The Renfield House
The origin story of our 1868 house and the coffin box that still resides in the attic of the original builder of the house at Mezzacello.
The Rule of Sustainability - 3 and 5 Strategy
Sustainability is an important topic right now. We need more of it, and better metrics to define what "it" is.
Spring 2021 and the Brunerform
An update on the gardens this spring and a candid little confessional and observation on Spring, Beauty, Life, and Fashion.
The Enclosed Sustainable Ecosystems of Mezzacello
What is a truly enclosed, self-sustaining ecosystem? It requires that the energy and materials going in are accounted for and amplified coming out.
Easy Classic French Bean Poles
Inspired by classic beanpoles at French Chateaux, these are a modern update that are easy to build. This includes directions.
Adapt, Recycle, Reuse: Chicken Diapers
Chicken Diapers: see new uses and explore - and then COVID. When the humble chicken diaper becomes a face mask again.
The Humble Chicken Tractor
This is a post about a very useful tool with the most confusing name; The Humble Chicken Tractor. Sometimes I just refer to it as a tractor because I let mother hens and chicks use it, ducks and ducklings, and even rabbits. Rick tried to put me in it in a corner of the yard, but nobody puts baby in the corner, in a tractor in the yard. I digress.
The Pollinator Landing Strip
the Pollinator Landing Strip. The space that we maintain to attract and reward our friends, the pollinators of the city.
Everyone Has to Eat Hostas
Most people think of hostas as decorative perennials or as deer food, but hostas are quite tasty when young shoots show up.
Applied STEM, Not a Meth House
When I tried to bronze chain in oil in our oven and discovered Applied STEM, not a meth house.
The Foodist: Truly Vegetarian Mushroom Bourguignon
This is a delicious vegetarian alternative to beef stew that will make omnivores salivate!

