Tin Foil Hats

Permaculture

Permaculture is a long-term gardening plan that imitates the natural world. It’s a way for people to become more connected with the earth in ways that encourage the sharing of space, food, and resources with other animals, plants, and insects.

Now that food, gas, and mortgage prices are rising, people are becoming increasingly interested in ways to reduce their expenses with more economical consumables. Growing your own food can help.

I’ve been very impressed by the initiative of some people to create their own backyard gardens. In December 2007, “Peak Moment: Community Responses For a Changing Energy Future” spotlighted Judy Alexander, a woman from Port Townsend, Washington, who asked herself “How much food can I grow around my house?”

In the summer of 2006, she grew over 60 different types of plants, constructed a chicken coop, began vermicomposting, established an impressive rainwater irrigation system, and helped maintain a swarm of honeybees. This was not, of course, without help. However, it is inspiring to see her personal challenge and the rewards she now reaps for her community.

The Wall Street Journal reports an increasing number of suburbanites who grow food in both their front and back yards. This is such an ingenious solution. Not only are you growing your own food, but you’re also decreasing the amount of mowing needed to keep a “presentable” front yard.

It’s great to see how people are contributing, whether in small or large outfits, to a sustainable future for our planet. I only hope it continues to spread throughout our culture.
1 week ago

Oklahoma

Fat heifers mosey by bails of hay, munching on the parched, golden grass. Hammerhead oil rigs churn up and down, extracting riches from the barren land. John Deere tractors work at the fruitless landscape, shooting up clouds of dust.

An arid gust of wind brings attention to the dark, menacing wall cloud suspended above, protecting the rotating demon beyond. Any moment a mass of spiraling wind, dust, and rain will begin wrecking uncontrollable havoc on the flattened earth. Thick fingers of light spread across the sky. The boom of its laughter echoes seconds later. The air suddenly smells heavy with dust and moisture. Pearly drops of water quickly begin to fall. Excitement stirs in bricked homes all across the state. It’s the season where the weather hunts us and our loved ones. Will a visit to our concrete sanctuary be in order? Or is it just another night and another storm in Tornado Alley?

2 weeks ago