Jon Pope

Our utility (Entergy) is running a free-tree giveaway! We just got an Eastern Redbud to plant as a shade tree, saving on our electric load, plus it's popular with the bees.

Although I try to eat fresh every day, sometimes I know it ain't gonna happen.  So in the morning a pull out the crockpot, dice an onion and a pepper, throw in a cup of dried beans, 3-4 cups water, some frozen veggies, a handful of spices, turn to low and head out for the day (TIP: no tomatoes or salt - the beans will stay hard).  5 minutes prep and I know I have dinner waiting for me.

Did you know your Halloween pumpkin is more than a decoration?  Roast it!  Hint - the smaller ones are sweeter, and better eating. Nov 1 is our traditional Pumpkin Ravioli Day, also happens to be the meal I made for my now-wife on 11/1/11, when I proposed to her....

I'll be veg for 10 years on Jan 1.  Here's my go-to site for recipes when I need some variety:  http://www.theppk.com/recipes/

Prime planting season starts 10/15 (Monday) here in south Louisiana!  I have a lime tree ready to plant, and my kitchen waste/grass clippings compost bin has been fermenting for over 6 weeks, so I have lots of materials ready.  My limited garden in the new house has been giving me lots of jalapenos from their container plants lately - can't wait to get them into the ground where they belong!

Want a better sleep?  Stay away from blue light at least a half hour before bedtime.  That means computer screens, tablets, cell phones or that huge TV hanging on your wall.  Read a book!