around here....

around here...

the beans help Gramps harvest vegetables from his garden.

around here....

 I look for color among the fading areas of the garden.

around here.... 

I visit other gardens to study what is blooming.

 Lobelia "Monet Moment"

 Blue Paradise Garden Phlox

 Miss Ruby Butterfly Bush

Honeysong Purple Stokes Aster

 Blue Fortune Agastache

around here...

sisters are making music together.

around here...

I'm working to create as many unprocessed snacks as I can for my beans.

Oatmeal Bites

Oatmeal Cookie Bites...

1 and 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

1 cup butter

2 eggs

4 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

2 and 1/4 cups flour

1 1/2 cups oats

1 cup raisins 

1 cup chopped walnuts

Beat wet ingredients in a mixer.  Slowly add the dry ingredients and walnuts (good with or without nuts!) Mix the raisins in by hand.  I like to make them small for the beans but large are awesome too!  Cook at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

around here...

I feel so lucky to have met all of you talented folks!!!  You inspire!!

Joining Sarah for...

I'm getting heavy....

Ok folks, I'm getting heavy in this post.  As I continue to educate myself on GMO's in our food supply, I can not sit back any longer and remain silent.  As a mother I want the best for my kids, as does EVERY other mom that I know.  And that means knowing what is in our food.  

GMO's Defined

Most of my readers are Earth conscious people that I admire for their beliefs and their love for the environment.  Unfortunately, here in the US we are in the midst of something very frightening that stands to not only threaten our environment, but the health of our family and friends.  Major corporations are using harmful pesticides that are altering our crops and killing our bees....

what's killing our bees

As a mother to a little boy who has many food allergies, I am blown away that there are not more people connecting the dots between these practices and the growing number of children inflicted with food sensitivities.

via-antigmofoods.com

If there is another march I will walk. I will walk for ethical practices when it comes to our food supply.

Join the movement....Food Democracy Now

Non GMO brands....HERE

At Realfarmacy.com they gave a list of brands to be aware of....

Education is power.  And with it I believe that we can change the course we're on!  Peace!

and the giveaway goes to......

Congrats to the creative Beth at Mossberry Cottage!!! The traveling book and Arbonne goodies are coming your way!!!  Thanks to everyone for leaving such lovely comments on the giveaway!  I hope to do another Arbonne giveaway soon to support my pal Kim and to pamper you all with some natural goodness!!! Have an outstanding week where ever you are!!!! 

via-tinywhitedaisies 

a fun pass-along and giveaway

Several months ago I received a pass-along book from Wendy at September Violets.  It has traveled between bloggers for some time now, to all parts of the world.  The book, The Fine Colour of Rust by P.A. O'Reilly was a heartwarming read that I think many would enjoy!! 

Wendy also enclosed this sweet and beautiful flower doll that she made.  I was so touched by her thoughtfulness and amazed by her talent!  

When I was thinking of what gift I would send along with the book, I thought of my friend Kim.  She is a joyful soul who's spirit can fill a room.  She recently hosted a one year wellness party to celebrate being cancer free.  She is moving mountains, literally!  She has recently become an Arbonne Independent Consultant because she believes that what we put on our skin should be natural and not pose a threat to our health or the environment. Arbonne is a company grounded in green values.  From botanically based ingredients to earth friendly manufacturing practices, this company is one that I am proud to support!  Kim's gift to the world is to take the proceeds from her sales and start a charity for people who are in need of mental help treatments.  Bravo Kim for paying it forward!  You are an inspiration!!!!  Since so many of my readers dig in the dirt and enjoy being outside, I will be sending out a bottle of Arbonne's Water-Resistant Sunscreen along with the novel.

 Please note that if you see anything on Arbonne that tickles your fancy, 

Kim's Consultant ID# is 13567114

I plan on doing many more Arbonne giveaways to support Kim's mission and because the products are just down right amazing!!  I have been using the anti-aging line and already feel renewed after not sleeping for 8 months!  

So if you are interested in the giveaway and are a follower here, just leave a comment on this post. Once the book gets to you, read it at your leisure, sign the enclosed card, and then send it on its way again!  I will announce the winner on July 9th!