As the garden begins to slow down in the fall I often think, “What on earth will I have to report on Bumblebee in the winter?”
But as I reflect on the ideas and topics that have captured my interest in the past, the truth is that Bumblebee isn’t entirely about gardening. I have written extensively about chickens lately, since my recent home project has been the construction of the Palazzo di Pollo. I have posted some of my favorite recipes, including my all-time favorite Italian cream cake. I have told stories about my travels and the crazy gifts my brother and I exchange. I have even written about my commitment to exercise and my yearning for simplicity.
Lemon grass, Swiss chard and lettuces in the October garden
Then the other day as I was sitting outside jotting some thoughts in the notebook that I always keep handy, it occurred to me that there are several themes here at Bumblebee that are similar to the Manifesto those clever gardeners over at Garden Rant have posted on their blog. I don’t think I would call mine a manifesto, but it is a set of beliefs or values that I believe are reflected here. So let me share them with you…
-Productive vegetable gardens can be ornamental and beautiful, especially when integrated into the home’s plantings.
-Our food should be as local, fresh and chemical/hormone-free as possible.
-Preparing healthy and delicious foods for ourselves and our families is an important daily activity.
-A beautiful and rewarding life requires slowing down and simplifying so that there is time for thoughtful contemplation.
-Our surroundings should reflect the things we care about. The things around us should be beautiful, useful or both.
-Spending time maintaining our health through exercise and good nutrition is part of the foundation of happiness.
-Don’t take everything so seriously that you make yourself or those around you unhappy.
Herb bed in October
Of course, I hold many people dear—family and friends. And other things are important, such as my work. But these are the themes that I write about here at Bumblebee.
Maxine shows off her regal profile
What do you think? What’s important to you?
(By the way, have you checked out all the photo albums here at Bumblebee? Click the “Photos” sign at the top of this page. There is even an album dedicated to the chickens!)
Hi! I'm Robin Ripley author of Wisdom for Home Preservers, published by Taunton Press. I am also co-author of Grocery Gardening. Bumblebee is about my life in rural Maryland, my garden and my love of food, my little dogs and pet chickens. You can follow me on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook. Thank you for visiting!
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Amen to all of that.
Donna
Maxine is growing into a beautiful hen. Many of the things you expound upon are important to me too. Family and friends being at the top of the list.
I think what I like most about your “manifesto” is that it is all positive. You focus on what one can do rather than make prohibitions about what one shouldn’t do.
I like that.
Maxine is growing up to be a stunning lady.
I agree with MSS, your beliefs and values are very positive, and they make me think of “gracious living”, taking one’s time to do things right and enjoy the process as much as the result.
Your garden beds looks wonderful for October, and Maxine does appear quite regal.
Nice thoughts, Robin.
“-A beautiful and rewarding life requires slowing down and simplifying so that there is time for thoughtful contemplation”
I agree. The concept is always a work-in-progress for me.
Mary
It is fun to follow you and I think you do a grand job. Your writing is inviting like we were sitting down to coffee and chit chatting among friends. It’s also informative. I look forward to seeing what else you have to share.
I think it is important to take stock of where we’ve been and where we’d like to be in the future. Not only that, but to think about what our hopes for the future say about what we really value.
Robin, I like the Bumblebee Manifesto, it’s quite complete. Maybe you could post it on your sidebar. The Swiss Chard and Lemon Grass are great companions. I use Lemon Grass in a sunny bed instead of Miscanthus for its culinary good looks. Gail
Just discovered your blog through Garden Rant, its great! Love your graphics (complete with Papillons!) and am enjoying discovering your garden. I wish I could have chickens! (here in the land of HOAs…)
I too, agree with your Manifesto… its reassuring to touch base with others of like philosophies when sometimes the world seems scary…