Raised Bed Gardening

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I purchased my farmhouse on the last day of 2018. After living in an overcrowded city subdivision for four years, I was thrilled to start gardening the following spring. Although the farm has acreage, I recognized immediately that I did not have the equipment, time, energy, or need to plan the same sized garden my parents had that fed a family of seven when I was a child.

I decided that Raised Bed Gardening made more sense for me. There are several benefits to a raised bed garden:

Location: A raised bed garden can be placed in any flat area that gets a large amount of sunlight every day. I chose a location just off my kitchen entrance, which also is situated near a water spigot too.

Maintenance: Raised beds are easier to maintain than a traditional garden. The soil’s makeup can be easily adjusted because it is simple to mix in nutrients, the vegetables can be grown in a more concise pattern, and the elevated beds are easier to control weeds.

Beds: Prefabricated raised beds can be purchased in all shapes, sizes, and heights. I did not want or need anything fancy though so for one bed, I purchased lumber, l-brackets, and nails at my local home improvement store. That bed is made with 2″ x 12″ boards and are approximately 8′ x 8′. It’s a bit too big, making it difficult to manage the veggies in the center but I make do. I always plant my tomato plants in that bed. I have another bed that is simply a piece of an old crate used to ship material to a local business. It was being thrown out, so I was able to get it for free. If you’re new here, you will quickly learn that I repurpose a lot of things here on the farm!

Control: In addition to weed control, raised bed gardens also provide better water control. For areas that typically have sandy soil, a raised bed can provide better water retention. If you have clay soil like me, raised beds provide better water drainage. Soil temperature can be controlled a bit as well, and there is less soil erosion!

You can find more photos and videos of my raised bed on my Instagram.

I do plan to renovate the raised bed garden area in the future. I would like to create a more aesthetically pleasing space since this is right off of the kitchen/driveway. It’s the first space most guests see. I would also like to place gravel around the beds to control weeds and give the space a more finished look. More to come on that project!

I was not compensated for this post, and it contains no affiliate links. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. Photo credits can be viewed by hovering over each image above. All sources found online unless property of Eclectic Jenn.

Office to Evening: Layered Fashion

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With increased heat covering most of the United States between May and September, many of us deal with record high temps outside. But what about inside? For those of us lucky enough to work in an office, the climate can be quite different. Look familiar?

heat
It is always freezing in my office because facilities keeps the air conditioning set to subarctic levels. Every morning I stand at my closet and ponder, “What do I wear today that will be appropriate for the forecast-ed heat wave, knowing that the office is going to feel like I just walked into a refrigerator?” Staying warm in the air conditioning doesn’t have to be unfashionable. And you shouldn’t have to pack a second set of clothes to change into if you’re meeting friends for dinner after work. I have compiled a list of essentials for the professional to help win this battle.

Women’s Essentials


LEGGINGS: Leggings are the perfect complement to the cute spring and summer dresses. A closet staple year-round, leggings come in a variety of thicknesses and lengths. It is very easy to customize a degree of warmth that is perfect for you by selecting a thicker ankle-length legging or a thinner capri-length. Bonus: Leggings don’t cover your feet so you can easily slip out of your leggings quickly, and without having to unbuckle and take off your fashionable sandals. You’ll shed that layer and be ready for a warm evening outside in less than a minute!


ANKLE BOOTS: Ankle boots have become a fashion favorite among many. They can be paired with just about any outfit during any season of the year. They’re functional and fun! Those of you like me, who can never get warm unless your toes are warm, will appreciate that ankle boots can discretely hide a pair of no-show socks! Toss a pair of thin sandals or flip flops into your purse, and change out of your ankle boots and socks before heading out for the evening.


KIMONO: The kimono has become a timeless fashion trends. They look great paired with a blouse and dress pants or with a white tank top and jean shorts. A kimono can be worn over a sundress or a semiformal dress. This piece is so versatile; every woman should own one! Admit it… layering has never been more chic.

Men’s Essentials


HOODIE: Hoodies aren’t just for game day! Layers can sometimes be uncomfortable, but hoodies provide a lot of comfort and warmth. I mean, who doesn’t love wearing a hoodie? They’re also extremely easy to care for. A classic black, navy, or gray hoodie is very acceptable in an office setting. Leave one hanging on the back of your office door for warmth and style.


VEST: Sweater vests are always in style, but are especially trendy now. This classic piece is perfect for layering. They come in a variety of styles and material, and are probably as versatile as the women’s kimono. They can be worn over both t-shirts and button down shirts, and are an easy transition for the cold office.

UNDERSHIRT: Undershirts, like women’s leggings, come in a large selection of styles and thickness. Although it isn’t as easy to remove this layer, companies like Tommy John create awesome undershirts that can be worn as a single layer t-shirt. With its premium, stay dry fabric, this comfy and cool option is perfect for a casual night of drinks with the guys.

Essentials for Both


CARDIGAN: The Cardigan will always be a favorite of mine. Classic and comfy, it speaks for itself. Originating in the 1800s, the Cardigan proves that it is here to stay. It is an office staple for both women and men.


SCARF: Scarves are typically thought of as a winter accessory for both men and women. However, if you’re looking for an easy layer of warmth, consider the scarf as an office accessory too. Scarves come in an array of lengths, fabrics, and colors/patterns to complement any outfit. And they are extremely trendy for guys and gals!


JACKET: The number one office go-to for layered summer fashion is, without a doubt, the jacket. The ultimate in class and versatility, a jacket pulls together an outfit while offering an extra layer of warmth. However, when you think of jackets, you shouldn’t only think of suit coats. Consider all cuts and materials, including the Summer Blazer for men and the Shacket for women. Both come in a variety of styles, even offering different sleeve lengths, and fabrics, including linen and seersucker as popular choices. Don’t rule out denim. A tailored jean jacket over a sleeveless blouse adds style and comfort to white dress pants or a patterned pencil skirt. Slip the jackets off for the easiest of transitions to a dinner date or an evening out with friends.

I hope that my list of Office-to-Evening essentials has been helpful. If you’re still a bit overwhelmed, consider incorporating one or two pieces at first. Not sure you can pull off a scarf or leggings? That’s okay! Start with classic pieces and build from there. The thing to remember is that layers are key in helping you transition from a frigid office setting to a hot night on the town.

Inspired from my blog post originally published on in collaboration with Tommy John.

I was not compensated for this post, and it contains no affiliate links. All opinions are my own and not influenced in any way. Photo credits can be viewed by hovering over each image above. All sources found online unless property of Eclectic Jenn.