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I'm not sure when I first heard about the Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) program, but it was many years ago. At the time, I was working full time and taking on another project would have been more than I could have handled. But I loved the idea of it. With its… Continue reading Living with Parkinson’s Disease: Becoming an OSU Master Gardener Part 1
I began learning about gardens even before my first day of school. We lived in a typical middle-class neighborhood crowded with houses on small lots. There was a small yard for me to play in. There was also a sunny patch of ground behind our garage. This was where my mother chose to plant her… Continue reading My Gardening Roots
Each year, I see dozens of requests for holiday help on social media. Particularly from those people who have kids. While there are many good-hearted folks willing to help, it’s often impossible to sort out the needy from the scammers. The closer it is to Christmas, the more overwhelming that task becomes. Even the kindest… Continue reading Hard times holiday: Making a merry Christmas when you have nothing to give.
Is there anyone who does not love a Pecan Tassie? These are a favorite at cookie exchanges and the first to disappear from holiday cookie trays. My family did not discover them until fairly recently but once we found this recipe, these treats soared to the top of everyone's list as a holiday "must have."… Continue reading Pecan Tassies
I can't begin to bake an apple pie as good as my mother's. I've tried. Oh boy, how I have tried! But there is something she does that makes her crust perfect and her filling superb. Never have I been able to match it. But while I can't make a pie as good as Mom's,… Continue reading Cranberry Walnut Apple Pie
Humans are not logical creatures. We commit to spending tens or hundreds of thousands to buy houses or condos, or to rent apartments. We spend thousands more to furnish them. We choose just the right paint colors. We choose just the right sofa, chairs, draperies, area rugs, lamps, bedding, and dinnerware patterns – both everyday… Continue reading Life in the 1960s: When Families Had “Company”
When company showed up unexpectedly and Mom needed something quick to serve, she would mix up one of her simple 8" pan cakes. This was always one of my favorites. Fast Fix Company's Coming Coffee Cake 1 beaten egg1 1/2 cups sugar1/2 cup milk1 cup sifted flour2 tsp. baking powder1/2 tsp. salt2 Tbsp. melted shortening… Continue reading Fast Fix Company’s Coming Coffee Cake
For an explanation of travel plans read "important notes about my travel plans." I designed this plan to immerse myself in all things Christmas. Undecided about who I will be traveling with, I chose options that can be included or removed to meet the interests of my travel companions allowing me to use this plan… Continue reading A Travel Plan: Holiday Break in Central Ohio
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