Pansies! Cool weather love.

Pansies! Cool weather love.

Pansies brighten up spring and fall, and come in so many colors and sizes. They play nicely together - so a monochromatic planting or one filled with vibrant colors - will perk up a garden, planter or garden. Pansies thrive in cooler weather so they work well as a "first of spring season" choice to dress up an early spring planting. I just love looking at their happy little faces and cannot help but smile back to them. I got these at Costco during the "stock up on everything to stay home and avert the pandemic" activities. And, surprise! They have a lovely scent, which made the ride home so nice. Nature heals, and beauty lifts the spirit. So two bright bowls of pansies by the doorway it is! Spring Pansies ...
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Oh the peaches!

Oh the peaches!

Oh the joyous arrival of juicy fresh from the farm peaches! Just like summer, filled with sunny colors and life and joy! Our neighborhood farmers market features peaches from a local orchard that never fail to deliver. Big and juicy, they sell out quickly. Quarter peck? Full peck? Neighbors are known to call out "Are there peaches today?" before deciding to visit the market. This year, I found new ways to enjoy these sunny fruits, along with some old favorites: Breakfast or a special mid-day treat Slice them up in a bowl, and cut ribbons of fresh basil to mix with Add mozzarella pieces to a bowl of cut peaches Bonus! Add mozzarella and fresh basil ribbons! Peaches and blackberries in a bowl Peaches, blackberries and vanilla yogurt or ice cream in a bowl Dessert Fresh peach and ginger ice cream - try this easy recipe from Pillsbury. Just six ingredients! Simply peach ice cream - same recipe without the ginger! Smoothies Add chopped peaches with...
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New pesto recipe!

New pesto recipe!

Oh my my! This fantastic basil pesto defines versatility. Use it on pasta, freeze it in traditional ice cube trays to use in soups this winter, or simply enjoy it on toasted French rounds with a nice glass of Chardonnay or Merlot. Lovely. And, I updated this for a smaller portion, a little lighter taste. Enjoy! Classic Pesto Recipe 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed 1/4 cup pine nuts 1/2 cup grated or shaved Parmesan cheese* 2 garlic cloves 1/2 cup olive oil *You can substitute Asiago or Romano cheese for sharper taste. In a food processor fitted with standard blade, combine basil, pine nuts, olive oil, and garlic. Combine in the order listed until a thick paste forms. Scrape sides as needed. Add the cheese and pulse until blended. Pesto should be the consistency of a smooth paste. Cover and keep refrigerated, will last up to five days. Other variations If you prefer less cheese, scale back to 1/4 cup of cheese and add more nuts (up to a 1/2 cup...
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Some Earth Day ideas for your garden

Some Earth Day ideas for your garden

Since it is time to plant and ready our gardens for the coming summer bounty, it came to mind that some earth friendly gardening makes for a great way to celebrate Earth Day! Last year I suggested a few things to help our struggling bees and monarch butterflies here. This year, some "weed and insect control" tips: Got mosquitoes? Plant a lot of lavender, basil or marigolds to repel them from your patio. Many people also swear by mints - especially peppermint. Watch out, though. Mints usually go crazy and take over a garden in a flash. Perhaps some potted plants around the patio will do. Ladybugs love to munch on aphids. Did you know most nurseries carry them? Release them at dusk in your garden area that aphids show up, and everyone but the aphids will be happy. Dandelion leaves make for great additions salads. Like arugula, the leaves have a bite to them, and packed with nutrients. Just make sure no...
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How to celebrate Earth Day in your backyard

How to celebrate Earth Day in your backyard

Celebrate Earth Day 3 ways in your own backyard: plant milkweed for Monarchs, bee friendly flowers & stop using herbicides & pesticides. Monarchs and bees are disappearing at an alarming rate. Aside from beauty & honey, their role in pollination means survival of plants on our planet, and the people/animals that feed on plants. I am no Einstein (and the bee quote is questionable), but it doesn't really take a renown scientist to figure this one out. : ) Monarchs depend on milkweed to survive. This stuff appeared everywhere when I was a kid! We loved opening the pods and watching the silky strands release and carry the tiny seed on the wind. Aside from the crafts projects (and there were many), the pods had the most beautiful linings. This summer, my backyard will sport some milkweed in the flower beds as a small way to help keep the butterflies from extinction. And sadly, extinction could happen. Want to plant your own...
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Pets warm a winter morning

Pets warm a winter morning

Few things take the edge off of a chilly winter morning like the companionship of good friends. When my backyard seems devoid of life, I share time with my friends Chester and Shadow inside as we patiently wait for spring. These boys wandered into my life a few years ago, just as autumn drew to a close, and have added so much to my home and my life. They rejoice at watching the yard and creatures in it from the windows and doors, tracking movements and activity throughout the day. Plenty of cats and dogs would eagerly join a friendly family if given a chance. Have you checked your local shelter to see if one is waiting for you? Many cities have an active No Kill movement dedicated to helping pets in need of a home. We have a strong (and growing) network here - the No Kill Louisville group has saved countless souls & brought joy to many families with their...
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