Squash Blossoms filled with Cheese

Pick fresh blossoms in the morning while the blossom is still open. Use pumpkin or large squash blossoms for stuffing. They're equally delicious. Today I used string cheese that I cut into chunks. Sometimes, instead, I use grated cheddar mixed with chopped jalapena and it's like a jalapena popper inside!

Stuff the blossom with cheese after making sure there is no insect busy working inside.Twist the open end so that it stays shut.  Dip in a simple batter made with 1 large egg, 2 tsp. cornmeal and a dash of salt.

Saute on each side just until golden in olive oil and butter, or your favorite oil.

Stuffed squash blossoms make a great appetizer or healthy after-school treat. Serve warm. The first thing you notice is the tasty crunch and then your tongue finds the cheesy deliciousness inside the delicate blossom. It's so good! 100% pure YUM!!!

"Plant a zucchini and feed the world!" my husband used to proclaim. Not anymore. Now he realizes the potential in the beautiful blossoms as a summertime treat.

If You're Gonna Raise Pole Beans, You've Gotta be Real Tall

From front to back: Early Girl Tomatoes, Blue Lake Pole Beans, and Gotta Have It Bi-color Sweetcorn.

For the first time, we tried growing pole beans. Pictured are Blue Lake pole beans but we also have Kentucky Wonders. Up until now, my favorite beans were Blue Lake bush beans, a little different critter than the ones that shinny up a pole. Even with the boost of my walking cast, I cannot begin to touch the top of the poles. How will I ever pick these beans?!

Well, I have an idea.  A couple of weeks ago, I broke my leg, the lower fibula. After that, I tried walking with crutches but Chris soon witnessed a first-rate pole-vaulting event when I flew over the front walk and into the bushes. So I'm thinking maybe I can try that same technique, make a fast hobble for it, get a little more height next time, and reach the beans to pick them on my way down the other side.

Frankly, it's the best garden we've ever grown and it just may have something to do with my staying out of it these past two weeks. Those days are over. Our daughter wanted to come home to help with the harvest and, when she visited, I soon discovered what she meant. She loaded up her car with fresh produce to take back! That's all! So I ventured out this morning, walker in tow, steadied myself, and picked some bush beans for my own table! After all that effort, they're gonna taste so good! I know, it would have made a better story to say I pole vaulted to pick them. Maybe next time. Those pole beans aren't even blooming yet!