"Getting Started with Farming: A Guide for Women Who’ve Never Grown a Thing (But Have Big Dreams)"

Dreaming of starting a farm but have zero experience (or even a green thumb)? This lighthearted, tongue-in-cheek guide is here to help you take the first steps toward growing your dream. Packed with practical tips, relatable humor, and plenty of grace for beginners, this ebook will keep you inspired, even when your garden doesn’t look like the picture-perfect farms on social media.

Whether you’re growing a single pot of herbs or planning an entire homestead, this guide will remind you that every farmer starts somewhere—and that learning to grow is just as important as the harvest.

Perfect for women who are new to farming, ready to embrace the messy, rewarding journey of self-sufficiency, and eager to laugh along the way. Download your free copy today and start planting the seeds of your dream!

Prompt:

knowing the kind of work I do in the local community, please suggest a calendar of events for 2025 that incorporates the things I love - arts, agriculture, and civic engagement. Include events that I would host/present/sponsor, as well as those that I would volunteer for. Feel free to push the envelope and be creative.

Result:

Here’s a proposed 2025 Calendar of Events that blends your passions for arts, agriculture, and civic engagement. It incorporates hosting, presenting, sponsoring, and volunteering opportunities.

January

• New Year Vision Workshop (Host/Present)

  • A creative goal-setting and vision-boarding session for the community. Incorporate mindfulness, journaling exercises, and art.

  • Partner with local artists and civic leaders for discussions on collective aspirations.

• Winter Nature Walk & Meditation (Host)

  • Launch your seasonal nature walks on your urban forest property. Focus on mindfulness and winter-inspired art installations.

February

• Love Your City: Community Mural Day (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Work with local artists and residents to create a mural highlighting Augusta’s history in arts and agriculture.

• Black History Month Agri-Arts Expo (Host)

  • Celebrate Black farmers, artists, and innovators. Include music, storytelling, food demonstrations, and panel discussions.

March

• Spring Into Gardening Festival (Host)

  • Teach gardening basics at your teaching garden. Include workshops for families and school groups.

• Community Jazz Night (Volunteer)

  • Support a live music night at a local venue. Encourage youth musicians to participate.

April

• Earth Month Agri-Tourism Day (Host/Present)

  • Invite visitors to explore the petting zoo, teaching garden, and local farms. Promote sustainable farming practices.

• First Fridays with The Cool Kidz (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Collaborate with downtown Augusta to make this a recurring event for youth and families.

May

• Arts in the Community Garden Festival (Host)

  • Transform the traditional Art in the Park into a vibrant showcase of art, gardening, and music in community gardens.

• Mindful Kids Workshop (Host)

  • A creative mindfulness event tailored to children ages 5-10. Use exercises from Guided Adventures.

June

• Summer Solstice Nature Walk & Picnic (Host)

  • Celebrate the solstice with an evening nature walk, live music, and local farm-to-table fare.

• Creative Entrepreneurship Bootcamp (Host)

  • A 2-day workshop for mid-life career changers looking to turn their passions into businesses.

July

• Farm-to-Fork Chef Challenge (Sponsor)

  • Partner with local chefs and farmers for a friendly cooking competition. Highlight Augusta’s food scene.

• Civic Engagement Through Art: Town Hall (Present/Volunteer)

  • Facilitate a town hall where artists and community leaders discuss civic engagement and cultural expression.

August

• National Farmers Market Week (Host)

  • Organize themed activities, spotlighting diverse farmers and products daily. Include recipe demos and seed bomb workshops.

September

• Arts in the Heart of Augusta (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Curate the Jazz/Blues stage and help with the festival’s 10th-anniversary promotions.

• Grandma Carrot Book Launch & Storytime (Host)

  • Debut your children’s book series with a live reading and themed activities for kids.

October

• Harvest Festival & Agri-Tourism Day (Host)

  • Highlight local farms, fall produce, and agritourism. Include family-friendly games, hayrides, and a pumpkin patch.

• Volunteer Day for Urban Farms (Volunteer)

  • Lead a community-wide effort to support local urban farms through planting and maintenance.

November

• Holiday Market at Canterbury Farms (Sponsor)

  • Showcase STOP Mobile Market and Honey Harvest Crunch granola. Partner with other local vendors.

• Gratitude Journaling & Art Workshop (Host)

  • Kick off the holiday season with a reflective journaling session, tying into your devotional journal.

December

• Holiday Caroling with Community Choirs (Sponsor/Volunteer)

  • Spread holiday cheer with local choirs in public spaces, schools, and eldercare facilities.

• Art & Wellness Retreat (Host)

  • A half-day retreat combining gentle exercises, art therapy, and guided mindfulness for a peaceful year-end.

Hey there, fellow creative souls! Today, we're diving into a topic that touches many lives: cancer treatment. If you're an artist navigating this challenging journey, you're not alone. With the power of creativity and community, you can find ways to thrive even amidst the storm. So, grab a cup of tea, get comfy, and let's explore seven strategies that can help you find strength and joy during this time.

1. Embrace Art Therapy

Did you know that art therapy can significantly reduce anxiety and improve emotional well-being? Research published by the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center found that patients engaging in creative activities experienced lower stress levels. Art therapy isn't just about painting or drawing; it's about expressing emotions that words sometimes can't capture. Imagine creating a piece that reflects your journey—a tapestry of colors that tell your story.

The Role of Community Arts in Trauma Recovery

[source: Psychology Today]

The United States has experienced numerous tragedies in the past year, from the devastating wildfires in Maui to mass shootings in schools and places of worship. Such events are associated with psychiatric distress and psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These traumatic experiences can affect our brain function and amplify our stress responses. With such profound mental health impacts, how can communities move forward after catastrophic events?

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-art-effect/202401/the-role-of-community-arts-in-trauma-recovery

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

Our family lost its matriarch last year (May 2024). And right now, I’m going through some sh*t.

So.. lemons —-> lemonade.

I’m taking time to gather up all important documents, like a responsible adult. (Adulting sucks, btw) Here’s one for now. A quick template for a living will. I’ll come back and pretty it up in a day or so. But here’s what you need. Of course, consult legal advice and ensure that the particulars work for your state/municipality.

Here’s to health and wellness. -kg

Why a Living Will is Essential for Peace of Mind

Life is full of uncertainties, and while we can't always predict what lies ahead, we can take steps to ensure that our wishes are respected and our loved ones are supported during challenging times. A living will is more than just a document—it's a powerful tool that communicates your healthcare preferences when you're unable to speak for yourself.

By having a living will on file and ensuring your family knows about it, you can reduce confusion, ease emotional burdens, and empower your loved ones to act confidently in accordance with your values. It's not just about planning for the unexpected—it's about giving your family clarity and peace of mind when they need it most.

—————-

LIVING WILL

Declaration of [Your Name]

Date: [Insert Date]
City, State: [Insert City and State]

I. Declaration of Intent

This Living Will is made by me, [Your Full Name], of sound mind and acting of my own volition. Its purpose is to express my wishes regarding medical care should I become unable to communicate these decisions myself.

II. Designation of Healthcare Agent

If I am unable to make healthcare decisions, I designate the following individual as my healthcare agent (also known as a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare):

Agent's Name: [Insert Name]
Relationship to Me: [Insert Relationship]
Phone Number: [Insert Phone Number]
Address: [Insert Address]

If the above-named agent is unavailable, unwilling, or unable to act, I designate the following alternate agent:

Alternate Agent's Name: [Insert Name]
Relationship to Me: [Insert Relationship]
Phone Number: [Insert Phone Number]
Address: [Insert Address]

III. Medical Treatment Preferences

In the event that I am unable to express my wishes, I make the following decisions regarding my healthcare:

A. Life-Sustaining Treatments

If I have a terminal condition or am in a persistent vegetative state with no reasonable expectation of recovery:

1. Respiratory Support:
   ☐ I want mechanical ventilation.
   ☐ I do not want mechanical ventilation.

2. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR):
   ☐ I want CPR if my heart stops.
   ☐ I do not want CPR if my heart stops.

3. Artificial Nutrition and Hydration:
   ☐ I want tube feeding and hydration.
   ☐ I do not want tube feeding and hydration.

B. Pain Management

I wish to receive adequate pain relief, even if it may hasten my death.
☐ Yes
☐ No

IV. Organ Donation

Upon my death:
☐ I want to donate my organs and tissues for transplantation or research.
☐ I do not want to donate my organs or tissues.
☐ I want to donate only the following: [Specify Organs/Tissues]

V. Additional Instructions

(Use this space for any other specific requests or instructions regarding your care.)

[Insert Any Additional Instructions]

VI. Signatures and Witnesses

This document is made in accordance with the laws of the State of [Insert State].

Signature of Declarant:
[Your Signature]
Date: [Insert Date]

Witnesses' Declaration:
We, the undersigned, declare that the person signing this document appears to be of sound mind and signed this Living Will in our presence.

Witness #1:
Name: [Insert Name]
Address: [Insert Address]
Signature: [Insert Signature]
Date: [Insert Date]

Witness #2:
Name: [Insert Name]
Address: [Insert Address]
Signature: [Insert Signature]
Date: [Insert Date]

(Notary Public optional depending on your state requirements.)

How Art Therapy Can Benefit Cancer Patients

[source: Henry Ford Health]

When dealing with the complex emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis, don’t underestimate the healing power of art. It can be a constructive way to express yourself, channel your frustration and anger, and calm your mind. There’s even a particular type of counseling dedicated to it, simply called art therapy.

“By using different art processes—drawing, painting and ceramics, for example—you can better understand and dive more deeply into your thoughts and feelings,” says Mallory Montgomery, ATR-BC, a board-certified art therapist with Henry Ford Health. “While we do talk in art therapy, sometimes words are limiting, so this is another way to express yourself. We use colors, lines and symbols to express internal states.”

https://www.henryford.com/blog/2020/11/how-art-therapy-can-benefit-cancer-patients

this post sponsored by MUSE: CANVAS

As a small farm store owner, I love exploring new ways to use the produce I grow, and loofah is no exception! While many people are familiar with loofah as a sponge, when harvested young, it’s a versatile vegetable with a delicate, zucchini-like flavor. Not only can you cook the young loofah, but the leaves are also edible and packed with nutrients! Below, I’m sharing a few of my favorite ways to prepare both the young loofah and its leaves.

Cooking Young Loofah

Young loofah has a tender texture, making it a great addition to stir-fries, sautés, and soups. Here are two delicious and simple ways to enjoy it:

1. Sautéed Loofah with Garlic and Herbs

This quick and easy sauté is perfect for highlighting the natural flavors of young loofah, making it a great side dish or light meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 young loofahs, peeled and sliced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).

3. Add the sliced loofah and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before serving.

5. Serve as a side or pair with rice for a light and refreshing meal.

2. Loofah Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce and Ginger

For a more savory dish, this stir-fry adds a touch of ginger and soy sauce, perfect for serving over rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

• 2 young loofahs, peeled and cut into thin strips

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 small piece of ginger, thinly sliced or grated

• 1 chili pepper (optional, for heat)

• A handful of sliced scallions

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.

2. Add ginger (and chili pepper if using) and stir-fry for about 30 seconds.

3. Toss in the loofah strips and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until softened.

4. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, tossing to coat the loofah.

5. Top with sliced scallions and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Cooking Loofah Leaves

Don’t toss those loofah leaves! They’re a great source of nutrients and can be prepared much like other leafy greens. Here are two simple ways to cook loofah leaves:

1. Stir-Fried Loofah Leaves with Garlic

This stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to prepare loofah leaves. The garlic adds flavor, while the leaves retain a bit of their natural earthiness.

Ingredients:

• A bunch of loofah leaves, washed and stems removed

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A splash of soy sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.

3. Toss in the loofah leaves and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until they wilt down, similar to spinach.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor.

5. Serve as a side dish or mix into rice or noodles.

2. Loofah Leaf Soup

For a light and refreshing soup, loofah leaves pair well with a simple broth. This dish is perfect for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients:

• A bunch of loofah leaves, roughly chopped

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 tomato, diced

• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A dash of fish sauce (optional)

• Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, heat a little oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

2. Add the diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes until it breaks down.

3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.

4. Add the loofah leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and fish sauce (if using).

6. Garnish with green onions or cilantro and serve hot.

Loofah is an often overlooked but delicious and versatile vegetable. Whether you're looking for a new stir-fry ingredient or something fresh to add to soups, both the young loofah and its leaves offer a unique way to explore farm-fresh produce. Try these recipes next time you harvest loofah, and discover how this humble plant can transform your kitchen!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Augusta, GA

September 16, 2024

New Executive Director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council Announced

The Greater Augusta Arts Council is very pleased to announce that Denise Tucker has been selected as the New Executive Director of the Arts Council. A call for applicants went out in July 2024 and over 50 applications were received from across the country. The GAAC Search Committee narrowed the applicants down to six semi-finalists who were each interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. Ms. Tucker emerged as the clear finalist and was approved by the Executive Board.

After accepting the position, Denise commented, “I am elated to be chosen as the next Executive Director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council during such a transitional and pivotal time. I plan to build upon the strong legacy established over the last 27 years by expanding our role in the community as not only a steward of public art but as the heartbeat of the arts community, the essential link between artists and the wider public. My vision is for the Arts Council to be recognized as one of the driving forces that makes Augusta a place where art lives, works, and thrives, thereby amplifying our cultural and economic influence.”

Denise brings a wealth of experience and has worked and served in the Augusta community for over 30 years. With a background in Human Resources, she has managed and collaborated with several arts organizations during her time in Augusta. Her work in both development and public art has significantly contributed to the growth and visibility of the Arts Council. With her at the helm, the Council is poised to embark on new initiatives and expand its impact on the vibrant arts scene in Augusta.

Retiring Executive Director Brenda Durant said “Denise has been an integral member of the Arts Council Team since joining as our Economic Intern (AEP6) in January 2022. After AEP6, she transitioned into the role of Development Manager, and then took over as manager of Public Art.  I am so pleased that the search committee chose Denise as the next Executive Director.  She has a great vision for the future and completely understands our current programs and services with a love of Public Art.”

written with AI assistance from ChatGPT

Employee engagement and creativity are vital components of a thriving business environment. Across cities like Nashville, TN, and Greenville, SC, businesses are pioneering new approaches to foster creativity among their employees. From flexible workspaces to innovative workshops and team-building activities, these cities exemplify how nurturing a creative workforce can lead to innovative solutions and sustained growth.

Nashville, TN: Music City's Harmonious Approach to Workplace Creativity

1. HCA Healthcare HCA Healthcare, headquartered in Nashville, has implemented innovative strategies to engage employees creatively. They offer flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to choose where they work best—whether in the office, remotely, or in collaborative spaces designed for brainstorming and teamwork. This flexibility not only enhances productivity but also encourages employees to explore creative solutions to healthcare challenges, fostering a culture of innovation throughout the organization.

2. Emma Emma, an email marketing company based in Nashville, emphasizes creativity through its workspace design and culture. Their office environment is designed to inspire with vibrant colors, open collaboration areas, and quirky decor that reflects their brand personality. Additionally, Emma hosts regular creative workshops and team-building activities that encourage employees to think outside the box and experiment with new ideas. By prioritizing creativity in both physical space and company culture, Emma cultivates a dynamic workforce that continuously innovates in the digital marketing realm.

Greenville, SC: Where Innovation Meets Southern Hospitality

1. Michelin North America Michelin, with its North American headquarters in Greenville, SC, places a strong emphasis on employee engagement and creativity. They have established innovation labs and collaborative workspaces where employees from diverse backgrounds can come together to solve complex challenges in tire technology and mobility solutions. Michelin also invests in professional development programs and creative workshops that empower employees to develop innovative solutions that drive the company forward in a competitive global market.

2. The Iron Yard The Iron Yard, a tech education company founded in Greenville, SC, has built its business model around fostering creativity and innovation in the tech industry. They offer immersive coding bootcamps that not only teach technical skills but also emphasize creativity and problem-solving abilities. Through project-based learning and mentorship, The Iron Yard equips students with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. Their approach not only prepares individuals for careers in technology but also instills a culture of innovation that extends beyond the classroom.

Conclusion: Nurturing Creativity for Sustainable Success

In Nashville, TN, and Greenville, SC, businesses are proving that fostering creativity among employees is not just beneficial but essential for long-term success. By creating flexible work environments, organizing creative workshops, and promoting collaborative team-building activities, these cities' businesses are unlocking the full potential of their workforce. Whether you're in healthcare, marketing, manufacturing, or tech, cultivating a culture of creativity can lead to innovative breakthroughs and a competitive edge in today's rapidly changing marketplace. Embrace creativity in your workplace—inspiration may be the key to your next big idea.

S.T.O.P Mobile Farmers Market - September 2024 Availability (Updated Weekly):

The Stop Food Truck - Theme TBA

Whole Produce: Watermelons, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Vidalia Onions, Peppers (Hot, Sweet), Mushrooms (Oyster, Lions Mane), Herbs

Honey: Raw Honey (Georgia Wildflower, Ginger, Cinnamon)

Meal Preps: Stir-Fry Mixes, Southern Caviar, Succotash

Value-Added Items: Elderberry Jelly, Pepper Relish, Fig Preserves, Vegetable Medley

Beverages: Herb-Infused Water, Watermelon Juice

PRE-ORDER HERE

—————-

The Stop Food Truck

Sep 5, 12, 19, 26: 4:30-7p

The HUB (631 Chafee Ave, Augusta)

S.T.O.P. Mobile Farmers Market

September 21, 2024 : 11a-2p

Faith Walk, Evans GA

South Augusta Farmers Market

September 7, 14, 28; 11a-2p

4104 Windsor Spring Rd 30815

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NEWS:

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://augustagoodnews.com/mobile-farmers-market-rolls-out-july-19/

https://www.wrdw.com/video/2024/07/21/mobile-food-truck-providing-fresh-food-meals-2/

https://x.com/WRDW_WAGT/status/1815054173781610909

https://augustabusinessdaily.com/fresh-produce-and-more-rolls-into-the-csra-today/

https://augustaceo.com/news/2024/07/stop-food-truck-champions-sustainability-new-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/t-o-p-mobile-farmers-125241207.html

https://theaugustapress.com/augustas-s-t-o-p-food-truck-is-launching-a-mobile-farmers-market/

https://www.wrdw.com/2024/07/21/stop-food-truck-launches-mobile-food-market-initiative/

https://www.wjbf.com/csra-news/s-t-o-p-mobile-farmers-market-providing-locally-fresh-produce-for-csra/#:~:text=The%20S.T.O.P.,available%20throughout%20the%20Augusta%20area.