />
I have been adding more scent to the garden with lilacs, planting more David Austin roses, honeysuckle vines, lavender and more herbs. But I have been missing something important .... scented geraniums.<br />
<br />
Scented geraniums were a staple in Victorian England. They were used to flavor cakes and jam, steeped for teas and made into potpourri.<br />
<br />
Last year, I bought lemon, rose and nutmeg scented geraniums. I was thrilled to find these as most scented geraniums ... other than citronella ... have been absent from garden centers for years.<br />
<br />
As they were so hard to find ... I was thrilled to have them live through the winter in the unheated upstairs of my farmhouse. OK ... the nutmeg scented isn't looking the best ... but I think it will make it.<br />
<br />
Maybe.<br />
<br />
But this year ... this year I will have more. I will make rose cake and nutmeg scented jam because I ordered more from Colonial Creek Greenhouses.<br />
<br />
Who knew that there were scented geraniums that smelled like strawberry or peach fizz?? Well ... I didn't!! And Chocolate Mint?? Unfortunately, I was too late for that particular variety.<br />
<br />
But I am most excited about the geraniums that I am calling my Stone Fruit collection. Peach, apricot and almond scented geraniums. Can you imagine your bouquets with a hint of peach scent?? The flowers are inconsequential but who cares when it smells like almonds!!!<br />
<br />
So when you are in the garden .. walk over to the pots ... and gently brush your hands across the leaves. And oooooh and aaaaaah. And dream of walking through a walled garden in Shropshire.<br />
<br />
You know I will!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Miss Effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07840863444770266279noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-1936808470522099352018-04-02T12:45:00.001-05:002018-04-02T12:46:48.462-05:00Looking upward<p dir="ltr">So ... it has been a while.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I will give no excuses. There will be no tap dancing around the fact that I have been MIA.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I could ask the one person still looking at this blog for forgiveness but ..... I am not sure if anyone is there!</p>
<p dir="ltr">So let me ramble to myself and hope someone will stop by to say hey!</p>
<p dir="ltr">We have had strange weather for a winter in Iowa. We had two weeks of lovely warm sweatshirt weather in December and two more weeks of the same type of weather in January.</p>
<p dir="ltr">February also had lovely clothesline-drying days.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Then spring arrived.</p>
<p dir="ltr">With 10" of snow. </p>
<p dir="ltr">And now ... we are experiencing below normal temperatures.</p>
<p dir="ltr">So I sit.  <br>
And anxiety sets in as I not so patiently wait for warmer weather.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This can mean only one thing.<br>
I binge watch gardening shows.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I have fallen in love with Monty Don and gardening shows from the BBC. Seriously.</p>
<p dir="ltr">But I learned some gardening lessons that I will be applying to our mixed perennial beds. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>Rule #1</b> ... Limit your plant palette to SEVEN plants.  Yea ... that is not going to happen but a little of this and little of that makes a garden schizophrenic.  And we all do it! There are just <b>so</b> many wonderful plants. </p>
<p dir="ltr">And I want all of them! </p>
<p dir="ltr">But this year, I am trying to plant larger drifts of the same plant to make a larger impact.</p>
<p dir="ltr">I am certain there will be <b>no</b> beds with only 7 varieties of plants but we will try to make the beds more cohesive. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>Rule #2 </b>... Gardens need a focal point and a way to get there. <br>
Aha!!! That means pathes. Today, I am searching out the medium I want to use. </p>
<p dir="ltr"><b>Rule #3 </b>... Grow up! No, seriously. Grow up.<br>
Last year, I started with honeysuckle planted to cover the little gazebo and a couple of climbing roses. We have always had a lots of clematis but we still need more.<br>
Honey is currently building screening that will support climbing roses. And I am looking at a climbing hydrangea to scramble up a tree. </p>
<p dir="ltr">We are working on yearly plans to focus on specific areas in the garden. We have always worked on projects every year in the garden ... but we might work on a feature near the fire pit or bench under the apple trees. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Now .. we are focusing on small sections to pull together a specific area together. </p>
<p dir="ltr">Garden plans are done and are being implemented. I really hope you will like them and will stop by to see them all.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Maybe you are the <b>one </b>person still reading this!!<br><br><br><br></p>
Miss effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12782855623321005821noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79620746779876266.post-19335336159432012102017-05-19T09:12:00.000-05:002017-05-19T09:12:24.988-05:00A vine covered cottage .....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k7N4xxbkMp0/WRyQZM2s4_I/AAAAAAAAG2w/fnemeVXnwPkY9B8FM4Sxc7Up5gIGSyI4wCLcB/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k7N4xxbkMp0/WRyQZM2s4_I/AAAAAAAAG2w/fnemeVXnwPkY9B8FM4Sxc7Up5gIGSyI4wCLcB/s320/th.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
<br />
For years, my gardening focus has been on large quantities of annuals that were suitable for cut flowers.<br />
<br />
Oh, I had perennials but I stayed away from things with shorter bloom times. I chose flowers that had the most bang for my flower dollar. I have linear gardens filled with zinnias, snapdragons, cosmos and lisianthus.<br />
<br />
But I have needed more. I want bushes with big fluffy blooms and roses whose scent fills the garden.<br />
I want little gardens filled with spring surprises and summer excess.<br />
<br />
I want a vine covered cottage.<br />
<br />
OK .... I want to live at Green Gables.<br />
<br />
Bottom line. <br />
That is it.<br />
Green Gables is my goal.<br />
<br />
Now ... it is going to be a little tough since I live in Iowa and not Prince Edward's Island. But those small insignificant details are not going to discourage me. I will have my gardens surrounding the natural beauty that is Iowa.<br />
<br />
Last year was the beginning of my wayward dream.<br />
<br />
We planted a row of peonies in front of the house. We planted several beautiful David Austin rose bushes and 4 more clematis. We planted hydrangeas and transplanted lilacs.<br />
<br />
It was a start.<br />
<br />
This year, I have added more roses including this climber for over the fence. This is "Gentle Gardener" from David Austin. Yea ... pink roses. Who would have guessed??? 😏<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDLwTbrFD34/WR71qN0u3aI/AAAAAAAAG3A/45i1mrQgDuAVS1erT7mbID_N3Nu4lCJfwCLcB/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDLwTbrFD34/WR71qN0u3aI/AAAAAAAAG3A/45i1mrQgDuAVS1erT7mbID_N3Nu4lCJfwCLcB/s320/th.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from David Austin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And this one ...........<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gu_OCuzSJLQ/WR72uNZvRDI/AAAAAAAAG3I/73G7_OMd2IoOOUeM1QF4UR0Hsmkbq4QMQCLcB/s1600/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gu_OCuzSJLQ/WR72uNZvRDI/AAAAAAAAG3I/73G7_OMd2IoOOUeM1QF4UR0Hsmkbq4QMQCLcB/s1600/th.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abraham Darby from David Austin. File photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And maybe a few of these. Maybe .................<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap5T-Wvv8Rc/WR733aHNBcI/AAAAAAAAG3Q/9uAA2GUYva4pBkH-7BbEHNioYoMzFvCPgCLcB/s1600/the_alnwick_rose_1_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ap5T-Wvv8Rc/WR733aHNBcI/AAAAAAAAG3Q/9uAA2GUYva4pBkH-7BbEHNioYoMzFvCPgCLcB/s320/the_alnwick_rose_1_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Alnwick rose from David Austin. David Austin photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Lots of petals. Lots of scent. <br />
<br />
I quit raising roses with the attack of the Japanese Beetles. But since the beetles have waned and we let the chickens handle them ..... I started buying them again. Our winters can be a little harsh so I only grow roses that are on their own root system. Not grafted. I have a more durable rose ... and they don't revert to a very hardy but not particularly lovely old red rose.<br />
<br />
Now .... they will help with the fluffy blooms and the heavenly scent. But I need to work on the vine covered cottage.<br />
<br />
So this spring we were in Wisconsin at the <a href="http://flowerfactorynursery.com/">Flower Factory. </a><br />
<br />
I was looking for vines to cover the little gazebo. It is made of re-bar. It is super sturdy and will last forever. But it is in the sun and the clematis that is planted there just doesn't cover the structure. It looks bare. It is hot. And it doesn't draw you to explore the structure.<br />
<br />
I originally was looking at climbing hydrangea. But they grow very tall and do not vine but lean on a structure. So I chose this.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mG5YGymjvI4/WR76sDswD4I/AAAAAAAAG3c/01ALax-2eR4cCvv2LURdZUdZxF4VB735QCLcB/s320/th.jpg" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from Kinsey Family Farm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Major Wheeler Honeysuckle. So far, the vines are doing well and beginning to grow.<br />
<br />
Now .... to get more infrastructure into place. <br />
<br />
Don't tell Honey. <br />
<br />
But his list got longer.<br />
<br />
Seriously.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Wink. Wink.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Miss Effiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07840863444770266279noreply@blogger.com4