A Purple Fall

Hello Readers,

Happy fall. A Horse Named Sky remains on the New York Times Bestseller still. I’m extending thanks to EVERYONE who has shown their support in any way - THANK-YOU! If you’ve ordered bookplates those will go out this week.

It has been a tremendous season for dahlias. The heat stuck around in Michigan and I was able to catch these end-of-season dahlias in my sketchbook. The deep purple are my favorite this year.

My Mom’s garden rarely disappoints with little wonders…

The purple parade extends from the garden to the kitchen. After researching (and a bit of procrastinating) I’m finally fermenting… and yes, surprise, purple. This jar below was all veggies, carrots, cauliflower, onions, red cabbage… and whatever else was in the fridge.

The flavor was tangy and worked well in a rice bowl. Curious to see how the flavor will mellow out over time in the fridge. Seems easy enough to add on top or to the side of dishes. I also tried to ferment some salsa, which took a bit longer. Overall, I liked the flavor and feel more confident about experimenting with more spices. (Maybe from next year’s spring garden?)

I’m focused on doing everything I can to help my gut health, seeing these colors change throughout the project was an unexpected joy. I had no idea how visually creative and inventive the process could be. There’s lots to learn about fermentation I can tell, a new technique for my Living Canvas. (And the lactobacilli takes LIVING to another level.) ;)

Hope the colors of fall feed your heart. When you see the color you love, squeal to spread the joy.

More soon.

Kirbi