Wild Geese by Mary Oliver You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. … Continue reading Callings
Month: April 2026
Pasteurizing chicken eggs at home
Using gentle heat to kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella without actually cooking the egg. Pasteurizing chicken eggs at home is a simple process that uses gentle heat to kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella without actually cooking the egg. This is especially useful when making homemade mayonnaise, Caesar dressing, hollandaise, or any recipe calling for raw … Continue reading Pasteurizing chicken eggs at home
Special occasion flower arrangements
Approaching special occasion flower arranging with the humility and respect these significant moments deserve. Flower arranging for special occasions represents a distinct and elevated practice within the broader world of floral design, where arrangements transcend their everyday decorative function to become integral elements of celebration, ceremony, and meaningful life events that mark time, honor relationships, … Continue reading Special occasion flower arrangements
Hearty Parmesan-ranch popcorn
This savory popcorn is the kind of snack that disappears before the bowl even hits the table. The nutty richness of freshly grated parmesan melts into every kernel while the tangy, herby ranch seasoning adds a cool, zesty contrast. Crispy bacon bits bring a smoky, salty depth that ties everything together into one completely addictive … Continue reading Hearty Parmesan-ranch popcorn
Essential flower arranging tools and supplies
Flower arrangement tools to best serve our creativity. Having the right tools and supplies transforms flower arranging from a frustrating struggle into an enjoyable, efficient creative process. While it's tempting to make do with whatever kitchen scissors or random containers we have on hand, investing in proper floral tools makes an enormous difference in both … Continue reading Essential flower arranging tools and supplies
Hearty blackberry mojito punch
Serves 8 to 10 This vibrant punch is a showstopper that earns every sip. Fresh blackberries bring a deep, jammy sweetness that balances beautifully against the bright acidity of lime juice, while muddled mint releases its cool, aromatic oils throughout the entire batch. White rum adds a smooth, sugarcane warmth without overpowering the fruit, and … Continue reading Hearty blackberry mojito punch
Real
We return to certain stories because they return something to us. I first met The Velveteen Rabbit as a child, tucked into the comfortable category of bedtime story, and I moved on. But now somewhere in the middle of my life, when I have loved people through difficulty and been worn in by time, when … Continue reading Real
Seed starting
March-April zone 4b seeds to start indoor Head Lettuce Egg Plant Celery Cabbage Cauliflower Broccoli Today is the day for me to get these started. Today I am also starting some Asparagus seeds. Starting asparagus from seeds Soak seeds in tepid water for 24 hours to improve germination time Plant 3 seeds in each peat … Continue reading Seed starting
Hearty strawberry daiquiri spritzer
Serves 2 to 4 This is a drink that earns its place at any table. The bright, sun-ripened sweetness of fresh strawberries melds beautifully with the citrus bite of fresh lime juice, while light rum adds just enough warmth without overwhelming. The splash of sparkling water lifts the whole drink, making it feel effervescent and … Continue reading Hearty strawberry daiquiri spritzer
Hearty chicken tetrazzini
Serves 8 generously. Chicken Tetrazzini is the ultimate comfort food that earns its place at the table through a perfect marriage of rich, velvety cream sauce and tender chicken. The combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan creates a deeply savory base that coats every strand of pasta, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth that … Continue reading Hearty chicken tetrazzini