Lightening .. the natural fertalizer (huh?)

Last Years Garden

I can't wait to peek at the garden in the morning.  We had a huge electrical storm pass through that should green things up.  It's especially true if you have any metal (i.e. fencing) nearby.  I'm no scientist .. just observant.  My pole beans greened up quite nicely last year from such a storm.  Here's an article with some of the facts.  HOW LIGHTENING BENEFITS THE VEGETABLE GARDEN. 

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A Few Goals For The New Year

I am not one to write goals and just look at them on the page.  This year I want to concentrate more on the garden production side of The Thrifty Garden/Home.  Our fourth year for veggie gardening is approaching and I'm still such a novice. 

2011 Garden Goals

1. Plan the plantings, space use, and design well in advance, keeping good notes
2. Make a drip watering system
3. Design some raised veggie beds or planters
4. Raise potted pepper plants to overwinter
5. Try/plant a winter garden
6. Plant grapes 

That's enough garden goals if I want to be successful.

2011 Homemaking Goals

1. Can chicken, turkey, chili, smoke hams and bacon
2. Put up .. can/freeze more food for winter
3. Make 80-90% of our bread
4. Finish Grandma's quilt
5. Economize and not waste food/resources
6. Learn to knit a pair of socks

Nothing lofty here .. just a continuation of what I was working on/planning from last year.   It will be interesting to see what the year brings .. I've heard that the cost of goods will be going up considerably.  We will probably be shopping differently ... buying more in bulk .. to help ease any shortages that may arise .. and to save on gasoline.

A good woman is hard to find,
   and worth far more than diamonds.
Her husband trusts her without reserve,
   and never has reason to regret it.
Never spiteful, she treats him generously
   all her life long.
She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
   and enjoys knitting and sewing.
She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
   and brings back exotic surprises.
She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast
   for her family and organizing her day.

Proverbs 10-15 (The Message Bible)

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