The Gothic Homesteader

This year beside our family gardens, and my deck garden, we have been honored to get to help out at the community garden hosted by Immanuel Baptist Church.    Community Gardens are so important, because they give those who might not have access to gardening space, a place to grow.  They provide food for those in need, enrich neighborhoods, bring people together who other wise might never rub shoulders, and just are fun! Are there any abandon lots around your area?  Maybe see if you and a few others can get together and purchase it for a community garden area. Are there any already in operation community gardens in your area?  Maybe join them and learn more about gardening and homesteading there. Are there local farmers markets?  Why not shop at them as much as possible to support those who are growing foods local? There are so many ways we can be Gothic Homesteaders, and we're just scratching the surface.  I cant wait to discover more! ~ M...

A popping chicken dish! 3-4 cups cooked Chicken 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup 1 8oz container of Sour Cream I tube of Ritz Crackers ½ stick of Butter melted 2 Tablespoons Poppy Seeds * Place Chicken in casserole dish.   * Combine sour cream and soup.   * Spread the sour cream/soup mix over chicken.   * Melt butter.   * Break crackers into crumbs.   * Mix cracker crumbs and poppy seeds into butter.   * Spread over the top of chicken and sour cream/soup.   * Beak uncovered at 350 F for 30 minuets.   * Serve at once! This is a tasty treat, my husband, Robby, and I just baked for the whole family, much to their great delight.  We had purple wonder potatoes and Navajo blue cornbread to the side.  Tasty! ~ Morria

I just lost a friend today, a young man my husband mentored, at the tender age of 17.  It is unknown as to why, but he committed suicide.  Please, my friends, if you are struggling or know someone who is struggling... Please, please, please get help.  Reach out. I will be honest, there were times years ago when I myself was a teen that suicide seemed the only option... but I am so glad I never succeed.   Things really do get better.  Today I have a wonderful husband, awesome plans for the future, joy and Hope!  It wasn't easy but it sure was worth it! If you need help, please call 1-800-273-8255 , asap! I dont want to lose anyone else... National Suicide Prevention's Website is also a great resource for help. ~ Morria