When we started experiencing issues with coyotes threatening our animals, we knew we needed a powerful and reliable livestock guardian dog. Enter Bowser, our Karakachan, a rare and ancient breed known for its fierce...
Pinto beans have been a staple in many cultures for generations, especially in Latin American cuisine. Not only are they delicious and versatile, but they also thrive in warm climates, making them an excellent...
At BLeaves Farms, we’re always looking for exciting additions to our homestead that bring both beauty and bounty. Our latest planting has us absolutely thrilled–a three-in-one peach tree featuring Desert Gold, Mid Pride, and...
In a world that moves faster every day, there’s something truly magical about slowing down, getting our hands in the soil, and savoring the simple pleasures of homegrown food. At BLeaves Farms, we embrace...
At BLeaves Farms, we pride ourselves on the freshness and flavor of our produce, and one of our crown jewels is our delightful Genovese basil. This herb is a must-have for farm to table cooking, adding a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. This season, our Genovese basil has grown vigorously, with an aroma that makes your mouth water. It has recently begun to go to seed. Rather than letting it go to waste, we decided to prune it back and collect seeds for next season. Here’s how you can do the same and make the most of this versatile herb.
Imagine this: nestled in a mansion-turned-firehouse in the scenic northwest foothills of Tucson, Arizona. The breathtaking view of the valley below, with twinkling city lights, a golden moon, and a sky full of stars, makes you forget the hardships of the day. After an exhausting ride, Jonathan and I are indulging in a sumptuous dinner of buttery mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus, and a trio of decadent ice creams topped with chocolate cake. Firefighters, not just heroes but also gourmet chefs, know how to make you feel at home.
We’re huddled in a cozy tent at Picacho Peak State Park, just 40 miles north of Tucson. The rugged desert mountains frame our view, while city lights twinkle in the distance. After a grueling day of cycling, we’ve just devoured our well-earned feast of cookie dough and peanut butter METRX Big 100 bars. The park’s facilities are top-notch, offering flush toilets and warm, private showers. Despite the cool 50-degree weather and a minor cactus mishap, with me stepping on a cactus and being impaled by hundreds of thorns, the magic of this place is undeniable.
Get ready to dive into a thrilling new blog series here at BLeaves Farms! Join us as we recount the awe-inspiring journey of two college friends who set out on an epic quest, pedaling from the vibrant streets of Phoenix all the way to the iconic Panama Canal. Our adventure, undertaken in 2008 to honor public safety heroes, was filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking landscapes, and the kind of camaraderie that turns ordinary trips into legendary tales. Through our stories, photos, and videos, we hope to ignite the spark of adventure within you and show that with vision, planning, and a bit of daring, anything is possible. So, gear up and get ready to be inspired to chase your own dreams and embark on your own incredible journeys!
Greetings, adventure seekers and nature lovers! We’re thrilled to share a new blog series with you documenting our epic bicycle adventure from Phoenix, Arizona all the way to the Panama Canal. What started as a simple dream amongst two college friends turned into a life-changing adventure spanning eight countries, six months, and thousands of miles covered by pedal power. We’ll be sharing our journey through captivating photos and videos, giving you a front-row seat to the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of this incredible ride. Stay tuned for regular updates and experience the adventure with us. I hope our experience inspires you to embark on your own journey, whether it’s across continents or within your own backyard.
When you think of homesteading and bicycle touring, they might initially appear worlds apart—one rooted in the stability of cultivating a self-sustaining home, and the other in the thrill of exploring the open road. However, these two seemingly disparate lifestyles share profound similarities that make them appealing to the same audience: those who value self-sufficiency, simplicity, and a deep connection with nature.
There comes a time in every homesteader’s life when they feel the call to start a worm bin. It’s almost a rite of passage, a step deeper into sustainable living. Our time came after learning about the art during Master Gardener training, and it did not disappoint. Vermicomposting has become an integral part of our gardening practice, and we’re excited to share this journey with you.
Treat your furry friend to a cool, nutritious delight this summer! Whip up a batch of Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Yogurt—a delightful blend of creamy Greek yogurt, luscious peanut butter, and sweet bananas. It’s not only a refreshing treat but also a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas when you’re tired of baking banana bread. Your dog will love the creamy texture and delicious flavors, and you’ll love knowing they’re enjoying a healthy snack. It’s simple, wholesome, and sure to be a tail-wagging hit!
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where every decision seems to revolve around convenience and cost, there exists a quiet oasis that promises a simpler, richer existence: your local library. With just a simple card, you open the door to a treasure trove of resources and experiences that can enrich your life in ways you might not have imagined.
In the realm of culinary adventures, mastering basic cooking techniques can open up a world of possibilities in the kitchen. From enhancing flavors to exploring new ingredients, knowing how to roast a spaghetti squash...
The scorching summer heat brings an abundant harvest of our favorite sun-loving crops. It’s the perfect time of year for squash enthusiasts, as our garden is brimming with vibrant, heat-loving squash. Today, we’re excited to share a delicious recipe that celebrates this seasonal bounty: Parmesan Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Spinach & Cremini Baby Bella Mushrooms.
Pumpkins are a beloved staple in many homestead gardens, offering a bounty of versatile produce that can be used for cooking, decorating, and even livestock feed. They store well and may be our pigs’...
It’s an exciting time here at Bleaves Farms because it’s elderberry season! These vibrant, nutrient-packed berries are ready for harvest, and we’re thrilled to share the incredible benefits and joys of elderberries with you....
Olive leaf tea offers several health benefits due to its rich content of antioxidants and beneficial compounds such as oleuropein. Olive trees, with their hardy nature and resilience, thrive remarkably well in the arid...
As the Spring season graces us with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, there’s nothing quite as delightful as a bowl of homemade tomato soup. BLeaves Farms is currently brimming with juicy, sun-ripened cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, two ingredients that are quintessential to this time of year. Today, we’re excited to share a special recipe that perfectly showcases these Springtime treasures. Join us as we transform these humble yet plentiful harvests into an amazing fire-roasted tomato basil soup that captures the essence of the season in every spoonful. Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting starter, a complimenting side, or a light meal, this soup is a delicious celebration of Spring’s freshest offerings. It goes along great with gourmet grilled cheese on sourdough bread!
From the kitchen of Jeff the Fire Chef comes another original recipe to celebrate seasonal farm to table cooking. Inspired by his Polish grandmother’s potato pancake recipe, but with a Tex Mex twist, this wholesome meal provides a wonderful opportunity to use up boatloads of zucchini from the Spring garden. The roasted corn and sweated poblano pepper flavors compliment each other well for a mouthwatering, cost effective meal that will leave your taste buds satisfied as well as plenty of leftovers to enjoy.
