Be a 'Locavore'!!

     'Locavore' is a term that refers to someone who chooses to eat locally grown & raised foods when available. Eating local is catching on for a number of reasons including freshness, nutrient value, taste, strengthening of the local economy & supporting the family farm tradition.  We also benefit by reducing our carbon footprint by purchasing produce (especially this time of year) that hasn't travelled great distances. Is there anything that tastes better than local corn & tomatoes this time of year? The added benefit of maximizing the nutrition factor for your body is huge. If you are lucky enough to have a place to grow a few plants of your own that's an added benefit; your own produce is delicious, nutritious and free. It's not too late. Plants like tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers and herbs like basil, parsley, mint for example are easy to grow. Garden centers will have variety that are well along in the growing process for you to plant right now. As the temps get cooler plant seeds for lettuce. Check out local farmer's market days in your community. Most have them now so it is easier than ever to become a locavore. Supermarkets carry local produce now too but the farmer's markets are so diverse & more fun. Even the local honey sold can benefit those with seasonal allergies. And baked goods with locally grown produce & herbs such as zucchini breads & lavender cakes are well, yum squared. Enjoy the buying and tasting experience!!

Destination Hammock

   While on a recent visit to a garden club member's amazing property, I meandered into her hammock destination ~ perfectly placed between the two required trees. From every passerby that afternoon was a collective aahhh, wouldn't that be nice to have. My challenge here really is first to have gratitude for the destinations you do have in your outdoor space and secondly to USE THEM!

    Sure it's easy to think if I had a hammock like that I would be in it every chance I got! Well, we all have a space whether it be a back porch, front porch, a strategically placed chair perhaps. For my Dad it was simply the front steps of our twin home. I grew up in a city of sorts & that's what you did. As soon as the weather got warmer, out everyone went watching the world go by; catching up with the neighbors. This occurred every night weather permitting. He eventually graduated to a folding strap beach chair for comfort sake as he got older. The important lesson here is he took the time... Now, some may reach a bit more towards private spaces but wherever you choose you need to take the time... Find your destination & make a date to read a book, do a crossword puzzle, nap, listen to the birds, crickets, do nothing...

    My girlfriend recently added a chiminea to her favorite outdoor destination and that sealed the deal for her. She says she's out there every evening that she can building fires & loving every peaceful, blissful minute. So do what you need to tweak a space for yourself; sometimes it is as simple as pulling up a folded beach chair. The tricky part is making the time, then settling into the quiet and calm and relaxation. It is mandatory for a healthy mind & body and critical for the soul. I hereby give you permission: destination hammock... and it is totally free.