Author: mlmilius

A Family Tradition in the Kitchen

mlmilius

Family Gatherings There is nothing better than a family gathering where food is shared, stories are told, and traditions are passed down. Holidays seem to be a good time for these get-togethers, and for some of us, they bring a sense of peace and comfort to our home. Grandma’s Applesauce In my family, a family holiday favorite is my grandma’s homemade applesauce. She used to make it for every family gathering and holiday, and it was always the first treat to have the empty dish cleared from the table. It Read More …

Gardening with Wildlife in Chugiak, Alaska

mlmilius

All the Perks As with many communities in Alaska, gardening in Chugiak has many upsides and downsides. Compared to many other areas of the state we have considerably moderate temperatures that can extend our growing season with the help of picking appropriate varieties of plants to grow and the use of a greenhouse or season extender. According to the USDA Plant Hardiness Map, Chugiak is in Zone 4b. When compared to many other Alaskan communities, Chugiak has relatively mild weather extremes. Another upside to my community is that I live Read More …

Inspiration from the Ambushing Bush

mlmilius

You never know when a bush is going to attack you when walking up my front stairs. There have been many mornings where I am running late for work and have to wrestle my way around a   web of branches and leaves from a large bush that is intended to welcome you to the home. Instead of welcoming you, it often feels like it is trying to suck you into the plant itself so that you are entangled and a part of the bush forever. A Book for Beginners Read More …