11.28.2008

Community Garden

About 6 months ago I signed up for the waiting list to get a plot at our local community garden. At the time, the woman told me that I probably wouldn't have to wait too long, and they'd call me when a plot opened up. I completely forgot about it and began planting some late summer crops in my backyard. Last month, they finally called me and let me know that a plot was available.

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After attending a class to learn about the history of the garden and the rules, I was given my plot. I was absolutely amazed at how large the plots are. Each plot is a generous 15' by 25'. The arrangement varies with how the plot was previously arranged; mine is organized into eight sections framed by wood borders, and surrounded by dirt paths.

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After walking around the garden to see how and what other people were planting, I decided plant some starter plants from the nursery. I started with spinach, lettuce and onions. I also spoke with my garden neighbors who provided me with a wealth of useful information about the gardens, and how to achieve a successful harvest. In addition to the usual pests, there are squirrels, rabbits and rats who love to munch on young seedlings.

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While some gardeners have remedied this problem by building fences around their plots, I decided to go with the craft netting covers also commonly used at the gardens. The netting is covered around metal hoops that cover each section of the garden. I like the netting method, because it offers an added layer of protection against pests, and can be moved based on the arrangement of the garden. The netting can be purchased at a fabric or craft store, the metal wire framing came from home depot- it is kind of hard to find. I is technically called "masonry ladder" and you'll find it in the construction aisles, at the very back of the store. The construction sales people should be able to help you find it. 

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I didn't do much to the soil before I started planting. I was told that the person who had previously worked my garden plot kept it in fairly decent shape. The only soil amendments I put in the ground were equal parts of sodium sulfate and gypsum. There was already plenty of manure in the soil, so I just mixed everything into the ground and used a hand tiller to break up the dirt. It seemed to be enough, as I have had no problems with the starters I have planted. 

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I can't wait to see everything grow! 

11.26.2008

Fish Tacos and Shrimp Ceviche





Food coma kicking in....now.

11.23.2008

Happy Sunday


IMG_1022, originally uploaded by MyFunnyLittleFrog.

11.20.2008

Grilled Fillet Mignon with Blue Cheese Crumble

These were sooo0 good. Last night was a great evening for being spontaneous, and when the husband said he wanted "Steaks with Blue Cheese", I went right to my trusty internets to see what I could whip up.



I had never had a steak with blue cheese before last night, and I have to say it is a wonderful combination of flavors. The pungent flavor of the cheese really seems to bring out the flavor in the meat. I added a bit of garlic and panko flakes to my blue cheese topping mixture, and finished the steaks off with a few minutes under the broiler.



Served with sauteed mushrooms, roasted potatoes and a spinach salad.


From this recipe.

11.09.2008

Thirty-One Years

It was a nice and quiet day. 

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Last year, I spent my 30th birthday at my grandmother's funeral. It was a mixture of sadness and relief, as she had been gradually fading away for many years and I was glad she could finally be at peace.

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This year was much less eventful. I went for a bike ride. I had a lovely breakfast. I gardened. and I spent the evening with my soulmate.

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All in all- I think 31 is starting off to be a good year.

11.04.2008

Farmer's Market Sunday

This is what $20 worth of fresh, organic, local food looks like:


With food prices on the rise and so many people looking to save money and eat healthier, the local farmers market is really the way to go. It is so much fun to walk around, looking at each vendor's produce and deciding who has the tastiest, freshest fruit and vegetables. No waiting is long grocery lines, or playing bumper carts with old ladies. Just lots of people, and tons of really good food. Of course eventually I'd like to be able to grow as much as possible in my garden, but until then I'll shop at the farmers market.




I too, want to see Jawas and Sandpeople united.

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