Michigander: Clay Bowers, Expert Forager
Clay Bowers uses his years of experience foraging and hunting to help sustain himself and his family. He also founded Nomi Forager, where he works to educate others and spread the good word about nature's bounty. We sat down with Clay to learn more about his foraging skills and harvesting in Michigan's natural spaces.
Cooking with Mandy – Stories & Strawberry Shortcake
Mandy McGovern is a food blogger, photographer and cookbook author. She’s also a chef/baker extraordinaire and a Michigander to boot. Most importantly, she is the author of a Peninsulas perennial favorite cookbook, My Little Michigan Kitchen, as well as the blog Kitchen Joy. I spoke with Mandy to learn about her inspirations and hear her story. Read on for the full interview as well as her delicious strawberry shortcake recipe.
Michigander: Amber Parsons of Harwood Gold, Michigan Maple Syrup
Harwood Gold has been making maple syrup in Michigan since 1898. Amber Parsons is the 5th generation to run the family business over and expand it to what it is today. Maple Syrup season is a very special time. Lots of laughter and an ease about life. The whole process is very nostalgic."
Michigander: Daniel Ryniak, Trail Bike Rider
Daniel Ryniak is one of those folks that you could talk to for hours on end and still long to hear more of his stories. As an avid trail bike rider and adventurer, Daniel cannot get enough of the outdoors. He goes for a total immersive experience, packing up little more than his hammock, coffee and chapstick. “In a little over a year, I have ridden over 1000 miles in Michigan. I rode my bike across the state twice as well as from Ohio to Reed City and back,” Daniel shares.
I was able to chat with Daniel after he stopped in our shop to pick up a state of happiness patch. Read on for tips and tales of the trail (and a few close encounters!)
Prescription: Nature
Guest Author: Susan Bakker, LMSW, Psychotherapist. These days, whether I’m on a trail in the woods or reveling in the dramatic views of the Great Lakes, I have always found nature feeds my soul and gives me a greater sense of well-being. But is there evidence, beyond the intuitive, that time spent in natural surroundings supports mental health and improves mental illness?