Simple LivingWritten by Arleen M. Kaptur
When we say "Simple Living" we mean enjoying and relishing pleasures and wonder of all that nature has to offer, whether you live in a rustic setting, in a bustling city, or high on a mountaintop overlooking hills and valleys of a remote destination. Simple Living is way you feel, not exactly where you live or location you call home. When you decide to enjoy wonders of a simple living lifestyle, you see wonders of a garden, with its bountiful and breathtaking beauty, not to mention great fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as flowers, shrubs and assorted foliage. It is letting brightness of a sunny day warm your face, and also letting stars, moon, and planets whet your imagination of far off life and possibilities. Wildlife, whether it be animals, birds, insects, fish, etc. bring their own "special" appeal, but also a responsibility. It is allowing land to be used safely by both humans and animal life. Thinking twice about harmful chemicals, or pollution, using benefit of environment, but replacing it with care and concern, becomes habit and a way of life. Simple Living is seeing best in people and those you love. Sincere compliments abound but criticism is carefully weighed. It is overlooking imperfections and mistakes in judgment and chalking it up as a part of being human. The realization that we all have our "quirks" is a free-breathing feeling that sets toleration exactly where it belongs-allowing others to live in style and mindset they prefer, even if we disagree. It does not, however, quietly accept injustice or brutality in any shape or form. The respect for all living creatures is also demand for competent government and accountability. It is speaking up when need arises to protest inequality and protect freedom. Simple living - simple pleasures - using what we have and re-using, if possible. Not being fooled by fancy packaging and glitzy advertising-but being able to appreciate value and usefulness. Imagination and creativity are gifts to be used, less they wither and die. It is realization that two hands can produce needed items that make life easier and more enjoyable. Our minds are untapped resources of great abilities and possibilities. Simple living is trying to develope and strengthen talents and opportunities.
| | Remembering Summer in WinterWritten by Arleen M. Kaptur
Summer's bountiful harvest can be well-remembered and renewed by freezing items you enjoy. Fruit: Work with small amounts at a time to allow for quick handling and prompt freezing. Gently wash fruit in cold water. Drain well. Never allow fruit to stand in water. Remove stems from berries, and pits from cherries, plums, apricots, peaches and pears. The peels should be removed from peaches, apples, and pears. The fruit can be sliced, quartered, or mashed, depending on future use. To prevent discoloration while working, apricots, peaches, nectarines, apples, pears, plums, etc. should be dipped in water with lemon juice. (1 gallon water to 3 tbs. lemon juice). Sweetening fruits before freezing helps retain flavor and color. Rolling fruit pieces in sugar is a simple way to guarantee that summer-fresh flavor. This is called a dry sugar pack. It is great with very juicy fruits as sugar and juice will make a great syrup.
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