I might’ve called this post “On Being Grateful”. Every week, with my CSA delivery, farmer Kelly provides an adventurous recipe that uses fresh produce. She’s passing along her learnings.  Over the past month, I’ve received countless warm and welcoming encouragements from readers and stoppersby. I can’t thank you enough and so I’m taking a moment to share what I’ve learned during blogging.

Since my inaugural post, Agrigirl’s Blog received approximately 1200 views. Many came from friends and family but it’s exciting to watch the comments grow from unknown blog surfers and locavores. I’ve exceeded my 90 day goal for subscriptions.

From emails and comments, I’ve heard that you’d like more photos and I’ll work on that. You may even see some video from TammyTalk on youtube.  Questions about the green checkered header on the blog?

It’s a close up of the fractals of a Romanesco cauliflower with the pixel size increased to show true variations in color. I love it but will replace in time.

During the month, I was fortunate to be invited to SMAZ by the good people at Sitewire.  There I was captivated by the engaging advice of Jay Baer.  He loaded his audience with blogging knowledge such as creating a regular feature (hence, the t3 report) and ways to increase readership (tweet each post at least 3x at different times of different days).  I have much to learn.

One surprise was content.  I’d have never predicted posting on Pat Robertson or gay marriage but as I’m moved, you’ll see me step out on issues.  I was also surprised at the lack of interest in some links and if I may suggest just one, see Lily Coyle’s piece from the Minneapolis StarTribune.

While I didn’t receive a testimonial from Guy Kawasaki, my way-cool moments were personal endorsements from Joan, Kimball, my husband and singer-songwriter Michelle Shocked.  Michelle posted my blog on her facebook wall and made it a big day! When she sings in Phoenix on April 3rd, I’ll be in the crowd.

Michelle Shocked

Agrigirl’s Blog

agrigirl.wordpress.com

Although I’m somewhat of a spiritual seeker, this blog is not about religion or religious viewpoints. But I confess that I was both incredulous and angry last week when a popular Christian tele-evangelist said that Haiti got what was coming to them. … January 31 at 10:38pm · Comment · Like · Share

You’ve gotta give to get.  It’s an old adage but the time I’ve spent perusing and commenting on other blogs had a direct return – and I’ve learned so much from others in the process.

Thank you for indulging me.  I’m grateful to each of you!

What knowledge can you pass along to others?

Morrocan Carrots (my gratitude food)

serves 2-4 as a side dish

• 1 bunch of local carrots sliced thin crosswise (in rounds)
• 1 Tbs. mustard seeds
• 1 Tbs. olive oil

Place mustard seeds in olive oil and warm slowly.  Heat until you hear seeds begin to crackle.  Add carrots and stir continually to cook through.  Continue until carrots are warm and slightly tender but not mushy.  Share with others.