Oralia Redmon

As dawn breaks over the mountainous horizon, my front door is bathed in sunlight. Gazing out at the vibrant blooms that adorn my porch, I’m suddenly treated to a tiny, iridescent visitor. The hummingbird’s whirring wings beat at an astonishing 80 times per minute, a symphony of delight. It’s a familiar morning ritual: watching these … Read more

As summer’s scorching temperatures hit new heights, staying properly hydrated becomes a top priority. While I’m not exactly a water connoisseur myself – plain water doesn’t really do it for me unless I’m parched – I’ve learned to appreciate the benefits of flavored water. To give my H2O a flavor boost, I like to keep … Read more

Are you tired of sharing your kitchen space with unwanted visitors? Before you resort to chemical-laden store-bought solutions, take a step back and assess the situation. Are you aware of the entry points or just witnessing the trail left behind by these unwelcome guests? Rather than introducing a plethora of commercial products into your home, … Read more

It’s fascinating to note that Japanese beetles only emerge for a feeding period lasting around six to eight weeks per year. This brief window may seem insignificant, but the damage they can inflict during this time is astonishing. As someone who has experienced firsthand the devastating impact of these tiny pests on a harvest, I … Read more

The humble tomato may be the star of the garden show, but its lesser-known cousin, the tomatillo, is equally deserving of attention. While many gardeners have grown tomatoes with ease, there’s a surprising lack of enthusiasm for these papery-wrapped fruits. As someone who’s passionate about Mexican cuisine, I’m here to make the case that tomatillos … Read more

While I used to be a vegetarian for an extended period, I reintroduced meat into my diet due to a nutrient deficiency. In my household, we strive to maintain a moderate meat intake, which is where sweet potatoes often come in handy. These nutritious and filling root vegetables are incredibly versatile, making them a staple … Read more

As the seasons transition from winter’s chill to spring’s warmth, maple trees awaken from their dormant state, and sap begins to flow. This marks the ideal time for amateur botanists to embark on a thrilling adventure: tapping maple trees in pursuit of nature’s sweetest treasure – maple syrup. Our own journey began in 2013, when … Read more

While many gardeners may overlook tarragon, this hardy perennial herb is a hidden gem that deserves a spot in your kitchen. Not only does it present a relatively low-maintenance growing challenge, but its mild and slightly anise flavor also lends itself to a multitude of culinary uses. From elevating hollandaise and béarnaise sauces to pairing … Read more

Would you like to maximize your yard’s potential? Regardless of whether your property is heavily shaded or receives ample sunlight, there are vegetables that can thrive in both scenarios. While most vegetables require some direct sunlight, there are varieties that can tolerate partial shade and even benefit from it. If you have areas on your … Read more

While the decline of honeybee populations has garnered significant attention, it’s often overlooked that solitary bees account for a vast majority of the world’s best pollinators. In fact, these unsung heroes are far more abundant than their honeybee counterparts. As a result, if you’re looking to attract pollinators to your homestead without relying on beekeeping … Read more