Locavores and More Love Local

Pat and Ellie Mullins have the kind of culinary pedigrees that are more often seen in big cities like Chicago or San Francisco or New York. Both have worked as chefs in high end restaurants in Santa Barbara and Chicago, but moved to Harbor Country several years ago to work at Soe's and be closer to Pat's parents, who own Middlebrook Farms. Their philosphy is simple" Source and showcase the tastiest meats, cheeses and produce the Midwest has to offer. "

I have become a fan of their smoked turkey ( real turkey, smoked with a little salt) and their bratwurst. They are true artisans, creating food in small quantities that they can be proud of. Do visit them, chat about local food and take home some of their delicious wares!

Local: 424 East Buffalo St. New Buffalo ( about 1/4 block south of Redamak's on the west side of the street. It's a small house, so keep your eyes open! 269-231-5138 localfoodco@gmail.com. www.localnewbuffalo.com

I Love A Parade

So, okay, it doesn't exactly feel like it is the end of May... more like early October. But the weatherman promises that it will warm up this weekend! And Memorial Day kicks off the summer.. but do you and your kids remember why there is a Memorial Day? A good way to get back in touch with what it means is to go to a parade! Here's a list of just a few of them....

New Buffalo: 10 am ( EST) Parade and special appearance by the Lighthouse Chorus.

Lakeside: 12 noon. Meet in downtown Lakeside to walk across Red Arrow Highway to the cemetary. Special appearance by the Lighthouse Chorus. Decorate your bicycle, tricicyle or car and join the parade!

OMMMMM

Finally, I have been able to get back to practicing yoga after a too-long hiatus. We are fortunate here that there are two good studios to choose from. So you don't have to forego your practice even if you are out here on the weekends or on vacation.

Dancing Feet Yoga: 19135 West US Highway 12 New Buffalo ( on Red Arrow Highway south of New Buffalo) 269-479-1966 dancingfeetyoga.com

YOGAglow: 6 Linden Street - 2nd floor, Three Oaks. 269-697-4394 yogathreeoaks.com

Shore of Plenty Farmers Market

It's been a cold, rainy spring and I know all of us are waiting for the sun and some warmth!! We are getting some warmth, but as I look out the window and listen to the birds singing for rain, it seems that the sun is going to be elusive...again.

But this morning, I visited a new Farmer's Market in Harbert. Called" Know Yer (sic) Grower" and sponsored by Shore of Plenty, it is open from May to October and held on Tuesdays in Soe Cafe's parking lot from 5-7:30 pm and on Saturdays at the Harbert Community Park from 9-2 pm. ( All times are EST). What a sign that spring is actually here!

Produce isn't in yet, but the farmers are offering a wide array of flowering plants, herbs and vegetables. I talked to Mark at Blue Star Produce ( "certified wholistically grown"), who gave me growing and fertilizing advice on the heirloom tomato plants that I bought.
Bought some cookies from two lovely ladies ( one is getting married in August!) though I managed to resist the coconut balls that looked scrumptious!
And bought some flowering plants from Leo Jovanovich and discussed the River Valley schools.
Saw friends, learned some things, and in general, celebrated our lovely area and the talented farmers who are our neighbors. So, go visit them next Saturday or on your way home from wherever on Tuesday.

Driveway Bandits

We live in the country, but sadly, some of the challenges of big city living sometimes creep in.
Last weekend, there were several instances of cars broken into, with computers, i-pods, wallets, cell phones, etc stolen.
So, here are a couple of reminders to make your summer hassle free!
Men- don't leave your wallets in a car- locked or not
It's always a good idea not to leave anything that is valuable in a locked car, no matter where it is parked.
Lock your car, even if it is in your driveway or carport!
Be mindful of your surroundings.