There are so many ways you can help…with your time or donation. Just knowing that there are good people doing great things in your community can help inspire you.

This installment of my GroEdibles Blog was originally posted at the close of HGEL’s first year in 2009, during the Great Recession. Though our country’s economy continues to improve, our world faces much darkness. Hatred fed by fear threaten to overtake compassion and kindness. Don’t let it.

Ever since we were going through build-out at The Cook’s Garden by HGEL on Abbot Kinney here in Venice, CA, we have been approached by many residents in the neighborhood asking about opportunities to lease a box for themselves and their families. While we continue to talk to restaurants and chefs in the area, we have decided to open a limited number of boxes to home cooks in the neighborhood.

“It’s a no-brainer for organic sustainability gardeners but this graphic makes it so simple and clear for non-gardening folks. Treating the soil, soil food web, air, oceans and animals as one living being to be cared for and nourished is an idea that our agronomy forebearers had practiced for centuries.”

While enjoying this holiday, please take a moment to remember and honor our veterans’ sacrifice and prepare to help those returning vets through what may be their most difficult mission yet…coming home. Here’s one organization that holds special meaning for me… Farmers Veteran Coalition

Happy Anniversary to the mar’sel edible garden! This is Part Four in this blog series on “The Rebirth of a Garden”. Be sure to read Part 1, 2 and 3 for a great community story as well as great tips and resources on soil management, edible planting strategies and design tips.

Ok…foundation work is done so now on to the fun part – planning the planting list! This meant that it was time to meet with mar’sel’s chef, Michael Fiorelli, to discuss his fall menu. “My inspiration comes from farmers who dedicate their lives to respecting the earth and their local communities. A great dish starts with the freshest seasonal ingredients.” Chef explained in a recent interview.

It was a beautiful day to be playing in the dirt! A beautiful surrounding landscape, gorgeous views, great mild weather….gardening perfection at Terranea!

This landscape was speaking to me…..and then I saw the raised beds outside of mar’sel restaurant… What message could a successful and productive commercial edible garden send to the public strolling by to the beach or on their way to dinner? “Here we are….we’re growing our own food just like you!” the garden could shout out! “Come see what we’re doing and be inspired!” the garden could scream! I couldn’t just walk away.