Jessica Ostrow

Jake Olson wrote:

All areas with trees are infiltrated with Boxelder Trees.  I know that we're supposed to learn from what happens naturally and work with nature, so here are my questions.

1. What does the existence of boxelder tell us?  What is it about my land and the properties around it that makes boxelder happy?
2.  Is there any practical use for this species besides making bonfires?
3.  Are there any more useful permaculture species that would thrive in the same places that boxelders thrive?  

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.  

How big are your boxelders?

I live in southern Illinois, about a block away from a creek, and also have a teeny tiny stream along the back of my property. I have several baby boxelders scattered randomly, according to my PictureThis app.

I spin yarn on supported spindles, and one of my spindles has a flame boxelder whorl.

As far as the soil goes, "heavy wet soil" is what I have here, based on Iain Adams' reply. I don't know if that's because we have been getting a lot of rain. I've only been here for 2 years, and don't know if this is normal or not. Last year's garlic didn't do well because of the wet conditions.

Josephine Howland wrote:Zoe, I agree when such flooring can be found it's excellent. A friend of mine used the old flooring from a school gym in both her living room and dining room. Unfortunately, such flooring is hard to come by. If you know someone who works in the demolition field (her brother did at the time) you may be in luck.

How durable is gym flooring if you live with cats and dogs? Found some that I may get if it's enough for my dining room and maybe living room...

Check your this recipe:
https://theeburgerdude.com/vegan-salmon/#mv-creation-235-jtr

I haven't tried it, but I like his recipes.

Blake Cothron wrote:Hello,
This book is ideal for the pawpaw grower on any level:  backyard or market farm.  It's very detailed but not overly technical.  

Has the book been revised, or should I go ahead and get the one listed on Amazon?

Joanne Sliva wrote: I'm starting with a commitment to myself to weave every day, so I'm right there with you. Let's do this!

Joanne, what kind of weaving, what kind of loom? I have rigid heddle and tapestry looms... Also a 4 harness rug loom that I have not put together yet

r ranson wrote:Anyone choosing daily art as their 2024 goal?

Want to team up and cheer each other on?

Maybe not daily, but I plan to do 100 small tapestry weaving pieces, something I have already started in December of 2023. I don't believe in making New Year's resolutions, so I'm continuing something I already started.