New Homestead *UPDATE*

I've been a little too quiet over here...But we have a good reason...
So far, as expected, It's been loads of fun and hard work around here!  
In 19 days, we've managed to build 4 raised beds...fill them with dirt using a single wheelbarrow, plant several hundred heirloom seeds, AND managed to blog, ship seeds for Mary's Heirloom Seeds, SHARE our tutorial with friends & customers and have a great time.
Today we're building 2 more beds and Saturday we'll build 4 more.
That will give us to a total of 12 Raised Bed Garden.
Here's a link to our Raised Bed Garden tutorial.
Oh ya, we also Unpacked boxes!!!

Last weekend was my sister's birthday.  It was nice to get cleaned up and drive over to my Mom's for dinner and family time.  It's been 8 years since I've been able to do this so I am over-the-moon excited!

So here's a pictorial update

Indoor Seed Starting

We planted a bunch of seeds indoors and a bunch of seeds directly in beds.

Build Your Own Raised Bed Garden (tutorial)

Once the beds were filled I planted seeds!

Our first Salad Bed

Our Salad Bed includes edible flowers: Coreopsis and Nasturtium.  Greens: 5 Color Silverbeet Chard, Nero Cabbage (aka Lacinato Kale), Dwarf Pak Choy and Little Gem Lettuce.

It was rough the first few days without a refrigerator.  
Once our new appliance arrived, we were thrilled to eat healthier lunches.

It was a bit cold the first few mornings.  
Once I got warmed up, the sweatshirt came off!

The last few days I've been sharing the NEW seed varieties we've added at Mary's Heirloom Seeds for 2015.  We're STILL adding more but I thought I'd share our progress

So Many NEW Heirloom Seed Varieties...Where do I Start? 

So Many NEW Organic Wildflower Varieties...Plant for the Pollinators!

There you have it!  

Thanks for stopping by and if you have additional questions please feel free to ask.

HAPPY PLANTING!

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I'm Working toward Awesomeness and I'm Far from Perfect

Bloggers are awesome.  I have come to know so many amazing people just by reading their blogs and interacting through comments.

Sometimes we get a little silly!

 After reading "Have I failed You" over at Huppie Mama, I realized that we all evolve during our time as bloggers.  I have my own "demons" and strive to be as happy and healthy as I can be.  Compare where I am today with my blog 4+ years ago and you'll find that my current content is much more "me."  Sometimes...I totally fail! 

From Carrie, "Finding balance is always a struggle. Being an advocate is wonderful, but you can’t advocate for everything. My blog is essentially my family’s scrapbook. It documents what we do, how we do it, and how you can do it too if you’d like. I want it to tell the whole story — the amazing times, the tough times, the questions we have, challenges we face. I hope I’m always able to do that, while still adding in a little humor, wit, and research."

Most of us started our blogs as an outlet and a place to share our creativity.  Some of our blogs have evolved into a way to earn income.  Some of you are still blogging just for fun.

The thing is, some of us depend on our blogs as an additional source of income.  If you check out some of the pages here at Back to the Basics you'll see "My Bookshelf" which is full of affiliate links for Books.  That means if you purchase a book using my direct link I might make a small percentage.

I went away for almost a week and only scheduled 1 post.  I didn't worry about it because I knew my readers would understand!

For me, I use Back to the Basics as an outlet to share Organic Gardening and Health-related posts in conjunction with my company Mary's Heirloom Seeds.  We are a "mom & pop" small business and depend on word of mouth to grow our non-GMO seed company.

I hope that during the time you've been reading my blog that you have learned a great deal about Organic Gardening as well as herbal home remedies, GMOs and other health related topics.  If you feel that I've missed something, please feel free to let me know.

Other ways to earn income include sponsored posts.  Sometimes we just receive free product and other times there is monetary compensation involved.  I have seen plenty of sponsored posts about junk food and for those I just pass on reading them.  Do I leave a judgemental comment?  Absolutely not!  Not everyone shares my enthusiasm for "Real Food." 

I am far from perfect.  When I started Mary's Kitchen I shared the occasional "junk food posts."  These days I am a bit more strict about clean eating but I try to keep my recipes fun and delicious. 

Organic Orange Ginger Sauteed Veggies

 Back to being awesome...Sometimes there is a post you really want to write but you don't want to offend someone.  Write it!  Sometimes there is a sponsored post you want to write because the compensation is great but the product might not be as "crunchy mom" as your normal posts!  Write it!  I'm not saying that I would write a sponsored post for Monsanto...I would rather delete my blog than sell my soul to the devil.  I'm talking about sharing a post about shopping at Walmart or the dollar store because you can save a bunch of money on certain items.  Let's face it, we all like to save money!

For some people, shopping at Walmart is a regular thing.  For personal or even ethical reasons there are people who are against shopping there.  Either way, we all need to find ways to DIY, make it from scratch and make do on a budget in our own way. 

At the end of the day we are all humans striving for our little place in the blogosphere.  It's important to support each other while educating our readers.

I'd love to hear your thoughts!

About Me...and a Few of my Friends!

Good Morning!  It's been a fabulous start to another fantastic week!

I was invited by Rose from Fine Craft Guild to join an adventure though the world of blogs.  I found Rose through a weekly party she hosts and I been following along ever since.  I love all of the easy crafts she shares!  Rose lives like an artist and embellishes everything in sight. You can find handmade home accents throughout her house, made with wide range of media.

She paints in acrylics. Paper art & craft seem to stick with her, and her projects in this medium turn out half decent. She loves bead jewelry, making necklaces, bracelets, etc

And now on to the tour...

1. What am I working on?
 I am forever working on my garden!  Every week I add new heirloom seed varieties to my website and am always eager to try them out. 

Mary's Heirloom Seeds has been NOMINATED for the American Made Awards!!!  I am working on receiving more social shares to increase my chances of being 1 of 1,000 Entreprenuers chosen by the judges.  From there, the public will have a chance to VOTE on and after September 15th for their favorite artists and small businesses.

  Recently I went Meat-Free AND cut out alcohol so there has been quite a few big changes in our household.  Last week I shared Soy-Free, Meat Free Protein to give people better options for people looking to reduce their meat intake while maintaining a healthy diet.  When I say "diet" I mean food intake.

At Back to the Basics I share lots of Organic Gardening info as well as ways to live more sustainably, seed diversity, fighting GMOs as well as region-specific gardening info.  Join me in my quest for sustainability!

2. How Does my work differ from others of it's genre?
There is a growing movement to live more sustainably by growing your own food, recycling, DIY as well as "shop small" and "shop local."  When I learned about GMOs over 6 years ago I quickly made changes to my diet and lifestyle.  By removing processed foods and drive-thru/fast food junk I was able to shed unwanted pounds and start to LIVE.  I feel better and I look healthier.
Back to the Basics gives me a place to share growing information for Mary's Heirloom Seeds as well as the rest of the world.  Seed diversity is an important mission and is one of the many reason we opened Mary's Heirloom Seeds over 3 years ago. 

3.  Why do I write/create what I do?
I use my blog to share and encourage people to make healthier liefestyle choices.  I stay away from politics and some of the "hot topics" because that is the quickest way I know to lose readers.  I am passionate about more than just living healthy but this blog was created to help people get BACK 2 the BASICS!

I am inspired by growth. It is absolutely amazing to plant a tiny seeds, feed it and watch it grow. From that tiny seeds we harvest delicious heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil and other culinary herbs. Last year I had an opportunity to volunteer and donate to a local elementary school. It was life-changing to see the looks on the children's faces as I explained how a seed grows. Each child planted a seed that day and I am confident that it was a memorable experience for everyone, especially for me. 

4.  How does your writing/creative process work?
I'll admit that I don't always have a "plan."  Sometime I wake up and decide...Today I'm going to write about Compost...Or Seed Starting.  Other times I do have a plan.  I like to showcase other small businesses like Kelani Organics & Naturals.  I LOVE her handmade products and I know the ingredients are REAL (not processes chemicals).


Have you had enough about me?  I'd like to introduce you to a few of my friends...

First I have Kelly @ Kelani Organics & Naturals.  She only recently started a blog to share info about her amazing products.  She doesn't even know I'm telling the world about her today. I feel that is is important for Women small-business owners to encourage and support each other.
About Kelly: "I'm a one woman small business. My Hawaiian Heritage makes the ocean, soil, and Aloha run through my veins. 3 years ago a mentor changed the way I live my life and I now strive to help make the world a better place with organic and natural products. "

  Next, I'd like to introduce Lydia from Lydia's Flexitarian Kitchen.
"I’m Lydia and over the last couple years I’ve become intrigued with the semi-vegetarian style of eating popularly known as “flexitarian.”  My reasons are mostly health based, but I have plenty of concerns about the prevalence of processed foods in our diet, and the impact feeding people cheaply and efficiently has on our environment.  I’m finding that as I become more intentional in what we’re eating, the flexitarian style is spilling over into everyday life."

I'd also like to introduce Marla from Organic 4 Greenlivings.

"My mission is to educate you and to have a website that will provide safe products and recipes that will help you make healthier choices and make a safe world for all of us to live in now and for future generations.  Choices such as safe cleaning products, clothing, cosmetics, air cleaners, filters for our water, vitamins, detoxify items, cosmetics, and many DIY products that are so economical."

There you have it!!!  Now go check out these amazing blogs and if you're interested in growing Heirloom seeds check out Mary's Heirloom Seeds!

A few of my Favorite things

Happy Friday!!!  I am thrilled to share that I've been back to the gym regularly for the past 4 weeks.  Woohoo for us!  That also means a little soreness here and there.  I did a number on my upper back last week (got sloppy on form) and was a bit more ouchy than normal.

One of my favorite things this week is Ache Away from Kelani Organics!  Last night I shared a little with my husband and he was please at the subtle results (and the neck rub I gave him).

This wonderful organic vegan oil is helpful for achy muscles, arthritis, strains, sprains, bruises and joint pain (including carpel tunnel), and will help provide non-toxic pain relief.

Ingredients: Grapeseed Oil, Therapeutic Grade Vetiver and Lemongrass Essential Oils, Recycled Container when possible

Since I am trying to get back on track at the gym my next goal was to increase my water intake and add a detoxifier.  Not to brag but I have managed to drink a gallon (or more) of plain water every day for over 2 weeks.  I always drink water (no soda or juice) and managed to consume about 70 ounces a day but this is MUCH better.  I average about 130 ounces of water per day.

I start my morning with 1-2 tablespoons of Diatomaceous Earth in approx 10 ounces of water.  I am Detoxing with DE (click the link to read more).

If you have trouble drinking plain water I would suggest making Fruit and Herb infused water with NO added sugar.  It's very easy to make!

Last but certainly not least I've been hopping around and exploring more blogs!  I love blogs that share REAL Food recipes and Organic, Sustainable growing.


This morning I was featured at 

Oh Sweet Mercy for my post Detoxing with Diatomaceous Earth

 Spring Mountain Living for my post Growing Organic Garlic

and Better Hens and Gardens for my post JULY Seed Planting Guide

All of these amazing blogs are co-hosts for the From the Farm hop.

Are you ready for more AMAZING blogs?  
Check out my awesome co-hosts for REAL Food Friday:

Lydia @ Lydia's Flexitarian Kitchen   
Marla @ Organic4 Greenlivings  
Heather @ Cook It Up Paleo 

And my awesome co-hosts from Tuesdays with a Twist:
Marci @ Stone Cottage Adventures
Angie @ God's Growing Garden
Debra @ MsMoozy's Open House
Deb @ Kneaded Creations
Carole @ GardenUp Green 


Last but certainly not least...Mary's Heirloom Seeds has been nominated for the American Made Awards

*The more social shares on Facebook and Twitter, the better our chances of earning one of 200 wild-card finalist spots for grand-prize consideration.*

Mary's Heirloom Seeds is a "mom and pop" small business created out of a desire to help people become more sustainable and self-sufficient. Our customers know that we are a simple phone call or email away. Unless I am in the booth at the Yellow Green farmer's Market on Saturdays and Sundays, I respond to emails and calls within several hours. Most importantly, we are happy to share growing advise freely and include free seed packs with most orders.

AMERICAN MADE - Independence Day

HAPPY JULY 4TH! 2014 Wishing you a safe and a happy July 4th! Just in time for Independence day I have a HUGE announcement! We are AMERICAN MADE!  Mary's Heirloom Seeds has been nominated for the American Made Awards... We are listed under Food: Agriculture & Sustainability The more social shares on Facebook and Twitter we get, the better chance of earning one of the 200 wild-card finalist spots  for grand-prize consideration. Official Voting begins September 15th but I couldn't wait that long to share! I'm Excited! From our profile, What inspires you? I am inspired by growth. It is absolutely amazing to plant a tiny seeds, feed it and watch it grow. From that tiny seeds we harvest delicious heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil and other culinary herbs. Last year I had an opportunity to volunteer and donate to a local elementary school. It was life-changing to see the looks on the children's faces as I explained how a seed grows. Each child planted a seed that day and I am confident that it was a memorable experience for everyone, especially for me. Mary's Heirloom Seeds 2104 Tyler Street Hollywood, FL 33020 Visit us at the Yellow Green Farmer's Market on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am-4pm in Booth #281 **Mary's Heirloom Seeds will be closed July 4th and 5th as we celebrate Independence Day** We will be back at the farmer's market on Sunday

SOCIAL MEDIA LinkUp! (Part 2)

HAPPY TUESDAY!!!
Welcome to Part 2 of our Month-Long Social Media PARTY!  

I'm in a fantastic mood so I thought I'd share the love!  If you'd like a shoutout or a follow here's what to do...

Follow me @ the links below...Then add YOUR link in the appropriate section.  
I follow back!  Feel free to hop around and follow other bloggers!

Happy Linking!

 

Now that you've followed me...Share YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA links!

Please indicate which social media link you have shared.  
This is a HOP.  If you'd like, copy and paste the code to YOUR blog!

Follow Me and I'll Follow Back! It's a Party!

HAPPY TUESDAY!!!

I'm in a fantastic mood so I thought I'd share the love!  If you'd like a shoutout or a follow here's what to do...

Follow me @ the links below...Then add YOUR link in the appropriate section.  
I follow back!  Feel free to hop around and follow other bloggers!

Happy Linking!

 

Now that you've followed me...Share YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA links!

Please indicate which social media link you have shared.  
This is a HOP.  If you'd like, copy and paste the code to YOUR blog!

Why Do You Grow?

I asked this question yesterday @ Mary's FB page. 

Grown from seed @ my front door!

The answers were spectacular.  Here are a few:
"To feed my family and teach my kids about growing things." -Morgan

"I grow so I know where my food comes (healthy and truly organic) from and to reduce my growcery bills.  Plus...My grandmother always had a 2 acre garden that I would help with and now that she's passed I always feel her presence when I'm gardening." -Kelly

"I grow because it gives me power over my health and the health of my family. It reduces the grocery bill and I study foods for healing so Essentially what I grow and eat also keeps my medical costs down." -Rachel

"To keep crap out of my food and cut the grocery bill!  It is also very good for the soul." -Lorrie

"To remove myself from all of the manmade technology buzzing around us, reconnect with nature and excape TO reality." -Deniz

"Contentment" -Kathryn

These are some AMAZING reasons to grow your own food.  About 7 years I ago I made a HUGE change in my life.  Actually, it was MANY changes around the same time.  I started to learn more about FOOD.  I learned more about what food is and why it's not just something we do when we are hungry.  Food is what our body uses to heal and re-grow the body.  Every day, cells die in the body and are replaced with new cells.  If you eat junk...your body uses junk.  If you eat nutrient-dense healthy food, your body usesthat for nourishment.

So I cut out fast-food, candy, soda and redbull.  In doing so I lost over 20 pounds!  When we moved out of the condo we decided we wanted a house with a yard.  Now, we grow food!!!  Growing your own doesn't have to be this big operation.  I tell my customers, "Just start with Basil, Radish or lettuce."  Those are the easier varieties and require very little nutrients and attention.

If you're looking to Get Growing I would love to help!  We have an entire page dedicated to our 2014 Planting Guide AND Mary's Heirloom Seeds has over 110 heirloom, Non-GMO seed varieties to choose from.  PLEASE do not plant junk in your garden.  To find out about GMOs, please read What is a GMO?  Why is it Important?

Get out there and Grow Your Own!

I've been Creating

Some days I'm a little "Bleh."  Other days I'm "Up" and super positive.  
Today?  I'm neither here-nor-there.

Anyway...I've been editing a bunch of pics.  What do you think?

FREE Heirloom Seeds! Find out How

Good Morning!  

I hope you all had a wonderful day filled with Family and Peace.

I have an opportunity that was just posted on our fb page.  We are edging closer to 1,400 likes so I thought I'd give it a little push.

The first 2 people to share a "snapshot" of our fb page with exactly 1,400 likes will receive 4 FREE Packs of Heirloom Seeds from Mary's Heirloom Seeds.

SHARE our page...Invite your friends...Everything goes.  

I'd love to hit 1,400 before 2014.

Also, stay tuned for more 2014 Planting Guide posts.

Thank you!!!

Coming Soon

***TEASER Alert***

Like us on FB for more Info! Or,

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Thanksgiving Crafts from around the Web

I love sharing craft ideas.  Unfortunately, due to a crazy schedule and BIG changes going on over here I will not be able to craft for the holidays.

I am still planning on DIY Christmas gifts this year...I'm already planning!  One very important item to note; All of these pictures are pulled from the original source.  These are not my crafts.  These are beautiful ideas from fellow bloggers.  Please "pin" from the original source.

Our first craft today is a nice, recycled idea from Choose to Thrive.

This is such a great decoration idea!

This is a great centerpiece idea from Craftaholics Anonymous.

I love paper crafts!

Here's a DIY Thanksgiving banner from A Healthy Life for Me.

Super Cute and no nailing anything to your mantle!

If you plan on entertaining guests this year, favorboxes might be in order.  Catch My Party has a simple tutorial.

This post would not be complete with out a healthy holiday snack idea from Chickabug Blog.

Now THIS is something I might have time to make!

Are you crafting this Thanksgiving???  Feel free to share your appropriate links in the comment section.  Anything inappropriate or spammy will be removed.