Butternut squash, with its creamy texture and sweet, nutty flavor, is a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. From its historical roots to its diverse culinary applications and growing tips, butternut squash offers both versatility and nutritional benefits. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of butternut squash. History and Origins Butternut squash (Cucurbita moschata)Continue reading “Vegetable Spotlight: Butternut Squash – History, Varieties, Culinary Uses, Growing Tips, and More”
Author Archives: Traci Houston
The Future of Food: Why We Choose Real Chickens at Huckleberry Farms
Early last week, my close friend Scott sent me a thought-provoking video featuring an interview with Upside Foods. This innovative company is at the forefront of a burgeoning industry: cell-cultivated meat. In large silver tanks, they grow their own chicken meat without ever slaughtering a chicken. While the concept is groundbreaking, the thought of artificialContinue reading “The Future of Food: Why We Choose Real Chickens at Huckleberry Farms”
Fruit Spotlight: Concord Grapes – History, Varieties, Culinary Uses, Growing Tips, and More
Concord grapes, with their deep purple hue and distinctive sweet-tart flavor, are iconic in the world of fruit cultivation. From their historical origins to their diverse culinary applications, Concord grapes have captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Let’s explore the fascinating world of Concord grapes, covering everything from their history to how youContinue reading “Fruit Spotlight: Concord Grapes – History, Varieties, Culinary Uses, Growing Tips, and More”
A Family Affair: County Fair and 4-H Livestock Projects
Participating in 4-H and county fair livestock projects is a cherished tradition that teaches valuable life skills, fosters community engagement, and creates lasting memories. This year, our family immersed itself in various 4-H projects, including Poultry, Dog, Blacksmithing, and Horse & Pony, each bringing its own unique challenges and rewards. From lessons in perseverance toContinue reading “A Family Affair: County Fair and 4-H Livestock Projects”
Herbal Spotlight on Chives: History, Varieties, Culinary Uses, Growing Tips, and More
Chives, with their slender green stalks and delicate purple blooms, are not just a flavorful addition to culinary dishes but also carry a rich history and versatility that make them a favorite in gardens worldwide. Here’s a comprehensive look into the world of chives, covering everything from their origins to how you can cultivate themContinue reading “Herbal Spotlight on Chives: History, Varieties, Culinary Uses, Growing Tips, and More”
Understanding Ecovillages and Permaculture Villages: Exploring the Differences
In recent years, there has been a noticeable surge in interest surrounding alternative forms of community living that prioritize sustainability, social cohesion, and ecological regeneration. Among these emerging models, ecovillages and permaculture villages have emerged as prominent examples. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they embody distinct approaches to sustainable living and land management.Continue reading “Understanding Ecovillages and Permaculture Villages: Exploring the Differences”
Vegetable Spotlight: Banana Peppers — The Mild Marvel of Culinary Delights
Exploring the World of Banana Peppers Banana peppers, aptly named for their long, curved shape and vibrant yellow color reminiscent of ripe bananas, are a staple in many cuisines around the world. Originating from the Americas, these peppers have made their mark globally due to their unique flavor profile and versatility in the kitchen. UnlikeContinue reading “Vegetable Spotlight: Banana Peppers — The Mild Marvel of Culinary Delights”
Exploring Permaculture Communities: Sustainable Living for the Future
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in sustainable living and community-based initiatives aimed at fostering environmental stewardship, resilience, and social cohesion. At the forefront of this movement are permaculture communities, intentional settlements designed around the principles of permaculture—a holistic approach to sustainable living inspired by natural ecosystems. In this article, we’ll delveContinue reading “Exploring Permaculture Communities: Sustainable Living for the Future”
Fruit Spotlight: Strawberries — The Ruby Jewels of the Orchard
Strawberries, with their bright red hue, juicy texture, and unmistakably sweet aroma, are one of the most beloved fruits around the globe. These heart-shaped berries have not only captivated our palates but have also woven themselves into cultural, historical, and even medicinal narratives. From ancient Rome to modern-day kitchens, strawberries have been cherished not justContinue reading “Fruit Spotlight: Strawberries — The Ruby Jewels of the Orchard”
The Difference Between Gardening and Permaculture: A Comprehensive Exploration
Gardening and permaculture, while often used interchangeably, represent fundamentally different approaches to interacting with the natural world. Both methods involve cultivating plants and managing landscapes, yet they diverge significantly in philosophy, techniques, and goals. In this article, we will explore these differences in depth, examining the principles, practices, and benefits of each approach. By understandingContinue reading “The Difference Between Gardening and Permaculture: A Comprehensive Exploration”
