I’m in denial. Like an obese person who indulges in a week-long, junk-food blitz and then refuses to step on the scale.

My avocado seed was doing so well. With “was” being the operative word. Matt went to a student’s home, and the mom taught him how to grow an avocado seed. Take the seed from a delectable avocado. Let it dry out. When it’s completely dry, peel away most of the dark brown exterior. Poke with toothpicks and immerse half-way in water (heavy-side up).

I’ve taken to making guacamole. For birthday parties, community picnics, dinner at home. Really, it’s just an opportunity to grow avocado trees. The more … Read More

I hate when I’m attracted to the “New in Hardcover” table at the bookstore. Just like a moth to the light. I can’t help it. The table is right in front of the door (of course). I’m a classic consumer. The books cost so much more than soft covers, and I don’t like the pretentious feel of hardcover books in my hands. But I could not resist purchasing Plenty: One man, One Woman, and a Raucous Year of Eating Locally by Alisa Smith and J.B. MacKinnon. In fact, I was surprised by the number of titles related to food production. Eating locally and organically is on the up-and-up. Mark my … Read More

So, I hit adulthood at last. In other words, I’m finally ready to start a garden. I honestly haven’t lived anywhere that explicitly permits gardening. I do currently live in a house that’s been converted into four apartments, and I somehow manage to have a composter. It’s of the plastic variety, and it mingles quite inconspicuously with the trashcans. Since I’m moving in three weeks (to a place that won’t require me to compost my organic waste in stealth), I cleaned out the composter a few weekends ago. Now an amazing vine-ish type thing is proliferating in the black circle of rich soil.

In an attempt to make real gardening … Read More