A Blog is Born

Greetings, this is my first blog ever.

After the loss of of job I didn't like when the economy tanked last year and some soul searching on what it all means, I followed my gut level leanings and planted lots of food. Organic since the "back to the land" movement of the 70's, my passions are gardening, cooking, and enjoying a good meal in or out with family, friends, and a good bottle of Pinot Noir. Recently, I began working with a chef to provide produce for an artists in residence program in our area. Since I already keep a record of my doings in the garden and kitchen, might well toss it out there and throw my hat in the foodie ring. Hopefully the muse will tag along for the ride.

With proper care, vegetables grow year round here in the Santa Cruz mountains of California. Having moved here from Washington State, this is my first attempt to grow through the winter. There is much to learn. Right now the garden is transitioning from summer to winter. Some die hard tomatoes still cling to the vine. The cooler weather toughens their skins but the flavor remains superb, promising some future mulling over soup. The brassicas (cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower) have been in the ground for over a month and despite a few battles with pests are standing tall. Today I'm starting greens, assorted mescluns, mache, chard, and chicories. Several varieties of carrots and beets are already planted and yeilding. There are more root vegetables to go in, turnips, parsnips and a quickie radish crop. But first the beds need to be cleaned up and amended. Out with the old, in with the new. The garden offers an abundance of real life lessons.

Chef and I have been going over seeds and preferences. We are excited about the possibilities of our working relationship. Both of us feel strongly that nothing replaces the taste of freshness and local is the way to go.

Enough already, time to go outside,

and yes my name really is Eden.