Just Now: 10/26/12



hearts-a-bustin


In my mug- warm chai, the first batch of the season

In my ears- In Reverance by David Tolk.... enjoying creating a new Pandora station.  Also, the sound of acorns falling on the tin roof

In the air- the scent of lavender, from a fresh batch of soap just put in the mold

Thankful for- flannel sheets on the bed, sweet pups napping nearby, working from home after nights in which I get little sleep

On my nightstand- Dies the Fire by S.M. Stirling, The Sedona Journal

Looking forward to- cutting bouquets to enjoy in the house before the first freeze early next week

Laughter and Conversation

Whynot Pottery's 30 Year Celebration and New Earth Fabrication's Open House were both great fun this past weekend.  We had beautiful weather for the show at Whynot.  Many folks came out to be the first to try Four Saints St. Nicholas Christmas Ale, and do some shopping too.  There weren't a huge amount of people at the Open House, but those that were there were quality folks!  Chuck Brodsky never fails to delight me with his wonderful music, stage presence, and all around niceness.  A group of young farm interns were great fun, some of the funniest folks I've met in quite a while.  We let the pups out while they were still here, and it was a delight to watch them all together around the bonfire.  I can't remember the last time I laughed so much. 

I've been pondering this space here, wondering if I should continue this blog.  It seems the blogs with dedicated, commenting followers have fairly consistent content, whether that's gardening, recipes, artful endeavors, beautiful photography, homemaking, etc.  I realize this blog is eclectic, rather much like my life.  One post may be about the garden, another on my latest craft project, yet another on New Earth's latest biofuel project, the pond, or the pups. Or maybe all of those rolled into one. 

I read something that struck a chord on Maya's lovely blog, and it is that she intends for her blog to be a conversation, rather than a journal.  That's it exactly.  I know how busy we all are these days.  And I think you know I believe it's all good.  I've just learned to pay attention to where the energy flows in my life, and it feels as though this space is lacking in energy at this point.  I'm sure there will be things I want to share here, but I'm going to let go of any idea of how often that needs to be.  There are plenty of things in my life that could use an influx of good energy, and so for now, that feels right.  If you have thoughts about what you'd especially like to see here, or things you wouldn't care if you never saw again, feel free to comment.

October Days

I hope you are enjoying these October days.  There was an all too brief hour in the garden on Monday, doing fall clean-up and some weeding.  My mind is whirling with everything that needs to be done between now and Saturday, plus a new idea or two for garden art.  I could use a clone right about now.  I'll be at the the Open House on Saturday evening, and Whynot Pottery on Saturday and  Sunday.  Hope to see you at one or both.   Otherwise I'll see you next week, friends!

Oh, Lovely Autumn

green & gold



12 apostles lily



                        Wishing you a beautiful weekend!

Don't Try This at Home

This is what happens when you put a toad in your mouth. I wouldn't recommend it.  The poor fellow was just hanging out next to our porch, minding his own business, when McNibs decided a taste was in order.  He (the toad) was none worse for the wear physically, though I expect he was traumatized by the event.  I moved him to a safe spot, one out of reach of silly pups.  I must say, I do believe he was the fattest toad I've ever seen.  Or do toads puff up when defending themselves, sort of like blowfish?  If you know that sort of thing, do tell.

Though the garden has definitely got "the dwindles", I did manage to harvest a couple handfuls of purple podded green beans, concord grapes, okra, 2 apples and a few calendula blossoms today.  I transplanted the few lettuces that came up, from the garden to the cold frame, and am deciding if I'm going to do that with some of the kale.  We usually have the cold frame planted long before now, so I'm working on Plan B at the moment.

I've been working on some things for upcoming shows I'm participating in.  That's a batch of St. Clements soap above, one of my seasonal soaps.  First up will be Whynot Pottery's 30th year Celebration On Oct. 13th.  Joining us will be Four Saints Brewery, unveiling their St. Nicholas Christmas Ale. Come be among the first to try what is sure to be some tasty brew!  The following weekend, I'll be at Whitaker Farms Hwy. 64 location for their Art in The Garden event.  If you decorate with pumpkins (click on the link for a coupon), mums and pansies for autumn, come on by, and support some local artists too.  I've heard there will be some wonderful birdhouses for sale.