Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Chats On The Farmhouse Porch

It seems that spring has finally sprung here in the Fine Martial Homestead. I've managed to get a few marigolds and Dahlias planted, but still haven't found the zinnias I want. I may have to drive up to Lowe's Saturday after work and see if they have any.

But no matter. It's sunny and warm and time to join me on the porch.

Everyday Ruralty

  1. Do you prefer to drive or be driven?

    Hmmm, well, since I've been doing the driving myself for so long, it kind of seems awkward to be in the passenger seat. On the other hand, if someone else drives, I can knit on the way, so that's a plus. I guess I can honestly say I'm OK with either way.
  2. What's your favorite kind of jam, jelly, or preserve?

    My sister makes this really good jelly from Alaskan Fireweed, but other than that, I normally use grape.
  3. Do you have any special plans for this spring or summer?

    No, not really. Summer is the busy season in the air conditioning business, so I normally work 6 days a week all summer long. Not much time for anything else. I do intend to get my flower beds going, and sharpen up my archery and shooting skills.

  4. Lots of folks are becoming aware of issues with food. There are many articles, books, and movies on topics like allergies, GMO, pesticide use, bad or no labeling, over processed foods, foods from other countries that may not have high standards, and many more topics. What concerns you the most? If nothing concerns you, have a cookie and skip to the next question.

    My biggest concern is that because of some of these "anti everything" whackos, people will end up starving because there won't be enough food to go around. Face it, it's all about money and fame anyway. For example, the whole red-meat-is-bad-for-you craze was started by people trying to promote pork sales. In the same way, the dairy-is-bad-for-you movement was started by soy farmers trying to capture a greater share of the market. And much like the anti-vaccine craze, the anti GMO craze was started by someone with no facts and no evidence trying to claim his 15 minutes of fame. In fact, he has recently come out and expressed regret for having stirred the pot in the first place. And face it, pretty much everything we eat has been genetically modified from its original form, whether in the lab, or by trial and error. From domesticated animals to tomatoes, to potatoes, they bear little resemblance to their wild ancestors. So, just eat what you want to, and stop listening to the whackos.
  5. Do you use nail polish often? Finger nails, piggies, or both?

    I usually try to keep up with my toes in the summer. I don't worry about my fingernails, because I don't have enough fingernails to worry about anyway. I can't stand having them long, because I don't feel like my hands are clean if they are long-- no matter how much I wash them.

Thanks for joining me on the porch.  Put your mugs in the sink, and be sure and come back anytime for a visit.

I love having visitors on the blog!

In my house, not so much.

Such is the life of a hermit.

3 comments:

Leslie said...

Tending a garden whatever the size is so relaxing after dealing with the issues of running a business/or working in a very busy business.

Patrice said...

I've never heard of Alaskan Fireweed. What's it like? I guess knitting while someone drives, would be an advantage. Have a good week!

Becky G said...

Yes, Leslie, it sure is.

It's kind of hard to describe Alaskan Fireweed. I've never tasted anything quite like it, but it sure does make good jelly.