Rice Bag makes a great Christmas gift

http://www.quilt.com/MiscQuilting/RiceBags.html


Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Happy Thanksgiving and now on with Christmas

I've been researching Truffles and other types of mushrooms. I am amazed that there are so many and seemingly so easy to grow. The truffles are of great interest to us. The worse side is that it takes so long to harvest a full crop. The best side is that they sell for a lot of money.
Hazelnut, pine and oak trees all work equally well for truffles. My preference then will be the oak tree, I think. We have pine trees on our farm so am interested in seeing if they will work too.
I'm also interested in growing unusual or rare vegetables. If you know of any please do forward the names to me. Kohlarabi is something that a friend grew this year that I'd like to try. I think I spelled it correctly. Leeks, articokes and a couple other vegetables have also caught my eye for next Spring. One of the main vegetables in most gardens, the asparagus, isn't in my garden so will invest in a few and see how it does in our soil.
Checked on the red raspeberry plants that I planted about a month ago. They are doing well I think, still green leaves yet anyway even though it is only one week to December. Thankfully we've had a very mild fall so far. In my mind, it can stay like this until Spring and then get warmer. It is 4:15 pm and still 61 degrees, short sleeve weather. HURRAH for warmth!
Have a great week. Smile and make people wonder what you are up to!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Best Grape Salad for Thanksgiving, Christmas or just about anytime!

Grape Salad Dessert

2 – Kinds of Seedless Grapes (2 to 3 lbs total) Do not cut grapes-leave them whole.

Mix together
8 oz. Cream Cheese
8 oz. Sour Cream
8 oz. Shredded Mild Cheddar Cheese
¾ cup of Sugar or Splenda

Put Grapes into large bowl
Pour ½ of mixer over grapes and stir into grapes
Smooth rest of Mixer over top of grapes

Topper for Salad
Mix together: In a Zip Lock Bag
½ cup of Brown sugar or brown sugar splenda
1 cup of chopped pecans
Sprinkle over top of grapes salad
Cover w/Saran Wrap
Let set overnight in refrigerator or until ready to serve

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Candy Roaster Pumpkin

A favorite to grow and eat is the Candy Roaster Pumpkins. This year they were growing well and the cattle broke through that particular area and stomped the pumpkins. Not once but twice they broke in, seems like we would have learnt the first time to do something different with the fencing. The best part is that the last few seeds I planted in a different place than the rest. I wanted to see how well they would grow in different soil. Thank the good Lord! I got one but the one I got was about 35 lbs. Huge but small for a candy roaster.
We saved it and today spent a couple hours cutting and peeling that single candy roaster. I've used 3 huge pots and have it all cooking up as I write. Next step is to puree it all after it cools and then into pies, and freezer it goes. We'll have enough pumpkin to share with friends and still be able to give to the Open Door for the homeless.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving.


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Nestle says Pumpkin will be in short supply!

Rain may put pumpkin pie in peril, Nestle says
Nestle says poor weather hurt harvest, canned pumpkin for pie may run short for holidays

I grow my own and it's waiting for me to make it up into pies. Can't wait. None of that precanned stuff for our Thanksgiving!


Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Have you tried growing this before?

Broccoli Raab (Heirloom) Spring

Best when grown in cool weather.

NEW Broccoli Raab
50 Days. Matures very quickly from seed.
Green shoots have a captivating flavor. Cut 6" pieces when the "broccolis" are the size of a quarter.
You'll love it lightly sauteed with garlic and olive oil, fresh in salads and boiled soups.
Broccoli Raab can be planted very early in the Spring or in the Fall just like cabbage and cauliflower.


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Go Green, but don't hang your laundry outside

U.S. residents fight for the right to hang laundry. Only in America!! Imagine people thinking I'm trailer trash because I hand my laundry outside to conserve energy, go green and just plain want my laundry to smell nice. Amazing!!!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

I didn't know that, did you?

Foods on the negative-calorie list include apples, asparagus, beets, berries, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, garlic, grapefruit, lemon, lettuce, onion, spinach, watermelon, and zucchini.

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Mediation

http://health.yahoo.com/featured/68/5-reasons-your-doc-might-prescribe-meditation-and-one-reason-she-won-t

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

I FOUND IT ON ATT.NET-CHECK THIS OUT!

T-shirt takeover: 10 ways to reuse your old shirts
Published: 10/5/09, 11:20 AM EDT
By Supriya Doshi

I have countless cotton T-shirts at home. Some are in my dresser, others are in under-the-bed storage containers, and there are probably another dozen at my parents' house.

But, being the pack rat I am, I can't get rid of them for various sentimental reasons. The T-shirt we signed at the end of 5th grade; a gym uniform; marching band shirts corresponding to our show theme (don't laugh - marching band was awesome); race shirts; several variations on University of Illinois shirts ... the list goes on.

So, instead of donating the ones you like, but never wear, here are 10 ways to repurpose your T-shirts:

1. T-shirt bag (www.marthastewart.com/article/good-thing-t-shirt-bag): This one is one of my favorites. Not only are you reusing something, you're getting something useful out of the deal too. It's pretty simple, and it could make a great gift or gift bag. Plus, you get to pick your pattern!

2. Pillows (www.ehow.com/how-2071556-make-tshirt-pillow.html): I'd totally take one of these on a road trip or plane, though I'd opt for the square pillow rather than the T-shirt-shaped one. And instead of buying stuffing, you can use the leftover shirt scraps and even entire shirts.

3. Rags: This option is perfect if it's an ex's shirt or one that's too old to look good in bag or pillow form. No read directions for this one: Just tear or cut the shirt into pieces, or use it whole.

4. Pet toys (www.craftstylish.com/item/40916/how-to-make-sweater-dog-toys): If you're dog is less destructive than mine, these toys might work for you.

5. Underwear: If you're a sewing whiz, here's a site with directions and a pattern for making your own undies from a shirt: http://supernaturale.com/articles.html?id=70. Or, for less effort but more money, Solojones will do it for you: www.solojones.com/salvaged.aspx.

6. Wall art/decor: Some T-shirts are so cute they could be artwork. So make it happen! Frame your art in a shadowbox, or use it as fabric on chairs or other furniture.

7. Quilts: Another option for you crafty ones. Quilts would make great gifts, and particularly soft shirts could end up as baby blankets

8. Scarf (www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/tshirt-scarf): It's starting to cool down again in Chicago, but one of these should help you stay warm.

9. Rag rug (http://vintagechica.typepad.com/the-life-and-times-of-thi/2006/10/rag-rug-tutoria.html): Crocheting is a need-to-know for at least this tutorial on making a rug, but it might be worth learning for such an awesome, useful final product.

10. Napkins: Be super-duper eco-friendly by turning decent quality shirts into cloth napkins. Just cut into rectangles and sew!

Now that you've filled your house with T-shirt items, you might still have a few left. And you can't keep 'em all forever. So pick out a few and donate them so someone else can wear or reuse them
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Happy Holidays Y'all, from them there mountain people!

This came from our 13 year old girl that is a special person in our life. She's like a grandchild to us. It read....Here's a few things i learned growing up in haywood county... 1.a possom is a fat animal that lays in the middle of the road. 2.if it grows it will stickya and if it crawls it will bite ya. 3. its not a shopping cart its a buggy. 4.fixinto is one word. 5.sweet tea is great for all meals and you start drinking it in your sippi cup. 6.you know what a dawg is. 7.the first day of deer season is an holiday. Hannah, the 13 year old bought this to my attention yesterday. It's something that was sent to her on her cell.
In spite of all of that,
HAPPY HOLIDAY'S Y'ALL!!!!!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

WHEN YOU KNOW A SENIOR

Do you know or are you becoming a senior citizen? It's evident that we will all be there some day and soon for others.
For the last 16 weeks we have been taking a course to learn what is in our county/community that is available for Senior citizens. A lot is actually available. Some that I did know about and some that I didn't know about. But, here are a few things that I have learnt that I would like to share with you.
1. When your loved one needs assistance, don't be ashamed, ask for it. Start with your doctor, friends, family and hospital. Can't get the info that you feel you need? Call your county commissioners, ambulance center or sheriff department. Yes, they know, after all, who picks up those who need help? Ambulance, and sheriff departments.
2. Visit the center several times, whether it be a nursing home, assisted living, or home care. Look for good signs and look for alarming signs. Alarming signs might include bells or buzzers ringing that aren't being checked on. That's someone who feels they need help, whether it be medical or just plain attention. Are people sitting or laying on a bed in the hallway? How long are they there? Is the area clean, smell good, how's the food, and are there real plants that produce oxygen and live pets? Notice how often people receive hydration? What do I mean by that? How often are they given a drink of water or juice?
Don't make just one visit and expect that you know everything. Does that center offer physical and occupational therapy? Nose around and see what that involves? Do they want your loved one to go home physically better than the way when they entered?
Ask what happens when Medicare stops? Will Medicare/Medicaid take care of all of the expenses?
Please be aware of as many things as you can think of because just maybe your loved one cannot!

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Nothing Much Happening Around Here Today, Unless

Unless you count cleaning, and moving furniture from one room to another something special. Well for me it is special come to think of it. I hate cleaning. It must be my age. Seems like I can always find something else to do that's more important.
But one thing for sure, it is finally a beautiful day outside. The breeze blowing and sun shining makes it absolutely wonderful. So then, why am I inside cleaning? Dinner guests coming tomorrow night!
And, am turning 1 old bedroom that we never use into my bird room. Oh, they've been in their since Spring but in cages. Now, I'm building it all in with bird things so that they can fly free and mate. I was told that they mate and make me a Godmother if they could be free. So free it is! By this time next week, they will be free, have tree branches and lots of funky toys to hang from.
Enjoy the weekend.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

A MUST that I write about an article in AARP

The AARP mag just came in todays mail. As I skimmed through it I was put into shock. An article told of a 48 year old woman with ALS. She has slurred speech. She purchased an iPod for $375.00. She types in her thoughts and the iPod does the talking for her. Isn't that neat?
But, Medicare thinks that "it is designed for the general public and not for a specific medical purpose". True can be used for my music and notes, but it can also chart her meds.
A friend of hers, also ALS, got an $8,000.00 dedicated device and Medicare paid. But......the friend replaced hers also with an iPhone because the dedicated device that Medicare would pay for was too bulky.
The article in AARP ended with :This is where the government and private insurance lose all common sense." How true it would seem, correct?
I, personally, wish I had the ladies addresses. I'd send them some money toward their purchases. After all, The 48 year old lady served as a flight paramedic and I'll guarantee you, she paid for it time and time again through her courageous efforts to help others and her taxes.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Bees and Wine

I found this and other informative information at "Mother Earth News". I've been a big fan of Mother Earth for years. Do google it and read it often.


How to Make Mead
You can make this delicious and refreshing wine that requires no ingredients beyond yeast, water and honey.

November 3, 2009 By Amy Grisak
Image GalleryIf you have honey, why not make honey wine, also known as mead? If you keep bees, you can use honey from your own hives, or look for delicious local honey at your farmers market or grocery store.
ISTOCKPHOTO/AMIT EREZ

Article Tools
Image GalleryPrintE-mailCommentsRSS I keep bees at my home here in Montana, and each year we use some of the honey from our hives to make mead. Not many drinks can boast the long and illustrious history of mead — most likely the first fermented beverage known. When honey combines with water and yeast, a delightful reaction occurs.

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For the home-brewer, mead is one of the easiest wines to make. Traditional mead is a little on the sweet side, although it mellows with age.

Making mead requires the same equipment as winemaking. Before beginning, make sure everything is scrupulously clean to ensure proper fermentation. Yeast is sensitive, and sanitizer remnants from a previous batch could inhibit growth or taint the flavor of your finished mead.

Let the Brewing Begin!
For a basic batch that will produce about 25 bottles of mead, you’ll need 16 to 18 pounds of honey, 5 gallons of unchlorinated water, 5 grams of wine yeast and 2 1⁄2 teaspoons of yeast nutrient (optional) to aid the process. You’ll also need some winemaking supplies. Check out Midwest Homebrew and Winemaking Supplies, or a local home brewing store.

To begin, bring 2 gallons of water to a boil on the stove in a large, non-aluminum pot (stainless steel or enamel is the best to avoid affecting the taste). Reduce the heat and add the honey. Stir until it’s completely dissolved, and simmer for 30 minutes. Skim off any scum that forms on top. This helps reduce the cloudiness in the finished mead.

Pour the honey and water mix into the fermentation bucket; then add the rest of the water. This mixture of honey and water is called the “must.”

Meanwhile, if you’re using a packet of dry yeast, soak it in a half cup of warm water for at least 10 minutes before adding it to the must. Allow the must to cool to below 80 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the activated yeast and the yeast nutrient. Stir the must for at least five minutes to aerate the mixture.

Put a lid on the bucket and attach the airlock (a device that allows gases to escape without allowing air to enter the container). During fermentation, the sugar in the honey turns to alcohol and carbon dioxide. Without an airlock to release the pressure, you’ll be surprised by a small explosion and a big mess.

Place the bucket in a spot where the temperature is between 55 and 70 degrees. Leave it undisturbed during this primary fermentation. You’ll most likely notice it bubbling after two to three days. The primary fermentation will take two to four weeks. Reduced fermentation is evident by a quiet airlock; after it’s still, transfer the mead into the carboy (a large glass or plastic container that can be sealed using an airlock).

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What's Your Idea of a Dream Homestead? Are You Growing Any Food Indoors This Winter? Would You Travel Less to Save the Environment? Is Free Enterprise the Key to Future Success? Have You Ever Built a Deck? Do You Want to in the Future? Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Do Something Nice This Week!

Please do take the time to make a donation this week to a nursing home, soup kitchen or needy family. You'll be so happy that you took the time to help someone in need.
Today our senior leadership class toured nursing homes. It's sad to see people there even though for the most part, they seemed well cared for.
I decided that I'd make some bibs and donate them to a couple of the nursing homes.
Our soup kitchen will be open Thanksgiving so plan to take a couple hours our of our day and donate to serving meals to those less fortunate.
I am amazed that some of the people who attend these soup kitchens do not know how to read or write, I'd love to see grant money go to making their dream a reality. Giving someone the opportunity to read, write and count money is one gift that will keep on giving.
Please do offer your services to help this holiday season.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Does Baking Soda Do It For You?

The flashy toothpaste ads of television are suddenly touting and extolling the benefits of baking soda added to their toothpastes. Long before it became an additive to toothpaste, baking soda was used as a toothpaste. Beyond a great tooth cleaner (and breath freshener), it was:

· used as an antacid,
· made into a paste and applied to bee stings
· used as a scrubbing powder,
· added to bath water to sooth irritated skin,
· added to wash water to soften water and freshen clothing
· used as a deodorizing body and foot powder,
· used as a deodorizer for trashcans, diaper pails and drains… and, oh yeah, as an ingredient in baking those great old-fashioned biscuits that begged for butter and honey.

Hey! It can still be used in these ways. It is cheaper than fancy labeled cleaners and chemicals and is environmentally friendly. For a sparkling clean sink, sprinkle some baking soda on a sponge instead of an abrasive cleanser. You may already know it makes a great deodorizer for the refrigerator, but when you replace it, don’t through it in the trash, pour it down the kitchen sink drain to help deodorize. Diluted in water, use baking soda to clean and deodorize trashcans. Have a stinky closet? Open a box of baking soda and put it on the shelf.

Arm & Hammer now sells two types of baking soda, one packaged for baking and cleaning use that gives directions on adding to laundry and one package (smaller) that can be used and gives directions for use as an antacid. As for tooth brushing, put some baking soda in a small lidded container and keep it in the bathroom. Wet the toothbrush, dip it in the baking soda and brush away
Baking soda is one of the most versatile and inexpensive multipurpose products on the market today. All this magic from a little orange box that costs around two dollars!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Vinegar is an inexpensive way to clean!

Vinegar is a mainstay of the old folk recipes for cleaning, and with good reason. The vim of the vinegar is that it kills bacteria, mold and germs.

Heinz company spokesperson Michael Mullen references numerous studies to show that a straight 5 percent solution of vinegar—thekind you can buy in the supermarket—kills 99 percent of bacteria, 82 percent of mold, and 80 percent of germs (viruses). He noted that Heinz can’t claim on their packaging that vinegar is a disinfectant since the company has not registered it as a pesticide with the Environmental Protection Agency
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Apples, Apples, Apples

Just finished picking a bu of apples. Put the drops in 2 boxes also. They will make something I'm sure of that!
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Red Clover Days

We have been asked to go to the test farm and help gather data from the clover. We'll be going either this afternoon or Friday morning. I'm excited because I jsut read up on the benefits of making clover tea and drinking it. Please take the time to google clover, both red and white. I'm truly amazed at how many things grow that we don't really know about and just take for granted.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Localvore

Do you have any ideas as to what Localvores are? Please click on the word Localvore below and read about them.
My husband and I are almost totally Localvores. I'd love to be total but for him, he'll never give up Diet Cokes and store bought bread! :) For me, that's fine. I can live with that.
I've already decided that this next Spring I'm adding fennel and a few more items that are similar fennel. Plus, I going to add a ton more of the herbs. I can't believe how into herbs we are becoming.
The winter garden inside the house is growing. We did purchase a grow light. It's helping.
Think we'll try some of the Truffle butter soon. Sounds exciting!
Have a good week.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

localvore

 

localvore

IT"S HERE!!!! The Hops are here!

I'm so excited. Two nice things in one day. Hops arrived and we'll start David drinking the tea for his Crohns. I had a cup and it's great.
Then David's aunt sent me 3 sweet potatoes from Tennessee. Since we live in NC that's a treat for me. Not eating them though. Will plant them inside to make "slips" for outside's spring garden.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Sustainable, what is it?

Sustainable agriculture is a way of raising food that is healthy for consumers and animals, does not harm the environment, is humane for workers, respects animals, provides a fair wage to the farmer, and supports and enhances rural communities.






Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Oh My Gosh!!!

RALEIGH - The N.C. Senate voted today to ban the commercial generation of wind energy in mountain counties. Supporters of the ban argued that the construction of large wind turbines on mountain ridges would ruin the natural beauty of the mountains. Environmentalists say that the state should be encouraging wind power, not limiting it. Read the news here in the Winston-Salem Journal.

And more here in the Raleigh News & Observer.

Can you believe that? Raleigh voted to ban wind energy because of natural beauty. What about the houses hanging over the edges? Beauty? I don't think so!


Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Harvesting "Taters" Today

We had such a great time today. Who in the world would have ever thought that digging "taters" would be fun. Two of the women from our group, Haywood Connections arrived at 10 am this morning. They were in for a real adventure.

First we geared up with gloves, and cutting tools and headed to the garden. Once there we began. While I picked up the potatoes that had popped their heads through the soil the other three began cutting the pig weed off the rows.

Now that the rows were weeded it was time for a break. Besides being a little warm, a break was well needed because we are all senior citizens. Barbara is the youngest and really not a full fledged senior yet.

After snack and cool diet coke we set off again into the garden rows. Dig, dig, dig. We dug only 2 long rows and came up with about 7 or 8 bushels.

Well, don't think for one minute that we are finished. Tomorrow Betty and Mattie are coming out to do the very same thing. Hope they are up to some fun and dirt.

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

GreenDaily Tweets

GreenDaily Tweets

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I JUST FINISHED WRITING TO PRESIDENT OBAMA

I am so very upset that I could spit nails, copper pennies or whatever!
I spent 45 minutes on the telephone with Charter Communications. I spoke with 7 employees, 5 of which didn't speak English well. Oh yes, I push #1 when it ask if I wanted it in English but I thought that meant that I'd get an American person.
I disconnected my service with Charter September 4. I was told then that I had a rebate coming because I had already sent in my monthly payment for September. On September 11, 2009 I turned in all of Charter equipment, and knowing that something would probably go wrong, I kept my receipts. Today I received a bill for October, 2009. The 3rd person that took my call, told me to call back mid-October. I don't think so!
I hope that my problem is resolved now that I got ugly on the phone and caused my own blood pressure to rise. But please, if you own an American company, in America, please ask your employees to get it right the first time!

Raw Family | Recipes

Please take the time to check out the Raw Family and their recipes.   www.rawfamily.com

 

Raw Family | Recipes

Trying On Qigong

Can it help me? I believe it can. For most of you who don't know me or who don't know, I have been diagnosed with Lupus. Yes, had it all my life but until about 16 years ago I didn't know it.

I try to live my life without thinking about it. Not thinking that is until I'm sick. Then I know as well as not that the first thing I think is "is it the Lupus rearing it's ugly head again.

Since steriods is about the only thing that gets me well, no matter what the condition I'm as big as a barrel. Plus, I like to cook, and my husband likes to eat. Well, eating for him isn't as fatening because he has Crohns so he can eat and well, you know what happens to it 20 minutes later.

I do suffer from high blood pressure. And lately, the last 2 years or so, haven't been able to control myself. Everything seems to upset me. Thus the belly fat increases too. So yesterday a lady in California told me she was just starting into Qigong. Oh, what's that? I was pretty sure it was that hand waving stuff but didn't know much about it. Oriental of some description I was sure, but didn't know exactly.

Last night I did my usual, computer researching. Qigong! Ah, ha. More than what I thought and better than I ever thought. While watching a video I began engaging in the movements. Immediately I figured that I was doing it right because I could feel myself relax. Motion after motion, movement after movement. Oh gosh, it felt so good. What was it? Huh, what was it? Something I hadn't known in a very long time. Relaxation. I was becoming stressfree. It felt so good, so very good.

Sat in the bathtub and relaxed. Sat in the bed and relaxed. And slept. When I'd wake up, which was a couple times, I'd close my eyes and imagine myself in the Qigong movements. Oh, so restful, so nice, so comfortable. Today has been a day that I haven't felt in a long time. I have felt so good. No aches, and pains from old age. No stress. And my BP has been extremely good. I feel so relaxed. So now, I'm excited to continue my learning. My plans are to continue Qigong.

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

INSTEAD OF FABRIC SHEETS OR LIQUID FABRIC SOFTENER

Have you ever thought that you are spending way too much money on fabric sheets for the fresh Downey smell that you love but don't want to do without?
Try placing a capful of Downey or your favorite liquid into a spray bottle, add water to dilute, filling the bottle.
Before adding your laundry to the dryer, spritz 5-6 sprays of the diluted mixture into the drum of the dryer.
Or, if that doesn't rock your boat, add up to 1/2 cup of vinegar to the rinse water of your washing machine. The vinegar removed the soap scum left from the wash water and softens your clothing. Thus, no need to even add a fabric sheet of any description.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

I WANT TO HAVE A SERIOUS TALK WITH YOU TODAY!

Yes, you! I want to talk with you.
Yesterday my 85 year old Mother fell again. This time down the stairs and on the way down, trying to grab the rail to catch herself she caught her hand and tore the pad on the bottom of the hand along with 2 fingers.
Needless to say, at 85 she wants to be independent and not complain so like times before she didn't bother telling me. Not telling me that is until today when I found her at my door step saying that she needed to come in and talk to me about something.
Instead of having her remove her bandages I took her to the Urgent Care in our neighborhood. The doctor on call didn't even touch it but decided to have the wound center treat it.
It had been more than 24 hrs. so they didn't stitch it. And she had used Neosporim on it. Oh gosh, I probably spelled that wrong but you get the picture. So they used a foam medicated pad and taped her up.
She doesn't always eat correctly so I made sure that we took her out to lunch and asked her to order a good meal, which she did. But afterward came the part that I want to tell you about.
I insisted that we go to the LifeLine center. Once there they talked to her about how wonderful the LifeLine is. Water proof piece that fits around your neck while showering, and the fact that you wear it to bed. I didn't realize that it reaches up to 1000 ft. inside and outside your home. And the monthly rate is so reasonable, $35.00 makes it so that anyone can afford the service.
We weren't leaving there until I knew that she was signed up for it. So tomorrow in installation day. I can't wait. Once installed I'll feel better about her living by herself knowing that she is safe from an intruder, falls or even a fire.
I hope that if you've taken the time to read this that you will help someone you know and love get the system set up for them.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Here's Some Interesting Tips To Check Out

I recently decided to check out by Googling vinegar uses. I was shocked at what you can use vinegar for.
Realizing that I then Googled baking soda uses. Amazing how many different ways to use both of these products.
I wanted to cut costs on my laundry and also stop using laundry soaps with the scents.
I found this recipe for laundry soap
Purchase:
1 Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda
1 20 Mule Team Borax
1 package Ivory Bar Soap

Using a hand shredder on a bar of soap, put that into a bowl.
Add 1/2 cup of each of the Washing Soda and the Borax
Mix well and put it in an air tight container.

When doing your laundry, add 1 Tablespoon per load instead of your normal laundry soap. For dirtier loads, add another 1 or 2 Tablespoons.
It's worth the effort.

Liquid Fabric Softener can be changed by adding 1 Tablespoon to 32 oz. of water in a spray bottle. While dryer is empty, spray 4 or 5 times in the dryer, add your clothing and dry.

Another tip is 1/2 cup vinegar in the rinse cycle of your washing. Then you will not need to spray your dryer with the softener.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

IT'S WORKING - GOING GREEN

I never thought it would work but, ha! I fooled myself!
We have gone green and still turning green! It's working for us and can work for you. Oh yes, it's work alright. We have eliminated our "trash can" as we once knew it. Deleted, gone, but not forgotten!

Our garbage goes into a compost area outside. Takes time to walk outside and empty the container (if we have any). Most of it goes to our dogs, cattle but the amount that doesn't goes to the compost area. Why not?

I no longer purchase zip loc baggies in pint or quart sizes. Instead I have purchased the right sizes for our refrigerator and freezer. Why not? Sure the work involved is hand washing and air drying. But such a small price to pay one time. Reusable and a little more time consuming, but doesn't fill up the landfill.

Plastic trash bags are no longer on my purchasing list. Don't need them any more because we don't have paper trash. Paper products are now used to help heat our home in our fireplace, or taken to the recycle center, labeled as "paper" but those trips are few and far between.

Thin aluminum from snack packages mainly, is placed in a small bag that hangs in our storage area. Snack packs are easy for us to grab when we go to work in the garden. Ah, ha, next summer we'll eliminate those by making my own snacks.

Aluminum cans stored in a container in the storage area also. And one thing that I keep separate are lids from the canning jars. Those lids will be taken to the recycle center and handed over the the specialists who will know what area they belong. The only aluminum we have is mainly from the diet cokes that my husband drinks. I haven't convenienced him yet to give up that one luxury yet. Those are recycled and we take mass amounts of those to the recycling station in Asheville, making about $120.00 with each trip. Of course, that is a whole pick up truck full. You are now wondering if my husband drinks that much. Nope, now all our drinking but instead, it's in our every thought when we go out on the town. We bend over and pick up what other people have discarded. You've seen it, maybe even done it, throw down a Coke can and stomp it. Well, we're the ones who come behind you and pick up that stomped Coke can. Why not? Money in our pockets. It could have been money if your pocket if you wouldn't have thrown it down on the ground!

At this point, you are probably wondering how in the world we cook and eat. Mostly for us, it is fresh produce during the summer months and then our own canning which we preserved ourselves. Yes, we have canned and frozen squash, green beans, tomatoes, grape juice, and corn. We purchase just enough meat for a few meals a week. We purchase large family packs and once home, change it over to serving sizes and placed in containers to freeze.

Fortunately we have enough land to raise a few chickens. For the most part, when they are laying we gather enough eggs to eat and sell. The selling part just pays for the feed for the chickens. It doesn't put a dime in our own pocket. Eggs store easily and keep for a few months so it's easy to fill up a box or one of the vegetable keepers in the refrigerator.

I need to purchase flours. I hate that thought but our little town doesn't have a flour mill. We do purchase bread because I don't have my husband sold 100% on homemade breads for the toaster. We do make a lot of biscuits, corn bread and some homemade breads for meals. Breads aren't difficult to make. Time is important and good quality yeast. I also look for a sunny day. It seems that a rainy or snowy day make a difference in my baking.

Making my own cheeses and yogurt is a pleasure. The tailgate farmers market is a great place for me to go to get goat cheese. Truthfully, I'd rather have my own goats for my own milk and cheese but our own age and physical conditions no longer permit that issue.

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening and also going green. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

MY NEW PUPPY PADS ARE WORKING!

Hurrah!!!! I can't believe it, it works!
In an attempt to cut the use of $$$ and help the environment I decided that using 2 bags of puppy pads a week is a wee bit much. So, it's time to try something different.
You know that newspaper companies have what is called "end rolls", right? When I had my day care I would trekk to the office of the newspaper company and pick up an end roll. I'd bring it to the day care and let the children craft on it. It was a wonderful idea then because it didn't cost anything.
So today, using my thought to cut costs and puppy pads I began the change over. Taking a piece of washable plastic cut the right size that I can use time and time again I laid it on the floor. Then I put down 2 layers of the newspaper on top of the plastic. It took the baby puppy a few hours to get the idea but thanks to her Momma and Daddy, she soon decided to use the newspaper instead of the bare floor.
It works! It really works!! Each time I throw away the newspaper pieces, I'll spray bleach over the plastic and lay down some more newspaper.
Each bag of purchased puppy pads cost over $8.00 times 2 a week, equals a savings of $64.00 plus tax. Maybe that doesn't sound like much to you. But my idea is to save the landfill the extra plastic backed puppy pad.
Now onto my next challenge I'm giving myself. I'm not buying any more quart or gallon size bags or plastic trash can bags. Everything I put into my refrigerator or freezer will now be in regular containers that can be re-washed and re-used over and over. Working on that will be easy.
The hard part will be to no longer be lazy when it comes to trash can bags. I have added new large containers to my storage area to house my plastic bottles,a second one for items like soup cans and such.
The food left on the plates will be put into a compost or fed to our cattle, chickens, and dogs. Composting will also use some of the paper and cardboard too!
Otherwise, the extra paper products will go green and the cardboard will now be green too! You know if you think of it, everything you use in your kitchen and bathroom can go green! Here's a suggestion: Try using hand towels and make cloth napkins instead of paper towels.
Yes, you too can cut costs and give your Grandchildren something more to live for! Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

RECYCLING WAS A LEARNING EXPERIENCE!

Our Senior Leadership Class went to the Haywood County recycling site today. Amazing!!!! We now can recycle batteries from cameras and such, kitchen oil, tvs, electrical, and more. Cardboard, paper, plastic and all. All of what you put in the tall plastic bags in your kitchen can be recycled. All that you put in the bathroom trash can can be recycled.
Do you or someone you know have a baby? What about the disposable diapers? Want to save $$$, I mean, big $$$$'s? Buy cloth diapers, and save at least $300.00 a month. When dirty, instead of throwing away, soak in vinegar and baking soda, laundry the regular way and re use.....baby after baby after baby!!
Don't know where to take old windows that you've replaced? Wood you can't use? Call your recycle center and ask. They take it where it will be reused.
Think of it as a savings account for the future!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Heirloom Tomato Seeds

Bought some heirloom tomatoes today. Yes, just for tasting and the seeds. Three different kinds. I want to try growing in the house this winter but will save some of the seeds for next Spring.
Decided we'd try black plastic in the South and the West windows this winter. I read and watched a video about raising your heat 15 degrees in 10 minutes by using black plastic to window area in the winter. That sounds like a $$ savings and hopefully it will work. Black plastic here we come. Anything to save $$
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

10 DAYS WITHOUT COMPUTER MAKES ME OUT OF CONTROL

I have been 10 whole days without this computer. Do you realize how many times I have wanted to look informational thingy up or write someone a note or whatever? Gosh, oh gosh, let AT&T realize how much they are goofing up! When I get the billing mess they've sent me straightened out I'll write more and tell you all about my trials and tribulations. Like for instance, when they called and asked what the man's name was who installed my Direct TV! Can you believe it? Like sending me the wrong, totally wrong modem. And to think, they give those people a paycheck. I say, between one thing and another no wonder this country is going broke. My Mother use to say, "it's going to hell in a handcart" and I believe it now!
So, I do want to tell you about going green at the trash sites. But first, turn on Planet Green on your tv and watch some of it. You'll be amazed!
If Haywood County is going to "go green", why are they getting the cart before the horse? Can't imagine that they can eliminate milk bottles and such and still approve plastic garbage bags, disposal diapers and disposal puppy pads. Think about it, plastic on the outside of them.
Disposal diapers, puppy pads are yucky but there is something that can be done about them. Suggest to the baby's parents that they reduce they spending about $300.00 a month on diapers x 12 months and only buy the cloth diapers once time and reuse them with the future babies. Diapers soaked in vinegar and baking soda are easier to wash clean. And for puppy pads, suggest they lay down a piece of plastic (use it over and over but simply spraying it with bleach water. Then on that piece of plastic, add several sheets of newspaper or paper towel. Now that paper and paper towel will rot and disappear but the plastic pads won't.
Well, here at this house, we are working at dumping the garbage to the cattle or into a compost pile. Reducing the paper towel by using hand towels. And as always we are still saving David's Diet Coke cans and recycling them. And you can trust me on that one. For years, we have saved Diet Coke cans. We bundle them smaller after I purchased him a can crusher from ACE Hardware. Then we take them ourselves to the salvage place in Asheville, NC. We've made many $$$ off our empties over the years.
You know, recycling isn't hard, it's a little more time and removes some laziness from you, but it works!
Do you buy frozen foods already cooked? Well, change that. Cook a double amount of food and freeze the left overs in a container in the refrigerator/freezer. Saves time, money and landfill!
Tomorrow I want to tell you about filling my yard up with fruits and veggies and starting my winter garden inside the house.
Have a terrific day and think of going green.Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

REMINDER TO YOU TO ATTEND!!!

For those of you in the Haywood-Buncome area, please support and attend the Canton Senior breakfast Saturday, 8-10 am. Senior center located between the Canton pool, and the football field. Then following that is the Canton Heritage Day Celebration.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Ingles Markets - Grocery Stores, Supermarkets, Pharmacies

I didn't know that some of what I purchase can go to a college education for someone. Did you know that?
Ingles Markets - Grocery Stores, Supermarkets, Pharmacies

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Southeast Wise Women: Southeast Women's Herbal Conference, Classes with Corinna Wood

Southeast Wise Women: Southeast Women's Herbal Conference, Classes with Corinna Wood

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

LATINO COMMUNITY, MAGGIE VALLEY COMMUNITY, AND AFRO-AMERICAN COMMUNITIES WERE ON THE STOP TODAY

We boarded the bus this morning, Haywood Transit that is. Nine a.m.,now that's a little early for some of us but we all make it in time.
Todays Senior Leadership Class started by traveling to Canton, North Carolina. Once into Canton we went to the Latin Church and heard from the pastor at the church. He said that there is a real need for assistance in his area. A lot of hard workers but lack of work because of the economy, lack of food, vehicles and such make it hard on that group of Haywood residents.
Second speaker was an Afro-American lady, Anne. She told us that she grew up in Canton. Her sons were also educated in Canton. She was a warm and loving person interested in her heritage and community.
Next stop, Canton Senior Citizens. A very nice welcome from Juanita Dixon. She told us of the history of Canton. I wondered if Canton was named from Canton, Ohio but sure didn't know that Canton had had 2 previous names. Did you know that?
Have you ever seen the water mark that the floods left behind? The brick wall showing the spot is really amazing. To think that the water was that high in that old building and the building still stands today. Pretty amazing after viewing that to understand that Canton is still on the map!
Next we boarded the bus and headed to Maggie Valley. Ernestine Upchurch, a dear, dear friend, was the main speaker. Oh she did delegate some of the speaking to the mayor but you know he didn't talk long:). Ernestine told of the first ones there, her family roots and all the Town events (water/sewer, lights, and such). The best part was her telling about the women of Maggie that were in a group they labeled as Maggie Walkers, or something like that. I can't name names!
Back on the bus and a stop at Subway. Boy, I'll bet they were so surprised to see so many of us get off the bus and come in for a sandwich to go!
Back at the main place, Haywood Community Connections, we had lunch, discussed what we had heard and learnt and then, until next week, put away our notebooks and left with lots of new thoughts about the people who share our Towns.
I was excited to receive a phone call tonight from a Lake Logan gentleman who is interested in the same thoughts that I have as to feeding Haywood. A native of Haywood, he's had several businesses of his own and given of himself to help his community. Although his "plate is full" on a daily basis making a living for himself and serving on committees his interests is ag and politics. I truly enjoyed talking with him and am looking forward to seeing his name in the future as one who want to Feed Haywood!!!
Don't forget Saturday morning at the Canton Senior Center breakfast. 8-10 am and then the Canton Heritage Day following.
Also, the Latino community will host a meal September 19. I think it will be a dinner with music and lots of love and laughter. More on that as time draws closer.
I think that it's time to draw on all the resources in our area and pull up our chairs in a circle and put on our thinking hats and decide where we go from here to Feed Haywood. Please, please, your thoughts and ideas are needed. Please contact me here, facebook or twitter and let me know you are willing to help.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Something of interest to Western North Carolina

www.asapconnections.org
Check out this one whether you live in WNC or where ever. You might want to investigate fresh food for your table. Check the phone book or call your extension service for places to shop for fresh vegetables and fruits.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

LETTUCE-A HAYWOOD POSSIBILITY!

Cold, drizzzly rain didn't stop the data being collected at the Waynesville Test Farm. The team was there and working when we arrived. Dunned my rubber boots and out we headed into the beautiful rows of lettuce.

What's the idea of testing? See how well it grows, where, and when during the months from Spring through Fall.

Why? Know whether or not it can be grown by farmers locally so that lettuce doesn't need to be trucked into WNC from California. Eliminating days of travel and expense.

So this is how it's done.
First, 10 head are cut from each of the rows tested. Each row was marked and numbered at the time of planting.
Second, those 10 heads are weighed together.
Third, each head is mesured from bottom leaves on the outside to the tip end.
Fourth, each head is then cut down lengthwise and the inside core is measured.

Once that is finished, all the data is analysed and used for future grows in local farms, front yards and community gardens.





It sure was an eye opening experience for me.
For the heirloom tomato evaluation go to http://www.ncalternativecropsandorganics.blogspot.com
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Grants for Haywood

I am so excited for tomorrow to come! I'm going to go to the test farm. They are going to be collecting data and harvesting the lettuce. One closer step to making it all happen here in Haywood County.
I spent some time this evening sending websites to Dr. Garrett. I imagine that they probably apply for grants for gardening at each school but decided to locate some and send them on their way. What better way to teach children math and science? What better way to assure them that there are ways to help fill their own tables both now and in the future?
Today we picked more Concord grapes. The grapes are on the stove now cooking down and then I'll strain them, add 2 parts water to 1 part grape juice and sugar to taste. Put it into quart canning jars and seal in the pressure cooker.
Supper table at our home is a light meal. Tonight it was potato pancakes. Potatoes that we grew ourselves in our own garden. The potato was the Kennebec. What a wonderfully delightful tasting white potato. Haven't ever tried potato pancakes? Here's a good recipe, both quick and easy.
Approximately 1 average size potato for each person
Grate that either in a food processor, or by hand.
Add 1-2 eggs (depends on the amount of potatoes)
Add chopped onion to taste, I prefer a small green onion
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
And then add some flour to eliminate most of the juice produced by the potatoes.
In a frying pan, add enough vegetable oil, olive oil or your choice oil to cover the bottom.
Drop potato mixture by spoonful into the grease, being careful not to burn yourself.
Brown on each side. Remove from frying pan.
Place on plate and serve with your choice of catsup, sour cream, cooked ham, or even syrup.
This makes a lovely light supper or part of the main daily meal.

As each new day appears, there are ways to encourage growing a better tomorrow.

Take the time to help someone in your neighborhood. Seniors sometimes are reluctant to ask for help. By you knocking on their doors and remember by putting them first for only a few minutes you might be giving them the only smile for the day! Help someone, anyone enjoy the day more!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Getting A Lot Of Clicks Here

Wow!!!!
A lot of clicks here. Evidently people are interested in finding about about Feeding Haywood.
This week should be interesting. Hope to meet with some people. The local newspaper contacted me and want to publish an article. Ask to put that on hold until later in the week so we can add what is decided on at the meetings.
Local people, don't forgot to eat at Canton Senior Center. They really need the $$ and support. Do you realize how much money seniors are expected to live on? Trust me, I know, it isn't very much. So please, please help the Center help others. Looks like they have a good menu for Saturday's breakfast. Come see us and let's eat breakfast together~
Plant a smile. Enjoy a fresh fruit or vegetables.
If you'd like any strawberry plants or mint plants please contact me. I have extra to give away.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Canton Breakfast for Senior Center

In conjunction with the Canton Heritage Day celebration, the Canton Senior
Center will host a fundrising country breakfast Saturday, September 5, 8 am
until 10 am at the center. The menu includes homemade biscuits, eggs, bacon,
sausage and gravy. Due to cutbacks in funding the Canton Senior Center needs to
raise funds for the overall operating budget to maintain services to the senior
population in Canton and the surrounding community.

The Canton Senior Center involves, enriches, and empowers seniors. It provides a
nutritionally balanced meal, socialization, medical information promoting health
and wellness, opportunities for community interaction, educational information,
field trips, and other activities for seniors in Haywood County.

For additional information contact Eddie Wells, Program Manager at 828-452-1447.

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Click on Hantz Farms/Intro Below

For those of you who haven't read about Hantz Farms, please do click on the information below. You'll be amazed!
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Hantz Farms | Introduction

Hantz Farms | Introduction

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Here's Another Person Wanting It To Succeed!

Tell me how or where to start!!!!!!!!!!!





Maria


Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Here's A Start In The Right Direction!

I admire your will, enthusiasm, and am intrigued by your dream. You are on the same wave length as a lot of other people in America. What you are talking about is really what our grandparents lived everyday. They grew their own food, sold it to the town folks and fed anyone who was hungry.



Local food production is busting loose all over NC and the nation. We are right in the middle of it here at the station. We are doing field trials and research on local grown bread wheat so we can make our own flour and bread. We are working on heirloom (old fashion) tomatoes. We have been growing and researching for the last 3 years local grown leaf, Romaine, and Iceberg lettuce (why should we have to ship lettuce into Haywood County all the way from California?). We are also working on organic production of tomatoes.



These are just some quick ideas. I can put you in contact with a lot of folks who might share your dream. One place to start is with Bill Skeleton at our local Cooperative Extension Office. He is really good with ideas like yours and has a lot of information that he can share with you. I also can give you some researcher’s names and websites that you can contact.






Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Beginning to hear from others in Haywood County

Oddly enough, emails were still coming in as late as 10:30 pm on a Friday night. That's surprising to me that people are wanting to garden and feed the Multitudes here in Haywood County. Can you imagine that?
I am anxious for Monday to roll around so that I can continue to work on all of this. I'm not sure yet who all, or what all will take place over the next few months but I do know now that people want it to happen.
HURRAH!!!!!!
I'd love to see no more poverty. I'd love to see full bellies. I'd love to see everyone whether they be rich, white collar, or single Moms, or inmates of our county taking an active role in this effort.
I think that it can grow from not only heirloom tomatoes and different types of lettuce that the test farm is working on but on to business and enterprise. Mills, farms, meat packing industry. Fill up those industrial parks with business, big business that is by the people and for the people of Haywood County. Let's not wait for the economy to get back to where it was. Let's not wait for big business to come from some other place and just happen to want to put their roots down in Haywood County. But.....let's use the "roots" that are already here and grow.
Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Thanks for reading. I truly would love to know who you are and what you are thinking about gardening. Please take a few moments to contact me. I'd love to hear what you have to say! Your opinion counts with me!

Feeding Haywood

I began my idea of feeding Haywood about 2 years ago. Then a few months ago the rage built me up enough steam to contact local Commissioners. It didn't go anywhere but "south" as they say. But, I didn't want to give up, just give it a rest.
I didn't say that I took a rest. My husband and I planted and cared for more than ever before in our gardening season. We dug, planted and gave more than before. Gave to the local soup kitchen, needy and neighbors. Those who have physical problems were high on our list along with the soup kitchen. And yes, we found time to sell a few vegetables in our driveway to passer-bys.
But.....back in the wee spaces of my brain, I never once gave up on the idea of feeding the county of Haywood. Wouldn't it be something to find a way to make it work? A co-op? A meat packaging? A bread bakery? Is it possible that all and more could be made possible by first one, then another and so on until we have the whole county of Haywood working together.
It's reported that there is 10% without work in our county. Well, that's not probably accurate. What about seniors? What's the count when you figure those that are here for the summer months? How about adding in those who just don't want to, or can afford not to work? But....don't they all need to eat? Well, then, add again.
There is no flour mill in our area. Can't buy 25-50 lbs. of popcorn anywhere? Will the money last that our schools use to feed the children? What about our seniors too proud to ask for Meals on Wheels, are they eating fresh foods? I could ask you questions all day but no one would have all the answers.
So I began again and I'll keep on. I'm 62 years old this year and if I can be given 20 more years I've got to time leave something to everyone that lives here. Not just talk about it, but really leave something. Oh, I can sit back and wait for big business to drop in and hire 50-250 people but is that what it'll take? I doubt it very much. Use your math skills, will it work? Nope! A procrastinator will put off until the tomorrows and still there will be nothing done.
I've made phone calls and sent emails. Put a bee in people's bonnet. So now, what's next? Will it come to be or are we all just going to sit and wait for a company to come in, set up shop and hire a few?
Tune in throughout the Fall and Winter and by Spring let's see if Feeding Haywood has bottomed out again or if people care enough to bring it out to the fullest.