In the Victorian Era, only the wealthy had time for gardening. Gardening was viewed as an escape from the filthy city air, especially healthy for women and growing children. Secret love messages (and messages of bitterness and hatred) were communicated by delivery of cut flowers, each flower having its own unique meaning. Mansions and villas had stunning conservatories off the … [Read more...]
Fresh Off The Farm – I stopped running around the yard with my tongue out… When did that become weird?
Does anything make you giddy from your toes? Or maybe a better question is - do you get excited over things as an adult? I’m not talking average, ho-hum “excitement.” I’m talking real, live, DELIGHT. As a kid, it’s ok to jump, squeal and holler from the bottom of your toes to the top of your head. Not so as an adult. That’s just weird – if anyone is watching. But should … [Read more...]
A little of this, a little of that
It all started with a walk on the beach to pick up shells. My sisters and I recently vacationed in South Padre, Tex. Take your time and hate me for a few minutes. I usually feel angry at people who take winter vacations while I am at home during February and March in Minnesota. Now that you have that out of your system, I will continue my story. I confess that compass … [Read more...]
A Goodly Heritage – When you were a kid
“What was life like when you were a kid?” Have you ever been asked that question? That happened to me just a few days ago. I met a young man from Russia who curiously, posed this query to me. I obliged him by listing a few everyday lifetime memories. Some are unique to my family, but no doubt there are those which many folks share. As the firstborn child in my family, Mom … [Read more...]
The Plant Lady – Tis the “seed” son!
‘Tis the “seed”son! Seed packets have arrived in masses at the local hardware stores, garden centers and flower shops. 2022 is the year to treat yourself! Grab what you need, then go ahead and buy a few packets that you’ve never grown before. Most seed packets will have specific planting instructions, so I’ll go over a few tips to guide you in this fun adventure. Our last … [Read more...]
Fresh Off the Farm – You want me to drink fermented, what??
Sniff, sniff… GAG …what just happened? The first time I made kefir, I gagged and threw it away. I was given some weird looking cauliflower jellish balls known as “kefir grains” and was told they were AAAAAMAZING. “Just pour milk over them and let it sit for 24 hours.” Easy enough! I proceeded as instructed. Twenty-four hours later, I Martha Stewart-ed my way to the … [Read more...]
Thompson hopes Norwegian blood klub tradition will continue
The annual Norwegian Klub & Chili Feed took place at the Lanesboro American Legion in Lanesboro, Minn. on Saturday, February 19, with many people attending the rare occurrence of blood klub being served in Fillmore County. Finding klub in the area may get even more difficult according to organizer of the event, Robert Thompson, who is ready to hand over the reins to … [Read more...]
A Little of This a Little of That
“LOVEUARY” is what the Hallmark Channel has named the entire month of February. Does that make you deliriously happy or incredibly sad? I guess it depends if you are in a romantic relationship or not. A bakery in Los Angeles bakes 1/2 heart cookies for the broken hearted, and they are big sellers! Of course any business that depends on romance to sell their products will … [Read more...]
A Goodly Heritage
Valentine wishes It is not always that I get the chance to publish an article on the exact date of a holiday. So this is a unique opportunity to share with you something out of the ordinary. My interest in writing did not emerge until my children began to learn about composition and creative writing in high school. Since then I have tried my hand at writing short stories, … [Read more...]
One-stop shopping at Celebrations Expo
Is there a special celebration in your future? For example, a family reunion, baby shower, wedding, retirement, birthday, anniversary, sports group get together, fundraiser, or graduation. Eleven Caledonia businesses are coming together on February 19 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Elsie’s Bar & Grill to host a one-stop shopping expo. Celebrations Expo is your opportunity to … [Read more...]