Peripatetic philomaths…focusing on what's really important, eating ethically and cleanly, fermenting, foraging/wildcrafting, practicing herbalism, and being responsible stewards of our land. Sharing our photos, musings, and learnings. Still seeking our tribe.
Though we’re in the season of austerity (including frigid temperatures, snow, and frost), tough little plants like this purple deadnettle find ways to survive…and even thrive. Nestled into a protective opening in a stone wall, the plant is sheltered from the biting wind and the rock serves as thermal mass, soaking up the morning sunshine. It has reminded me that as it finds simple – but effective – ways to meet its needs, so can I.
Looking to spice up your meal lineup? How about a dish that’s quick, easy, and hearty enough to be a one-bowl meal? In an electric pressure cooker, Black-eyed Peas and Mustard Greens come out perfectly – accompanied by crusty bread to soak up the pot liquor, it’s a nutritious and very satisfying one bowl meal!
Continue reading “Pressure Cooked: Black-Eyed Peas And Mustard Greens”
It snowed again overnight. With the snow comes the quiet: muffled sounds, fewer vehicles on the road. The pure notes of birdsong pierces the silence as myriad birds perch on snowy branches and survey the altered landscape. It’s an unusually peaceful morning, and one I am enjoying immensely as it recharges my spirit. May your day be filled with the soothing sights and sounds of nature, too.
I’m still learning how to play the recorder, and I’ve practiced daily. I’ve improved, but have been spending more time than I had hoped on learning how to play a (high) “D”. When the student music book devotes multiple pages to the note, it’s a clue about how difficult it may be to play competently.
Continue reading “Notes: Mastering High “D””
It snowed recently – just an inch or so – but it was the kind of snow that makes even the ordinary (or poorly-lit and muddy) look, briefly, extraordinary. It also tells stories of real drama and intrigue, of unseen passersby looking for a meal on a cold night.
Continue reading “Haiku: Concealed And Revealed”
How about a lighthearted distraction? Our ducks love it when it’s warm enough for their kiddie pools to be out, even in winter. Because they’ll bathe as long as there’s water available – even if the temperatures are below freezing – we dump the pools at evening feeding time (and put them away), so that they’ll be dry when they go into their coop at night.
Continue reading “Farm Fowl: Ducks In Pools”