Bees Along for the Ride

By Amanda
The day finally came when I received my very own bees: however, as I got the bees in DC, and my hive is in West Virginia, this necessitated me transporting them in my little car on a road trip out there. My bee teacher assured me that they would be fine , and that they are tightly wrapped up in their transport box. “And,” he added to assure me, “if any escape, they just crawl up the windows.” Great. Continue reading →

Daytripping: Delaplane, VA

By Martina A couple of weeks ago on a sparkling Saturday morning, I grabbed my friend Frederica and her sweet lab, Apollo, and headed for the hills–the foothills of the Shenandoah, to be precise–for my favorite DC day trip.  It has all the necessary ingredients for a great day, starting with a restorative hike in the … Continue reading →

Fabulous Find: Tart Cherries

By Amanda
One of the delights of progression through the warm summer months is the progression of fruits available. After having recently gorged myself on local strawberries, I went for the tart cherries. I’ve never seen fruit like this before: the bright tart cherries on the trees were almost the color of red-hots, and seemed like little red candies calling out to be plucked off. Continue reading →

Heritage Breeds and More at Accokeek Farm

By Amanda
Recently I learned about Accokeek Colonial Farm, located on the Potomac river in Maryland, directly across the river from Mount Vernon. When I found out they were having a special Heritage Breeds Day, I thought it a great opportunity to visit this treasure of a local resource. Combining both of my favorite passions, history and sustainable farming, it sounded like a perfect day out for me. Continue reading →

Looking for Local: Making a U Turn for Fresh Eggs

By Amanda
Sometimes getting a hold of fresh local products means taking advantage of buying something when the opportunity suddenly presents itself. Recently I was exploring some back roads in Faquier County and came on a roadside sandwich board sign reading “farm fresh eggs – self serve” Speed reading this sign at 40 mph, and making a speed decision, I slowed and did a u turn, doubling back and turning into the side road. Continue reading →