Books Reviewed
Gardening and Lifestyle Books
Incredible Vegetables from Self-Watering Containers: Using Ed's Amazing POTS System
by Edward C. Smith
I'm a serious organic gardener, with 4500 square feet of flowers, herbs and veggies. I have a good garden library and I'm glad to add this book. As far as I know, it is the only container gardening book that addresses organic vegetable growing. I used to think that tilling the earth was superior to container gardening. In recent years, however, time pressures have made me wonder about the viability of growing convenience items (lettuce, tomatoes, onions) close to my front and back doors in containers so that dinner would be easy to harvest. Having read this book, I'm ready to try it. A very quick and lively read, the book's only shortcoming is lack of adequate information on how to create your own self-watering pots.
Earth Medicine and Healing Stones
by Carollanne Crichton
I'll admit that I enjoy a good hot stone massage, hence my interest in this book. I'll also admit that I'm familiar with the author's work as a master teacher of massage therapy, yoga and ayurvedic science, having been in her classes. The book explores how we can develop our spiritual relationship to earth as a medium for healing and enables the reader to understand why the stone massage experience can be so enjoyable. I enjoyed perusing it in front of the fire this winter. The author was one of the pioneers of modern stone massage in the early 1990s, when stone massage was not yet "rediscovered" from the ancients. The first seven chapters explore her philosophy of earth healing, and the last five chapters describe how she came to understand stone as a healing medium and aid to massage therapy. She provides specifics about her experiences with the healing qualities of different types of stone, as well as instructions for their use, which should be of interest to massage practitioners. See you down at the spa.
The Homeowners Guide to Energy Independence
by Christine Woodside
Energy supplies have been an interest of mine since college days in the 70s, but rising prices have made it a lot more personal. We've recently concluded the time has come to consider retooling our home heating. This book brought me up to date on the current picture and gave me lots of alternatives to consider. As a result of reading, we will be looking into a geothermal system. Book fulfills its promise to offer alternatives for "average" people -- even if its just awareness that the simplest, quickest alternative is to rethink and reduce your current energy uses. Written with a very clear, easy-to-read style.
Gardening and Natural Resources Education & Activities:
2003 - Advanced Master Gardener, University of Connecticut Extension System
2001-2: Certified Organic Farm, NOFA-CT
2002 - Organic Land care Professional Training
Volunteer Garden Coordinator, Goodwin Elementary School, 1997 - 99
Old Saybrook Tree Committee, 2000 - present
Active in Northeast Organic Farming Association -- CT and Old Saybrook Land Trust.