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April 10, 2014
     
Out on a Limb
....the birds of the air can perch in its shade. Mark 4: 30-32 

The Mustard Seed

Greetings
"Hello" and "Thank You" for subscribing to our e-newsletter!
It's been a long winter and I, for one, am very excited for spring!  How about you?  I trust you are just as excited to see and smell the blooms as they burst forth from God's creation, spreading their aroma and promising a bountiful harvest to come.

 

We've modified our newsletter this year, planning to always share a favorite recipe with you so that and your family can not only enjoy planting your garden, but also look forward with anticipation to the reward your efforts will bring.

 

Today's recipe includes asparagus, one of my favorite delicacies.  As a kid, I didn't think I liked asparagus, but, as I recall, that's because I had never tried it.  Once my parents convinced me to finally sample it, I have loved it ever since.

 

Asparagus is easy to grow, and anyone can do it.  It requires some preparation, however, but, if you are willing, it promises a harvest that will continue for years and years.  Here are some basic steps required for a successful crop: Prepare the soil, water and fertilize often, allowing the crop to mature, and, after that, be sure to cut vigorously each year followed by a rest period to allow the plants to rejuvenate.  One caution, once an asparagus crop is established, it intends to last forever, and it spreads vigorously, so be prepared.

 

Growing asparagus reminds me of our faith in Jesus: Like preparing the soil, our hearts must be open to receive the truth.  Like water and fertilizer, we must continually be nourished or we will fall away before we mature.  Just as asparagus needs to be cut in order to develop a strong root system, we must face opposition and persecution in order to be refined and shaped into the man, woman or child that God has planned for us to be, and, like asparagus, we must allow ourselves time to rest, to be still and know that He is God., allowing Him to replenish us so that He can continue to use us in mighty fashion. 

 

If our faith has the same pattern as growing a successful asparagus crop, we will bear fruit for generations to come, perhaps even eternally in the lives off others.  So, here's hoping that you don't just grow some asparagus this year, but that you have faith like an asparagus, spreading a harvest that will last forever!!!

 

Carpe Diem for Christ,
Mark Halla
Steward
 

Asparagus Feature

Asparagus 101    

Asparagus has long been known as both succulent and tender since ancient times. Not only is asparagus delicious, it is extremely healthy for you. Asparagus is an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant; the best risk reducers for common chronic health problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Asparagus, an excellent source of B vitamins, reduces the risk of cardiovascular and blood sugar problems. The fleshy green spear is also great for digestive support because it is rich in fiber and protein. (whfoods.com)

 

If you are thinking about planting your own asparagus garden, you'll need to do a few things in preparation. First, eradicate all weeds and grasses from the planting area; asparagus plants will not tolerate weed competition. Second, dig a 6" - 12" trench and backfill it with a mixture of compost and soil. Now you are ready to start planting. Mix compost and fertilizer and mold into a mound, set the asparagus crown on top and drape the roots down the sides. As stems begin to appear, add soil until the trench has been re-filled. (www.gardeners.com)

  

15-Minute Healthy Sautéed Chicken & Asparagus  

Prep and Cook Time: 15 minutes 

Ingredients:

1 medium onion, cut in half and sliced medium thick 

3 medium cloves garlic, pressed 

1 TBS chicken broth 

1 TBS minced fresh ginger 

1 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch pieces

1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 2 cups when cut)

2 TBS soy sauce

1 TBS rice vinegar

pinch red chili flakes

salt and white pepper to taste

 

Directions:

Cut onion and mince garlic and let both sit for at least 5 minutes to bring out their hidden health benefits.

Heat 1 TBS broth in a 12-inch stainless steel skillet. Healthy Sauté onion in broth for about 2 minutes over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.

Add ginger, garlic, chicken, and continue to Healthy Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add asparagus, soy sauce, vinegar, and red chili flakes. Stir together and cover. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. This may have to cook for an extra couple minutes if the asparagus is thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.


Serves 2

 

The Buzz 
   
 

The Crew 

 

Are things getting a little bare? Need some mulch? Call to schedule a delivery of mulch or to have the crew spread it for you. Mulch greatly improves the quality of your soil by breaking up clay and allowing better water and air movement throughout the soil. Mulch provides nutrients to soil and improves its ability to hold water.

 

  

 

Staff Profile
Name: Tyler DeChaine

Family info: Have a wonderful mother and handful of a little brother and sister.  

Position with company: General Supervisor 

Hobbies: I'm a tech guy, love tinkering, building computers and reverse engineering.  

Food: Anything spicy, I like my food blaze'n hot!  

Goal This Year: Build a 20 mile long WiFi network, and start my freshman year of college.

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The Mustard Seed Landscaping and Garden Center 

6055 Hwy 212, Chaska, MN  55318
952-361-9954
The Mustard Seed Landscaping and Garden Center at Halla Nursery
10,000 Great Plains Blvd.
(Pioneer Trail & Hwy 101, Chanhassen)  
952-445-6555  
www.TheMustardSeedInc.com

Seasonal Hours:
M-F 10 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Sat. 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

 

 

 

 

__________"Rooted in integrity and founded on faith..."__________