tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33990131402894385102024-03-15T18:39:22.582-04:00HIGH GROUND FARM Where Java Chickens and Goats roam the old hardwood forests and pastures surrounding a 1850's North Carolina farmhouse on the National Historic Registry.Life at High Ground Farm has been authentic and simple, in step with the seasons, and the land, for over 30 years.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-33145414652747711592024-03-15T15:31:00.002-04:002024-03-15T18:38:50.443-04:00New Beginnings <p> Life is a twisty turney thing. Sometimes there is an illusion of control when there is, in actuality, none.</p><p>As mere humans all we can do is take one day at a time and do what we feel in our hearts is right and true. </p><p>Sometimes it is Java Chickens, and sometimes it is Angora Goats. Sometimes it is </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2n9ScHAB8G56j84pcM_pDxFBRk6Dt6xavWjNECzllSugLLeNCi4Xk6lMMHg5E3gaM82yl9bUcZznrBgnQBgXvTJ2eErdHlifxTcxjNsaCfqpF4r2PiYQSfVNNkWMJ4Djg4hCR777wim0wzsDrKn1z_ZDxzel7vOU9_5gI8t8yo7HX2zBM6_Ysg9GwVw/s3264/IMG_3307.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN2n9ScHAB8G56j84pcM_pDxFBRk6Dt6xavWjNECzllSugLLeNCi4Xk6lMMHg5E3gaM82yl9bUcZznrBgnQBgXvTJ2eErdHlifxTcxjNsaCfqpF4r2PiYQSfVNNkWMJ4Djg4hCR777wim0wzsDrKn1z_ZDxzel7vOU9_5gI8t8yo7HX2zBM6_Ysg9GwVw/s320/IMG_3307.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />Art so vivid the feel of buttery paint on the canvas Itches the fingertips. Then again, it might be the mesmerizing deliciousness of words on the page that create an palpable image. Change comes. <div>A new direction like the turning of a page to a new chapter, Is often brought about by loss. The loss of: a Profession welded to personal identity; The loss of a spouse; The loss of a loved one in death; The loss of a dear kindred spirit friend; The loss of Innocence and carefree days before a child is diagnosed with a serious illness; or The loss of financial stability. <p>With hope, tenaciousness, and Faith there is the opportunity to re-create a new direction. To throw the cards on the table, use every penny scrounge from the folds of the sofa to invest in the new idea takes great courage, but if it is inspired from Faith it is not a whim, It is a powerful adventure... predestined. </p><p>Listening to the heart is often clouded out by reason. </p><p> "Do not be afraid, castaway the weight of facts". </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-76883164721036722052020-09-19T16:07:00.003-04:002021-09-22T12:48:06.023-04:00Living CLOSE to Nature<p> </p><p>Living here for over 40 years, I ...We have learned how to coexist with abundant wildlife.</p><p>Snakes are a big part of our coexistence. This year, copperheads were too many to count; the largest juvenile black snake I have ever seen, got away after TRYING to swallow a 12 week old Java pullet; a beautiful Southern Ringneck; Garter Snakes in abundance; and a few years ago a Hognose Snake, which was quite intimidating because they flatten their heads just like a Cobra!</p><p>There have been years of flying squirrels coming down the chimneys. Running up and down the stairs. I became quite good at catching these strong little creatures with a towel to release outdoors. Holding them for a second to look into their magnificent faces. </p><p><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Wood Ducks fall down the
chimneys in spring as they look for nesting places. Usually during a rainstorm.
I have come to expect them. Easy, now that I know how, to pick up and release
outside. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyBuKItfWNPg-NZ1m_ZsKbMxxd-hDDlA_PhumSF9dhz55GEBSeAPASy-K--Q83YCp1JiOoPaLjjKLJlS0vuIQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #050505; font-family: "inherit","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Chimney Swifts nest in the chimneys in spring. This is why Chimney Caps, although recommended by professional for years, have not been installed. They need places to nest in this modern time with houses without out real chimneys or house with chimney caps. I look forward to their screeching and birdsounds. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p>A gray squirrel was in the chimney for two weeks while I waited for help to remove it. During this time, because I feared it would starve, I fed it walnuts, pecans, and apples. Finally out of desperation, I devised a plan: Cover the windows of the room with black plastic; Turn off all the lights, Open the front door in the daytime and wait. Sitting on the stairs quietly, I heard the thud of paws that sounded like a dinosaur walking! Slowly the fatest squirrel I have ever seen came walking out of the living room into the hall to stop, look around then casually walk out the door. </p><p>Raccoons living in RACCOON CITIES - We counted 13 on one wildlife video in the fall. Foxes in abundance with beautiful barks heard at dusk. </p><p>Coyote on a distant hill, that fortunately have avoided the goat pasture because of the electric topped fence, or maybe it's the classical music playing in the barn. </p><p>And the beautiful Brown Bats that swirl around the top of the house at night catching mosquitoes. Standing at the upstair bedroom window the flood light shine out on their little dog faces. </p><p>Garden spider and Tunnel spiders make their home here, scampering in fall to get ready for winter. There is no need for artificial spiderwebs for Halloween!</p><p>Magnificent wild brown rabbits come out at dark to graze, run, and jump. Babies in rabbit holes snuggled down in their furry nests, quiet and still until their mother comes back at night to nurse and care for them. </p><p>It is an organic life. Acutely in tune with the season. A life that chose me, instead of the other way round. </p>high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-29772942345701133332019-02-18T12:31:00.000-05:002019-02-18T12:31:18.385-05:00Will the Trees Know How Much I Loved Them Will the trees know how much I loved them, when I am gone?<br />
When my soul floats with the Holy Spirit<br />
And my bones, old and cold in the ground in 100 years or a 1000?<br />
Will the ancient trees pass on the story of the woman who walked below them at daybreak and dusk? Will they talk of her words and thoughts?<br />
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Will they recall how they dropped twigs and kindling everyday.<br />
Just enough.<br />
How they shed their leaves to become rich soil.<br />
How they swayed their branches in the wind with music soothing to the ear.<br />
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Will they speak of the mornings air full of sap perfume sent out to greet the woman who was here for her earthly time?<br />
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I ponder on these thoughts from time to time. The trees refresh my soul. Their beauty drenches my eyes and heart.high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-67075271391926837562019-02-09T12:02:00.002-05:002019-02-09T12:16:15.331-05:00Hello Winter, Glad You Are Back!I was not ready for Winter to go. Several days of sudden spring like weather, with one day at 80F in early February was worrisome. Wooly clothing, heavy down, and quilts were all wrong. Itchy. What a relief to feel the North winds blowing yesterday and know the cold was returning. I was not ready for it to go.<br />
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Walking alone in the silent woods picking up firewood kindling is a meditation in Thankfulness. Each stick provided without request or payment. Surprise Hickory, which is a strong tree thus not giving up branches often, is a treasure.<br />
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The first "catch" of the small kindling a promise of hope. There is magic and depth in a open fire. Generations have sat looking into a fire to see plans, and dreams. Calming as woodsmoke drifts upward and out, with crackles and swooshes soothing the soul. Walking outside into the sharp cold air to catch a whiff of Hickory on the wind is delicious, evoking memories and imaginings of times of old.<br />
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high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-22999890154264418822019-02-07T14:34:00.001-05:002019-02-09T12:15:16.392-05:00The Java Chickens ContinueI have kept Java Chickens in a closed flock since 1999. Over the past year, for the first time in years, I did not hatch chicks to keep for myself. Hatching and caring for chicks until they are 20 weeks old is A LOT of trouble...so I decided to skip a year. Now, I am missing the new pullets starting to lay and the lovely cockerels in the freezer for golden rich suppers!<br />
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I have dusted off the incubator stored in the top of the barn with plans calibrate to be sure in working order for eggs in March. The hens are doing well, fat and happy, but I only have 20. A far cry from a flock of 150 in 2011. Fortunately the hens are some of the flocks best, and are very close to breed Standard.<br />
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As the days lengthen and they bask in the sun, egg production will increase. Hopefully if all goes well, there will be chicks in May to restock the flock. Grown on organic grains, fruits and vegetables, both eggs and table birds are a delicious and healthy addition to any feast!<br />
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Wonderful foragers Java Chickens scratch for worms and grubs but also LOVE cakes, breads and especially pasta noodles. You should see them snatch a noodle and RUN across the pasture with the treasure! There is never kitchen waste. The chickens eat it! How awful to think about throwing vegetable peels and overly ripe fruit in the trash. They come running when I walk out to the lot...knowing I have Treats!<br />
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<br />high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-69252730082409795642017-08-04T14:53:00.002-04:002017-08-04T14:55:20.642-04:00Sohn Mat - "The Taste of the Hands"I have tried many times to re-create foods that a loving family member or friend once made. Using a recipe, one given to me by MaMa Cille or Virginia Johnson in detail, but it did not taste the same. I have followed recipes to the letter, to be disappointed. No matter how I tried, the food, whether it was Beef Stew or Field Peas or Snow Cookies, did not taste the same as when they made it with <i><b>their</b></i> <b><i>hands.</i></b><br />
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I know that people transfer a essence of themselves into the food. Whether it was the way they rinsed the bowl first, or perhaps chilled the cooked beef overnight before making a stew, there are minute details and the essence of the person, that change taste. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQ5ZV06gML2EOuFrj_XDpPNdXrjb1HsUajSSpDy52SQFtnfPVtJpmTEelj1SWZEch-E8H0h5KJK1_PNw5HCVq14KH18_c8oc98FtToQ3YjREaBuqwMHzTfaOR5un9GtOgYhDVZoD3Ewk/s1600/pizza+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQ5ZV06gML2EOuFrj_XDpPNdXrjb1HsUajSSpDy52SQFtnfPVtJpmTEelj1SWZEch-E8H0h5KJK1_PNw5HCVq14KH18_c8oc98FtToQ3YjREaBuqwMHzTfaOR5un9GtOgYhDVZoD3Ewk/s320/pizza+1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Recently talking to lovely friends about things of beauty, we discussed how a person transfers their essence into art, food, decor. It turns out there is a Korean word pronounced, "Sohn Mat" that describes the taste of something unique because it reminds you of the maker. It literally translates to "the taste of the hands".<br />
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When we cook for people we love, we put part of ourselves in the food. I know there is much we cannot explain scientifically. People transfer their essence into food. <br />
"The Taste of the Hands".<br />
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<br />high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-9796519526835603212017-04-13T17:33:00.004-04:002017-04-13T17:37:59.925-04:00Spring is an Awakening!In Spring the color here is so bright at times it looks unreal.<br />
As the sun's early bright light first touches the hills beyond the pasture and then slowly washes up to our hill, it is a new day-BRIGHT with possibilities.<br />
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The soil is warming which brings forth new life everywhere. Money Plant shooting up and bursting into while and pink blossoms. Roses, that looked for the world dead, are sprouting lime green buds and fragile branches. <br />
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A rich green carpet of heart shaped foliage one day, and the next dotted with velvety purple Common Violets.<br />
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Blackberry canes gray and twiggy, suddenly have tiny green leaves. Deep in the night the call of the fox, the dance of the Carpenter Bee and Birds of all sort calling and buzzing to claim territory...and mates.<br />
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It is Spring; A new day. Delicious to the eye...and the heart.high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-50375638517375612192017-01-19T13:39:00.000-05:002017-01-19T13:40:39.892-05:00High Ground Farmhouse in the Moonlight!<br />
Most nights at dusk one of the dogs and I make the rounds.<br />
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Down to the Henhouse to lock up the little door to keep the foxes, raccoons, possums, and coyotes OUT. Everything wants to eat a chicken...day or night; Then over to the goat house and goat shed. The goats love nightly pans of split oats, goat chow and delicious hay. They are eagerly waiting as we go inside. The larger two are very greedy, so the smaller ones are fed separately in the shed. Fresh water from the well in added to the large tub in the paddock. The Paddock gate is closed for the night. This too, to keep predators out. Coyotes sing at night from the deep valley behind the barn. They have have a routine with predictable howls and yips around 7 pm and again at midnight. The pasture has a electric wire 6 inches out from the top and at the bottom to deter coyotes. So far it has worked and is worth the trouble of checking it a couple of times a week. The electric wire is to keep predators out, not to keep the goats in. A hard woven wire goat fence surrounds the 4 acre pasture. This has kept the goats in. The pasture is forest and pasture, and so far has kept them entertained...as goat bore easily and must LIKE their domain in order to be expected to stay. Then, we go on to feed the sweet barn cats who have claimed the art studio as their own for sleeping the day on the old chippendale sofa or in the loft. They are quite elegant as they lounge. At night however they come alive and earn their pay by fearlessly hunting for mice, rats and voles! Sometimes I find a tail as evidence of the hall rug! They are a integral part of the keeping grain safe from the wood mice that some how find a way to get into the tightly built barn.<br />
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Walking back up the hill the night's peace was palpable. The air was cold and crisp. There was a faint breeze making a distinct rustling sound in the tall, tall tree tops. Not another sound could be heard except our footsteps in the leaves. Suddenly as we crested the hill top I could hardly believe my eyes. The moon was so large, that I wondered if it was real. The luminance against a navy blue sky filled the western horizon just below the great tree branches. I stood still with eyes wide to take it all in. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-9761354483694153612016-03-27T20:58:00.003-04:002016-03-27T20:58:59.681-04:00A Spring Meal <span style="font-weight: normal;">Living 20 minutes away from any sort of restaurant or store, I have learned to cook as part of life. In the morning after breakfast if I am to be home all day, I start something for lunch and supper. I like things that can simmer unattended while I work. It is a way of life. </span><br />
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After cooking....a lot... over 40 years...it is like breathing.... to know what goes with what. I do not think about it often, but today I thought I would share a basic pan meal "recipe".<br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">A Spring Meal. I have also called this Chicken in a Pot. It has many variations depending on what you might have on hand. Today it was chicken, red potatoes, spring onions, carrots, and herbs. You could add greens of any type, quartered cabbage, mushrooms, fresh or frozen english peas or edible pod peas at the end for 5 minute. You could even leave the meat out completely and it would be delicious! </span><br />
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This is the basic recipe..but change it depending on what you like or find in your garden.<br />
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Chicken boneless thighs or what you have-4<br />
Olive Oil-3 T<br />
Butter-1 t<br />
Potatoes-6 small<br />
Carrots-6 washed not scraped<br />
Spring onions-washed and roots removerd-2 include greens<br />
Fresh garlic clove-1-2 depending on what you like minced<br />
Bacon-thick smoky type with skin-1 strip<br />
Fresh thyme sprig<br />
Fresh parsley-roughly chopped<br />
Black pepper - fresh ground<br />
Sea Salt to taste<br />
Water, Chicken Broth, or white wine-2 cups to cover chicken and touch vegetables<br />
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Peel potatoes as needed. Today I had red potatoes that had sprouted a little, with no green under the skin, so I took cut sprouts off to start a new potato row in the garden. But that is another story completely!<br />
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Run out to the garden for fresh thyme, parsley, and green spring onions.<br />
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Chicken-use what you have. Bone in or out; skin on or off...does not matter. Brown Chicken boneless thighs in olive oil 3 T, and 1 t butter until a crusty brown forms on the bottom of the pan and all sides of the chicken are brown. Use a heavy stainless steel pan. NEVER use a nonstick pan because it will not form the lovely tasty brown crust needed to make the sauce AND it is terrible for your health. THROW it out if you have one.<br />
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Scrap up the tasty brown bits and add 1/4 cup plain unbleached flour. This is called a Roux. Use that word and people will think you really know about cooking. Stir and cook until slightly golden. NOT brown. Add chicken broth if you have it or plain water-1 to 2 cups to cover the chicken.<br />
Add salt and fresh ground OG pepper<br />
Bring to a simmer.<br />
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Add carrots and potatoes in separate areas of the pan. Place onion, herbs, garlic and bacon on top. More salt and pepper for the vegetables.<br />
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Simmer on low heat with a lid on for 45 - 60 minutes. Add asparagus tips in last 10 minutes.<br />
Check every 30 minutes or so to be sure there is enough liquid. The broth will thicken and make a luscious sauce.<br />
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This is Slow cooking. VERY slow cooking. BUT just think all the things you can do while this is gently simmering on the stovetop. AND the house will smell heavenly of fresh herbs!<br />
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If you decide to add fresh asparagus, english peas, edible pod peas, cabbage or kale remember to add those in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. These are not good over cooked.<br />
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A delicious meal eaten on the porch while it gently rains. Lovely!<br />
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high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-50814955243752689672015-12-04T22:59:00.000-05:002017-08-04T20:55:47.423-04:00PeaceThere is a peace here that is as quiet as the snow that comes stealthy in the night without warning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXQj7SLt3NxVQ0TvLhPqza9J6NfQsqXcEoa3FERppB3YgtHyoydwc1sR7JOxpMo35wH2g-j0FmW1UESbKW4jgZBYurH0d-pMxcGVAzTI3MmvDf3YHd6U59osYH9F6W_02227ToiaWg7w/s1600/HOUSE+at+night+rotated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXQj7SLt3NxVQ0TvLhPqza9J6NfQsqXcEoa3FERppB3YgtHyoydwc1sR7JOxpMo35wH2g-j0FmW1UESbKW4jgZBYurH0d-pMxcGVAzTI3MmvDf3YHd6U59osYH9F6W_02227ToiaWg7w/s1600/HOUSE+at+night+rotated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">There is a peace here with the urgent bark of the fox calling for a mate in February; the steps of the deer as they go toward a bedding place; the deep low voice of the great horned owl as he drifts silently across the pasture with eye peeled for rodents amongst the tall golden grass. </a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXQj7SLt3NxVQ0TvLhPqza9J6NfQsqXcEoa3FERppB3YgtHyoydwc1sR7JOxpMo35wH2g-j0FmW1UESbKW4jgZBYurH0d-pMxcGVAzTI3MmvDf3YHd6U59osYH9F6W_02227ToiaWg7w/s1600/HOUSE+at+night+rotated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">A quiet that bubbles up from inside with the sight of the last shadows on the back hill; the silhouette of the chaulk trunks of the white oaks against the dark woods; the sound of the forest sighing as the night gently...slowly covers the land.</a><br />
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The night is alive with soft voices and cries. The bobcats call like a scream.<br />
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There is a sustenance here. A fire gently fluttering on the grate; a slow cooked meal in the pan; the clock in the hall with a steady tick.<br />
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Quiet, yet alive more than any contrived event or venue.<br />
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Eyes wide open, ears yearning to hear, a soul needing to be filled.<br />
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Sometimes when I walk with Toby back up the hill, I catch my breath at the beauty. The house sitting in the evening light, white against the green. The hens contently marching to their house; A thin trail of wood smoke from the chimney top. The smell of hickory smoke finding its way to my nose; The sound, at times when I am so blessed to have Sam home-of music of fiddle and mandolin erupting like a sonnet from the house, interspersed by male voices and hearty laughs. Joy Oh Joy!<br />
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Then peach coloured haze along the treeline as the day slips away and the navy blue night arrives with starry lights and crescent moon.<br />
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I breath in the majesty and I am grateful.<br />
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<br />high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-41304587510705941032015-07-25T17:33:00.003-04:002015-07-25T17:35:11.037-04:00What? Today's weather is a promise of Fall to come? <br />
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The Back Pasture at Dusk<br />
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The Seasons are so definite here and I am grateful for them. I always yearn for Spring after the cold and gray of Winter. By this time every Summer I am thinking blissfully of Fall. Spring and Summer on this farm are constant weeding, mulching, seeding, staking, and harvesting in the humidity and heat. Most days I work outside 2-3 hours twice a day until sunset donned in a long sleeve shirt, gloves, long pants, and boots. Each time my clothing is wet as if I were thrown into a pool! I yearn for cold crisp air and a day outside when the sunshine is a joy instead of obstacle.<br />
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Last night as I finished up weed-whacking the invasive new weed in the back garden I walked up the road from the barns to the house. As I approached - the air was filled with the swoop and swing of BATS. Amazingly they never came close to me as they were concentrating on eating mosquito's in the air! It was at that moment I realized... I have seen very few mosquito's this year. I am sure the bat's are taking care of them. I never use insect repellent and rarely have a bite. One night while working upstairs I saw a big brown bat flying around and around the house. As it flew by the upstairs window where I was standing, she turned her foxy little face towards me. A beautiful creature so much like a little dog. There are ways to give bats <a href="http://www.southernwildlifeandland.com/">good habitat</a> so they will live around the house and I have used them all. Bat houses are the key. <a href="http://www.southernwildlifeandland.com/">http://www.southernwildlifeandland.com/</a><br />
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This morning when I walked out with the dogs the air was strikingly less humid. The birdsong a chorus as they too enjoyed this glorious change.<br />
Ah yes, Fall is just around the corner.<br />
A time for rest.<br />
<br />high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-85014708152732470942015-02-06T20:41:00.002-05:002016-03-27T20:08:07.174-04:00Chaos in the Goat Pasture! There was Goat DRAMA tonight! With the air crisp and cold watching a low sunset filtering through the dark winter forest I set about my nightly routine: Goat Chow for Faye and her baby Pearl and Auntie Ruby. I give Faye and Pearlie their chow in the Goat Shed which is snug and warm for the cold night to come; and Auntie Ruby has her chow in the paddock near the chicken barn where she sleeps. As much as I would like them all to be together for the night, Ruby has proven herself to be a wild thing as she aims to claim the best sleeping spots and ledges by jumping,pawing, and butting! It is just too much potential for injury for baby Pearl until she is larger.<br />
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Getting back to the story: Then I fill water pails and gather eggs. During this quiet routine tonight, unexpectedly Ruby stuck her head in the bucket I had used to bring out the goat chow to the feeders and in a instant the wire handle was over her horns and the bucket was STUCK on her head!<br />
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Oh my Goodness what a sight and sound! The bucket clanging loudly as Ruby running, jumping and kicking across the pasture with a metal bucket hanging from her neck; Faye and Pearl horrified that the world was coming to a end! Ruby would take a step or two and kick., but the bucket was hopelessly over her horns and swinging back and forth!<br />
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As with many things this took some time to watch the situation and consider the best approach. Treats are Ruby's weakness...so I offered graham crackers. She was in such a state that even this had no appeal. She was running and jumping....suddenly the bucket came OFF! Faye had taken Pearl into the goat house certain the world WAS coming to a end. Pearl got on her ledge for safety.<br />
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Ruby, although free, was clearly worried that horrid bucket would suddenly attack her again. She would take a step or two; stop and look up-down-left-right....where is that bucket? It was horrible and awful but she was a brave and a smart girl I told her with soothing words over raisins and graham crackers...<span style="text-align: center;">"you were very wise and brave! " I am pretty sure she smiled as she munched that cracker.</span><br />
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high ground farmhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03696088049460946431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-21533869530023959752014-10-12T20:10:00.000-04:002016-12-14T22:43:05.837-05:00Simple Things Are Richly Beautiful and a Meditation This house has always been a balm. A soothing calm for healing of the heart, soul, and body. This place has comforted me through many a difficult time.<br />
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Today I am reminded of her magic.<br />
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Walking out to gather hickory and oak sticks fallen in the night, to use as tender for the first fire of the season in the living room, the thought of the comfort this place has provided, struck me again today.<br />
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The front room with ancient pine floors worn at the doorways from feet passing for over 150 years and downy oriental rugs; tables laiden with stacks of favorite books like old friends pulled close to the sofa; the smell of the house-a mix of wood smoke, the fragrance of supper roasting, wood wax and the slight aroma of dog is unmistakable...drunk, blind or dying...I would know it. <br />
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The joy of going out to the wood shed to gather more wood is a <b>mediation</b>: Hickory smoke wafting from the chimney gently making a way to my nose; the thick carpet of mossy green in the front yard padded under foot; millions of oak acorns crunch with each step as they cover the rocky quartz rich ground; the sound of woodpecker taps in the old growth hardwood forest.<br />
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The deep, deep sound of silence is palpable and a solace. I breath it all deeply in, and am so grateful.<br />
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The fire fluttered softly throughout the day as I worked, and read and dreamed. A brisk walk down to the the Hickory grove with Toby. The weather crisp and misty with light rain...exhilarating. Walking back up the hill, golden lights in the windows are beacons to supper. Crispy oven baked chicken, roast potatoes-golden and crisp, roast onions, and slow stewed kale soup waited as if entering a magical fairy tale house after walking from a distant place....the magic of it all is humbling.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-20608451433083164962014-10-05T20:13:00.002-04:002016-12-14T22:43:49.803-05:00Cold Crisp Air and the Scent of Hickory Smoke Herald the Arrival of Fall I cleaned the fireplaces out today. The first cleaning before the cold weather. Ashes and half spent twigs from last year fill buckets carried out to the garden.<br />
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Toby at my side, my trusty assistant to any task. I could feel Susie,who has been gone for several years, at my side too with her tail uplifted and twitching in the way only a Scottish Terrier is able to do. Certain in her Scotty mind that a furry creature is about to be uncovered!<br />
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The snap of twigs as a new fire starts. The quick, strong draft pulling the smoke up and out reliably. The sweet, sweet smell of Hickory and a bit of Bay that was the starter perfumes the garden as we walk outside.<br />
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The curl of fairy smoke, a offering to the sky. A new season. New dawns and new dusks all of our lives entwining. <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-87261992770919568472013-11-02T20:46:00.000-04:002013-11-02T20:48:51.634-04:00Chicken Pie, and Chocolate Cookies<b>This morning was the perfect day for cooking. I woke up with Chicken Pie in my head. This is recipe I discovered just 2 years ago. The crust is made with a egg, and sour cream, and of course lots of butter. Because there is no water, the crust is flaky, crispy and tender all at the same time. It is the perfect crust for most anything. With a wonderfully grown High Ground Java Cockerel (young rooster)) harvested last spring, the broth was thick, rich, and <i>golden</i>. </b><br />
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<b>As the cooking progressed, as always, one thing lead to another. "<i>Wouldn't soup with tender garden greens and white beans be good?"</i></b> and what about cookies? Double Chocolate, and Colonial Spice?<br />
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Out to the kitchen garden in a flash to pick Vates Kale, Tuscan Kale (Dinosaur), Russian Red kale,Mustard Greens, Turnip Greens, and Asian Greens. Good Olive Oil in a pot; Add course chopped yellow onion-a big one; crushed and chopped 4 cloves of garlic. Heat, but do not brown. Add chicken broth-2 cups, then the washed, chopped greens with white Cannenilli beans. I used a can of Organic 365 brand, but could use dry ones, and cook before adding greens. Simmer with a lid for 30 minutes. With a dash of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, Delicious!<br />
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A walk down to the creek after cooking as a way to fight the drowsiness of too many cookies.<br />
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The woods were alive with wildlife, and the ferns and running cedar so green in the low areas, untouched by people for so long, it was like a wonderland. A Cathedral. Great tree trunks like fallen giants lay across some banks for years, but thrive although horizontal. A haven for woodland creatures, and beautiful mosses. The water ran fast and deep today after the rain last night. Several little rapids,and waterfalls were music that echoed against the hill. A deep woods, that is as it was. Untouched by progress. This is part of balance for me. Sitting, standing in awe of this Greatness. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-44218492933223901252013-11-02T19:46:00.000-04:002013-11-02T19:46:44.207-04:00The Wood Shed Full, A Beautiful Sight! <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b> Yesterday as I went outside to carry the hens kitchen scraps the huge pile of split firewood in the middle of the grass in front of the shed, tugged at me as I passed. The sky was leaden gray and the weather forecaster was calling for heavy rain as a cold front was approaching from the west. Not wanting the beautiful dry wood to get wet I pulled out the biggest tarp in the barn. Wrestling with the bulky taupe I quickly realized it was going to be a struggle to cover it all up, I started to move and stack the wood under the shelter. One by one, piece by piece. The day beautiful with a breeze and Autumn leaves, orange, yellow and red trickling down from the sky like jewels. A good time to think, and pray. A good time to be thankful I can still without any trouble do this type of work. Some cannot. It is a beautiful thing...life, and a job finished well. </b></span><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-16301125439026517682013-10-06T09:07:00.000-04:002013-10-06T09:07:19.195-04:00Chaos in the World but Soft,Gentle Quiet Here<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">So
much chaos in the world it seems. </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> </span></span><br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">Everyday unsettling news at home and
afar. </span></span><br />
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">But, tonight standing out in the thick of night, with the glitter
of Venus</span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> overhead, and the hoot, hoot, hoot-alllll in the distance; the
cicadas chorus all around; the sweet, gentle breeze; the bark of a fox
on the hill and the gentle nuzzle of Blue's muzzle with tickle-y
whiskers in my hand...all is right. </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"></span></span><br />
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">The Spirit all around us is in
control, and is already in the future.</span></span></div>
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<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption"> </span></span><span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45,"tn":"*G"}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">So far as the chaos in the world,
we nor "they" are in control.</span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-81362280857905838932012-06-03T08:56:00.002-04:002012-06-03T09:17:52.003-04:00Poppies Dancing in the Gentle BreezeAfter several days of hot and very humid weather, the air was crisp yesterday morning as I walked out to the garden. A breeze, crisp and almost cool seemed to make everything brighter and a deeper color. For the first time in weeks some of the garden chores did not seem overwhelming! The air was light, and not longer heavy on my shoulders. As I was cutting flowers for bouquets I noticed the leaves low to the ground had captured the heat and the humidity. There was a distinct change about 6 inches from the ground. (<i>CLICK on the photo to make it bigger, and like you are here</i>!)<br />
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The earth continually amazes me. The soil that sustains us, also filters the water, and along with diverse organisms decomposes and starts new life. Yesterday as I was digging a grave in the pasture for a hen who was victim of a hawk attack I was struck with the balance provided by the earth and the soil. So simple it seems, and taken for granted....yet complex and vital for our lives.<i> Soil, a perfect creation.</i><br />
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Every year, I like to try a new type of flower or vegetable. This year one of my new trials is Poppies. I sowed about a cup of seeds in a new little field in the Kitchen Garden. After adding composed chicken manure, tilling it in well, and raking it smooth it looked perfect. I surround all my plots, and add thin string "guide lines" to row crops so Emmy will know not to walk on them. I call them Dog Lines. The string is old tobacco twine cotton string (I have no idea how I came to this huge spool of string...it was from one many parents things after they passed). After stopping Emmy a few times when she touches the string, she now understands, and will jump over the row, or go around the stringed plot. She is so smart. <i><b>BACK to the Poppies.</b></i> They are beautiful dancing on delicately thin stems. Like wild flower plots the grass grows among the poppies, as the poppy plant is very delicate and weeding would destroy more than it would help....but they seem to be thriving. I hope next year the seeds will have scattered with the wind and volunteers will be all over the farm. I do love a volunteer.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-47065701883885925632012-04-20T22:33:00.001-04:002012-04-20T22:33:29.899-04:00The Sun Came out just for a second and I dashed out with my camera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For the first time in several days the gray disappeared when the sun showed it's face for a few minutes today. I dashed outside with my camera to try to capture some of the beautiful sights for you to see. The roses are continuing to open more each day, and the gardens are coming up from seed. According to the weather forecast, there will be a big rain beginning Saturday night into Sunday. This pleases me as there are many, many little seed under the ground waiting. The big vegetable and flower garden are planted in long rows, quiet until the rain comes. Watching as the wonder of a seed erupting into a plant never ceases to amaze me. Such a miracle really....a wonderful design.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-7436986080303427372012-04-11T22:17:00.007-04:002012-04-11T22:52:11.661-04:00How DO you cook Kale and bisquits<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7NY8f66bCIZkzvapn9D3lK6SQHNMze5rzeO6M5wKhA0-Llm6kQpMC-A4u-yIqUe1oetNtTA30Y34yZy1STyKz4tNMTurV8pcJXa8VRgF-fPYHDknFMmOukZ88tbYUbZuOlsLU0hrtZmL/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI7NY8f66bCIZkzvapn9D3lK6SQHNMze5rzeO6M5wKhA0-Llm6kQpMC-A4u-yIqUe1oetNtTA30Y34yZy1STyKz4tNMTurV8pcJXa8VRgF-fPYHDknFMmOukZ88tbYUbZuOlsLU0hrtZmL/s400/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730341519448107074" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQfmP9aiplfaNnDnW2eOdBnsbrarDgZ7Y4pzfnz4pNadWhBSstwNTZrSekY-oa0PHFzcy3A09WRmT5P1Cbul5XnS1XQzIWr4zH10XAirAAx8RlG5tgNf_Vwr93KP2KSaZzcXqL85NBzXg/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQfmP9aiplfaNnDnW2eOdBnsbrarDgZ7Y4pzfnz4pNadWhBSstwNTZrSekY-oa0PHFzcy3A09WRmT5P1Cbul5XnS1XQzIWr4zH10XAirAAx8RlG5tgNf_Vwr93KP2KSaZzcXqL85NBzXg/s400/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730341493152361650" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXU4gas0a6bTfwThWfyOjiVbPPB5PyJ6xiM6ibefcf-q4vEsASIe0G7_a_rS9zOQ1C5KrZqFfQiz093vXlVNC_FJmHpeFkLD8M69QsFdqD5XuJdm1xTXh2JvfgKsYWzlYhio6rso6-TnC0/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXU4gas0a6bTfwThWfyOjiVbPPB5PyJ6xiM6ibefcf-q4vEsASIe0G7_a_rS9zOQ1C5KrZqFfQiz093vXlVNC_FJmHpeFkLD8M69QsFdqD5XuJdm1xTXh2JvfgKsYWzlYhio6rso6-TnC0/s400/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730341526591279682" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTCDUz4T5UUq7lhc_Rg9KbQBe0zpgfX-EWBNN2B3F8z5XSI0WvwpaWloqe1-UeYBtiO3H4V_GNVH4KjxalurJs0M0ih25isKAK6hkg5uPAYFqAR3nvP7DcLNjWVI0cxPT2fcgJANzivyb/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnTCDUz4T5UUq7lhc_Rg9KbQBe0zpgfX-EWBNN2B3F8z5XSI0WvwpaWloqe1-UeYBtiO3H4V_GNVH4KjxalurJs0M0ih25isKAK6hkg5uPAYFqAR3nvP7DcLNjWVI0cxPT2fcgJANzivyb/s400/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730339944533301922" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4D_mXPitkkMUOuILs3SZ2s4DT-XhqC6-FMRfII26P9oBtQ8olB8gcY2hJ4Ga0IVQNvPc1nCqDtzunxaV82wzd0p5_Leo_Mteyhnkg2z01tthCeOWHZNMP9oj5BLcrKNjVjjRpCou3uVw/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4D_mXPitkkMUOuILs3SZ2s4DT-XhqC6-FMRfII26P9oBtQ8olB8gcY2hJ4Ga0IVQNvPc1nCqDtzunxaV82wzd0p5_Leo_Mteyhnkg2z01tthCeOWHZNMP9oj5BLcrKNjVjjRpCou3uVw/s400/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730339933413810290" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmyrLqbFwIvXkwaIBOlxbxb6e31CS38T56Dhr3qyfzM69HIOSWCLdZ_Z7hux4_gCLEoaXwNKqaMbIiKnQblaOALGm8o6HHQMdNIL_xjlHthNhHzYEb6IZntKJY6-ow3UDTC7AgvmRxJKe_/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmyrLqbFwIvXkwaIBOlxbxb6e31CS38T56Dhr3qyfzM69HIOSWCLdZ_Z7hux4_gCLEoaXwNKqaMbIiKnQblaOALGm8o6HHQMdNIL_xjlHthNhHzYEb6IZntKJY6-ow3UDTC7AgvmRxJKe_/s400/020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730339925879180434" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9l4rWS1ze87o60ALExg0QEa57NuPxd5BRUOYEkWfP_KK6d1-GdV6K_-OLW4QUlqSenKZVWfgjipaRi58ypBuZFvCBm-tJyIuZTowlt3kCsLAjRy6ZCyWNobH_sMNB-PQaKt-8Olykolup/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9l4rWS1ze87o60ALExg0QEa57NuPxd5BRUOYEkWfP_KK6d1-GdV6K_-OLW4QUlqSenKZVWfgjipaRi58ypBuZFvCBm-tJyIuZTowlt3kCsLAjRy6ZCyWNobH_sMNB-PQaKt-8Olykolup/s400/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730339949718919666" border="0" /></a><br />I was thinking tonight as I was cooking Kale that many people do not know how to cook fresh greens! I cook them this way partly from watching my mother cook turnip greens and partly from reading cook books. I hope this helps you enjoy one of the joys of keeping a kitchen garden.<br /><br />Pick the greens just before cooking, careful to avoid weeds, and heavy stems. Put them in a clean sink, and fill with cold water. Swish in the water, and pick up small bunches loosely to allow the water to drip from the leaves as you put them into a clean bowl or pot. Empty the water, rinse the sink, and rewash. Do this at least 3 times, or until the water is perfectly clear when you are finished. Amazing how much pollen is on the leaves. Set the washed greens aside.<br /><br />In a heavy big stock pot pour 1/4 cup good olive oil, 1 large yellow onion chopped, 1 slice dry rubbed black forest bacon (no nitrates) chopped, sea salt 1/2t. cook on medium until onions translucent. Add 2 cups chicken broth (or veg. organic, or made from scratch) bring to low simmer, add greens. Turn once to coat and bring onions on top. Cover with lid, and simmer 20 min. Add more salt, fresh ground pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.Reduce broth if desired by simmering more. Cut up greens with 2 knives if desired before serving in a bowl with biscuits or cornbread. A Meal!<br /><br />Biscuits: Preheat oven 425F. In large wide bowl put 2 cups unbleached flour (I use King Arthur), 1 t. seasalt, 1/2 baking soda, 2.5 t. baking powder(be sure no aluminum in it, I use wholefoods brand) and mix well with wire whisk; cut in 3 T. butter until size of small peas; add 1 3/4 cup buttermilk all at once; stir from outside of bowl towards center, like folding until dough comes together. Will be wet. Heavily butter a pyrex, pottery, or ceramic baking pan. Add 1/2 cup of dry flour along side of the moist biscuit mixture. Use a 1/4 cup measure to scoop up biscuits with the dry flour to keep it from sticking. With your hands softly form by rolling in your palms round balls. Add one at a time to the pan until all dough is used. Flatten each with your knuckles and flour. Bake at 425F 10 min. then lower heat to 405F for another 15 or until lightly golden brown, do not over cook. Remove from oven and brush with butter. Good even on the second day if kept in the frig.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-50743043518192777402012-04-10T21:22:00.005-04:002012-04-10T21:47:16.752-04:00Kale is Out of Control<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICFq8E2zhyIJZ4Kczd-YaLQIk-Uy7ARs4H9NPQoratP8tFIrureyOhE7MvBotYTi465BmZy3hcEGezZNEsz4l6ro7ygVED4VekxkkRM_1LBkfh6OvoeXuFQDMZaJK1NhONIU0Gz93MSPc/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiICFq8E2zhyIJZ4Kczd-YaLQIk-Uy7ARs4H9NPQoratP8tFIrureyOhE7MvBotYTi465BmZy3hcEGezZNEsz4l6ro7ygVED4VekxkkRM_1LBkfh6OvoeXuFQDMZaJK1NhONIU0Gz93MSPc/s400/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729951655983208770" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen0facGQy_E7OvwqzVNJL6KEq9QK4A8JdorwLIvwDkRBz5VYtFJGw1gA_DmA4rPPOwwxgUVBglDCs_YrewdDXIIa2ntx03w5ovjQHoyoa6-WIPKIpHOK_J977lffz97i364MfezWdhwuH/s1600/April+5+2012+020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen0facGQy_E7OvwqzVNJL6KEq9QK4A8JdorwLIvwDkRBz5VYtFJGw1gA_DmA4rPPOwwxgUVBglDCs_YrewdDXIIa2ntx03w5ovjQHoyoa6-WIPKIpHOK_J977lffz97i364MfezWdhwuH/s400/April+5+2012+020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729951647104475650" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0_zu6wfHYFp6L8e0OR8Ia6nTk8be2HqQR-oXBylybDGPp7eIaKdKG5dG5PHLCxB2DgfQ5aiMHaNJsQV_gQKwvdEcGfABg6re91l1M6G6U9bZle1_qsvWWhUC7RZjjwmSw_x_UGGowEZf/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY0_zu6wfHYFp6L8e0OR8Ia6nTk8be2HqQR-oXBylybDGPp7eIaKdKG5dG5PHLCxB2DgfQ5aiMHaNJsQV_gQKwvdEcGfABg6re91l1M6G6U9bZle1_qsvWWhUC7RZjjwmSw_x_UGGowEZf/s400/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729951668340270466" border="0" /></a><br />The Kale I planted last fall is absolutely out of control in the one raised bed in the kitchen garden. I have eaten kale almost everyday for weeks, and now I am begging people to take some home with them!<br /><br />The turnip greens are blossoming beautifully for the bees, so will leave it for a week longer before taking up to make room for asparagus crowns. Putting in 40 more soon.<br /><br />English Peas, and multicolored beans are up, waiting for a trellis. Oh yes, and the Horse Radish root I put in just last year is up and beautifully lush on the south side of the Pullet House. I do love a Perennial vegetable (is horse radish a veg, or a herb...not sure). The idea of having Asparagus and horse radish for years to come is comforting. A sense of permanence.<br /><br />Thinking of comfort, I have been struck again by the beauty of this place. It is gorgeous: Bright, bright green, with roses and bachelor buttons just starting. And the Bird Song is like a symphony. In early morning I am awakened by the birds singing and the soft light as it filters through the branches into the house.<br /><br />Walking outside in early morn to see what the night has given, the "sound of quiet" is profound. Only the Gentle Breeze, Bird Song, the Hum of the Bees, and Silence. I take the quiet for granted, as it is normal here...but often visitors say, "Listen". "To What?" I Say...."to the silence" the visitor says as we stand still. And with a sigh they say, "I have not heard that in a long, long time".Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-71861470184762323922012-04-05T21:32:00.007-04:002012-04-05T22:17:37.067-04:00So Much Happening...The Day is a Whirl of Activity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtCwTar804j-PJD9jzhGq508zqdLE_3yzm7LIuoRjAM-2tGkUdoLwJ5Z8iSUwttFIERyM-qDuTXNvKJmpp_ak7NELZxp0-b6LacnsTAZltb7lz5tEWZcZAS9hhJ6FViLgcSWAIIPPT_0k/s1600/April+5+2012+022.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWtCwTar804j-PJD9jzhGq508zqdLE_3yzm7LIuoRjAM-2tGkUdoLwJ5Z8iSUwttFIERyM-qDuTXNvKJmpp_ak7NELZxp0-b6LacnsTAZltb7lz5tEWZcZAS9hhJ6FViLgcSWAIIPPT_0k/s400/April+5+2012+022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728103431132358722" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyM6XMKXECwiGDWoRCqUwb-t0uktrMh0Rx-mSJGPEYVDpknOqr9mv2CUP80Rsl2mRjd3K2J_KY1tRBc6qTC0s9AUxNM6vYTTnYDxyswK-zBpeTUjUZs5ORhEA12Xh3MwQ2JOa4y8Vb9nIX/s1600/April+5+2012+024.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyM6XMKXECwiGDWoRCqUwb-t0uktrMh0Rx-mSJGPEYVDpknOqr9mv2CUP80Rsl2mRjd3K2J_KY1tRBc6qTC0s9AUxNM6vYTTnYDxyswK-zBpeTUjUZs5ORhEA12Xh3MwQ2JOa4y8Vb9nIX/s400/April+5+2012+024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728103412273382946" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eG1pgUhe8y-SkVydYL63pQJyRLbzvK-LnuHn8ZW85b3xVAjxNJAN5AyZQPISEGWquJzioR-s7ld3yPAhjWuFZIRRaUZFUUc0VV1xHCieXyEvYnnCJ5GZmap2xL3evqUV3hSrNfkuXYz9/s1600/April+5+2012+013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eG1pgUhe8y-SkVydYL63pQJyRLbzvK-LnuHn8ZW85b3xVAjxNJAN5AyZQPISEGWquJzioR-s7ld3yPAhjWuFZIRRaUZFUUc0VV1xHCieXyEvYnnCJ5GZmap2xL3evqUV3hSrNfkuXYz9/s400/April+5+2012+013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5728103438022665842" border="0" /></a><br />Not sure where to start, as so much is going on at the same time!<br /><br />Spring is a frantic time. Getting all the seed into the ground in front of the next rain; Repairing fences; Mowing and trimming paths and grass; Putting up new bluebird houses; Watching over a hen with chicks; Planning for the season....to name a few! Last night I was exhausted, and this morning I was expecting to be stiff and sore, but was really fine. I think I have gained amazing strength and endurance from farming full time for the past 3 years!<br /><br />Life is so uncertain. All we REALLY have is the day in front of us, minute by minute. I greet the new day with a cup of steaming coffee and quiet with the dogs to sit or stand in awe of the miracle of the morning light. Never old, no matter how many times I see it. It is a miracle. It is magic. It is perfectly designed. The freshness, and promise of things to come. I hungrily breath it in. I am so humbled and so grateful. This time of solitude, and meditation is priceless for me.<br /><br />A list on paper some days, and in my minds eye others. Yesterday, with the help of a wonderful man with a bobcat moved several stacks of rocks to a new wall I am putting up; moved a cast iron bathtub to the pasture; and generally did work that would take many people several hours in less than 5 minutes! A dry stacked rock wall along the side garden is growing out of the mountain of field rock. Rocks so intricately fit together. A wonder of physics, and a beautiful sight. I love spending time putting these rocks together...the process, and the outcome is gratifying.<br /><br />Then later in the day, a neighbor farmer and good friend came over with a 1942 Farm All tractor to furrow up my big vegetable/flower garden. Then we spent at least a half hour picking up rocks...again. (this is the 3rd year now that we thought we had them ALL!) A beautiful sight...a freshly plowed and furrowed garden spot. Lovely...the promise of new beginnings. I was able to put in a long, long row of beets before the storm clouds, grey and blue gathered over us, and the wind suddenly picked up and started throwing branches everywhere. Mac became frantic, as he is terrified of storms, and Emmy thought it was a game and did not want to go inside! Oh me, what a sight we were as I was trying to get inside, and Emmy wanted to play...and run in the whirling wind!<br /><br />The flower gardens are doing well. Time soon for close up tiny weeding...very time consuming and detailed work, but well worth it. The tiny flowers, and herb boom afterwards. Then in another week I will mulch them..this makes the rest of the summer fairly easy, so far as preventing weeds. I have several varieties of zinnias, cosmos, batchelor buttons, english roses, larkspur, bee balm, hydrangeas, confederate jasmine, and many herbs. Many volunteers..and you know I do love a volunteer, often re-routing the entire garden path around a volunteer.<br /><br />The Java Chosen Ones selected from the flock as the best so far as breed standard are back with me again! The lovely couple who bought them last fall, are moving out of state and could not take them...so they have come home. So funny to watch them, go into their old hen house,and immediately go back on the roost poles...they knew they were home! The first day out of 9 hens I had 6 eggs, and the next day 3 eggs, so I know they are happy. So happy to have them back!<br /><br />It is raining now a steady soft rain. The temperature has dropped into the 50's. The dogs are sleeping a sweet dreamy dog sleep with legs running in a dream field and whimpering softly. The house is quiet. The tick of the clocks the only other sound. Life is wonderfully good. It is a great adventure and I am grateful to have become who I am...a mother, a farmer, a artist, a steward, a nurse, and a dreamer.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-36864948574173143422012-03-23T12:18:00.005-04:002012-03-23T12:55:36.498-04:00A Springish midday Dinner<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6xxKIxeRzgPsE6Cq7kh5_0ceXRdSqyqts8OvqlcCSb_HMvpYEIrS3piXqcRNZ-Z_j4ScX900AoDIgPILO88VYoyhYUeENVTAxt0lxys3UMkrJZnPMa2tJGyZOzGn40hbYSk37CeXAGCN/s1600/march+23%252C2012+027.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6xxKIxeRzgPsE6Cq7kh5_0ceXRdSqyqts8OvqlcCSb_HMvpYEIrS3piXqcRNZ-Z_j4ScX900AoDIgPILO88VYoyhYUeENVTAxt0lxys3UMkrJZnPMa2tJGyZOzGn40hbYSk37CeXAGCN/s400/march+23%252C2012+027.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723132878373725106" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxr4V31kXbOZtMdMUITHnSvyC4Ofa6Nsif93Vt8mg2T8JXirvCIHJQAsBcqyfE2d_a4JkPhN6KS3SQkP4GMpu3w2LthMPBPP_JlcJ-1RxhbG_m8bjMZT4QgBrKgwG-jjM2O7lICdeeSWC/s1600/march+23%252C2012+034.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxr4V31kXbOZtMdMUITHnSvyC4Ofa6Nsif93Vt8mg2T8JXirvCIHJQAsBcqyfE2d_a4JkPhN6KS3SQkP4GMpu3w2LthMPBPP_JlcJ-1RxhbG_m8bjMZT4QgBrKgwG-jjM2O7lICdeeSWC/s400/march+23%252C2012+034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723132868995610402" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAY1KLaQvGdtXL_RPwCkJ3MDR_pUDIyJfXg12RxCmatedcYmbabSr2Bq8BPikGIAJ9eVVDePFYAzpHSP3gzvqrIbTOxxvWz0iUzZrKZeTj81aNPp6EmF9OshqmZ6SLrMon5TjQjZL5utFh/s1600/march+23%252C2012+033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAY1KLaQvGdtXL_RPwCkJ3MDR_pUDIyJfXg12RxCmatedcYmbabSr2Bq8BPikGIAJ9eVVDePFYAzpHSP3gzvqrIbTOxxvWz0iUzZrKZeTj81aNPp6EmF9OshqmZ6SLrMon5TjQjZL5utFh/s400/march+23%252C2012+033.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723132858552203570" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_PZ5o51RlvifBSRYshXbMCD9wdu8EJWQdZXEzU410rrQFhxQbBRbl-tWCjGG7VAzIdrhwkOpl6p68hqCQmkNUt6wWC14UvgBHcGqO-VuOwx2D0eig270z5TT84BtUVkhjJt6aahcthYb/s1600/march+23%252C2012+032.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_PZ5o51RlvifBSRYshXbMCD9wdu8EJWQdZXEzU410rrQFhxQbBRbl-tWCjGG7VAzIdrhwkOpl6p68hqCQmkNUt6wWC14UvgBHcGqO-VuOwx2D0eig270z5TT84BtUVkhjJt6aahcthYb/s400/march+23%252C2012+032.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723132887614952738" border="0" /></a><br />My plate today was so, well..."Spring-ish"...I thought I would show it to you!<br /><br />The Chicken Pie, is actually called, "Moravian Chicken Pie" and is from the American Test Kitchen Magazine, "Cook's Country". It is a recipe from Winston Salem, NC, and really comes together nicely. Yes, yes, it IS a lot of trouble..but well worth it! The crust is perfect, and very brown underneath as well as on top. The chicken mixture is deliciously rich. It keeps well in the refrigerator, and can be eaten cold with one hand...much like pies I have seen in the UK. I found the recipe on another blog,<a href="http://darksideofthefridge.wordpress.com/2012/01/18/moravian-chicken-pie/"> Dark Side of the Frig</a>, so here it is. I used fresh organic chicken. 3 thighs,3 legs, and 1 large breast, all with skin ON. Brown them in olive oil on all sides;take out of skillet/cool and remove the skin. When completely cool, remove all bones/skin etc. Same oil/chicken fat to use for the roux when making the gravy. It is RICH...but only about 3 T oil all together. If you have any questions can post exact recipe from Cook's Country. Email me!<br /><br />The Quinoa Salad is fresh and great for several days in the refrigerator. Cook 1 cup of quinoa 1:1 with water 5 min. and put lid and wait 15 min. All water should be absorbed. Mix together: fresh cilantro, fresh parsley, fresh mint-all washed and chopped finely; 3 cloves fresh garlic finely choppped; 1/2 red onion finely chopped; fresh ground black pepper; 1 can (2 cups) garbanzo beans drained; the juice of 3 limes and 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil. Mix well. Add liberal amounts of sea salt to taste. Very good salty.<br /><br />English Peas and red onion- 2T. olive oil in skillet. 1/2 red onion chopped and heated until soft but not brown in pan. Add 2-3 cups frozen petit green peas. cook 3-4 min. do not over cook. Add sea salt /pepper/red pepper flakes to taste. This is one of my FAVORITE "Quick Meals".Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-17931202040755735712012-03-22T20:08:00.008-04:002012-03-22T20:32:07.687-04:00Correction...WOOD DUCK not a Mallard in March 2 postI learn something new everyday!<br /><br />My middle son Alex tells me the duck that came down the chimney a few weeks ago is a <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&biw=1366&bih=569&gbv=2&tbm=isch&tbnid=uQ40D39uwV4yMM:&imgrefurl=http://www.netstate.com/states/symb/waterfowl/ms_wood_duck.htm&docid=-o6piBz9VGUanM&imgurl=http://www.netstate.com/states/symb/waterfowl/images/wood_duck_pair.jpg&w=300&h=300&ei=LbxrT5brLufL0QG66MTjBg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=1048&vpy=182&dur=305&hovh=225&hovw=225&tx=138&ty=102&sig=104879364806122218905&page=1&tbnh=159&tbnw=162&start=0&ndsp=10&ved=1t:429,r:4,s:0">WOOD duck</a> not a Mallard! He took ONE look at the photo, and said, "Wood Duck..look at the mask around the eyes". He is surely right. It is his field of study, and his business<a href="http://www.southernwildlifeandland.com/">, Southern Wildlife and Land Management</a>. As a young boy Alex roamed the beautiful woodlands here everyday. Soon he knew the forests, and waterways over most of the state, like most people know the streets and landmarks of their city!<br /><br />So forgive me for incorrectly calling this beautiful duck a Mallard in the March 2 post!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3399013140289438510.post-58780890788500334232012-03-20T15:52:00.002-04:002012-03-20T16:01:12.962-04:00Double Rainbow After a Early Morning Spring Rain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-z92LD-1BUQ-WLSsB8kOXIfpiGjL6DmE0lls00Eb-WuffICy01HdHSWzUdJure6eOuYhw7Ig5zJ8ALpHJh6I8BX3kBqG_TEiASzdB1KSCUn10sg3YvYc7cQRhxrDJbKXRdfccpPt9GRE/s1600/rainbow+other+half+3+20+12.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN-z92LD-1BUQ-WLSsB8kOXIfpiGjL6DmE0lls00Eb-WuffICy01HdHSWzUdJure6eOuYhw7Ig5zJ8ALpHJh6I8BX3kBqG_TEiASzdB1KSCUn10sg3YvYc7cQRhxrDJbKXRdfccpPt9GRE/s400/rainbow+other+half+3+20+12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722071525153651314" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpse4ZXZcb1Tig0yFxg04YtBKWAEPwP4Wsnh2gVbwOlSmGKCJi7F5H-hadpLIWaYOXhXHfZR0JQb5kAcrJr7Quukonb_UCFV0-4H1OBEF-OBGzWaSVTiysi2ybW65ZByk7G1Ma0x7Infmb/s1600/rainbow+behind+trees+3+20+2012.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpse4ZXZcb1Tig0yFxg04YtBKWAEPwP4Wsnh2gVbwOlSmGKCJi7F5H-hadpLIWaYOXhXHfZR0JQb5kAcrJr7Quukonb_UCFV0-4H1OBEF-OBGzWaSVTiysi2ybW65ZByk7G1Ma0x7Infmb/s400/rainbow+behind+trees+3+20+2012.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722071536415162546" border="0" /></a><br />The rain came suddenly this morning. A strong downpour then as quickly as it came the sun came out. The light was bright as a crystal jewel...and arching North to South a dazzling rainbow! A faint second rainbow was just over the primary one. It was a precious gift ... the future holds such promise and I am humbly grateful.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0