Friday, July 30, 2010

A Poem About Urban Foraging

And together, we walked home in silence
through the fog and honking horns
carrying our morning's treasures.
I with my berries, and she with her ball
My dog and I.

Dreaming of Angora Goats

I decided today that I would like an Angora goat along with the dairy goats. I am making Mohair pillows for the couch and realized it would be far better to grow my own Mohair, albeit a hell of a lot of work. But the question remains-- where to keep them?

In my research on keeping dairy goats in a backyard, I have run into several hurdles that prevent me from responsibly owning and raising these animals. Not the least of which, is where to find the space for these beautiful creatures that won't alert the neighbors. For now, I'll have to be content dreaming of fresh milk and the finest quality Mohair...

Alas, my quest for goats continues. Anyone have an extra yard?

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Pesticide use linked to ADHD and Parkinson's Disease

Here is an important article listing study findings that link pesticide use with ADHD in children. http://eartheasy.com/blog/2010/05/pesticide-exposure-may-increase-risk-of-adhd-in-children/

Most significant to me, was the fact that non-organic potatoes are said to be one of the most pesticide laden vegetables, even when tested after washing (think french fries), so not only is fast food making our kids obese, but could it also be contributing to increase risks of ADHD?

What other reason do you need to not support the fast food industry? ...But wait- my kid loves french fries!?

So make your own. Homemade "oven" fries are fast, easy, healthy and delicious- and you can use organic potatoes or sweet potatoes and organic ketchup.

Here's an easy recipe:
2-3 medium organic potatoes or organic sweet potatoes (peeled or unpeeled)
2 Tbsp organic olive oil
1/4- 1/2 tsp sea salt (optional)
1 tsp dried or fresh organic parsley (optional)
1/2 cup organic ketchup

Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees. Cut potatoes in half, length-wise. Cut each half into 4-7 long spears, depending upon size and preference. Sprinkle with olive oil and spread onto baking sheet, leaving room between spears. Sprinkle with salt. Bake for 10-15 minutes. Turn once, then bake again for 5-10 minutes, until tender and lightly browned. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley, if desired. Serve with ketchup. Serves 4.


What to remember from this: try not to support the fast food industry, avoid using pesticides on gardens and lawns, choose organic french fries over non-organic or fast food fries.