whose names i know

                                                                                                                      solstice eggs

These beautiful duck and chicken eggs were a gift from a wondrous woman. She even knows the ducks that laid the eggs. I think that I will always remember these, our first duck eggs ever . . . and from just a few miles away, imagine that.

We don't have chickens, ducks, goats, or bees. We've had pet cats, dogs, rabbits, and goldfish. I would like to make another stretch toward greater self-reliance but I'm not sure if livestock would be the right direction for us -- we live near a creek that runs from the mountains right into the city and the area has foxes, raccoons, and coyotes not to mention predator birds. A nearby park has a warning sign up for coyotes and some have lost their animal companions to the food chain.

The garden is bountiful and honestly last summer we bought very little in the way of fruits and vegetables to supplement what was homegrown. Most of the herbs that we use for food and medicine are also pretty easily grown here on our city lot. I know if I really apply myself, more of everything can be grown so that more can be canned, dried, tinctured, infused or frozen. But we do eat eggs, honey, milk, and cheese, too, and there are people here in the city who've figured out how to produce them.

So, like my friend, I am beginning to source as much food as I can from people whose names and addresses I know. And maybe even know their animals' names, too.

Amazing homegrown and/or homemade Yule food gifts from more wondrous people -- Christmas Nut-Roll Bread, Mediterranean Spice Blend, and Cinnamon Applesauce. Each is received to be eaten in a place of deep gratitude.

I hope you are well-nourished on this winter day.