According to some, there is no ADHD. There is only distraction and lack of discipline. Those people would either be ignorant of the subtleties, or gaslighting you. ‘These are not the droids you are looking for.” But I have made a lot of progress and found, you don’t need the prescriptions. They may help but they only mask symptoms and hinder actual progress toward securing better habits toward focus. You don’t need to try fix yourself. Change your life and surroundings to work around it.
But we each have our own path. Maybe I’ll write about mine in the future in a more concise, step-by-step manual but I need to brain dump first.
As the system of systems grinds away malevolently to create unease in our heart, its myriad distractions keep us searching externally for fulfillment. I can see a guiding light in all the chaos. I found a purpose outside myself, of life and in the universe. This more than anything has brought me out of the myre.
It irked me the first time I heard someone say ADHD was a myth. Now I understand where they were coming from. While my variant was probably more along the lines of ADD, a daydreaming fool, I never got diagnosed. That’s both good and bad. I had to learn the hard way. Subsequently, I managed to push away most people and responsibilities until I figured it out. The issue became traumatising and gave rise to disassociation, then depression. Some friends simply left due to my inattentiveness and/or tendencies that proved unattractive to most.
Left to sit for a few years in the pain of isolation, I did manage to finally achieve some resonance within. The stark contrast of that seedling of self-awareness to the unkempt moor of ignorance has felt something like a personal enlightenment of sorts. I wake up elated and looking forward to doing the things I enjoy without feeling like a constant victim of my circumstances and shortcomings. While it will take another lifetime to use the magic superpower to my advantage and start rebuilding connections, network, community, I am at peace, more or less, with myself, being human, my fears, weaknesses and strength.
A broken family takes it’s toll on your spirit. I had no father to protect, or attentive and nurturing mothers to guide my focus toward a specific goal. Not having structure, I had to separate out a part of my psyche to guide and take care of myself. I learned to connect to subconscious through prayer and meditation to cut through the angst, reach into my heart of hearts to uncover the trampled needs and desire. I shouldn’t deny them or be ashamed of them. Self-criticism only makes it worse.
I am writing this as a reminder to myself as well as to any who heed. I want to do and be it all but I cant. I see all these great skills, works, knowledge and admire them, but I can’t be or do all of them. I must chose a path restrained by finite time and resources. I cannot take on infinite projects. As I take care of myself, I have to focus on fewer, more meaningful goals, jobs, projects and keep it simple.
While it isn’t necessarily bad to be a jack of trades, it comes with downsides and makes a statement about who I am. It has definitely impacted who I’ve become. On a chemical level, years of anxious pursuit of half-finished projects, broken commitments, procrastination exposed me to high levels of stress, cortisol and inflammation which took it’s toll on my mind, body and spirit. The negative feedback from self and all the people around me left little room for neurotransmitters associated with feeling good – dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and possibly adrenaline. My demeanor attuned to short-term gratification, flitting from one project to the next as my tolerance, focus, patience and grit waned. It’s a miracle I didn’t become dependent on any drugs or substances. I can thank myself for chosing the natural path, but it sure would have been nice to finish some of the things I set out to do – not that I didn’t, but I wasn’t fully present for many of them, and the people who stood by and watched me bang my head in self-pity.
What the world didn’t tell us growing up was that as a young padawan, we must go against our whims to become a master of something (anything) that’s useful and of benefit to the greater good before we can truly unleash source wizardry, fill our soul with the manly greatness that allows people, tribe, family, community, respect us, love on us, create a place for us at the table as a leader, teacher and provider/savior that makes us feel wanted, connects us.
It takes on average 5-7.5 years of hard work up to 10, 15, 20, 50 years depending on skill, or about 10,000 hours to become a journeyman, jedi/master/teacher/guru.
One of the main areas we have to continue to invest in is our relationship with the person or people that stands by to help us get through it, including time for rest/self care, and that really limits us to just one passion pursuit at a time. For a total of 2-3 throughout our lifetime, but for some just 1. Now, its up to you to stop, search your heart and make a choice.
Do not avoid making said choice, or it will eat at your soul to have unfinished projects, and untapped potential in the realm of the subconscious. You will face your death unfulfilled.
I timed the weather decently. Hawaii is not bad for a 5-day layover. Ordered some bomb kimchi from a food truck in an alley while staying on Waikiki beach. Coming from Alaska where I’m alone for months at a time, it’s nice to see and appreciate Asian culture. I quickly headed over to Kauai the next day to start my getaway. Hiked 12 miles down and back Napali Coast. Abundant tropical forest. Goats, chickens, pigs, food forests, waterfalls. Rains had passed but more were coming. Most abundant place I’ve ever been. Very difficult but not because of danger, but trail is up and down and I had gear for multiple months. Should have stashed some but kept it with me. Toenail started to rot because of the moisture. Met a couple on the hike out. They were from Alaska and gave me a ride to town. Great people, so I bought them dinner and told them I’d be in touch when we got home.
Fiji was cheap. Kind of disappointing stay at the hostel but people were nice. Drank a bowl of Kava. Hung out with a dude from India. Trash and construction everywhere. There was a fijian girl following me around the hostel. Asked me if I had a wife. I didn’t know how to respond. “Some day.” I wasn’t feeling too social so went back to get some sleep and try to stave off the jet lag. The Pacific is a huge crossing, even on a plane.
Arrived Auckland without my host. She bailed. I would have to hike alone, but it sounded like she was going through some stuff. We may have hit it off but I’m finding unfortunately Persian women abroad seem to have serious social and familial pressures. I had caught her in the crux of her PhD, she had very little time to breathe, so I left it at that. Maybe touch base later, but she is avoidant like me.
Auckland hostel was messy. People weren’t too warm but warm enough. Guys in my dorm mostly from Germany. Cami from France was great. I could have fallen in love but caught myself leaving the next morning. Airport on arrival wasnt flooded at least. They fixed it but more typhoon was coming. My flight wasn’t cancelled but rain was too much for paragliding. Stayed 4 days and decided to bus to Wellington.
Flew from Wellington to Christchurch. People at hostel super nice. Went to a few great beaches with the local hostel owner. Met up with Marin about some hikes. Our schedules wouldn’t line up. They hitchhiked to Christchurch and I drove on to Queenstown because the typhoon had chased me down. In the mountains to the west, I would find better weather.
Random thought: Discovering and accepting the truth is a process You and others may not like it but it is what it is. Learn and adapt to it. Maybe you can change it, maybe you cant. Accept that you may not even see ot for what it really is, so Repeating it if it feels negative may sound like self limiting behavior to others so make peace with whatever it is, find the positive and turn it into an opportunity to grow. If its your perception, prepare to be enlightened. If it is in fact truth, prepare to be humbled.
Ended up buying a van in Christchurch hostel from two German girls on gap year. It had issues but I fixed them all and converted it to a great overlanding self-contained camper van. As stated, weather started to suck so I decided to haul ass over to Wanaka, then QT. I would link up with Infinity paragliding school and over the course of the next two months, get over a dozen flights in. Regrettably the weather was hit and miss.
During days I couldn’t fly, went exploring overland in the van. Made it to some places I saw in Lord of the Rings. Made it down to Rakiura, the southernmost island. I hiked a few days through the jungle to get across to some of the most amazing deserted beaches I’ve ever been. The hiking wasn’t extremely mountainous but because of the roots, mud and terrain, it was still very hard going. At the top of one hill I ran into a kiwi. I just stood there admiring it as it waddled around.
I hiked and hiked. I made it to Mount Cook. I made it to the fjords. I made my way down parts of the T.A. It all reminded me of home. Of Alaska. But it was so beautiful. And no bears. No snakes. Nothing dangerous but me.
Having known fair skinned adventurers and sailors like myself who have had to get parts of their faces cut off because of skin cancer and the like, I decided to learn how to make my own sunblock.
I’ve also been toying with info gathered from research about boosting mitochondrial process with reflective FIR/NIR and finding some rather interesting ingredients and concepts. Rather than just block UV from the outside a good solution reflect energy from the body back into the skin.
I cant disclose all the ingredients because if it does what I think it should, I may pursue a patent or trademark. This recipe is designed to protect, heal, rejuvinate and restore damaged skin.
Using crystalline nanotechnology, its benefits have the potential to reach as deep as muscular tissues using far infrared reflective particles in combination with potent antioxidants. The problems is the controversial ability of the nano-particles to pass throug most protective barriers in the body. Have to be careful with this.
Before I can let anyone else try it, I’m doing trials on my own skin, as a sunblock and healing ointment so hopefully it goes as planned. So far it has an immediate effect on the hue of my skin – it gets flush, then goes clear and starts to glow.
Left Atlanta on a bus, got dropped off 7 miles from trailhead and had to walk in some seriously freezing rain to get to the start.
Day 2
Left Springer around 10:30, hiked 7.8 miles in the first 5 hours with Rachel. Nobody else on trail. We averaged 1.58 m/h. Body was only 2 of 10 sore. Toe slightly rubbing in new shoes. Broke my walking stick already. Ran out of quinoa already. Forgot spices and mushrooms. Drank mush coffee. Practiced tarp & tent, solo stove. Pack little dry wood or charcoal in future. Phone was down to 20% already. Battery pack depleted after 1 charge. Light wasnt charging either, even when keeping in sleeping bag.
I feel like running but know that won’t go over well. Need to set a pace and work out the gear issues. This time, I decide to be nice and take it easy. I’ve learned in the past that it’s well worth the happy company to slow down, finish as a team, together.
So I came up with a team name.
Nice & Easy.
It’s a reminder to take it slow and treat it like a workout. There’s no rush. I have to remember to stay in the moment and let go of my ego. This is no race. I need to take care of this woman and put my wilderness guide skills to use. It’s going to be an interesting winter but hopefully fun.
Day 10
I’ve been carrying most of the weight. I get up early. I cook breakfast and make coffee/coco for Rachel. She’s getting into shape. Losing a bit of weight. Having fun, taking it slow. We probably won’t finish at this pace. We’ve been taking at least a zero every few days but it’s cold, and freezes at night. We have the right gear and can dry off to get warm each night.
Day 20
The trail offers some good views as the leaves have fallen off the trees. There’s no snakes, ticks or spiders. Rachel’s feet hurt so we have to stop and rest often, taking nice little soaks in the cold creeks to soothe inflammation.
UPDATE: Made some videos.
Day 45
We’ve been through some shit. Feels like I live out here now. But every once in a while my tenants send me a text. Wish I had good ones, but had to take the opportunity to do this hike regardless. Patellar tendon constant shooting pain on the downhills but getting better. Metabolism and healing is through the roof. I wish I had a fitness tracker. Lost my awesome hiking stick that said “Take me to Maine.” so I picked up a stick and have continued using it to exercise my arms.
UPDATE: 80+ days into hike. Time to get off trail.
Had some great moments, as well as some hard times. Smokey Mountains were magical. I will add some pictures later but my upload speeds are rediculously slow and my phone screen is painfully small.
We had most of the shelters to ourselves through Georgia, Tennessee, N/S Carolina and now Virginia, but people are starting to catch up and pass us. We still don’t have trail names but have only met a handful of people.
Rachel and I are getting into good shape, getting our legs. I’m in better shape now than when I was in the army at age 22. My quads, legs and core are immense, I’ve put on 15 lbs of pure muscle yet my waste went down 2″ and I’ve lost 3% body fat. I can run all day through the mountains when I take my pack off. This is probably the pinnacle. I cannot believe it’s like this in my 40’s. Hopefully I can maintain.
Personal thoughts: I would LOVE to continue but COVID is setting in and trail commission is closing down trail. Not having good luck. I’ve decided to go back to Alaska. Time to take care of some business. I have issues with the contractor working on my rental property, and tenants are complaining. I have to take care of my grandma. Also having issues in my relationship.
My girlfriend seems no longer interested in making it work, testing me to see if I care by pulling away. I’m in no spirit to fight to keep up a relationship with someone who doesn’t value me either. Time to be good to myself. The past 5 years have been brutal.
In sensing my distance, she seems indifferent to close the gap or help create any trust or bond between us. Without that, long distance is not going to work. She’s talking to her dudes back home, tell them how much she misses and loves them. She’s never directed that kind of love toward me, so I can’t say I didn’t foresee it happening. I just ignored my instincts, so I have only myself to blame. Hopefully I had a positive influence. She’s come along way but she is a long way off from appreciating a guy like me. I’ve given the last of my reserve, now numb.
It’s been nice having company but I must go my way. She seems lost. But so am I at this point, just hoping she meets someone who treats her good.
As I’m writing up communications for a homestead design in Talkeetna, Alaska, I remembered that my work is essentially “The plan.” If the client doesn’t realize the importance of this plan, then they won’t necessarily end up where they want to be, either on time, or within budget. This failure would reflect poorly on the designers part – mine, but be a tangible loss, compounding with each second for the client. In a way, this loss shouldn’t be viewed as death.
I’ve learned hard way, the plan is 80% of successful execution. As a planner, I can’t always be available to prod, but I shouldn’t be complacent of the client’s mindset.
The plan is comprised of a tangible goal sparked by intense vision. It’s with this mindset that you should be writing your plan. If there are any gray areas, then they probably won’t get done. Here are my initial instructions:
Understand the homestead plan for effective execution:
Live simply, gather & conserve resources for design, build, skillset, personal.
Focus on intersections of human and natural capital to achieve greatest impact.
Secure short term food, shelter, water, but don’t create unnecessary work.
Consider security, contingency and emergency plans according to observed weaknesses.
While searching online for a way to earn an income on the road last week, I found a farming related research project on a contracting site. I wrote between eight and ten proposals that day, all toward agriculture-related projects. This was aimed toward veterinary interns, but I decided to submit a proposal based on my experience in farming, and it was approved.
Starting next week, my girlfriend and I will be talking to farms, starting in Florida, to test their soils, in support of the privately funded research project. They aim to isolate mycobacteriophages targeting Johne’s Disease. If all goes well, in Florida, we will be contacting farms along a 5,000+ mile route we’re currently mapping out, to drive from Florida and Alaska.
First off, you can’t do this on all Chromebooks that I know of, but there may be even more elaborate hacks for more advanced users.
I’m using a WalMart HP Chromebook I bought on sale for $169. Originally I was disappointed that I couldn’t register it as a device and therefore couldn’t download apps or programs to use it like I would a normal computer. Then the Linux (Beta) option appeared in my settings last week, and I knew that was about to change.
This happened right about the time I started to look on Upwork for contracts, since I’ve been traveling a while and need to replenish funds for more adventures. I was frustrated. I even thought about getting a normal laptop so I could run my typical design programs. Worse, it was starting to look like I couldn’t get paid for my work on Upwork because I couldn’t track time. So I installed the Linux Virtual Machine (LVM) to see if it would work.
When my first attempt to install the app in the LVM didn’t work, I looked into other methods and discovered that there are many settings in Chrome that affect your ability to use unproven (beta) apps. This article was a good resource. Keep that in mind if you get any errors while trying to do this. Otherwise, it was easy. Here’s the process:
Activate Linux beta if your Chromebook supports this. You’ll know because it gives you an option when you go to Settings and scroll through the options. Turn on the switch and follow directions to install. You’ll have to read what version of Linux installs. Mine happened to be Debian 9 (stretch).
I’m not sure if it’s necessary, but I activated the Crostini option in: Chrome://flags.
Once in the Linux terminal, I updated Linux using the command: sudo apt update
I upgraded installed components using command: sudo apt upgrade
Open Chrome in the LVM with the command google-chrome. As you would in a normal browser, navigate to the download page for the Upwork desktop app. If the site detects a valid version of Linux, it will show you a drop down file. Select the one that matches your version of Linux and download.
Once downloaded, it will appear in your file system downloads. My computer generated a Linux downloads folder when it installed. That’s where I found it.
By “two-finger” clicking to open the file and select “Install with Linux (beta), it will install within your virtual machine. If there are any errors, then there may be some additional updates you have to run. Mine didn’t work the first time, so I re-ininstalled Linux, and re-ran the updates and upgrades. After that it installed correctly.
Here’s what you should see along the way:
Chrome settings showing Linux (Beta) option.Two-finger tap the downloaded files to install: Here Chrome and Upwork files showing. Success installing Upwork desktop app on Chromebook Linux virtual machine.
Guests' kids enjoying the chickens at Jupiter Garden
At a glance, the economics seem simple: Why raise chickens when it could cost $5 or more per dozen (or more) to build the accommodations and keep them fed while commercial eggs are $2/dz. and a quick trip to the store?
Well, it depends on your perspective, where you live, and what you value.
Just don’t stop at the value of the egg when you’re doing the math to figure out whether or not it’s worthwhile.
Depending on how you go about it, you can spend quite a bit of time and energy building a coop, fence and worrying about keeping predators out. Then there’s collecting the eggs, feeding and watering, etc.
Some chicken owners do less, and the birds simply become part of the landscape, while others invite em’ to sleep in their bed at night. That’s not recommended, but it happens.
If you have no time for such things, then for you not only is having chickens or other animals an inconvenience, it could mean rearranging your life, questioning your way of doing things in order to discover the underlying benefits. In an age of dissatisfaction with status quo, is that such a bad thing?
These benefits, once you get past the drawbacks, can be both deep and profound, whether as an urban homesteader, farmer, or hunter/gatherer.
There is yet an underlying process of awakening to the thing we call “homesteading” that must be endured in order to fully appreciate how and why it is important for you, your community, and the world.
If you start to farm, homestead or raise animals, you’re in for a multi-faceted experience, perhaps a little self-questioning, unless you approach it with a particular mind-set. Expect to set your life up around things you are cultivating, raising, developing, and expect their fruition to unfold at a pace out of your control, yet fully predictable. The rest is up to you.
Benefits of raising chickens (some which most people don’t think about):
Tangible:
The egg
The meat
The fertilizer/manure
The chicken byproducts (feather, bone, offal)
The reduction of scraps in the garbage/landfills
The aeration of soils & compost
The increased capacity of composting
The pest control
Intangible:
The peace of mind of having even if stores run out of eggs/meat
The leverage to sell/trade to neighbors for goods/cash
The strength/knowledge from building the coop and/or fencing
The sense of observation built by caring for the living
The responsibility that comes with commitment
The connection to reality – controlling life and death cycle
The entertainment, laughs and conversation starters
The endless supply of photos you could post online
Let the infinitely-unwinding intersection of imagination and reality chart my course.
Opportunities to discover filled my sails through countless storm. The experience revealed a route through doldrums to distant conquests. With a fire branded within, the outward journey was borne.
Once commenced, it could not be stopped. I can never go back to who I was yesterday, but today, I will forever be home.
In the military, we were told to shine our boots and press our uniform every morning. I thought it was superficial, or a power play at the very least.
“Why do we need to do that if we’re just going to be rolling around in mud all day?”
It didn’t make sense so I fought the system. Little did I know how much I suffered being the rebel. I had zero structure or input growing up. No mentorship or guidance on how to live. Therefore, no clue how to take care of myself.
“You need to get squared-away soldier!”
As I’ve gotten older I’ve started to see that structure gives way to little successes, I’ve started to loathe a little less that inner voice about the annoyance of routine, mundane, going through the motions to “Look, act and think like a soldier.”
Despite being tired and beat up at the end of the day, making an effort to “look like a soldier,” is a small goal, but the steps taken to achieve that goal build momentum for success in the thinking and acting stages, that is, actually becoming and being a soldier.
That extra “umph” exercises muscles of self-discipline that buy us a moment, no matter what happened during day, or will happen in the next, to calm the mind, reflect, reset and prepare for the next. Having that end-o-the-day routine also makes sure we stop with the stress, put everything away, and do something for ourselves.
When you succeed on a small task as you start your day, and over and over, it invites positive feedback, whether from receiving and appreciating praise or affirmations from self, others or our environment – a boost of can-do, if anything, on a hard day.
Exercised enough, the appetite for momentum grows, and our disposition changes completely. In a chaotic world of uncertainty, where things may not always make sense, the internalization of security, control and confidence ensures us that no matter how out-of-control things may seem, enables us to stay calm and drive on knowing we at least in control of ourselves, and can handle anything that might come our way.
Approaching a daily task with a positive attitude is harder for some, but many agree that one factor as minor as “getting up on the right side of the bed” can make or break your success on any given day. I’d say any good habit will do, but the one’s that are meditative in nature work the best. “Wax on, wax off.”
Since I tossed the army boots, I hardly adopted any new routines, but as I catch up in life and have started to do the things I’ve always wanted to, it seems like self-discipline, whether a cup of water and vitamins, or a hard morning run followed by a dip in the pool or lake (the colder the better) gives way to some pretty amazing results.
Sometimes, it doesn’t seem realistic to do that every day. For now, a quiet stretch or cup of water will have to do. This has become my keystone habit.
The world is such a beautiful place, and people are such amazing and complex creatures. Though I can come up with a hundred complaints, or excuses not to live to the fullest, I know better.
As short as my time has been here on earth, and as tumultuous as it life can be, I’m grateful to have been able to experience it the way I have, with challenges to overcome, the curiosity to ask others “Why?” and the courage to ask myself “Why not?”
I’m especially grateful to have been born able to learn, to see the many opportunities and adventures available wherever I put forth effort to make them happen.
I am thankful for the ability to face reality head on, to accept who I am, without addiction, escape or false security.
The first draft concept of the project transforms the west side of the walkway into a small oasis of subtropical varieties. A curved low-lying wall of smooth, flat boulders encases a drainage bed dressed with a variety of sizes of decorative river stones, succulents. An over-sized aqua blue planter punctuates the garden. A small bird bath hidden among the shade offers feathered friends a convenient place to quench thirst on a hot day.
A home owner near Sarasota, Florida is planning a make-over of her home. She values the natural, wants to avoid chemicals and enjoy healthy living.
She is used to living in a more contemporary house, and is looking to increase the overall appeal of her home, inside and out.
While this project has not been approved, it offers an inside look at some of the basic factors affecting a natural approach to yards, gardens and farms in Florida.
Each project offers benefits and challenges. The following narrative is our initial summary, but is not extensive or final. Except for the sketches and photographs of the client’s home, any images provided are for demonstration and examples of similar work, not necessarily our own. We give credit and provide links to sources.
Other factors that will ultimately dictate (or affect) decisions on final design and plant selection include owner goals/preferences for the property, desired yield/crop, latitude, longitude, hardiness zones, micro climates, prevailing winds, soil pH, annual rainfall, distribution of precipitation, HOA restrictions, zoning and ordinances and so forth.
Note that while natural farming and gardening methods are rooted in science, many interpretations and preferences on projects/solutions differ. The information we provided here is useful for example purposes but we reserve right of ownership and commercial use. The contained information is not guaranteed, nor are the proposed solutions and technology appropriate in all situations. We are not liable for your use or application of the concepts.
Objective:
Cultivate an attractive assortment of low-maintenance plant species, with special attention to water retention/diversion, the soil’s ecology and soil life as it pertains to nutrient production.
Summary:
After looking at the site, soil and hearing the history of plants on site, it is evident that there are enough natural resources for an appealing design – sun, water, space, oxygen, nutrients. There are a few key issues are limiting the ability of plants to grow and thrive. This could include a particular plant’s preference, needs, but most importantly, the soil looks mostly sandy, devoid of life, extremely dry and prone to overheating and draining. These issues and solutions will be discussed below.
Existing landscape:
In the front yard (south facing) there is a 3-5% grade sloping away from home with approximately 15’ from porch to curb and 30′ between driveway and corner of lot. Soil settlement test shows a soil composition of roughly 66% sand, 34% organic material from store-bought mulch, virtually no silt or clay, and very little microbial activity. After a week in a jar, there is no smell or aroma to the water/soil mixture whatsoever. The area receives a direct, full sun without obstruction.
The owner says, some hardy varieties are able to grow, as seen in the photographs. Our goal is to address the water retention and help the soil sustain microbial life. We can then look at the microclimate zones, and list out a variety of plants, based on guild, function, size, shape and color.
Our client is concerned about chemicals. In preparing the contours correctly, we hope to allow soils to regenerate over the years with minor amendments and care on a regular basis. Though we can’t prevent the wind from bringing stray contaminants, or mother nature from bringing storm events, we work to increase biodiversity, improve plant health, reduce the impact of pests. These will reduce the need for direct application of artificial fertilizer, herbicides or insecticides through good plant selection, care and integrated pest management.
Solution:
Our proposed ecological solution for this (and any site) requires a heightened level of observation, study and patience to create the greatest impact with the minimum amount of effort over the long term.
Since form follows function in designs that work with, rather than against the natural, the end aesthetic result can be estimated but is not exact. Investing extra time to understand the issues and intelligently apply concepts, chose plant species so it fulfills multiple functions, not just color or size, will ensure the ecosystem we create can fight off disease and stay healthy – a healthy plant is a beautiful plant.
Quick side view sketch of holding area and runoff to drainage area.
Direct Issues to be resolved:
Rainfall diversion and retention
Soil composition and characteristics
Excess heat/sun
Permitting/specification restrictions and standards
Photo credits
(1) Rainfall, storm events, water diversion & retention:
The area is small enough that it will only require a simple network of hand-dug microswales around two settlement areas to achieve the desired effect. As these overflow, runoff spills over to a drainage swale dressed aesthetically as a dry brook surrounded by grasses and plants that will help prevent erosion and create a look that is natural and contemporary.
Using small and large stones mimics a dry river bed and adds stability. The two “ponds,” will be approximately 18-24” deep by 60-90” wide, or as large as the area will permit. The excess (overflow) from these two ponds is diverted into the drainage area, which drains into a 50′ stone path that doubles as a dry creek bed (or french drain) which is routed to an existing storm-water collection area in the backyard.
The fringe of this path should be lined with stones of a size that prevents them from being washed away in heavy rainfall, while also protecting the soil/sand in planted areas outside the swale. The image below is a good representation, but if used as a walking path, should be topped with flat stones. If budget permits, geotextile cloth and clay could be effective in these areas as a barrier between the drainage rock and existing sand.
Note that except in extreme cases there should be no water running above ground. The path will retain its function even when water is present below the surface. The existing sand would be replaced down to the level of drainage from the front yard, filled with drainage rock and topped with larger pavers, natural or architectural, suitable for walking.
Regarding the stormwater collection area in the back. Future improvements could turn it into a functional rain garden. Raingardens are designed to increase appeal, prevent erosion and ease burden on the municipal system.
(2) Soil composition and characteristics:
Typical soils in Florida are 90% or more sand. Builders’ fill is even worse as a growing medium because it has little support and nutrients. If you limit plant selection to what will grow in these conditions naturally, it will will be almost impossible to achieve a lush and physically healthy landscape. It’s important to add organic material in large quantities. Doing so won’t guarantee they remain, as heat and sun break these down, and rain washes them quickly away. Diverting water so it doesn’t wash directly through, and that the area is at least partially protected from sun is crucial.
Once the initial storm water is diverted, remaining water which has filled the subterranean catchment pond can slowly permeate soil via capillary attraction, keep it moist, and be drawn on from by surrounding plants, fungal mycelia and microbes. The mass of moisture will provide cooling and soil temperature stability. The water should be kept below surface to prevent evaporation, algae growth and keep insect breeding to a minimum.
Image credit
Over time, plant roots and leaves that fall to the ground die and decay will become forage for the life that builds beneath the soil. Even using all of this will not be enough to start the project and replenish all that has been stripped away in the building process. We have to get creative and be proactive in bringing in material. It also takes time to mature.
A small protected area for composting will serve to pile dead leaves and kitchen scraps, so our client can make use of wastes to create mulch and nutrients. We build a containment bin as part of the project. Once set, the pile should be turned a few times a week by client. With the right mindset, this practice becomes a part of the routine, and the basis for yard care.
Illustration credit
Applying decaying organic matter and natural nutrients to the soil, then covering with a mulch will ensure that they are protected from the sun, and they continue to build during the early stages of transition for young plants. This underlying activity generates the tilth and texture that supports lifeforms that convert the organic matter to elemental levels and humus to hold nutrients and moisture which can then be absorbed by plant roots.
The capacity of the soil to support plants strengthens with age as habitat is restored and the diversity of local species increases to include single- and multi-celled organisms, larger living things such as nemetodes, worms, birds and a variety of insects that all act together to pollinate plants, spread seeds, fertilize, purify and consume decay.
(3) Excess heat/sun:
The desired visual effect is stepped, where the plants closest to the street are short, and taller toward the house. The image to the right is a similar landscape, with a small swale out front, backed by a more moist area offering greater variety of tightly spaced and alternating plant species.
Sketch outlining plant heights and depths if using a stepped effect to showcase the property. Optimally, we would plant a stand of taller trees toward front west (left) or middle side of yard to a to break up and reduce the amount of sun hitting the front yard in the afternoon.
Though stepping is possible, it’s not optimal. It’s important to create a canopy of shade to protect the understory and home from the hot summer sun, while also not blocking the prevailing south wind during the summer. There are already a few trees in the front yard which should be saved to provide shade and wind protection for the more sensitive plant growth, understory and ground cover. Smaller trees and shrubs, and a few more trees strategically planted within each existing stand will be sufficient to improve shade and reduce heat. Note, the clean yet natural look achieved with large, flat stones – a viable architectural option for your design.
Specifications, Permitting & Standards:
Per Florida Statute 373.185, any landscaping activity that follows “Florida-Friendly™” practices are protected, and will not be prohibited by any covenant, because they aim to benefit not only home-owners, but the ecology and health of Florida and the community at large.
For this design, we will support natural, chemical-free and Florida-friendly gardening practices. We combine these principles with aesthetic inspired by you (the client) and a function that improves the value and longevity of your property. The final solution, if successful, will do all of this while complementing surrounding architecture and having a positive role in preserving Florida’s natural ecology.
Since we will not be applying artificial fertilizers, no applicators’ permit will be required. No heavy machinery will be required. We will require a municipal ground locate of utilities, and by employing hand digging labor, we have the ability to work carefully to avoid any existing utilities. No changes to grade are necessary, only employment of barriers between planted areas and drainages to slow water and prevent runoff from leaching organic debris and as a result, foster a healthy root zone with observable microbial process, the foundation of life in the “soil food web.”
Other factors to consider:
Insects & wildlife
Time/schedule
Insects & wildlife
Increasing biodiversity will have an impact on the landscape, as insects and animals are naturally attracted to the life, shelter and food that healthy foliage brings. We can prepare but not predict all changes that will occur, and small adjustments will be needed to provide for all living things that may arrive
Insect hotel and artificial beehives (RIGHT: some bugs pollinate, others prey on insects that could damage plants)
Bird bath, feeders and houses (birds eat insects, pollinate, and fertilize)
Bat houses (bats eat insects, pollinate and fertilize)
Bee-friendly flowers
Florida-friendly plant species (zero tolerance for invasive species)
Companion plants (some attract and repel specific species, and some are poisonous to wildlife and humans)
Urban homesteading features, animals and plants used for fertilizer or fodder
Time/schedule
Design/Estimate with you and myself, 3-7 days
Price and order materials, organize labor, set budget
Schedule pickup for discarded materials
Schedule delivery of rock and materials
Source mulch and organics
Select compost area and bin style
Research appropriate plant varieties (I’ll provide lists. You source and purchase.)
Provide concept sketches
Week 2, with 3 people working
Contour and survey, mark out swales and irrigation channels,
Remove excess sand and dig up plants to be saved
Hand dig and trench pools, swale and drainage to backyard
Tie in network of irrigation channels
Start collecting organics from yard – clippings and leaves
Lay fabric and clay, let dry/bake in sun
Timeline/schedule (continued)
Week 3, with 3 people working
Lay wood and organic piles
Lay stones and cover
Mark sites for plants
Purchase plants
Week 4, with 2 people working
Plant plants
Route appropriate irrigation hoses
Cover with mulch
Week 5-10, initial client maintenance with some input
Regular inspections of plants
Adjustments to irrigation systems
Continue gathering and applying organics and mulch
Week 10-52, routine client maintenance with little to no external input
Continue applying finished compost and cover with mulch
Turn compost 3x weekly
Water compost 1x weekly
Prune shrubs and trees annually
Inspect plants weekly
Inspect/repair irrigation as needed
Summary
Our main goals:
Control water and divert runoff
Preserve and build healthy soil
Provide shade plants/trees
Select appropriate plants for your yard, taste and Florida-friendly landscaping
Accommodate biodiversity
Provide input on plant selection and install
The client’s involvement will be heavy during first week, then taper off to just working on plant preferences. We will continue to develop a list of plants that will work well (and that are available within the budget) as we do the installation. They would be present for final completion/hand off and walk through, if any corrections are needed.
After installation, or about 4 weeks, our input is limited to occasional discussions, updates and any follow-on estimates, proposals or contracts.
Due to unpredictability of nature, weather and environment, we can’t guarantee any specific life span of any plant, but which have the best fit for the climate, final soil type and level of care the owner is willing to provide, as the final result does improve or decline with and owner’s continued observation and inputs.
Lake front concept includes many permaculture-based elements – fruit trees, bees, pond, gardens, greenhouse, barn, stable, shop, yurt and aquaponics systems.
Home design integrates stacked shipping containers, and is scheduled to break ground next spring.
Original concept designed on paper, then transferred to Adobe Illustrator for final presentation.
Now that I’ve decided to rent my house out, I need a place to stay. I opted to build my own little space in the back yard and crawl under it during the years to come. I’ll build it on a trailer in case I ever want to move it, but I’m hesitant to even call it a tiny house at this point because it could end up more of a Frankenstein project of a travel trailer.
Because I have no disposable funding, very little time and no one to help, I am sourcing used materials on craigslist and other salvage options. I aim to just get the outside done so I have a warm, dry place to retreat to, and work on the inside when I have time.
Starting small, I will have to pick up the skills along the way. Luckily a guy from New York with some framing skills wants to come to Alaska. I’m hooking him up with a place to stay in exchange for his help. I can’t wait to get started!
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