The Sweet Taste of Vida

Fall is officially here, which reminds me of fond memories of growing up in Ohio. Fall was always a spectacular season with the chilly weather, stunning vivid colors of the fall leaves, and warm spiced apple cider for special occasions.

Now living in South Carolina, I still want to recreate those memories. So I've been inspired to create my own recipe of spiced apple cider. When creating a recipe it is important to use the highest quality of ingredients. To create just the right amount of sweetness in the cider I will use Akron Honey, their honey is dynamic and flavorful. The company owned by Wesly Ian in Akron, Ohio is an Urban Honey and Personal Men's Care company. They use sustainable practices that create the best honey possible.

My favorite batch is Middlebury, which is harvested in Middlebury Neighborhood, which includes Chittenden st.  This neighborhood is as vibrant and dynamic as Akron Honey and it's reflected in the amazing taste and flavor of the Middlebury Honey.

Blending the apple juice with a variety of spices, along with Akron Honey creates the perfect apple cider. When I drink this cider it reminds me that the season has changed, it's a new time and season to create fall memories with my family here in Columbia, South Carolina.


What's your favorite thing about fall?

Middlebury Red 3oz

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Harvest Date: 11.11.15

Tastes Like: Extra Sweet , Floral, Medium Smoky

Influences: White Dutch Clover, Black Locust, Japanese Knotweed

Use with: Tea & Coffee, Spicy Dishes (glaze or drizzle), Fried Foods (chicken), Bland Foods (biscuits), Fruit

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Brighten your day!

Looking for an easy way to uplift your day? Fresh flowers are a great way to add elegance and grace to your home. To buy a beautiful flower arrangement can be expensive, but you can pick your own wild flowers for free. 

While on a walk in the up and coming neighborhood of Pinehurst, I found some flower gems that added fragrance and beauty to my home. Strolling on Magnolia Street I found a vibrant yellow yarrow plant and some lush green wild dill on an empty lot at 3007 Magnolia St. Those flowers and herbs allowed me to create a stunning bouquet for my home.  

I love walking the Pinehurst Community, it gives me a chance to see the many turn of the century homes, stroll the wide boulevards of Magnolia St and Chestnut St. The Pinehurst Community Center has free herbs and vegetables for the public to gather at any time. In the past, I have added the (free)  fresh bell peppers and basil to salads, and created a delicious pizza. 

Being able to collect wild flowers in my local neighborhood is such a pleasure and an easy way to add pizazz and warmth to my home. There are so many ways to live an organic and sustainable lifestyle in a fast paced world. 


What is your favorite neighborhood?