Blackberries are without surprise the state fruit of Alabama and can be found readily growing along roadsides and forest clearings in abundance. The “bramble” bush itself grows in a scrambling manner and wild varieties are typically covered in thorns. Making the picking process one that may involve some Matrix moves to avoid scratches. Botanically speaking,…Continue Reading “Blackberry Jam”
Succulents have been gaining popularity over the last couple of years and can be found in most garden centers and specialty nurseries nationwide. The term succulent is derived from the latin word sucus, meaning, juice and is used in describing their thick, fleshy leaves or stems. Attractive, interesting, and super low-maintenance make succulents the perfect…Continue Reading “Suburb Succulents”
PROJECT: TRANSPLANTING NATIVE FERNS The woodlands of the American South are teaming with multiple varieties of native flora that thrive in the hot, humid climate. Among this impressive list of plants, are many species of fern. Ferns are a vascular plant that reproduces via spores and does not produce flowers or seeds. There are currently…Continue Reading “Transplanting Native Ferns”
Salad is one of my all-time favorite meals. Especially when the add-ons include a good piece of chicken breast, pecans, a tangy balsamic dressing, fruit, and a delicious mix of chopped veggies. The great thing about this recipe is the versatility, and it’s also a great excuse to clean out the fridge. The homemade dressing…Continue Reading “Balsamic “Bang” Salad”
Soup is such a wonderful thing. Hearty, hot, and wholesome it’s a perfect dinner for the bleak winter months. However, Spring has sprung, and the temperature here in Alabama is slowly rising. Marking an end to winter and soup season. To get that last fix before it’s too late try this go-to favorite, a rustic…Continue Reading “Rustic Vegetable Soup”
As the days grow longer and the nights warmer, so too begins the season for outdoor entertaining. There’s just nothing quite like dining alfresco in my opinion. That being said, I just couldn’t wait another second to get outside and host a gathering. Just a stones throw from my house sits a gorgeous old barn…Continue Reading “Barn-side Block Party”
Take a hop back in time and celebrate Easter with some vintage inspiration. By revisiting some family heirlooms, your Easter or spring party table will evoke memories of a bygone era, when pastels and patterns of vivid color were all the rage. While reorganizing a spare closet a few weeks ago, I came across an…Continue Reading “Easter Entertaining”
PROJECT: RAISED PLANTING BEDS Just a few short months ago I found myself in this very predicament. Grown tired of the uncertainties associated with planting directly into the plowed earth, it was time to make a change. Ultimately, a raised garden bed seemed to fit best for me. I must admit that the notion of…Continue Reading “Build A Planting Bed”
Merry Makers and Revelers rejoice, St. Patrick’s Day has arrived! Whether celebrating at a local pub with a green beer in hand or having a small gathering in your home this twist on a holiday classic is sure to be a hit. A warm beefy, cheesy dip with a sauerkraut tang meets a crispy baguette…Continue Reading “Corned Beef and Cabbage Dip”
PROJECT: SHAMROCK PLACEMATS Shamrocks are the eternal symbol of St. Patrick’s Day. Steeped in tradition dating back to the 14th century, when the shamrock made it’s first mention in the English language. Rumored to have been used by Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick, to represent the Holy Trinity. The term shamrock refers to a young…Continue Reading “Shamrock Placemats & Crafts”