Some places you read about for years, study from afar, and hope that someday you’ll have the opportunity to experience it. Polyface Farm is one of those places.

I sat in on a lot of talks. The speakers knew their stuff. They were well-spoken and had solid info to share. But if I’m being honest, nothing really felt new. That surprised me. Then I realized why.

Several years ago, while scrolling through Pinterest, I came across a photo of the prettiest bright pink vinegar I’d ever seen. It was made with chive blossoms, and I remember thinking, “I have chives…I wonder if I could do that?”

In my 20s, I did a lot of mural work and got in the habit of wiping my brushes and hands on my painter’s overalls. Fast forward to my 30s, and there's me as a new mom, still wiping my hands on my clothes.

It's funny how something so simple can hold so much. A recipe. A memory. An entire day spent with friends.

You could feel the love and care in every square. Someone took the time to remember. And to help us remember, too.

The reward is worth it: a shelf full of nourishing, home-preserved food and the quiet confidence that you’re building a skill our ancestors r

I found a few articles and videos on using good old baking soda, hot water, and aluminum foil. I wasn’t holding my breath, but got set up and gave it a try.

I just saw the strangest thing. It's just after 5 a.m., and I'm at the barns. It's a frosty morning, just below freezing, and I'm getting breakfast out to all the ponies.