domestica

My 2 cents on Gardening

2010-04-27T04:15:00.000-05:00

Soil. Got to know what kind of soil you have, what you start with. PH, nutrients, etc. What was growing before you might have tiled it. Weeds? Those are indicator plants. They are growing there for a reason, otherwise the seed wouldn't have taken. This means amending which generally (overall) means Compost. I have been working with the Lasagna/Sheet Composting method. And let's not forget cover crops.

Tools. Gotta have the right tools. To me everything in gardening is a tool: trowels, pitchforks, saws, potting soil, pots, heating mat, etc.

Seeds. I believe it all starts with the seed. Why? Because you can't buy transplants of things you can buy as a seed. Need those catalogs. First year gardeners, transplants are okay make sure they are reputable. I am highly, highly suspicious of transplants esp Bonnie Transplants. I have a sneaky suspicion they sent Late Blight to the North East. You have know idea what conditions those plants grew in or the soil that harbors them. Farmers Markets sell transplants, that's the only place I would buy a vegetable transplant. Herbs, I am currently okay with and ornamentals.

Journal. Keep track of the date, time, weather conditions, location, pest, diseases, dates of pest and diseases, what you lost, the name of the seed, the company of the seed, where you purchased the seed from. There is lots of data you can record.

I think that's it for now. I do not pre-blog my post.

Rabbit and Deer Resistant Plant Ideas

2010-02-28T09:20:00.001-06:00

Plant List

The following plants are typically deer proof – but remember, there are no absolutes when it comes to deer. This list includes annuals, perennials, bulbs and flowering shrubs. I’ve also included a list of

deer proof ferns, grasses and groundcovers. Source: Deer Proof Gardens

Annuals

Common Name	Latin Name
Ageratum	Ageratum houstonianum
Angel’s Trumpet	Brugmansia sp. (Datura)
Anise	Pimpinalla anisum
Annual Vinca	Catharanthus rosea
Dusty Miller	Centaurea cineraria
False Camomile	Matricaria sp.
Flowering Tobacco	Nicotiana sp.
Forget-Me-Not	Myosotis sylvatica
Heliotrope (questionable)	Heliotropium arborescens
Larkspur	Consolida ambigua
Poppy	Papaver sp.
Pot Marigold	Calendula sp.
Rosemary	Rosmarinus officinalis
Snapdragon (questionable)	Antirrhinum majus
Snow-on-the-Mountain	Euphorbia marginata
Spider Flower	Cleome sp.
Strawflower	Helichrysum
Sweet Alyssum (questionable)	Lobularia maritima

Perennials

Common Name	Latin Name
Anise Hyssop	Agastache sp.
Basket of Gold	Aurinia saxatilis
Bigleaf Goldenray	Ligularia dentata
Bleeding Heart	Dicentra spectabilis
Butter & Eggs	Linaria vulgaris
Buttercup	Ranunculus sp.
Cactus	Cactaceae sp.
Catmint	Nepeta sp.
Common Tansy	Tanacetum vulgare
Corydalis	Corydalis sp.
Dame’s Rocket	Hesperis matronalis
European Ginger	Asarum europaeum
False Indigo	Baptisia australis
Forget-Me-Not	Myosotis sp.
Fringed Bleeding Heart	Dicentra eximia
Garden Sage	Salvia officinalis
Germander	Teucrium Chamaedrys
Greek Jerusalem Sage	Phlomis sp.
Horehound	Marrubium vulgare
Horseradish	Armoracia rusticana
Hyssop	Hyssopus officinalis
Iris	Iris sp. (may eat buds)
Jack-in-the-pulpit	Arisaema triphylum
Lamb’s Ear	Stachys byzantina
Lavendar	Lavandula sp.
Lavender-Cotton	Santolina chamaecyparissus
Lemon Balm	Melissa officinalis
Lenten or Christmas Rose	Helleborus sp.
Lungwort	Pulmonaria sp.
Marjoram	Majorana
May Apple	Podophyllum
Meadow Rue	Thalictrum sp.
Mint	Mentha sp.
Monkshood	Aconitum sp.
Oregano	Oreganum sp.
Ornamental Onion	Allium sp.
Peony (questionable)	Paeonia sp. (may eat buds)
Potentilla, Cinquefoil	Potentilla sp.
Purple Rock-Cress	Aubretia deltoidea
Rock-Cress	Arabis caucasica
Rocket Ligularia	Ligularia ‘The Rocket’
Rodgers Flower	Rodgersia sp.
Rose Campion	Lychnis coronaria
Rue	Ruta sp.
Russian Sage	Perovskio atriplicifolia
Siberian Bugloss	Bruneria macrophylla (Brunnera)
Silver Mound	Artemisia sp.
Small Globe Thistle	Echinops ritro
Spurge	Euphorbia sp. (except ‘Chameleon’)
Statice	Limonium latifolium
Tarragon	Artemisia dracunculus
Threadleaf Coreopsis	Coreopsis verticillata
Thyme	Thymus sp.
Wild Ginger	Asarum canadense
Yucca	Yucca filimentosa
Foxglove (technically, a biennial)	Digitalis purpurea

Bulbs

Common Name	Latin Name
Autumn Crocus	Colchicum sp.
Bluebell (questionable)	Endymion sp.
Crown Imperial, Fritilia	Fritilaria imperialis
Daffodil	Narcissus sp.
Ornamental Onion	Allium sp.
Siberian Squill	Scilla siberica
Snowdrops	Galanthus nivalis
Winter Aconite	Eranthus hyemalis

Ferns

Common Name	Latin Name
Christmas Fern	Polystichum arcostichoides
Cinnamon Fern	Osmunda cinnamomea
Hayscented Fern	Dennstaedtia punctilobula
Holly Fern	Cyrtomium falcatum
Japanese Painted Fern	Athyrium goeringianum (nipponicum)
New York Fern	Thelyptens noveboracensis
Ostrich Fern	Matteuccia struthiopteris
Royal Fern	Osmunda regalis
Sensitive Fern	Onoclea sensibilis
Wood Fern	Dryopteris marginalis

Ground Covers

Allegheny Spurge	Pachysandra procumbens
Barrenwort	Epimediurn sp.
Bearberry	Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Bishop’s Weed	Aegopodium podagaria
Bugleweed	Ajuga reptans
Lily of the Valley	Convallaria majalis
Pachysandra	Pachysandra terminalis
Spotted Deadnettle	Lamium sp.
Sweet Woodruff	Galium odoratum (Asperula odorata)

Shrubs

Common Name	Latin Name
Arrowwood Viburnum	Viburnum dentatum
Barberry	Berberis sp.
Bayberry	Myrica pensylvanica
Blue Mist Shrub	Caryopteris clandonensis
Broom	Cytisus sp.
Bush Cinquefoil	Potentilla fruticosa
Butterfly Bush (questionable)	Buddleia sp.
Common Boxwood	Buxus sempervirens
Daphne	Daphne sp.
Devil’s Walking Stick	Aralia spinosa
Drooping Leucothoe (questionable)	Leucothoe fontanesiana
Fragrant Sumac	Rhus aromatica
Heath	Erica sp.
Heather (questionable)	Calliuna sp.
Japanese Pieris, Andromeda	Pieris japonica
Japanese Plum Yew	Cephalotaxus harringtonia
Japanese Skimmia	Skimmia japonica
John T. Morris Holly	Ilex x ‘John T. Morris’
Leatherleaf Mahonia (questionable)	Mahonia bealei
Lydia Morris Holly	Ilex x ‘Lydia Morris’
Moonglow Juniper	Juniperus scopulorum ‘Moonglow’
Mountain Pieris	Pieris floribunda
Oregon Grape Holly (questionable)	Mahonia aquifolium
Prince of Wales Juniper	Juniperus horizontalis ‘Prince of Wales’
Red Elderberry	Sambucus racemosa
Russian Cypress	Microbiota decussata
Russian Olive	Elaeagnus angustifolia
Sweet Box	Sarcoccoca hookeriana

Ornamental Grasses

Common Name	Latin Name
Big Bluestem	Andropogon sp.
Blue Fescue	Festuca glauca
Blue Oat Grass	Helictotrichon sempervirens
Clump Bamboo	Fargesia sp.
Feather Reed Grass	Calamagrostis sp.
Fountain Grass	Pennisetum alopecuroides
Giant Japanese Silver Grass	Miscanthus floridulis
Giant Reed	Arundo donax
Golden Bamboo	Phyllostachys aurea
Hakonechloa	Hakonechloa macra
Hard Rush	Juncus Effusus
Indian Grass	Sorghastrum nutans
Japanese Blood Grass	Imperata cylindrica
Japanese Sedge	Carex sp.
Japanese Silver Grass	Miscanthus sinensis
Japanese Sweet Flag	Acorus sp.
Large Blue June Grass	Koeleria glauca
Little Bluestem	Schizachyrium scoparium
Lyme Grass	Leymus arenarius glaucous
Northern Sea Oats	Chasmanthium latifolium
Oriental Fountain Grass	Pennisetum orientale
Pampus Grass	Cortaderia selloana
Purple Moor Grass	Molinia caerulea
Ravenna Grass	Erianthus ravennae
Switch Grass	Panicum virgatum
Variegated Purple Moor Grass	Molinia caerulea ‘Variegata’
Varigated Oat Grass	Arrhenatherum elatius
Weeping Love Grass	Eragrostus curvula

Vines

None (unfortunately)

Trees

American Holly	Ilex opaca
Bottlebrush Buckeye	Aesculus parviflora
Dwarf Alberta Spruce	Picea glauca ‘Conica’
Japanese Black Pine	Pinus thunbergiana
Katsura Tree (questionable)	Cercidiphyllum japonicum
Mimosa	Albizia julibrissin
Paper Birch	Betula papyrifera
Pawpaw	Asimina triloba
Pitch Pine	Pinus rigida
Red Pine	Pinus resinosa
River Birch	Betula nigra

Deer and Rabbit Resistant Plants

As gardeners, we are often faced with the task of keeping deer and rabits out of our gardens. This is often a fruitless task, as once these animals find something they enjoy eating they will keep coming

back for more. Your garden will soon become a salad buffet. Following are lists of plants deer and rabbits tend to avoid. I have planted some of these plants along the perimiter of my gardens, with
decent success at deterring both deer and rabbits. Russian Sage, one of my favorite plants disliked by deer, also makes a great backdrop when planted en-mass.

Keep in mind that during a harsh season, deer and rabbits may resort to eating these plants if nothing else is available. They have also been known to nibble on the fresh new growth of many garden plants,
including some of these listed. Source: Lewis Gardens

Deer Resistant Plants:

Achillea
Alchemilla mollis (lady's mantle)
Allium species (ornamental onions)
Agapanthus (african lily)
Antirrhinum (Snapdragon)
Astilbe species
Begonia semperflorens (Wax Begonia)
Buxus (Boxwood)
Centaurea cineraria (Dusty Miller)
Convallaria majalis (Lilly of the Valley)
Coreopsis
Cotinus coggygria (Smoke Tree)
Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)
Dictammus albus (Gas Plant)
Echinacea (Coneflower)
Euphorbia marginata (Snow on the Mountain)
Ferns
Forsythia
Gypsophila paniculata (Baby's Breat)
Heuchera (Coralbells)
Iris
Juniper
Liatris (Gayfeather)
Linum (Flax)
Lonicera (Honeysuckle)
Lupinus (Lupine)
Mentha species (mints)
Narcissus (Daffodil)
Oregano
Ornamental Grasses
Paeonia (Peony)
Papaver orientalis (Oriental Poppy)
Perovskia atriplicifilia (Russian Sage)
Picea
Potentilla
Rosemary
Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed-Susan)
Salvia (Sage)
Sedum
Spirea
Stachys byzantina (lamb's ears)
Syringa (Lilac)
Tagetes (Marigold)
Thymus (Thyme)
Trollius europaeus (globe flower)
Veronica (Speedwell)
Viburnam
Vinca (Periwinkle)
Yucca
Zinnia

Rabbits tend to avoid plants that have a prickly, rough, or fuzzy texture.

Rabbit Resistant Plants:

Acanthus species (bear's breeches)
Aconitum species (monkshood)
Alchemilla mollis (lady's mantle)
Allium species (ornamental onions)
Alstroemeria (Peruvian lily)
Antirrhinum (snapdragon)
Aquilegia species (columbine)
Artichoke, globe and Jerusalem
Astilbe species
Bergenia species (elephant's ears)
Brunnera macrophylla
Cortaderia selloana (pampas grass)
Corydalis species
Crocosmia species
Cyclamen species (hardy cyclamen)
Dahlia (dahlias)
Digitalis species (foxgloves)
Doronicum species (leopard's bane)
Echinops species (globe thistle)
Eryngium agavifolium (sea holly)
Hemerocallis (day lily)
Lamium species (dead nettles)
Malva moschata (musk mallow)
Melissa officinalis (bee balm)
Mentha species (mints)
Muscari species (grape hyacinth)
Myosotis (forget-me-not)
Narcissus (daffodil)
Nepeta × faassenii (catmint)
Origanum vulgare (marjoram)
Paeonia species (paeonies)
Polemonium species (Jacob's ladder)
Polygonatum × hybridum (Solomon's seal)
Primula vulgaris (primrose)
Pulmonaria species (lungwort)
Rhubarb
Salvia × superba
Stachys byzantina (lamb's ears)
Trollius europaeus (globe flower)
Tulipa species (tulips)
Verbascum thapsus (mullein)
Verbena species
Viola odorata (violet)

Critter resistant plants.pdf

Copied the information here because Websites have a way of disappearing.

Susceptibility of plants to Rabbit Damage

I thought these plants would be good to try either around the entire garden or for individual gardeners to line their plots with them as a Deer Fence, because we are not allowed to put up an 8 foot fence in our plot and I am not sure we could afford or would be granted an 8 foot fence. If we were it would probably be a Chain-link fence and that might make it look like a prison garden :P

Growing Food When It Counts

2010-02-28T09:10:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite books is Growing Food When it Counts by Steve Solomon.
The Des Moines Public Library carries at least one copy and you can read a lot of if not all of the book at Google Books.

From what I have read thus far I really enjoy his take on Clay Soils (pg 34) & The Garden Center Seedrack (pg 97). He also points out on page 90 that you should not water the seed after you have sowed it, the soil should be as damp as when you do the soil moisture test.

Steve Solomon's Soil and Health Library.

Solarization; the dirt, roots, and plastic

2010-02-28T09:06:00.002-06:00

Thinking about Tomatoes

I will now quote from my well-worn Rodale's Garden Problem Solver. (be sure and read this to the end about solarizing's effect on beneficial organisms)

"Solarization was developed in Israel and has been tested at a number of universities across this country. It is a process that produces very high levels of heat and humidity in the soil, which pasteurizes the soil, destroying harmful bacteria, fungi, some nematodes, virtually every type of insect larva, and the stock of weed seeds near the surface.

Solarization has been found to be an effective control against such pesky disease problems as verticillium wilt in tomatoes, potates, and eggplants. It knocks out fusarium wilt in tomatoes and onions. It is effective against rhizoctonia in potatoes and onions, and eliminates a variety of nematodes that attack potatoes and other crops.

An unexpected and unexplained benefit of solarization is that it also enhances the soil's ability to grow especially robust and healthy plants. Greater yields have been seen in beds that have been solarized. Solarization destroys harmful organisms, but it seems that certain beneficial organisms are not harmed.

Jim DeVay, chairman of the plant pathology department at the University of California at Davis, is quoted as saying: "While many fungi, bacteria and other pathogens are killed, certain fungi that play an important role in utilization of plant nutrients and crop development withstand the heat and survive."

Source: Fat Free Organic Gardening

I have often wondered if Solarization would kill the beneficial microbes in the soil and plant roots. I have also heard that clear plastic works better for Solarization than black.

Netflix Food Movies - Instant Play

2010-02-28T09:05:00.002-06:00

I don't know if anyone has a Netflix account or the ability to use their Instant Play option but they have some decent films about Food available and I thought I would post them here in case anyone wants to see them.

McLibel
Website: McSpolight
Netflix Link

Food Inc
Website: Food Inc
Netflix Link

The Botany of Desire
Google Books
PBS Site
Netflix Link

To Market to Market to Buy a Fresh Pig
PBS Site
Netflix Link

The Meaning of Food
PBS Site
Netflix Link

Two other movies I thought were REALLY good are The Gleaners & I and
The Real Dirt on Farmer John.

Farmer John's farm is located near Rockford IL. I have always wanted to visit Rockford and I am very interested in his Organic Farming methods. If anyone is up for a road trip to go visit his place ... ?

Here's a link to the trailer

The Gleaners & I is a very moving film that I would think would be of interest to the newly setup Urban Food Des Moines Ning.

Please add more if you know of any or if there were any that you particularly enjoyed. :)

Iowa State University Extension Gardening Publications - Direct PDF Links

2010-02-28T08:59:00.001-06:00

All publications are available online at Iowa State Extension .

To order publications, contact the ISU Extension Distribution Center:
119 Printing and Publications Building
Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa 50011-3171
Telephone: (515) 294-5247
Fax: (515) 294-2945

Contact the Distribution Center by E-mail at pubdist@iastate.edu. Please include publication title and ID number in your message. A downloadable order form that you can print also is available. It is in .pdf format. After printing it, you can fill it out and mail it or fax it to the address above. Minimal fees are charged for multiple copies of publications and for single copies of publications of more than four pages. Shipping and handling charges may also be charged but are usually minimal as well.

ID Number Publication Title

IAN 303 Iowa's Plants Series - Benefits and Dangers of Iowa Plants [September 1994]
IAN 305 Iowa's Plants Series - Seeds, Nuts, and Fruits of Iowa Plants [September 1994]
IAN 306 Iowa's Plants Series - Mushrooms and Non-flowering Plants [September 1994]
PD 31 Plant Disease Identification Form [Revised February2002]
PM 666 Weed Management in the Home Garden [September1996]
PM 683 Composting Yard Waste [March 1993]
PM 874 Starting garden transplants at home [Revised June 2003 ]
PM 1204 Morels, false morels, and other cup fungi ordering information [Revised March 1996] $3
PM 1357 Guide to plant societies and associations [Revised January 2002]
PM 1644 Hardy Perennials: Ferns ordering information [November 2002]
PM 1692 Community Supported Agriculture: Local Food Systems for Iowa [December 1996]
PM 1693 Community Supported Agriculture: Iowa CSA Farms and Organizers [Revised July 2003]
PM 1777 Master Gardener brochure [December 1999]
RG 104 Horticulture Publications [January 2002 ]
RG 105 Garden Tips: Guidelines to Seasonal Chores [July 2002 ]
RG 201 Integrated Pest Management for Vegetable Gardens [April 1999]
RG 202 Understand Pesticide Labeling [September 1995]
RG 204 Apply Pesticides Safely [September 1995]
RG 205 Store Pesticides Safely [September 1995]
RG 206 Questions About Composting [Reprinted March 1997]
RG 207 Nonchemical Pest Control for the Home Lawn and Garden [September 1996]
RG 208 Botanical Insecticides in the Home Garden [September 1996]
RG 209 Organic Mulches for Gardens and Landscape Plantings [June 1997]
RG 212 Pollinators in the Garden [November 2002 ]
RG 401 Ornamental Grasses for Winter Interest [Electronic version July 2000]
RG 601 Gardening for Butterflies [Revised March 2002]
RG 603 Iowa Butterfly and Caterpillar Food Preferences [Revised July 2003 ]
RG 604 Water Gardens: Aquatic Plants [April 2003 ]
RG 703 Lichens [September 2002]
RG 902 Plant Zoo [May 2002]
ST 11 Soil sample information sheet for horticulture crops [Revised September 2002]
SUL 12 Using Mulches in Managed Landscapes [August 2001]

Flowers

IAN 301 Iowa's Plants Series - Iowa's Spring Wildflowers [September 1994]

IAN 302 Iowa's Plants Series - Iowa's Summer and Fall Wildflowers [September 1994]

PM 1319 Forcing Flower Bulbs [December 1999]

PM 1925 Growing Dahlias ordering information [July 2003 ]

RG 301 Growing Annual Flowers in Containers [Revised March 2001]

RG 302 Edible Flowers [Revised September 2000]

RG 303 Daylilies [Revised April 2003]

RG 304 Late Season Perennial Flowers [Reprinted July 2002]

RG 305 Growing Chrysanthemums in the Garden [Revised September 2001]

RG 306 Delphiniums [June 1997 ]

RG 307 Clematis [Revised July 2001]

RG 309 The Griffith Buck Roses [Revised July 2002]

RG 310 Caring For Roses in Iowa [Electronic version July 2000]

RG 311 Growing and Overwintering Tender Perennials [November 2001 ]

RG 312 Suggested Daffodil Cultivars for Iowa [April 1997]

RG 313 Growing Garden Lilies [May 2002]

RG 314 Growing Petunias [January 2003]

RG 315 Dahlias [Revised June 2003]

RG 316 Poinsettia Care [Revised December 2002]

RG 317 Annual Vines [February 2002]

RG 318 Early Spring Blooming Perennials [December 2001]

RG 319 When To Divide Perennials [November 2001]

RG 320 Growing and Overwintering Garden Geraniums [November 2001 ]

RG 321 Miniature Roses [April 2003 ]

RG 323 Cannas for Home Landscapes [May 2002]

RG 601 Gardening for Butterflies [July 1999]

RG 602 Perennials For Shady Areas [Revised September 2000]

SUL 8 Crown Rot - Hosta [February 2000]

Fruit

PM 719 Rhubarb in the Home Garden [Revised June 1998]

PM 1282 2003 Commercial Tree Fruit Guide [January 2003]

PM 1887 Selling Fruits and Vegetables [April 2002]

PM 1892 Melons [June 2003]

RG 501 Pruning Raspberries [September 1995 ]

RG 502 Pruning Grapevines [May 1997] 98K RG 503 Growing Blueberries in Iowa [April 2003 ]

Houseplants

PM268 How to Air Layer a Houseplant [Revised May 2001]

RG-308 Growing Holiday Cacti [October 1996]

RG 316 Poinsettia Care [March 2001]

Lawn, Shrubs, Trees

IAN 304 Iowa's Plants Series - Iowa's Trees [September 1994]

IAN 307 Iowa's Plants Series - Iowa's Shrubs and Vines [September 1994]

PM 1063 Turfgrass Management Calendar: Kentucky Bluegrass Lawns [September 1996]

PM 1304 Pruning shade and flowering trees [Reprinted September 1993]

PM 1383 Identification of Conifer Trees in Iowa [Revised May 1996]

PM 1384 Identification of Hardwood Trees in Iowa [Revised May 1996]

PM 1429a Community Trees: Establishing a Community Tree Program [Revised February 1999]

PM 1429b Community Trees: Tree Ordinances for Iowa Communities [December 1999 ]

PM 1429c Community Trees: Sample Tree Ordinances for Iowa Communities [Revised January 1998]

PM 1429d Community Trees: Low-growing Trees for Urban and Rural Iowa [Revised October 1996]

PM 1429e Community Trees: Street Trees for Iowa [Revised October 1998]

PM 1429f Community Trees: Power Lines and Trees [April 1997]

PM 1591 Community Tree Planting and Care Guide [October 1998] $1

PM 1676 Tree Planting: Planning [August 1996 ]

PM 1677 Tree Planting: Establishment and Care [August 1997]

PM 1680 Nonchemical Alternatives for the Home Lawn [September 1996]

PM 1749 Tips for Athletic Field Management on a Limited Budget [April 1998]

PM 1755 Understanding Thatch in the Home Lawn [April 1998]

PM 1756 Thatch Control in the Home Lawn

PM 1812 The Forest Where Ashley Lives [February 2001]

RG 701 Iowa's Oaks [April 2000]

RG 704 Growing Rhododendrons and Azaleas in Iowa [May 2003]

SUL 1 Understanding the Effects of Flooding on Trees [June 1994]

SUL 6 Managing Storm-Damaged Trees [January 1999 ]

SUL 9 Pine Wilt [February 2000]

WL-47 Rabbit Damage to Tree Plantings [Reprinted September 1994]

Vegetables and Herbs

PM 534 Planting and Harvesting Times for Garden Vegetables [Revised August 1999]

PM 607 Suggested Vegetable Varieties For the Home Garden [Revised May 2002]

PM 608 Tomatoes [Revised May 2002]

PM 731 Harvesting and Storing Vegetables [Revised December 2002]

PM 814 Where to Put Your Vegetable Garden [Revised July 1999]

PM 819 Planting a Home Vegetable Garden [January 1996]

PM 870A Small Plot Vegetable Gardening [Revised September 2001]

PM 870B Container Vegetable Gardening [Revised July 2000]

PM 994 Asparagus in the Home Garden [Revised November 2000]

PM 1049 Cucurbit Diseases-An Aid to Identification and Control [November 1993]

PM 1887 Selling Fruits and Vegetables [April 2002]

PM 1888 Peppers [September 2002]

PM 1889 Onions [August 2002]

PM 1890 Potatoes [December 2002]

PM 1891 Sweet Corn [November 2002]

PM 1892 Melons [June 2003]

PM 1893 Cilantro (English & Spanish) [April 2003]

PM 1894 Garlic [February 2003]

PM 1895 Tomatillos [April 2003]

PM 1896 Cole crops [June 2003]

RG-201 Integrated Pest Management for Vegetable Gardens [April 1999]

RG 801 Growing & Using Basil [Revised July 2003]

To order publications, contact the ISU Extension Distribution Center:

119 Printing and Publications Building

Iowa State University

Ames, Iowa 50011-3171

Telephone: (515) 294-5247

Fax: (515) 294-2945

Contact the Distribution Center by E-mail at pubdist@iastate.edu . Please include publication title and ID number in your message. A downloadable order form that you can print also is available. It is in .pdf format. After printing it, you can fill it out and mail it or fax it to the address above.

All materials are available online at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/pubs/ga.htm.

From Des Moines Community Garden Resources

Foxglove Invasive?

2010-02-28T08:57:00.000-06:00

From everything I have seen so far Grecian Foxglove (Digitalis lanata) can be invasive.

I am not sure or haven't found anything that list Purple Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) as invasive to Iowa.

California says that: "It readily colonizes areas of soil disturbance, forming dense patches that displace natural vegetation." , in California.

Invasive Plants of the Upper Midwest

Iowa Living Road Trust Invasive (with images).

I have foxglove seeds I believe, I bought them as part of a Deer Resistant seed package. So, unless someone wants to tell me where it is invasive I am planting it. BUT it is poisonous! Hence, why Deer do not like it ...

Cover Crops

2010-02-28T08:52:00.000-06:00

Dutch White Clover that might be a good alternative to paving the center walkway of the garden. It should also (hopefully) attract pollinators. Carpet Bungle is another option.

Farmer's Almanac Cover Crop List (PDF)

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Considering Planting Cover Crops this Fall.

ATTRA (wonderful site!): Overview of Cover Crops & Green Manures

University of California Cover Crop Database (Search)

Leopold Center: Cover crops in the Corn Belt: Survey finds underused potential as c...

Leopold Center Cover Crop Resources

A nice overall Conversion Calculator.

Metro Waster Authority Compost

2010-02-28T08:49:00.000-06:00

Where do I go to get MWA's compost and how much is it?

For purchases of a single load of eight or more cubic yards of compost, you may call MWA at 244-0021 between the hours of 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.,
Monday - Friday. The cost is $12 per cubic yard with a minimum $96
purchase.

For purchases under eight cubic yards, contact one of MWA's contracted retail outlets:
Beeler Trucking: (515) 468-0815
Dennis Lind Landscaping (515) 681-9303
Dutch Meadows: (641) 628-4450
Gold Valley Hardscapes (515) 328-3162
Green Acres Garden Center: (515) 961-5889
Hallett Materials: (515) 987-8544
Iowa Landscaping Supply: (515) 262-2367
Iowa Outdoor Products (515) 277-6242
Morgan Oaks: (515) 967-6766
Mulch Mart: (515) 978-6852
Wright Outdoor Solutions (515) 987-0800

For more information on availability, pricing, hours, location, and delivery, please call the retail outlets directly.

Community Gardens II

2010-02-28T08:46:00.000-06:00

Community Managed Open Space in Chicago

PPatch Trust (I think this is a really good idea)

Greening Cities Growing Communities, a case study of the Seattle Community Garden Project.

Ten Steps in Collecting and Publishing a Book of Community Garden Stories and Photographs, from the American Community Garden Association.

Friends of Burlington Gardens, linked in the previously mentioned PDF.

Des Moines Community Garden Site

What is a Community Garden?
ACGA Idea
Wikipedia: Community Garden
Some wonderful information about Starting a Community Garden, to give an idea of thoughts others have had as to what a Community Garden is or what they would like it to be.

What is a Community Garden?
(Information from “Growing Communities Curriculum”)

A community garden is an area used for growing plants or animals, which has been collaboratively created and is maintained by members of the public. A community garden can take place on public or private land and can involve a broad cross-section of the public, as in a neighborhood community garden. Or it can involve specific sectors of the population, such as a school garden that involves students, teachers, parents, and other community members who support the garden for education.

Source

Fertilizers and Location

2010-02-10T01:42:00.003-06:00

In case no one knows I am all about Homesteading, Food Not Lawns, nutrition, health (I know ...), etc, etc.

I read a lot! Mainly about the history of foods, origins, gardening ...

Fertilizer. From what I am able to comprehend the reason the food we grow, here in America at least, needs fertilizer is for one it's more than likely imported and number two it's not wild. Just about any natural, non-Miracle Gro, fertilizer you find out about is probably either a rock; pure mineral or animal; either the complete decomposed body (fish) or their feces. Many times when you see the words "Organic Matter" when reading about soil amendments it tends to be tailored to the author's area. For instance some will say seaweed, that's a good idea but I live in the Midwest and I think there are others that live in the Midwest for us obtaining seaweed is a bit difficult.

I am finding it hard to make everything and not purchase outside materials.

WinterSown.org Seeds

2010-02-09T21:41:00.002-06:00

One envelop received from the USPS.

I have yet to do a SASE Seed Swap through the internet so it was nice to see that a group I respect sends their seeds wrapped in a single piece of Bubble Wrap. Hope this is the proper way to do it because I would REALLY like to be a part of internet seed exchanges. My only concern is I am not confident in my own or others ability to properly save seed.

Very excited about the Broccoli Raab, have wanted to try that (eating and growing) the Chervil I have read should not be transplanted.

Tomato seeds. I am excited about trying to grow the Amana Orange Tomato because I am in a German state and live so close to the Amana Colonies. I requested the Homestead and Arkansas Traveler Tomato seeds for my Father who lives in Florida.

I greatly appreciate the seeds Winter Sown sent me. After the seed swap, I hope to have with the Community Gardeners, I plan to donate any leftover seeds to Trudi's organization.

Preparing to Wintersow & Index Cards

2010-02-09T15:10:00.001-06:00

Milk jug hoarding.

Cut Jugs.

My suggestion, drill drainage holes BEFORE cutting the jugs ...

Using last years potting soil. I added Egg Shells and Coffee Grounds.

I haven't added any seeds to the 20 or so Milk Jugs I have sitting around the house with dirt. Mainly because I ran across this Gardening with Index Cards. What a Great idea! So I am busy making those. Need to get on it with the planting though. This is my week to start transplants!

2010 Operation Garden Defense

2010-02-09T15:03:00.000-06:00

From Grrlscount224's Garden Set See those ingenious Red Plastic Cups? Me thinks she's a pretty cool chick.

Clear Plastic, Insect Fabric, Black Plastic, Clear Plastic, I also purchased some Red Plastic (not photographed here). I am hoping those things will make my Organic Gardening process/method more successful. I Hope I can grow vegetables while Solarizing the dirt. The Red Plastic cups, I hope to poke holes/cut slits in the bottom and use them to grow transplants then turn them over cut the bottom out bury the mouth in the dirt around the transplant. This will hopefully help with slugs and cut worms. I don't plan on growing an enormous amount of Brassicas but maybe two or three Brussel Sprout plants and some Collards. I keep seeing people use what I believe is a roofing shingle around the base of the plants to product against Cabbage Root Maggot. Might try that.

All the "chemicals" I foolishly bought last garden season. The only non-organic thing in there I think is a spray I bought at KMart for the Roses that were suffering from Rose Slugs ?

A can of tarps, these will might come in handy in the garden.

Winter Compost & Squirrel Round Up?

2010-02-09T14:53:00.000-06:00

Squirrel Feeding Center.

Feeder came with the House.

The Squirrels throw everything on the ground that isn't a Sunflower seed ... they must not be too damn hungry.

Compost Bucket & Safe Walk outside door.

Another bucket full of compost.

2 more compost buckets and compost pile.

Parsley, Winter Squash, & Banana Bread

2010-02-09T04:20:00.002-06:00

Parsley grown in Aerogarden.

Chopped and ready to make Parsley Ice Cubes.

Winter squashes purchased at the grocery store, imported from Mexico. The Warted one did not last long enough to eat and when I opened it it was mainly seeds, little actual squash meat. The green one was tasty, I believe it is a Discus Buttercup. The warts I believe are called Oedema. I am trying to research Winter Squashes and storing them over Winter. Will update later as to my "findings."

Banana Bread (sorry about the blurry photo) :S

That is the BEST Banana Bread I have ever had. I generally dislike Banana Bread, it's too dry. But this recipe is the best recipe and I found it on the bag of Bananas I purchased from the grocery store super cheap.

Best Banana Bread EVAR Recipe

8 Tbsp. (1 stick) butter, at room temp.
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup whole wheat flour
3 large ripe bananas, mashed
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup shelled walnuts, coarsely chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, grease 9x5x3" bread pan. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Sift all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together, stir in whole wheat flour and add to creamed mixture, mixing well. Fold in bananas, vanilla, and walnuts. Pour mixture into pan, bake 50 to 60 minutes (I started checking on it at about 40 minutes), or until bake tester (butter knife) comes out clean. Cool pan 10 minutes. Makes 1 loaf.

* remember when measuring Wheat Flour spoon it into measuring cup!

Why Choose Disease Resistance?

2010-01-24T15:55:00.004-06:00

Source

Pretty, right? Yum.

Source

Oh wow! I can grow something that pretty?

Source

Oh my! How did that happen? That's not what I wanted and it doesn't look like the photo! That isn't so pretty!

This is something I call Play dough Syndrome. Do you remember being little and getting so excited by play dough because the photo on the box made you think "Wow! This box holds everything I need to be able to make that?!"

This is why purchasing and researching Disease Resistant plants is important. Esp. for the "first time gardener." In some ways it is good to not buy Disease Resistant varieties/cultivars because you will learn about all the bugs and diseases out there, how they behave, what they look like, what chemicals or natural remedies do or don't work for you.

I am focusing on Disease Resistant right now while trying to plan my gardens. I am terrified of Squash Borers (didn't have any last year :S ) and I despise Cucumber Beetles even though they are "pretty."

Garden, Bugs, Diseases, & Farmers

2010-01-23T10:58:00.003-06:00

Now, I am all about Organic growing. That being said, I have grown things and I grew them Organically. I think some people who are so proud that they eat/can afford Organic and tend to have very strong feelings about buying Organic might not have ever grown anything. First, there is the Corn Earworm. Then, the Cabbage Looper. And the Cutworm. I am not saying that there aren't organic methods of dealing with these nasties, or at least I hope there are. I am saying they are gross. I don't want to eat them, their eggs, or anything they have touched. That's just bugs, and we aren't even talking about Locust! Then there are the diseases. Eww. Bad, bad things there. They are air borne and soil borne. Insects eat opening the plant making the plant vunerable to these diseases. Some of the diseases live for ages, in the soil. This is one reason Container Gardening is so nice. You can remove the dirt, throw it away, compost it, or heat it in your oven hoping to kill whatever yuckies are still trying to survive. But a farmer doing this? Pfft. Even with my small garden space, I got Septoria Leaf Spot last year. I think I should grow Tomatoes 5 miles! from where I planted them last year. Is this possible for me? No.

All I am asking is don't be hatin farmers. Don't (entirely) be hatin science. There ain't nothing wrong with Hybrids. And Disease Resistance cultivars and Insect Resistence cultivars are good things. There are many Heirloom resistance cultivars. I will be writing about them soon. And several other Gardening topics. Because I can't get it out of my brain!

2010-01-22T12:48:00.003-06:00

I have so many magazines and I never have time to read! They are organized, for the most part.

And this is a little "clutch" that I haven't completely finished, needs a liner and button.

Remote Sensor Thermometer

2010-01-22T12:02:00.001-06:00

I bought a Remote Sensor Thermometer and placed the Sensor into the room we have sealed off.

As you can see there is a big temp and humidity difference, I was surprised. I wanted to see if I could put seed starting tables in there because of all the windows. I was also curious to see if blocking the front room off actually helped at all.

2010-01-22T10:19:00.003-06:00

I don't think people understand how lonely my life is. Which probably has something to do with how much beer I drink. I have no job, no car, no house. I always have to say how grateful I am for what I do have and I am grateful for my husband, my son, that I have clean drinking water, I am generally warm, there is food in the fridge.

My family is very far away. I have no one to watch my son if I want to do anything. I have no one to got out to lunch with and if I did they would probably have a kid or kids too. I have no one to go to the mall with. No one to do anything with. My husband doesn't, won't go grocery shopping with me. We don't go out to eat. We don't go to stores together at all. We don't go to the movies. We don't even have a favorite tv show that we watch together. There isn't a gadget I can buy that would make me happy. I don't see clothes that I can't live without and am willing to get into debt over. I try to be very frugal in the hopes of saving enough money to buy a house but as soon as I save some money my husband's cars need repair or needs to buy some computer gadget thing. Maybe one day I will have some accountant, bank job, or retail job and be able to save enough money to buy a trailer. Great aspirations there.

3 Bean Chili

2010-01-21T10:34:00.004-06:00

No, I am not a food photographer.

Choose Veg's 3 Bean Chili (with video) is delicious!

If you aren't Vegetarian remember to change all Non-Diary to Diary, if you choose. And I used a Frozen Pepper/Onion Mix in place of shopping & purchasing each Pepper. Which makes this recipe super easy, just go to your Pantry and Freezer, you probably already have everything!

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS:

* 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-squares
* 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-squares
* 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into 1/2-squares
* 1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped
* 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
* 3-4 tablespoons water for sautéing
* ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
* 1 teaspoon ground coriander
* 1 teaspoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 3 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or one 16-ounce can diced tomatoes)
* 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 can corn, drained (or 1-1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed)
* Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
* Water or tomato juice as needed
* ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves or fresh parsley (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

1. Heat up the few tablespoons of water in a heavy 4-quart saucepan over medium heat. This is to replace the oil that is often used for sautéing.

2. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, oregano, and chili powder, cayenne, coriander, and cumin, and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes.

3. Stir in the tomatoes, the canned corn, and all the beans, and bring to a boil. Add a little water as needed.

4. Lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, adding water or tomato juice as needed if too much liquid evaporates. Season with salt and black pepper, and stir in the cilantro or parsley. Serve in shallow bowls.

Serving suggestions and variations:

*Add a dollop of non-dairy sour cream on top of the chili once it’s plated.

*You can obviously use any color variation of bell pepper; the more color variety, the prettier the dish is. Same goes for the beans. You can use all black or white (Navy, Great Northern, etc.) instead of pinto. It’s really up to you, your preferences, and what you have on hand.

*Add more cayenne and chili powder to make it hotter.

*Serve with different color tortilla chips: white, red, and black/blue.

*Sprinkle shredded non-dairy cheese over the chili. (Follow Your Heart brand is delicious. Check Whole Foods and other large natural foods stores, or ask your grocer to order it.)

Spring 2010 Preemptive Planning - Structures

2010-01-21T09:39:00.003-06:00

The first day of Spring! is getting closer and closer and closer! Woo Hoo. I need to mainly finalize where I am going to try and grow things and what things I am going to try and grow. I live in a rented house that has a "Yard." A yard mainly covered by trees ... hence the quotations. The technical growing space the owners made is 14x14ft. and I also have a Community Garden plot that is about 10x10ft. I try to do a hell of a lot with that space. We pay to live in this house because it has a yard, its close proximity to the Community Gardens, and because the Library was originally across the street! How could I not want this house based on those things. But, to be honest, we do not rent the house for its updated appliance, wonderful insulation, house placement (orientation), square footage of living space, or yard size. That is why we can't buy the house.

So, I need to decide how many trellises and what style of trellises (including a Tomato ladder?) I need to build, how many cold frame and their size, row covers, hoop houses, and potato boxes (right now 2). Maybe a growlight system.

I have many, many problems esp with the space and what I want to grow and what I want to grow things for. First, I very much enjoy Seed Saving as a matter of fact I include Seed Saving as part of my Harvest. I Companion Plant intensively! This includes the Vegetables, Flowers, and Herbs. Then there is the hope of Crop Rotation (crazy right?). Next is for Food Storage, including Fermentation, Pickling, Drying, Freezing, Canning, and "Root Cellaring" along with the slight hope of a continual harvest through Winter buy means of growing the proper vegetables and varieties in a cold frame.

Lots to think about, manage, and research. So, so excited. Then you remember the bugs and diseases. Diseases are one reason I am going to space my Tomatoes 4 ft from one another. Even though I have way more varieties of Tomatoes I want to grow than space for them! Heaven forbid I decide to try and make my own ketchup!

Oh! And I have lots of "Decorations" I want to try and make for our Gardens. This includes Prayer Flags, Wood cut out Mushrooms, maybe some crafted Fairies, and glass bead ornaments. Sounds like someone needs to take a trip to Menards and probably Lowes along with Hobby Lobby!

Garden Software

2010-01-20T11:06:00.003-06:00

Growveg is a site that allows a 30 day trial and charges $25 (currently) per year for their services.

MyFolia
"Folia is a social garden tracking site. Keep tabs on when you planted
and when your plants are ready for harvest, keep a journal of events in
your garden, create to-do lists, organise seed swaps & discover
others growing the same things as you!"

Deluxe Garden Organizer has a trial, $75 to own.

There are about 4 software programs hosted at Tomatoville in the General Discussion forum under "More Free Software" & at IDigMyGarden under Trading Bazarre. The programs are Pepperbox, SeedTrades, SeedsNTrades, and Seedbox. You can read about and see screen shots Here at the SSE Forum.

BHG.com also has some programs that help organize your gardens along with preplanned layouts.

FL Wasteland shared his 3D Landscape for Everyone find in the Growveg post below. Thank you!

Know of any others?

GrowVeg Review

2010-01-19T08:07:00.010-06:00

About 2 months ago I went in search of Garden Software, something that would help me keep data on my garden(s) and help me plan them. I stumbled across GrowVeg. Last night I decided to register for their 30 Day Free Trial. I actually really like the program. How can you not like a computer gadget that uses our basic 2 year old need for pretty pictures, I mean icons?

The Pros:

No Software download, decrease Spyware paranoia
Able to enter both Metric & Imperial for Garden measurements
Text and "Feature" availability
Print Plan & Planting Dates
Tabs, Spreadsheet style
SFG Friendly
Colored coded icon for families
Provides an approximate shadow of plant size
Tells you how many plants per type

The Cons (as I see them):

Companion plants? Not really
Difficult to control
Unable to make curves
Flowers, only Flower category
No Database to update information
Does not use common Computer Shortcuts
Scrolling does not loop

I am sure there are more Pros and Cons than I am noticing but those are the few that immediately jumped out at me.

(images "edited" with Picasa)

My First Plan Test, for Spring.

The "difficult to control" idea. As you can see, I am planning to plant Melons diagonally. The program does not release the previously selected item or pick up the new item selected very well. You can see in this screencap the shadow sizing provided by the program, I very much like this feature.

As you can see with these two different plants, Broad/Fava Bean & Beet, the Companion Planting help offered is extremely slim. This is a major point for me, I LOVE Companion Planting. These images also show their colored coded "i" that tells you the families you are planting.

I think there are a couple things that could be done to help this. 1)Have a database the program can use to update the plant information. 2)Use, perhaps, the color red to warn Gardeners that their current Garden Plan is not Companion Planted.

This is about as good as it gets with the program offering any direction as far as Companion Planting goes.

The 4 Flower options, there is no way to create your own database of flowers you want to plant with names, planting information, etc.

Click to view completely, shows the 3 size variations available but again, you can not enter imforation for the plants. You can also see in this image, the program list some less common plants such as; Lettuce Miners, Mache, and Mizuna.

2009-11-20T06:38:00.001-06:00

You can order 50 free 4x8 photo cards using the coupon code freebies4mom-1109 (type in that code) at SeeHere by Fujifilm. Code expires on November 30.

From Freebies4Mom

Amazon.com Subscribe & Save

2009-11-17T23:38:00.001-06:00

Welcome to Subscribe & Save
When you order through our Subscribe & Save program, you'll:
• automatically receive a new shipment of the item in intervals you select--every one, two, three, or six months
• get a discount on our everyday price
• get free shipping on every Subscribe & Save shipment
• pay for each order only when the item is shipped
• have the option to cancel at any time

Subscribe & Save benefits:
Choose the Delivery Schedule That Fits Your Needs
Subscription orders are available in one-month, two-month, three-month, and six-month intervals. You select the frequency with which you want to receive new orders, and we'll send out the shipments on that schedule automatically. You can change your subscription schedule online at any time.

Save with Our Subscribe & Save Discount
All Subscribe & Save orders come with a discount over the everyday price of the item. The discount percentage is guaranteed, no matter how long you continue your subscription-- whether you end your subscription after just a single shipment or keep it going for years. If we increase the Subscribe & Save discount we offer on the item, we'll automatically apply the better discount to your active subscription. Plus, all orders ship for free.

Pay as You Go
You'll be charged for each order only when the item is shipped. The amount charged each time will reflect the price of the item on the day the order is processed less the Subscribe & Save discount, plus any applicable sales tax. Pay only for orders that have shipped. (A credit card is required for Subscribe & Save orders.)

Get E-mail Reminders
Before we send the next order, we'll send you an e-mail letting you know that the process has begun, giving you time to make updates to your subscription as necessary.

Update Your Subscription Options at Your Convenience
Use the "Manage Your Subscribe & Save Items" page in Your Account at any time to change the quantity and/or frequency of your subscription, as well as the billing address, shipping address, or payment method. Changes will take place immediately and will be applied to all unshipped orders associated with your subscription.

Cancel at Any Time
There are no commitments. Cancel your subscription anytime, online, 24 hours a day. Use the "Manage Your Subscribe & Save Items" page, which can be found in Your Account.

From what I can tell it is a Free Shipping + 15% off Sam's Club/Costco thing.

Damn Food

2009-11-09T23:24:00.003-06:00

I have an idea ... people able to freely move around and choose their homestead based on a country's culture including food! Woow zap. See? This, these ideas are why I can not exist among other humans.

My sister and I went to see Julia & Julie while I was on vacay and while I didn't like the movie I a) Adore Julia Child and b) Meryl Streep rocked. There was something that was said in the movie that I COMPLETELY related to. Someone, I think her husband (J.C's) said something about her loving to cook, and she responded no, I like to eat.

That is my case. I learn to garden because I like to eat. I learn to cook because I love to eat. Ambiance is a BIG deal when I go out to pay for a meal. But you add good food and good service well, I will definitely come back again and rec your restaurant to everyone else. Otherwise, I will learn to make it myself. For one thing, it is probably cheaper and another it will probably taste better. Even baked goods, which I am terrible with/at. I have yet to find a Bakery that equals the deliciousness I experienced while visiting London (a long time ago) or the bakery in Asheville. I have standards for Christ sakes. I feel that most Americans do not. That is why companies make sure we continue to buy their products. Why labeling is REALLY important and they protest. Why "Farmer's" Markets are chic in the USA and it isn't just Market the way it has been for ages and continues to be in Europe and just about every other portion of the Globe. /rant

love you guys.
Donna

Seminis (Monsanto) Seed Dealers

2009-11-08T16:24:00.000-06:00

Seminis does not sell directly to home gardeners; however, many of our products are available to consumers from U.S. and Canadian mail order and packet seed companies. The vendors below carry our newest products:

Burpee, W Atlee
300 Park Ave.
Warminster, PA 18974
Ph: (215)674-4900
Fax: (215)674-0838

Dege Garden Center
831 N Century Ave.
St Paul, MN 55119
Ph: (651) 739-8314
Fax: (651) 739-8326

E & R Seed Co.
1356 E. 200 S.
Monroe, IN 46772

Earl May Seed
208 N. Elm St.
Shenandoah, IA 51603
Ph:(712) 246-1020
Fax:(712) 246-1760

Garden Trends
355 Paul Rd.
Rochester, NY 14624
Ph: (716) 295-3600
Fax: (716) 295-3609

Gardens Alive
5100 Schenley Place
Lawrenceberg, IN 47025
Ph: (812) 537-8650
Fax: (812) 537-5108

Germania Seed Co.
5978 N. Northwest Hwy
Chicago, IL 60631
Ph: (773) 631-6631
Fax: (773) 631-4449

Johnnys Selected Seeds
955 Benton Ave.
Winslow, ME 04901
Ph: (207) 861-3900
Fax: (207) 861-8381

J.W. Jung Seed Co.
335 S. High St.
Randolph, WI 53956
Ph:(920) 326-3121
Fax:(920) 326-5769

Lindenberg Seeds
803 Princess Ave.
Brandon, Manitoba
Canada R7A 0P5
Ph: (204) 727-0575
Fax: (204) 727-2832

Mountain Valley Seed
1800 South West Temple #600
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Ph: (801) 486-0480
Fax: (801) 467-5730

Nichols Garden Nursery
1190 North Pacific Hwy
Albany, OR 97321
Ph: (541) 928-9280
Fax: (541) 967-8406

Park Seed
Hwy 254 N.
Greenwood, SC 29647
Ph:(864) 223-8555
Fax:(864) 941-4206

Rocky Mountain Seed Co.
6541 N. Washington
Denver, CO 80229
Ph: 303-623-6223
Fax: 303-623-6254

T & T Seeds, Ltd.
Box 1710
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Canada R3C 3P6
Ph: (204) 895-9964
Fax: (204-895-9967

Tomato Growers Supply
P.O. Box 720
Fort Myers, FL 33902
Ph:(941) 768-1119
Fax:(941) 768-3476

Willhite Seed Co.
PO Box 23
Poolville, TX 76487
Ph: (817) 599-8656
Fax: (817) 599-5843

From their Dealer Locator website

"Foodie"

2009-11-06T05:44:00.003-06:00

I hate that term.

Ten Top-Earning Celebrity Chefs

Bourdain 1.5 Million
Rachel Ray 18 Million

Tonight I found Foodie Blog Roll

And I thought I would participate but:

# Your blog must have at least 5 entries - and these entries must be specifically food related - recipes, reviews, how-to s, food related product reviews and the like.

# Your blog must be at least one month old. If your blog is older than one month, then it must have been regularly updated in the past month.

# Your overall blog content must be 80% food related.

I could have just started a blog, well it has to be a month old but only have 5 entries and as long as every one of those entries was about food I could enter to win prizes?

Also found Foodista, looks interesting.

Visited Food Buzz about a month ago, that site is pretty darn awesome.

Those sites found through A Little Bit of Spain in Iowa

This was my response to someone when they asked about how to find different food to feed their family.

"I use Family Fun's Meal Planner occasionally and Hy-Vee's flyers have a weekly meal planner on one of the pages, that can be useful as well. Some of the other things I do, because I get sooooo bored with food, go to Flickr and look for food groups then search through the images. I go to food blogs a lot, read Wikipedia about cuisines, Google Image Search things you would normally eat like tacos, pizza, etc then click on the image and most of the time it will take you to a recipe listing (sometimes a really great blog). If the link does not take you to a recipe listing at least now you have an idea about the ingredients from the photo or can use the name of the entree to find a recipe."

Although, from my experience, people who take really great photos of food ... do not necessarily "know" how to cook or what good food is ... nice photos yes cooking not so much. Just be warned, you know TV stars aren't always as tall as you think they are?

Do you think the "blogosphere" is clique-ish?

Remember Remember the 5th of November!

2009-11-06T01:37:00.005-06:00

Tonight. I met the man.

That's right ladies and gents, Anthony Bourdain. Now, I did not "met and greet" for one, I did not see that option available on the Ticketmaster website and for another I think I would have been not in awe ...

I really liked what he spoke about, much of it I had either already heard him say or knew. Poor guy had bright lights glaring down on him.

My husband said he would rather listen to Andrew Zimmer. While I have liked Mr. Zimmer I prefer Mr. Bourdain. Husband says, well he's a misogynist. And yes, I think you are right. I think it is in men's blood to be that and Mr. Bourdain is old-er. But there are little glimpses of Andrew that have made me believe/think he isn't as genuine as he would have us believe.

If nothing else, what I got from listening to Bourdain was a return of my love for food and cooking it just right. And one thing I am not looking forward to is all those schmucks with hairdressers that attended finding the Asian Market ... yeah, he pointed that out. Damnit. I drank the rest of the wine when I returned home. :)

Oh and Old Man has learned to appreciate comics, or someone informed him that it was the "cool thing" to do.

Amazon Albums - Free! Mojo Nixon!

2009-10-30T01:20:00.005-06:00

I prefer to download legally, because that is the whole point ... duh.

Apparently Amazon is offering FREE albums!? Or so says Lifehacker

But, some really great ones are the Mojo Nixon albums!

Unlimited Everything

Root Hog or Die

Gadzooks!!! The Homemade Bootleg

Bo-Day-Shus!!!

Mojo & Skid

Otis

Frenzy

Whereabouts Unknown

You have to download an Amazon Music Downloader Program now and this also opens iTunes.

And because they make recommendations when you download I now want.

!Sock Ray Blue!

And I definitely want

Prairie Home Invasion

because well, it's Jello and I now live in the Midwest/Prairie and I know what that is all about and I am absolutely disgusted with the popularity of the NPR show.

Reese Witherspoon & Avon? Wtf? I used to like her!

Bake some love.

Do you realize ...?

2009-10-28T15:56:00.001-06:00

According to the National Gardening Association, 43 million households planned a backyard garden or put a stake in a share of a community garden in 2009, up from 36 million in 2008.

Here’s the unhappy twist: the explosion of home gardeners — the very people most conscious of buying local food and opting out of the conventional food chain — has paradoxically set the stage for the worst local tomato harvest in memory.

A tomato plant that travels 2,000 miles is no different from a tomato that has traveled 2,000 miles to your plate.

E. coli’s been around for a long time; what’s new is how quickly and widely it spreads when there are only a few big meat producers.

When you start a garden, no matter how small, you become part of an agricultural network that binds you to other farmers and gardeners.

You Say Tomato, I Say Agricultural Disaster

A Shopper's guide to Pesticides

2009-10-17T03:16:00.000-05:00

Disorder	Rating
Paranoid Personality Disorder:	Very High
Schizoid Personality Disorder:	High
Schizotypal Personality Disorder:	Very High
Antisocial Personality Disorder:	High
Borderline Personality Disorder:	Moderate
Histrionic Personality Disorder:	High
Narcissistic Personality Disorder:	High
Avoidant Personality Disorder:	Very High
Dependent Personality Disorder:	Very High
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder:	High
-- Take the Personality Disorder Test -- -- Personality Disorder Info --

Schizotypal Personality Disorder

"The schizoid individuals simply feel no desire to form relationships, because they quite literally see no point in sharing their time with others."

Superjail! Yes, I Like It

2009-10-17T02:40:00.001-05:00

John Steinbeck's America and Americans

2009-10-02T12:41:00.003-05:00

John Steinbeck's America and Americans

"We proudly insist that we base our political positions on the issues-and we will vote against a man because of his religion, his name, or the shape of his nose. (pg. 34)"

"We are able to believe that our government is weak, stupid, overbearing, dishonest, and inefficient, and at the same time we are deeply convinced that it is the best government in the world, and we would like to impose it upon everyone else. We speak of the American Way of Life as though it involved the ground rules for the governance of heaven. (pg. 32)"

"The Indians survived our open intention of wiping them out, and since the tide turned they have weathered our good intentions toward them, which can be much more deadly. (pg. 19)"

You can see I haven't gotten very far in the book but man can that sonvabitch write. This has to be one of, if not, the best book I have ever read and I am not even done.

Reel Big Fish & Pearl Jam

2009-10-02T12:37:00.002-05:00

Completely forgot about this awesome song!

Reel Big Fish - Sell Out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9wHpnFfpqc

The Irony? of the song with the fact that you can't embed the damn thing eludes me ... Nice

Anyone else not impressed that the new Pearl Jam album is only available at Target and on iTunes? WTF.

Ripped Jeans & Snow

2009-10-02T11:33:00.002-05:00

All images from AE.com

What if I do not want Ripped jeans!?!
And HELLO I live in a snow climate, I can't wear flat soled cheap Chinese shit!!!!

I love me some Long Johns but ah sometimes I don't want to wear them! Sometimes I don't want to wear Mucklucks.

What's a girl to do?

Marriage: A Photo Essay

2009-09-30T16:22:00.003-05:00

Mom telling her little girl what is in store.

It may happen like this.

Now, you don't want one of these.

Or these.

If you are lucky you'll get one of these

But, more than likely, you'll get one of these.

And they all tend to turn out like this.

But it will soon feel like this.

Not like this.

This will happen next,

so you will do this.

And then you have to do this.

And you will feel like this.

So you do this.

Then maybe this.

And you feel like this.

This is a possible consequence.

And this is theirs.

And you might become one of these ...

All photos compliments of Veer

2009-09-29T15:57:00.001-05:00

I feel like my husband controls every aspect of my life except I get to decide what meat to buy and if we need more pasta sauce. He controls where we live, what cars we drive, he tells me to get a job but everytime I find a job that I want to do he says that isn't the kind of job I need to get so he dictates what career field I should be in and who to apply for. EVERYTHING! I am so sick of this shit.

Master Seed List

2009-09-28T10:20:00.002-05:00

Planted

Collards, Georgia Southern
Radish, Cherry Belle Organic
Kale, Red Russian
Chard, Bright Lights
Chard, Fordhook Giant
Spinach, Renegade
Spinach, Melody Hybrid
Spinach, Baby Leaf Hybrid
Beet, Golden
Beet, Detroit Supreme
Beet, Detroit Dark Red Medium Top
Pea, Super Snappy
Pea, Sugar Snap
Pea, Oregon Giant
Bush Snap, Garden Bean Provider Organic
Soybean
Squash, Grey Zucchini
Eggplant, Black Beauty
Bok Choy, Tatsoi Rosette
Leek, American Flag
Brussel Sprouts, Cat Skill
Pepper, Chanti Hybrid
Pepper, Kaleidoscope Mix
Pepper, All Alarm Hot Mix
Pepper, Long Pepper Mix
Tomato (Bush), Celebrity Hybrid
Pepper, Fire Mix
Cucumber, National Pickling
Cucumber, Muncher
Watermelon, Moon & Stars
Watermelon, Bush Sugar Baby
Gourd, Large Bottle
Broccoli, Small Miracle Hybrid
Broccoli, Di Ciccio Organic
Tomato, Rainbow Heirloom Mix

Vervain, Blue
Yarrow, Achillea Mille folium
Valerian, Official
Skullcap, Barbat
Basil, Marseille
Tarragon, Artemisia Redowski
Cumin, Cyminum
Thyme, English
Chamomile, German
Lavendar, Munstead
Watercress
Chives
Lemon Balm
Spearmint
Parsley, Italian Dark Green Organic
Shiso, Perilla Red
Basil, Lime Basil
Dill Fernleaf
Dill Mammoth
Cilantro
Nasturtium, Fordhook Favorites Mix
Gaillardia, Goblin
Hollyhock, Summer Carnival Mix

New Unopen

Radish, Cheriette
Kale, Dwarf Vates Blue Curled Scotch
Spinach, Bloomsdale
Luffa
Gourd, Dipper
Gourd, Hard-Shelled Birdhouse
Gourd, Snake
Carrot, Pot O'Gold Hybrid
Carrot, Cosmic Purple
Carrot, Carnival Blend
Brussel Sprouts, Long Island Improved
Cabbage, Earliana
Swiss Chard, Bright Lights
Squash, Goldentender
Squash, Butterstick Hybrid
Squash, Fordhook Zucchini
Squash, Bounty Hybrid
Tomato (Pole), Cherokee Purple
Tomato, Early Girl Hybrid
Tomato, Red Zebre
Tomato, Ground Cherry
Tomato, San Marzano
Cucumber, Marketmore 76
Winter Squash, Buttercup
Winter Squash, Early Acorn Hybrid
Onion, Granex Hybrid
Leek, Broad London
Kolhrabi, Early Purple Vienna
Pak Choi
Broccoli, Romanesco
Spinach, Red Malabar
Tomato, Speckled Roman
Tomato, Amish Paste
Tomato, Crnkovic Yugoslavian
Tomato, Abraham Lincoln
Tomato, Big Rainbow
Tomato, Tropic VFN
Watermelon, Moon & Stars Long Milky Way
Watermelon, Northstar Planet & Stars
Orach, Magenta Magic
Kale, Vates
Kale, Lacinato Dinosaur
Kale, Squire

Wheatgrass, Liquid Sunshine
Watercress
Parsley, Moss Curled
Borage
Sage, Broadleaf
Lemon Balm
Lemon Grass
Astragalus, Chinese Milk Vetch
Chives, Garlic
Epazote
Feverfew

Flowers

Baby's Breath
Cloud Grass
Blue Fescue Grass
Northern Sea Oats
Amaranthus, Love Lies Bleeding
Quinoa, Brightest Brilliant Rainbow
Nicotina, Indian Peace Pipe
Coreopsis, Early Sunrise
Cosmos, Early Sensation
Cosmos, Sensation Picotee
Mallow, Vulcan
Cobaca Scandens, Climber
Cardinal Climber
Coneflower Purple
Malva Zebrina
Geranium, Paintbox Mix
Lupine, Tutti Frutti Mix
Tritoma, Red Hot Poker Mix
Shasta Daisy, White Knight
Shasta Daisy, Silver Princess
Marigold, Scarlet Starlet
Marigold, Climax Hybrid Mix
Pot Marigold, Calendula Pacific Beauty Blend
Pot Marigold, Calendula
Wildflower, Native Mixture
Nasturium, Jewel Mixed Colors
Lemon Bergamot

Lettuce

Arugula Rocket, Organic
Buttercrunch
Mesclun Sweet Salad Mix
Gourment Blend
Mesclun Spicy Mix
Looseleaf Blend
Mesclun Salad Mix

New Unopen Lettuce

Mesclun Valentine
Amish Deer Tongue
Chinese Cabbage
Buttercrunch
Black Seeded Simpson
Mache Corn Salad Big Seeded
Romaine Rouge d' Hiver
Mustard, Gai Choy Red Giant
Butterhead
Lollo Rossa
Ruby

Empty

Squash, Dark Green Zucchini
Cabbage, Early Golden Acre
Cabbage, Copenhagen Market Early
Strawberry, Alpine Alexandria
Basil, Greek
Borage
Chamomile, German
Peppermint
Poppy, California Orange
Zinnia, Cut & Come Again Mix
Zinnia, Lilliput Mix
Ipomopsis, Hummingbird Mix
Sunflower, Evening Sun

Heels vs. Plantar Fasciitis

2009-09-24T12:48:00.004-05:00

On my vacation to Florida I developed Plantar Fasciitis or at least that is what I was diagnosed as having. I was prescribed and anti inflammatory and Loratab. Now, oddly enough they say people have the most pain in their heel and that men around the age of forty contract this condition. My dad was researching and researching things that could be wrong and how to help before I went to the doctor. One suggestion was to wear heels ... what? Wear heels for a foot problem? I don't normally wear heels although I own several. None of these heels I own were fortunate enough to travel with me so I wanted to find some at a good price. So I went out and bought some Wedges for $10 bucks, good deal. These actually did help! Could a forty year old male wear heels to alleviate the pain? I doubt it, at least not in public.

My friend FLWasteland recently sent me an article from MSNBC titled Do High Heels Empower or Oppress.

"Lea Goldman, features editor for Marie Claire magazine, told TODAY she’s utterly convinced that high heels can empower women at work. She said they help women look and feel confident and self-assured, and they also help them stand out from the pack."

This article got me to thinking, sex okay? Well, men have to look sharp in the business world. Now, what is considered looking sharp for a male? Tie? Pressed Shirt and Slacks? Polished Shoes? A Suit? Yes, yes, and yes. Are these things sexy? Well, I sure as hell think so. I have always loved a man in a suit. Not uniform, suit. :) So obviously there is sex appeal even for men in the business world. Being sexy, feeling sexy does boost a person confidence be it male or feel male. I don't think there is anything wrong with a woman feeling sexy, but it is important as to how she accomplishes this. The problem is, I feel, that others have a problem with a female expressing her sexuality? I love passion. A lot. In a Puritan nation Dancing has often been snubbed, this is something I am curious about concerning Muslims and Belly Dancing. But dancing is a form of sexuality, no? Sexuality and especially expressing it is empowerment, maybe that's why they don't want us to express it, we might become arrogant? I don't know but I love dancing and bright colors, red, purple, gold, etc. Yeap yeap.

What do you guys think about expressing sexuality? Now I want to go on a heel buying spree, despite the feeling that they may make me feel vulnerable in that I can't run from an aggressor. But I don't think Birkenstocks make running any easier either. I don't think heels or eyeliner for that matter are the sole possession of females either. :P

Becoming Learned

2009-09-24T11:42:00.002-05:00

Why are things they way they are? Surely there must be options or there certainly were options at one point in time, right?

These are questions I deal with daily. Right now it is the concept of Civic Virtue.

"The Politics of Aristotle viewed citizenship as consisting, not of political rights, but rather of political duties. Citizens were expected to put their private lives and interests aside and serve the state in accordance with duties defined by law."

Becomes

"It is not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."

"Civic virtue has historically been taught as a matter of chief concern in nations under republican forms of government, and societies with cities. When final decisions on public matters are made by a monarch, it is the monarch's virtues which influence those decisions. When a broader class of people become the decision makers, it is then their virtues which characterize the types of decisions made. This form of decision making is considered superior in determining what best protects the interests of the majority."

We live in a Republic, whether we like it or not. The US form of Republic means Representative Democracy, Electoral Ballots? As to Direct Democracy.

Because the US is not a monarchy but does have a broad class of people and therefore that broad class of people determine the civic virtues the US has, this is where the Christian Concern comes into play. It also shows how powerful the notion of being a Christian vs not being Muslim, Atheist, etc is. It takes ages to explain this to people or for them to admit it. There are some that admit to this knowing but I believe it is intrinsic within American Ideology.

This paragraph Civic Virtue During the Renaissance I think is very important. The notion of Education is present and the idea that my husband and I talk about concerning the temperament of citizens with an city. Having to use public transportation, accepting this law or that, going to the grocery store with people who are not like yourself, etc.

"An anecdote first published in 1906 has Benjamin Franklin answer a woman who asked him, "Well, Doctor, what have we got — a Republic or a Monarchy?" He responded: "A Republic, if you can keep it." [1] The current use for this quotation is to bolster with Franklin's authority the opinion that republics require the cultivation of specific political beliefs, interests, and habits among their citizens, and that if those habits are not cultivated, they are in danger of falling back into some sort of authoritarian rule, such as a monarchy."

You must be cultivated. Like a plot of land or vegetable. Do you understand this? This is something that I wrestle with along with the notion of Individualism. I generally think it is obnoxious for anyone to think they are an individual.

"In a monarchy, people might be restrained by force to submit their own interests to their government's. In a republic, by contrast, people must be persuaded to submit their own interests to the government, and this voluntary submission constituted the eighteenth century's notion of civic virtue. In the absence of such persuasion, the authority of the government would collapse, and tyranny or anarchy were imminent."

I believe that I have come to the conclusion that I am currently incivility; Latin incivilis, meaning "not of a citizen".

Whip It

2009-09-23T21:55:00.001-05:00

This made me so happy it brought TEARS to my eyes.

Lasagna Yum!

2009-09-23T12:48:00.003-05:00

I made a Lasagna right before I left for Florida, on my sister's suggestion when told "I don't know what I am going to do with all this freaking produce!"

But, as with most things that I make and think are delish, I just make it. From my head n sheeit. Let's see if I can remember the recipe.

2 cans of tomato sauce, you have to "Doctor" this stuff.
- What I do with pasta sauce is add vinegar, olive oil (taste) and then go from there adding more vinegar or olive oil if needed then I add cayenne, nutmeg, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, sugar, and whatever else I think would be tasty. I think I have tried curry and wasn't impressed. But make the sauce first, in a large pot of course because it is 2 cans and you are adding to it.

1 sausage tube roll of turkey sausage
1 spaghetti squash
2 to 3 zucchinis
mushrooms
lasagna noodles, not the no cook ones
large casserole dish
cheese, I used the colby jack that I always have because I didn't have any mozz defrosted
aluminum foil
Italian herbs, basil, oregano, salt and pepper
And something that I can't remember is whether or not I put salsa in the tomato sauce

I cooked the spaghetti squash first, the night before to be exact. I cooked the squash exactly as the sticker that came on the squash said. We had never had it and I thought it would be "fun" It was weird. Crunchy noodles. If you have never cooked a spaghetti squash the experience after they come out of the oven is interesting. Take a fork and gently start pulling the threads of the squash, this is what you put into a bowl for the lasagna.

So, you got your sauce and your spaghetti squash cooked. Now we cooked the sausage.
Empty the whole tube into a large pan and add the "Italian Herbs" cook thoroughly and diced up with a spatula.

While you are cooking the sausage, slice up the zucchini and mushrooms. After the sausage is done remove from pan and cook the zucchini and mushrooms in the sausage flavored pan. Not over cooked though just sauteed.

While the zuchs and mushrooms are cooking cook the noodles as on box, I make sure they are completely done because I have made the al dente before and the noodles were too crunchy esp after the oven experience. Rinse noodles with cold water and I lay them out flat on a baking sheet.

Sausage cooked (check)
Sauce cooked (check)
Spaghetti Squash cooked (check)
Noodles cooked (check)
Zucchini and Mushrooms cooked (check)

Now we construct our masterpiece.

Get a good spoon out and "ladle" some sauce onto the bottom of the casserole dish. Layer noodles on top of sauce. Then add some zucchini and mushrooms, add some sausage on top of that then sauce then more noodles. Next add shredded spaghetti squash more sausage and if you have any leftover zucchini and mushrooms throw those on top, add more sauce, then last layer of noodles plus some more sauce. Put shredded cheese on top of last noodle layer. Cover with foil. Place in oven. Cook for about 20 minutes and check to see if everything is bubbling. If it is remove foil put back in oven and cook for about another 10 to 15 minutes depending on how you like your cheese (barely melted or crispy).

That's it. Very tasty. I froze most of mine and I think it actually tasted better when I thawed some and cooked it in our gifted toaster oven. You may have to adjust the ingredients depending on the size of your casserole dish. You could also add some Eggplant to this, that would probably be tasty too.

I think that's it. Let me know of your successes and failures please. :)

Living Your Life While Babysitting? Yeah Right.

2009-07-31T11:28:00.002-05:00

I really wish I had a comrade to go do things with my son. I thought about walking him to the local park to play in the wading pool but seriously. The other day he was watering the garden and there are stone pavers out there, yeah he slipped in fell. I just can deal with that crap. Thinking my kid is going to bust his head open. I tried putting swim pull ups on him he freaked out and then even more so when I put the swim shorts over them. Then if you take him somewhere to do something with him or something nice for him, he freaks out. He would love to go to the zoo probably and spend like 3 hours. That is 3 hours where I would have to be completely focused on him. Not looking at anything else but making sure he doesn't run off with another kid or climb in and ask a snow leopard to adopt him. Can't do crafts either. He hates glue, paints, you name it. When he plays in the water he has a fit if his metal matchbox airplane gets went. What to do. Oh well. I wish he could spend the days with his Grandpa.

Oh Bob.

2009-07-31T10:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was spent research jobs. Not just jobs to apply for, as though those exist. But salaries, wages, cities, learning skills. What I found was that Occupational Therapist and Physical Therapist get paid well and have job opportunities. Something else was a Living Wage Calculator

Living wage is a term used to describe the minimum hourly wage necessary for a person to enter the wealthy or affluent range.

History Of

I also found that there is probably no way in hell that I am going to get to go back home. Other parts of the country just pay people more and have more jobs to offer. No Boiled Peanuts for me. My husband was born in Germany and graduated in New Jersey, he knows better than and is not comfortable with the poorness in the South.

One thing that I keep thinking about is having a business. I know that having your own business is the American dream, probably more so than other fictionalities. Right now I am on the otherside, I want to be an employee. But can you imagine being an employer? People are a pain in the ass. All the negotiating and competition, trying to find decent employees while taking care of/hiring everyone you know?

I have always known the South is considered poor (and many other things). I grew up in the south, I was born in the south, my entire family is from the south (except my mother, technically, she was born in Chicago and lived there for 13 years). I just never thought that their way of life, being poor, would not be acceptable. I know there are rich folks in the south. I guess they are all either pilots, doctors, lawyers, or work for Coco Cola.

My Captian. My Captian. Right?

2009-07-28T02:53:00.000-05:00

Abraham Famine.

2009-07-27T05:22:00.005-05:00

"The Book of Genesis traces the beginning (sometimes called pre-history) of the Israelites, who constituted ancient Israel and Judah, to three patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (who was also known as Israel). According to that source, Abraham was a nomadic leader who came from Mesopotamia and settled in Canaan, but continued to live a nomadic lifestyle. He stayed in the land for the rest of his life except for a short period when famine forced him to go to Egypt."

Pre-History of Israel

Firstly, I have wondered how or when the Jews went into/came into Egypt. Secondly, I (personally) find it interesting that Abraham was forced into Egypt from famine. And where do you think modern day approaches of agriculture came?

Something I have learned through living is that History NEVER stops impacting the present.

Perennials By Blooming Period March & April

2009-07-15T20:15:00.002-05:00

All information from University of Illinois Extension: Gardening with Perennials. All I did was find photos of these plants and wikipedia information about them.

Hopefully, I will do the same for the rest of the list. All photos that do not have individual links stating were they were retrived were taken from Wikipedia.

March

Winter Aconite–Eranthis hyemalis

Myrtle Spurge–Euphorbia myrsinites
Myrtle Spurge–Euphorbia myrsinites Image from: here.

Snowdrops–Galanthus nivalis

Christmas Rose–Helleborus niger

Lenten Rose–Helleborus orientalis from here.

Bloodroot–Sanguinaria canadensis

Spring Beauty–Claytonia virginica
Spring Beauty–Claytonia virginica Image From: here.

April

Bugleweed–Ajuga reptans
Bugleweed–Ajuga reptans Image from: here.

Basket of Gold–Aurinia saxatilis

Pasque Flower–Pulsatilla vulgaris

Rock Cress–Arabis caucasica

Purple Rockcress–Aubretia deltoidea from: here.

Glory-of-the-Snow–Chionodoxa luciliae

Old-fashioned Bleeding Heart–Dicentra spectabilis

Fringed bleeding Heart–Dicentra eximia

Candytuft–Iberis sempervirens

Netted Iris–Iris reticulata

Grape Hyacinth–Muscari armeniacum, M. botryoides

Creeping Phlox–Phlox subulata

Squill–Scilla siberica

Tulip

Narcissus

Virginia Bluebells–Mertensia virginica

Jack-in-the-Pulpit–Arisaema triphyllum

Marsh Marigold–Caltha palustris

Trout Lily–Erythronium americanum

Prairie Smoke–Geum triflorum

Me vs. Dell

2009-07-15T12:44:00.001-05:00

Iomega 250GB USB 2.0 eGo II Portable Hard Drive - Midnight Blue, we paid $103.99.

Portable CD/DVD-RW Drive with DVD Playback Software, we paid $84.99.

This was all bought for a Inspiron Mini 9, that Dell.com says is no longer available. But it basically looks like this

Dell's help/customer service is provided by Indians, dot not feather (that would be pretty cool if it was the feather and not dot), are there to provided excellence assistance. Assistance to make you call back and forth to different "offices" were you will receive no help, no answers.

I dislike Dell. I dislike Dell a lot. That DVD Writer and that Hard drive? Neither work, they've never worked. I forked over 200 bucks (roughly) to those jerks. Yeah. Not to mention this was all ordered around 0ct 26,2008. To be delivered about a month to a month and a half later.

I planted these for my kid.

2009-07-14T16:19:00.001-05:00

So this seems to be the norm with my sunflowers

And what causes this?

This little Asshole.

Strauzia longipennis (Sunflower Maggot Fly)

Is there a way to kill? Not that I have found. They live in the soil, climb through the damn stalk! Argh

Click on link to see more images of what this little jerk does.

Time to Go Bowling

2009-07-14T10:29:00.002-05:00

Wow!

The "reviews" are actually pretty funny.

I want to go home too.

2009-07-10T00:28:00.000-05:00

Fried Green Tomatoes

From here with recipe (a recipe I think I am going to use, hopefully).

Sweet Tea

From here

Collard Greens

From Here

Oysters Rockefeller

From Here

Blue Bell Creameries

From Here

Publix

From Here

Florida Avocados

From Here

Jaffa, Ramen, Broccoli, Bananas, Fagor, & Salt

2009-07-09T19:29:00.002-05:00

The nasty ass geletain crap inside a Jaffa. My opinion: Gross.

Bad Ramen. Awesome Ghetto Asian font though.

Bought a lot of Broccoli, $1 a head!!! It's like being in Thailand. These babies are getting blanched and going in the freezer.

See those Bananas? Banana Pudding, Banana Bread, and Smoothies/Yogurt/Pancakes. Happiness, Dole said so in the Hy-Vee ad. :)

My little Salt Lamp (love this thing). And our new Fagor Rice Cooker, Pressure Cooker, Crockpot. That's right folks, this little guy does all three!

Fall Garden Iowa 09?

2009-07-09T18:57:00.002-05:00

Kohlrabi
Kale
Beets
Collards
Lettuce
Chard
Spinach

That's about what I am planning to plant on July 15 ... :) I'm such a good little Midwestern American. Never had me no fall garden. Pretty excited about that.

Delicious Rhubarb Pie!

2009-07-09T15:14:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago I made two Rhubarb pies.

These were so tasty! I am making some more. The only thing is the tartness burns your tongue.

I change/cheated with the recipe a bit, I used Jiffy pie crust mix. I love Jiffy brand! :)

Have any of you tried out the new Windows Live downloads? I have been switching between Picasa and the Windows Live Photo Gallery. I don't really know how to use the Windows Photo Gallery. I am considering using the Windows Space because they are offering 25GBs of space to Google's 1GB. I don't really want to though because Google was the one that pushed stingy Microsoft to up the space they offered with their Hotmail accounts.

Ikea Purchases

2009-07-03T22:33:00.002-05:00

Blanket

Rug

2 Pillows

Fabric

6 Bookcases

3 Storage Bins

These are some other things that I was suppose to buy.

There was something that I noticed while spending my day at Ikea, some things that Ikea sells are more expensive in the store than if you buy them online. For instance, I believe those bookcases (Besta) are listed as $60 online in the store they are $90. Granted the shipping is outrageous.

My Outdoors Part I

2009-06-25T17:27:00.003-05:00

Some Lillies that the Homeowner planted.

My Chamomile, that the flowers have all but fallen off because I don't know how to harvest them/when to.

My Pink Gerbana Daisies.

My Red Gerbana Daisies. As you can tell my camera doesn't enjoy red.

Purple Petunia. I also have Pink ones. These guys really appreciate the warmth this month is providing. Planted these along with Geraniums with the Pepper plants.

My precious little Wormwood. Love this plant. So pretty, soft, and deters animals, also a nerve agent.

First Borage flower. Very proud of this, although Borage is relatively easy to grow. Use this as "my first line of defense."

Some weird mushrooms I dug up.

An open pod, what the mushroom looks like when it is beginning to sprout.

Oh the Joy, Time, and Expense of Gardening in Iowa.

2009-06-25T17:06:00.002-05:00

This is the wagon I used to drag home my poor, pitiful plants. This mud/water slush is from their roots draining through the colander on the ride back to my house.

As you can see the leaves have turned purple. This is from my lack of adding phosphate to the soil.

My lone Echinecea plant, that I need to go pluck from the ground because not even this can survive the conditions in my bed.

My poor,poor rhubarb :'(

And this, my friends, is my bed.

Sludge close up.

Granted, I did dig those holes in the ground. The *idea* that I had was that I would dig out the soil that was in the bed, let it dry, then mix it with compost and manure. There is only about a foot of soil that the plants can actually push through. Underneath? There is no way a plant could penitrate that "dirt" (clay). I have some more pictures of what we did yesterday, dug a trench to drain the water and place a french drain in the middle of the bed.

But I can actually garden! And for the most part the garden I have in back of my house is doing well.

This is my spinach harvest. We have also gotten lots of kale and chard from the back.

Oh Anthony. Yum.

2009-06-23T12:23:00.005-05:00

I have a HUGE crush on Anthony Bourdain. It is so strange. What's even weirder is he reminds me of my husband! Ha. The one "thing" I can have that isn't real and I pick someone who looks and behaves/thinks/jokes like my husband. So weird. Sometimes he can be annoying though. It seems like he tries so hard to keep up this "image" he has for himself. Yesterday they aired the Saudi Arabian episode which was cool cause 1. Anthony was wearing a sports coat, yum. 2. You got to see his professional behaviour. Dude's a hard ass.

What Not to Wear.

2009-06-12T20:14:00.001-05:00

When I first got tv, after 4 years of not having, I watched (basically) nothing but WNTW. But Jesus. Stacey? She tries to dress EVERYONE like HER! Not that she doesn't dress nice, but she dresses nice for her. Not everyone needs to look like her.

2009-06-12T20:07:00.003-05:00

Okay, first. I am not an anthropologist. I am married to an immigrant. Wtf?

Walmart. Seriously. I have 2 shirts to return there and I hope to never ever ever shop there again. I have a lot more to say that I think about this but whatever, no one ever wants to talk about it and then if you do talk about it and don't say "wow, I just love everyone and think everyone is right." someone comes out of basically no where and yells at you, tells you how stupid you are etc.

But what makes someone this or that? That they know the culture? Most people who state they are this or that can't even speak the language let alone cook the food. Instead of I am blah - american or that I am a blah how about the word ancestor? My ancestors were this or my ancestors were that? Isn't thinking that you are this or that in and of its self racist?

I'm tired of hyphens. I am tired of people being rude to me just because I am white and speak english. And you know what? I shop at "ethnic stores" and those people are ALWAYS soooo polite, humble, considerate, etc. What the hell is it about Wal Mart? I have always hated thinking I am "better" than other people. I just hate that. But between the hispanics, muslims, indians, white folks who eat a pack of meat patties and ride shippong carts. I can't take it. It isn't that I want to be around white people. I have generally strongly disliked white people and thought they were boring. But this is getting highly ridiculous.

Heirloom Seed Sources I

2009-06-12T13:13:00.003-05:00

abundantlifeseeds.com
artisticgardens.com
auntmarthasgarden.com
rareseeds.com
bountifulgardens.org
burpee.com
canyoncreeknursery.com
colonialwilliamsburg.org
comstockferre.com
cooksgarden.com
enscseeds.com
gardenimport.com (Sutton's Seeds)
historyyoucaneat.org
goodseedco.net
gourmetgardener.com
heirloomseeds.com
highmowingseeds.com
JLHudsonsees.net
humeseeds.com
monticello.org
johnnyseeds.com
landisvalleymuseum.org
landrethseeds.com
mountvernon.org
nativeseeds.org
naturalgardening.com
nicholsgardennursery.com
oldsalem.org
osv.org
parkseed.com
peppergal.com
superseeds.com/home.htm
plantsofthesouthwest.com
reimerseeds.com
reneesgarden.com
walkinginplace.org/seeds
roherseeds.com
sandhillpreservation.com
kitchengardenseeds.com
seedsavers.org
seedsofchange.com
seeds.ca/en.php
seedstrust.com
seedsweastgardenseeds.com
selectseeds.com
skyfiregardenseeds.com/
virtual.clemson.edu/groups/seed/index.htm
southernexposure.com
uga.edu/ebl/ssl/
harrietbeecherstowecenter.org
territorial-seed.com
seeds.thompson-morgan.com/us
tomatogrowers.com
underwoodgardens.com
vermontbean.com
victoryseeds.com

Water Recipe

2009-06-08T14:46:00.002-05:00

Lemon Water

1 gallon cold water

2-3 slices fresh lemon

2-3 slices cucumbers

Place all the ingredients into a pitcher and serve.
For a stronger taste, let the water sit in your refrigerator for an hour prior to serving.

Cheap eats

2009-06-08T14:20:00.005-05:00

Moms, married women are always asking about cheap eats.

Here you go.

Lentil Tacos (delicious!)
Lentil Soup
Enchiladas, pork, pinto/refried beans, black beans, ground beef, lentil, or if you want to get fancy chicken.
Lasagna
Hamburgers
Spaghetti
Nachos
Stir Frys, including Pad Thai
Burritos (have made all kinds, many times.
Baked Ziti
Ratatouille (sp) isn't all that expensive to make and is healthy and tasty.

There is a "trick" to this. If you think of any "3rd world country" and look at what the mainly eat, it is probably going to be cheap. Granted, any of these dishes can be fancied up; meaning become exspensive. I am betting this is what the majority of Ameirca eats .. you know even though they aren't a third world country.

My family's main dinner (read ever week) is pinto beans, fried taters, and collard greens. By family, I mean the one I originated from not the one I have made.

2009-06-08T11:16:00.003-05:00

I have a 2 year old son. He can spend all day either playing with his train set or playing in the water I load up in the sink. He still squawks, shrieks whatever you want to call it. The sound is grating. This week he is with me, the daycare providers are off this week. And the speech therapy people don't come back to visit until sometime in July.

And all I want to do is knit and crochet. I still have that huge afghan/blanket to finish and I have to work on some grocery bags. Trying to get ANYTHING done with the child is around is near impossible. Seriously, he will hold my hand, walk me into his room then he just wants me to sit and watch him play.

Best Book EVAR!

2009-06-06T15:09:00.001-05:00

I just bought what, seriously, has to be the best book ever.

I Like You: Hospitality Under the Influence

Go ahead, add it to your wishlist.

Organic Vegetable Gardening/Companion Planting - Des Moines, Iowa

2009-06-06T12:21:00.005-05:00

List of books I definitely suggest the Organic Gardener owner, now mind you this is not specific to the Organic Gardener. I believe these books are good, useful to any gardener.

Got a pest problem? Leaves turning a color and you don't know why? Want to learn about organic fertilizers and pesticides?

The Organic Gardener's Handbook of Natural Insect and Disease Control
Google Preview

This book is wonderful! Esp for the Northern US grower (the author is in the same Zone number). Covers just about everything you would want to know about veggie gardening. This book was shown to me by a fellow community gardener.

The Vegetable Gardener's Bible

Well, this book is just fantastic. At first I didn't like it. But that's because I hadn't read the book nor was I actively gardening. Go to any garden forum and I guarantee this book will be listed at least once with several others agreeing that, yes you should own this book. The author is a companion plant master.

Carrots Love Tomatoes

This book is highly pratical, for the most part. My husband really enjoyed this book. As soon as we bought it he read it cover to cover in about 2 days.

Square Foot Gardening
Google Book Preview

If I had it to do over again I would have planted Green Manure Crops in my community garden plot, just to set everything straight in my bed and so I would have a better idea about what I was dealing with in the soil. I plan on planting these crops during the fall garden closing down period.

Green Manure Crop Examples: Alfalfa, Red/White Clover, Legumes.

Another link because I just found it and I love Mother Earth News, Mother Earth News Organic Gardening Page

Now, I need to enlist the help of my husband to correct my community garden project. I need trenches dug and mounds built. Because you see, there isn't good drainage at the garden location. Not only that but the dirt is high in clay content, hence the poor drainage. My particular plot has left over chives (from the previous garden spot owner) on one side and the other side has the pipe that runs to one of the many hoses offered in the community garden. I have planted about 9 pepper plants in my garden plot. My poor peppers first received winter burn ... and now they just sit. This has frustrated me to no end. But! I think I figured out why. The ground here in Iowa has not gotten warm enough! Iowa Soil Temp Maps.

2009-06-03T00:50:00.002-05:00

All except the Ligularia ‘The Rocket’ I see nothing but these freaking plants here in Iowa. Ahhh.

He's Just Not That Into You is very, very disappointing.

Generally speaking, if a video cover has several different people on the cover I am not going to like the movie.

Monsanto & Obama's Food Safety Working Group Update Alert

2009-06-01T05:21:00.001-05:00

If you do not want corporate lobbyists from Monsanto involved in running the proposed Food Safety Administration, please read the sample letter at end of blog.

There is a link where you can send the letter to Secretary Vilsack.

Weeds: Noxious & Invasive

2009-06-01T05:19:00.001-05:00

What is a noxious weed?

The term "weed" means different things to different people. In the broadest sense, it is any plant growing where it is not wanted. Weeds can be native or non-native, invasive or non invasive, and noxious or not noxious. Legally, a noxious weed is any plant designated by a Federal, State or county government as injurious to public health, agriculture, recreation, wildlife or property. (Sheley, Petroff, and Borman,1999) A noxious weed is also commonly defined as a plant that grows out of place (i.e. a rose can be a weed in a wheat field) and is "competitive, persistent, and pernicious." (James, et al, 1991).

Are invasive plants the same as noxious weeds?

No. Invasive plants include not only noxious weeds, but also other plants that are not native to this country. The BLM considers plants invasive if they have been introduced into an environment where they did not evolve. As a result, they usually have no natural enemies to limit their reproduction and spread (Westbrooks, 1998). Some invasive plants can produce significant changes to vegetation, composition, structure, or ecosystem function. (Cronk and Fuller, 1995).

Bureau of Land Management

The Coolest People You'll Never Met. How do you feel about that?

2009-05-29T01:03:00.002-05:00

I watched a wonderful documentary of sorts, more like a message on Global Spirit

"The World Commission seeks to inspire consciousness of the wholeness of the human family and the sacred tapestry of all life."

The message appeared on Link TV
"Television Without Borders"

The people who delivered this message were The Kogi Indians of Columbia: 'The Heart of the World'

These are probably the coolest people I will never met. At least they wanted to talk to us. I appreciate that.

A Life Cycle - Rhubarb

2009-05-29T00:15:00.001-05:00

Rhubarb Tips
Originally uploaded by My Little Chickadee

Rhubarb maximus...or the after effects of watering with comfrey 'tea'...
Originally uploaded by Green Wellies

the first rhubarb from our garden
Originally uploaded by shauna | glutenfreegirl

pistachio, rhubarb, strawberry and white chocolate
Originally uploaded by cannelle-vanille

You're not a boy.

2009-05-26T18:12:00.003-05:00

Your face is too long, oblong.

That is what my father told me.

You are too loud.

Uncle Connie, my drunk Uncle.

I was called that, my childhood nickname.

Because I was too loud.

You have a Mexican father.

You mother is Russian, Polish.

A Rocket Scientist.

A way to block out something I had said.

Something I had read in a book,

was spoken. In an "Uncle Connie" loudness.

My second toe, on both feet, is weird.

My parents came to visit.

None of these things were address.

Nothing that I feel about them being my parents

and where I am now.

They, from my perspective, are (in part) responsible for me.

Who I am, how I feel about myself, and what I have become.

That is probably a Rocket Scientist theory.

Everyday I get dressed for work, I feel like I am attending a funeral.

2009-05-26T17:38:00.002-05:00

I think about clothes/fashion alot. Specifically, how they relate to Me. I am 28, have a 2 year old, am "taken," etc. How can I feel sexy and not foolish with ALLLLLL that weight of social stigmas? Hmm, haven't figured it out yet. But even when I put something on that I think is fun, sexy I feel foolish. As though other people would be laughing at me or thinking I should be a stripper instead of a married mom. But if I don't wear that crap I am a MOM, just a MOM. Mom on the go, one of the famous looks catered for moms. Why can't we be hot and slutty looking just not let other women's husband/boyfriends hit on us etc to gain confidence? Whatever, do you get where I am coming from? I still want sex and I don't feel as though I am old enough to have given up but I don't want to cry after I have sex, Jesus Christ that's freaking stupid. This whole female - male thing angers me to no end, but it isn't socially appropriate to talk about it.

TLC is the freaking Brady Bunch channel!

SCD Giveaway! Anahata Katkin Print.

2009-05-08T20:26:00.002-05:00

Socially Conscious Darling is having an Anahata Katkin print giveaway! How can you obtain this print? Well, click on the above link and find out how to enter!

A Whole New Meaning to April Showers

2009-04-28T14:13:00.002-05:00

Iowans and I am pretty sure other Midwestern states sump pumps have been running nonstop the past few days. From what Weather.com says they aren't going to get a break. Lots of consistant rain.

It is interesting, if you go outside and sit (quietly) you can hear the ground absorbing the water.

Even though my yard resembled a rice paddy field I took some photos of what I have been up to and after I get them loaded and edited will I will post them.

Image Source: City of New Brighton Sump Pump Inspection Program

Target Clothes - Sale - About $70

2009-04-28T12:36:00.004-05:00

Mossimo Copper Metallic Viviana Pumps

Women's Mossimo Versie Peep Toe Pumps Claret Snake

Merona Black Patent Monica Flats

Merona Ebony Belted Jacket

Xhilaration Ebony Braided Batwing Tunic

Xhilaration Ebony 3/4 Sleeve with Waist Shirring

Black's probably not the best summer color but works for evening. I don't do prints although I am a crazy pant print person and I like skirts with prints. I dislike printed shirts, to me those look cheap and tacky ... So excited about the purple snake print shoes! Now I want a turquoise, greenish color pair too.

2009-04-20T11:33:00.002-05:00

Do you think if I had fertility treatments I could make money off the public? It would have to be fertility treatments though. I couldn't do it the old fashion way, 7 babies 7 daddies and get welfare (which is "the people's money"). That's unacceptable but fertility treatments with multiples, a reality show, books, blogs, photos, etc perfectly okay.

2009-04-16T14:26:00.003-05:00

I am so stressed out ... then I receive my Nelnet form. Great. My kid is speech delayed, barely interacts with anyone other than me including his father. So I failed there not to mention that I totally have no background in early childhood development, nutrition, and I can not interact with other children or their parents meaning that his play buddies equals zero. My husband, the only person I know here thinks very little of me. I have no way of getting out. Yet, I am expected to just go out and find a job as though I were a single mom. Seriously, a single mom who just moves off to some random place like Wyoming? Wtf. My haircut sucks, I need jaw surgery, I have to go back to the gyno to see if I need another leep or if I have developed cancer. We do not own a home yet my husband wants to build houses for other people. I only wanted one thing in life, one thing and that was a degree. I was doing so well! a 3.5 even after being on suspension. There is more "whining" but even that exhaust me and depresses me. And now Ladies and Gentlemen I have to go change a crap diaper. Hopefully, my little sunshine won't stick his fingers around his butt.

Family Relations

2009-03-27T12:55:00.002-06:00

The other day my husband and I got into an awful fight, this is the third one (?) we've had since living here. During this one my DH told me what he really thought, about freakin time. He said I don't do anything. Luckily my sister was there (by way of phone) to tell me her ex-husband had said the same to her. She responded a little different than I did. She pulled all the clothes out of the washer and dryer onto the floor and tipped a soup she was making for dinner onto the floor. While this was messy I can not lie that I was proud of her, even though it happened a long time ago and I highly doubt she needs me to be proud of her.

So, I have been dealing with this concept. The concept that the person I love, am married to, and who is suppose to be my best friend thinks I don't do anything.

God Bless the Grumpy Postman

2009-03-26T22:42:00.003-06:00

Socially Conscious Darling sent me a package that I received a few days ago but haven't had time to post.

First these were in there

Some bitchin' Gucci glasses. These are the most expensive, nicest sunglasses I have ever owned. Which means, I am afraid to wear them. Because I have a tendency to scratch, break, loose anything fragile and nice.

She also sent some b-day gifts for my DS

(Click on the images for larger photos)

I forgot to say Thank you! When I spoke to her on the phone because I was so excited talking to her, an adult and esp an adult that I like. Plus she sent a note and I read it as though she were there talking to me. It took about 3 days for me to realize that I had not spoken to her about the gifts but read the note.

2009-03-19T17:42:00.003-06:00

Current favorite video and song

best line sure he thinks you're fun and stuff ... but does he know how to wind you up?

I hate people who can't laugh at themselves. That really says a lot about them, not being able to find humor in their most precious object, themself.

Subdivide - Greg Keeler

2009-03-17T16:24:00.001-06:00

TRASH FISH
© Greg Keeler 1994

Subdivide

Ten acre plot won't get a glance.
Sells great when it's called a ranch.
You decorate Montana sod
With architecture from Cape Cod.
Let's checker-board the mountain side.
Come on, Gal, let's subdivide.

Let's sell the whole damned ranch right now.
Can't make nothin' raisin' cows.
Good-bye Circle Double Bar.
Hello, cowboy movie star.
Mama's sick and Daddy's died.
So come on, Gal, let's subdivide.

A mountain meadow don't mean much.
Condos add that special touch.
They pay hard cash for mountain air,
'Specially with a golf course there,
And restaurants and pony rides.
So come on, Gal, let's subdivide.

When you look down from outer space,
Something's on that Last Best Place.
It splits and grows and spreads and swells
Like subdividing cancer cells.
No medicine can turn this tide.
So come on, Gal, let's subdivide.

Greg's Website

2009-03-12T15:50:00.002-06:00

I must be the happiest little button on the internet right now.

I am getting T.V but not just any T.V. Nope. I'm getting FSTV! Signed up for Dish. And of course I am getting "screwed" because I am Sub Prime. But Yeah Cspan bitching and Injustice blogs here we come!

2009-03-09T03:31:00.000-06:00

WTH you have nutrition plus diet. How am I not suppose to eat a certain amount of calories per day yet get all my nutrition without just taking vitamins? And what is the take on that kind of lifestyle? People say you should eat the food rather than just taking the vitamins, right?

Online Reviews

2009-03-06T14:46:00.001-06:00

My Dad is Mister Cheapsake, and proud of it. He asked me one day about leaving reviews, something he takes very seriously. He said "Do you only leave bad reviews? Like, if you are dissatisfies with a product or service?" And I think I said "Yes, Mostly"

First of all, I hate the whole review thing. Esp when it's forced on your to do so. Ever shop from Etsy?

But now I am seeing and understanding the importance of leaving reviews more and more. If I buy something and I am happy with it, I have become to feel more compelled to tell other people I am happy with a product or service. Not just if I am unhappy with a product or service. But with leaving reviews, if you as the buyer also receive reviews (such as Etsy or Ebay) what is your responsibility as the buyer? I think it is to pay for the order. If you pay for the order shouldn't you receive a positive review? I understand that there can be a retort if you complain about something but essentially as a buyer if you pay promptly your portion of the deal is complete, correct?

I ask this because I get really annoyed when a seller doesn't leave a review for me until I have left them a review.

And something else that bothers me and I find amusing is, it's always a LOT easier to fork over money for something than it is to return it!

Coffee, Coffee, Coffee! Giveaway!

2009-03-04T13:42:00.004-06:00

Socially Conscious Darling is having a jitter giveaway! That's right, not comfortable doing coke? Rebull taste nasty? Well she is offering up some delicious coffee! All you have to do is tell her what your favorite thing is to indulge in.

Go Here to Comment. Closes Monday: March 09,2009.

yes the title is a Gilmore Reference :)

Google Authors: Matt Padilla

2009-03-02T13:07:00.000-06:00

Chain of Blame

List: Things I Need

2009-03-01T20:35:00.003-06:00

Work Clothes (Ann Taylor)
Work Shoes (Black Boots & Booties/Ankle Boots)
Stockings
Dresser for Lucas
Clothes for Lucas
Bed for Lucas
Lamp(s) for Basement
Lamp for Lucas
Treadmill
Exercise Bike
Jump Rope
New Running Shoes
Reflective Vest
Supportive Sports Bra
Underwire Bras

It's Wrong To ... ?

2009-03-01T19:45:00.002-06:00

I feel like a single parent, ALL THE FREAKING TIME!!! Seriously. The only difference is I am not waiting in line for a government house or living with my parents, or maybe renting a mobile home.

Yesterday DH spent 12 hours! doing school work. Today? I think about 7 hours. Yeah. So when so I do my school work? Hmm.

I think I am going to send him out for Wine, Milk, and Eggs. :/

I don't know if I will be in Iowa next year.

2009-02-28T15:44:00.000-06:00

I am so depressed. This seriously sucks. The sun is shining but it's too cold to go outside :'( I really want to go for a walk, my body really needs that. It will drop 20 to 30 degrees in one hour here. I looked at the thermometer and it said 50 then I went back about an hour later and now the thermometer said 20.

2009-02-28T02:57:00.003-06:00

So apparently my drinking about 3 beers a night does not help in weightloss. The beer I prefer is Amberbock. Tonight I looked up the amount of calories in Amberbock and 166 calories per bottle. But it's oh so yummy. 498 calories. Yeap.

I was also thinking that I need to change what and how I eat. I am going to try for 1000 calories a day ... yeah. I used to do that but I don't know now, I really like cheese now. Yeah. Cream Cheese, Cheesecake, Just Plain Cheese, & Sour Cream.

When I was really young I ate Cream of Wheat (measured out) with Maple Syrup and Pecans for breakfast. For lunch I think I ate Tomato soup and I can't remember what was for dinner. The reason I ate like this is I would eat an entire row of oreos in one sitting!

So, no sausage! From now on I think more veggies, tofu, yogurt smoothies, oatmeal. I will probably eat more but it should overall be better for me. That's the plan. Let's see if I can do it!

Manage Yourself - shit

2009-02-26T01:39:00.002-06:00

I mean, if you're into downloading programs and want pretties.

Internet Connectability Issues

2009-02-26T00:34:00.001-06:00

Firefox 3 Sucks yeap. That about says it all. I can't even get to the F^&^&^%*^*$%^&cking internet now! Hooray!

Why do people use Skype?

2009-02-24T18:21:00.002-06:00

There is something I am very against although I too suffer from it, downloading more software when you have something already installed that will do what you are installing a new program to do!

Skype.

I have known about this product for a while and I have asked, Why is this necessary? MSN and AOL (as far as I know) will do the exact same thing. Is this a PC user who wants to be a MAC user kind of thing? Because you know Linux and MAC users always bitch about this or that, kind of like Vegetarians. Do MAC and Linux users make their tidbits Windows/PC user friendly? or is that some pathetic way to achieve an identity because there really isn't a way. Well there is the religion aspect, but they've already denied that because Hello they are different! They have read, and yes, you are right they do in fact own the C.S Lewis collection but that, that doesn't make the Christian! Duh. You stupid stereotyper! And no. No I do not get my friends because I stereotype! Are you crazy!? OMG you like Jimmy Buffet?! Me too. Right. K Nevermind.

/tangent /rant etc

Toddler Room

2009-02-22T18:36:00.003-06:00

I, me (mom), am looking to update my toddler's bedroom. Right now we have a crib that changes to suit the baby (forget what those are called), changing table, and a crappy dresser. Well, was it purchased at Wal Mart? Why yes it was.

I have looked on Craigslist for dressers for me, my husband, and for toddler but I can not find anything! Argh.

This is the style I am looking at for Baby Lucas.

Sumberland Diego Collection Chest

Posting of other products I am seeking later. :(

2009-02-22T17:32:00.000-06:00

The Most Misogynistic Mix Ever
Requested by: blake "bitch take my seed" james

Compiled by: daveob

01. NWA - "Findum, Fuckum & Flee" (Niggaz4life)
02. NWA - "She Swallowed It" (Niggaz4life)
03. GG Allin - "I’m Gonna Rape You" (Eat My Fuc)
04. The Mentors - "All Women Are Insane" (To The Max)
05. Necro - "Who’s Ya Daddy?" (The Sexorcist)
06. Necro- "You Bitches Love To Get Fucked In The Ass" (The Sexorcist)
07. GBH - "Slut" (City Baby Attacked By Rats)
08. 2 Live Crew - "Freak Ho" (The Real One)
09. Snoop Dogg - "Ain’t No Fun (If The Homies Can’t Have None) (Doggystyle)
10. Anal Cunt -"The Only Reason Men Talk To You Is Because They Want To Get Laid, You Stupid Fucking Cunt (It Just Gets Worse)
11. Cannibal Corpse - "Fucked With A Knife" (The Bleeding)
12. Ice Cube - "Don’t Trust ’Em" (The Predator)

Tiny Mix Tapes

2009-02-22T17:00:00.002-06:00

There is a perfume out right now called Philosophy Love. Nice, right? It's sold on QVC. I search over "Freebie" boards, links, blogs and I can't figure it out. It's a lot more work, time, effort, and probably money to be able to say I got something for free. Coupons are crap, coupons are for items I don't need, will never use, have no interest in trying. I have concluded, as of right now, Freebies are for people who really like to shop.

I bought these shoes

Merrell Plaza Emme

the other day while walking around the mall (with a few drinks in me). They sell for $90 and I bought them for $27. Hooray. Sales, discounts, etc I am all good with that. These things have actually taught me to enjoy shopping a little more.

Right now I am going to research different diets. The Zone Diet, the Atkins Diet (is there a difference between the two?), and the South Beach Diet (is that a new rich person's weight watchers? kind of like Target is a rich person's Wal Mart?).

Alright, to knit and read.