perspective

Easy Classic French Bean Poles

Inspired by classic beanpoles at French Chateaux, these are a modern update that are easy to build. This includes directions.

Posing with the three Bean Poles I built this summer.

MidSeason Harvest

It’s mid July. That means it’s time to start harvesting the early spring crops! The replacement seedlings are in the greenhouse now. But first I need to not only HARVEST available produce and root vegetables, I need to figure out…

Red potatoes ready for harvest in the lasagna compost beds.

The Foodist: Wild Mushroom Pie with Parmesan Crust

A savory pie packed full of wild mushrooms, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese.A savory pie packed full of wild mushrooms, fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese. INGREDIENTS: FOR THE CRUST: 2 1/2 cups (315 grams) all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1…

Pan searing mushrooms and making vegetable stock.

Man Versus Squash Beetles

This summer has been brutal. But I am not complaining; just making an observation. It is brutal not just because of the heat, but because of how prevalent the pests are this year, That mild winter in 2019/2020 did us…

An entire zucchini plant had to be destroyed. Sprayed with Neem and captured beetles with soapy water.

Introducing Project Martian

How does Mezzacello resemble a Martian Colony? Both will be an artificial self-enclosed, sustainable, multi-stream ecosystem.

Introducing Project Martian
Martian Green House concept.

The Power and Problem of Rogue Plants

It can be easy to allow a volunteer plant to grow in a garden. You can have many reasons why this will appear to be a good idea. You might see it as free food, or maybe the birds love…

Turnip greens ready for a minor harvest.

The Foodist: Carbonara Fritatta

This is a delightful mashup of carbonara and frittata. We make ours from fresh duck eggs.

Pasta, cheese, tomatoes, bacon, cream, and duck eggs.

The Guest House

We are always aware of our intention, our effort, and our impact. Seven years in and we have learned to accept nature on her terms, and to remain grateful and open to the gifts and challenges of living as part of…

The beauty and chaos of change. It is predictable in large samples but without wisdom it is just ... well, chaos.

The Harvest Relay

Once again we are up against the gun at harvest time. After the disaster of last year, I am hoping for better systems and better results.

Pantry and Preservation
Wire bin storage units, wall mounted, climate controlled and moisture managed.

The Foodist: Roasted Zucchini Chips

These crunchy and tasty chips are a delight in winter and summer! Easy to make, and easier to eat! And 100% vegetarian.

Zucchini Lasagna is a very good treat, super easy and full of good nutrients.