Environmental Studies and resources

On my last visit to Oberlin a few weeks ago, I discovered the environmental studies building on Elm Street at Oberlin College. On the same trip at the local bookstore I saw books by David Orr who teaches environmental studies. The students of Oberlin have the opportunity to work with local farmers and they eat what is locally grown. Sustainablity is the word.

Pictures from the week

Architectural Salvage

Architectural Salvage

Although this has been a trend for years it is now called upcycling.
If you want a piece of Cleveland, and I do mean that in the real sense of the word go to apieceofcleveland.com . They provide lumber taken from old sites to the public; why cut down trees if you don't have to?

from my garden

Pine Nut-White Bean Dip

I found this recipe in the June 2008 Issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine.


1/4 cup soft bread crumbs
2 Tbsp. fat-free milk
1 15-oz. can cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup fat-free or light sour cream (light is better)
3 Tbsp. pine nuts, toasted
2 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. salt-free garlic and herb seasoning blend
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 tsp snipped fresh or oregano or basil
Pine Nuts toasted, (optional)
Assorted vegetable dippers
Fresh oregano leaves (optional)

1. In small bowl combine crumbs and milk; cover. Let stand 5 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, in a blender of food processor combine beans, sour cream, pine nuts, lemon juice, seasoning and pepper. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Add crumb mixture. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Stir in herbs. Cover; refrigerate 2 to 24 hours. To serve, sprinkle dip with pine nuts and oregano. Serve with vegetable dippers.