Ancestral Skills for a Sustainable Modern Life
Foraging Long Island Beaches for a Hidden Culinary Gem
Long Island’s beaches are more than just scenic spots for a summer stroll—they’re treasure troves brimming with hidden culinary gems. Among the most intriguing of these are mole crabs, tiny crustaceans often overlooked as “creepy crawlies.” But for those with a spirit of adventure and a taste for the unusual, mole crabs offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, explore new flavors, and even tap into ancient coastal traditions. So grab your gear, head to the shore, and let’s dive into the adventurous world of mole crab foraging!
Restore or Rewild: The Future of Avalon & Blydenburgh
Balancing History & Nature
The Debate Over Long Island Ponds
In the wake of the “Thousand Year Storm” that swept through our region this past weekend, the landscape of two beloved Long Island parks—Avalon Preserve in Stony Brook and Blydenburgh Park in Smithtown—has been forever altered. The catastrophic failure of the dams at Duck Pond and Stump Pond has left these iconic water features empty, their once-serene waters drained away, leaving behind a stark and desolate landscape. For many who have walked these park trails, cast a fishing line into the ponds, or simply enjoyed the quiet reflection these bodies of water offered, the loss feels deeply personal, as though a piece of our community’s history has vanished overnight.
5 Ancestral Skills Still Thriving in the Modern World
The Enduring Legacy of Ancestral Skills
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to forget that many of the conveniences we enjoy have roots that stretch back thousands of years. Long before the advent of modern machinery and digital tools, our ancestors relied on their hands, their environment, and their ingenuity to craft the items they needed for survival and daily life. These ancient skills weren’t just about getting by—they were about thriving, creating beauty, and building communities. They connected people to the land, to each other, and to the very essence of human creativity and resilience.
What Is Generalism?
Generalism: Skills for a Sustainable, Fulfilling Life
In a world that often celebrates the specialist, the art of generalism shines as a beacon of versatility and resilience. Imagine a life where you are not confined to a single role or skill, but instead, you possess a diverse array of abilities that empower you to tackle any challenge, adapt to any situation, and continually learn and grow. This is the life of a generalist—a jack of all trades—who thrives on variety, embraces change, and navigates the complexities of modern life with confidence and creativity.
Verde Sauce: A Medieval Recipe with a Modern Twist
Have you ever wondered what to do with that loaf of stale bread?
In medieval times, life was dictated by the seasons and the availability of resources. Nothing went to waste, and every ingredient had a purpose. The culinary practices of the period reflected a deep understanding of flavor, preservation, and sustainability. Stale bread, for instance, was a staple ingredient used to thicken sauces, soups, and stews, ensuring that even the hardest crusts found new life in the kitchen.
Ancient Food Storage Hacks
In today’s fast-paced world, we often rely on modern technology for convenience, safety, and comfort. Refrigerators, freezers, and electric dehydrators are everyday tools that make food preservation effortless and reliable. However, this dependence on technology can leave us vulnerable when it fails.
Prioritizing for Survival: The Rule of 3s
Survival situations can arise unexpectedly, whether due to natural disasters, man-made crises, or unexpected adventures gone awry. Knowing how to prioritize your needs can be the difference between life and death. The Rule of 3s, sometimes called the “333 Rule of Survival”, is a simple yet powerful guideline that helps you focus on the most critical aspects of survival in any situation:
Meet the Froe!
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the pursuit of self-sufficiency. Many enthusiasts are turning to skills and crafts that were once commonplace in society but have since been largely replaced by modern technology. One such craft is woodworking. From creating functional items around the home to crafting tools for bushcraft and survival, woodworking offers a range of practical benefits. Many self-sufficiency advocates find joy and satisfaction in crafting their own tools, furniture, and accessories using traditional woodworking tools. While modern power tools can expedite the woodworking process, there is an undeniable charm in using hand tools that have stood the test of time. Tools such as the froe are not just tools but pieces of history that connect the woodworker to ancient craftspeople.