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If you’re anything like me, the idea of growing your own fresh veggies and herbs is just too tempting to pass up. But maybe you don’t have a sprawling backyard or acres of farmland. No worries! Small space gardening is a wonderful way to bring a bit of green magic into your life, even if your outdoor area is more cozy than colossal. I’ve spent plenty of time experimenting with small garden inspiration, and I’m excited to share some ideas that really work. Let’s dive into some

There’s something magical about stepping into your yard and picking fresh fruit you grew yourself. Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and grapes are perfect for beginners—they’re rewarding, beautiful, and surprisingly easy once you know the basics. Let’s walk through how to plant each one in a simple, stress-free way. ☀️ First Things First: Pick the Right Spot All four of these fruits love sunshine. Aim for: 6–8 hours of sun per day Good drainage (no standing water after

When I first started gardening, I quickly realized that having a big backyard isn’t a must-have to grow your own veggies. In fact, small spaces can be just as rewarding, if not more so, because they challenge you to get creative and make the most of every inch. Whether you have a tiny patio, a balcony, or just a small patch of soil, there are plenty of ways to grow fresh, delicious vegetables right at home. Let me share some of my favorite small vegetable garden solutions tha

There’s something truly special about lighting a candle made from pure beeswax. It’s not just the warm glow or the soft flicker that draws me in—it’s the whole experience. The gentle honey scent, the clean burn, and the connection to nature all wrapped up in a simple candle. If you’ve ever wondered why natural beeswax candles have such a loyal following, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the benefits of these charming little lights and where you can find the best sou

If you’re anything like me, your cast iron skillet is more than just a pan - it’s a trusty companion in the kitchen. There’s something so comforting about cooking with cast iron, isn’t there? It’s like a little piece of history passed down through generations, and with the right care, it can last a lifetime. Today, I want to share some care tips for cast iron that have helped me keep my cookware in tip-top shape. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these tips

If you’ve ever wandered down the path of homemade fermented drinks, you might have stumbled upon water kefir grains. These little gelatinous clusters are magical—they transform simple sugar water into a bubbly, tangy, probiotic-rich beverage that’s both refreshing and good for your gut. I remember the first time I tried making water kefir at home; it felt like a tiny science experiment that turned into a delicious tradition. If you’re curious about how to get started, especia

Hi there — I’m Kellee, proud owner of The Lodi Local Mercantile, LLC. My roots run deep right here in the Lodi, Ohio area. My ancestors settled in this area many moons ago. I grew up on Bank Street surrounded by great family, friends, and neighbors. After high school, I followed my passion for animal care and went to college to become a veterinary technician. I then traveled the globe and lived in Georgia and Kentucky. But my heart led me back home. To the land of the best s