This time last year, we were writing about the Health Hazards of Loneliness (many!), Irish Democracy (not exclusively Irish), trying recipes: Frybread (good) & Dried Corn Soup (we’re doubtful), and learning about the insects we see at this time of year, both indoors and outdoors (Crane Flies).
How unhealthy is loneliness?
Are isolation and loneliness actually bad for our health? Do they increase the risk of dying?
Irish Democracy
I started looking for a definition of “Irish Democracy.” Found all sorts of descriptions of government in the Republic of Ireland – but nothing that described the unorganized ignoring of laws that lack popular support. The term “Irish democracy” refers to uncoordinated, wide-spread civil disobedience. An example is a sign in the window requiring face masks by order of Governor Bullock – and once you’re inside, you’re the only one masked. I started into a store, pulling my mask on. The guy in a Stetson alongside me was humming “Desperados waiting for a train.” I haven’t…
Fry Bread
South Dakota’s official state bread is Fry Bread – Probably the best I ever tasted was with wojapi when I visited the Lower Brule Reservation. I was fortunate to meet, and get to know, Mike Jandreau, who was Tribal President. His first question was, “What do you know about tribal sovereignty.” I could answer competently because I had traveled with Joel Clarenbeau as he studied the topic. The Lower Brule Reservation was settled under the leadership of Chief Solomon Iron Nation (1815-1894), a man who accomplished a great deal for his people. I don’t have the…
Dried Corn Soup
Once, when I visited the Lower Brule, I was served soup made from dry field corn. There was no large explanation, just the opportunity for the wasichu to recognize how tough the times were in the first days of the reservations and the last days of the buffalo. While it’s not five-star cuisine, the recipe probably has a place with anyone who stashes a couple bushels of dried corn in the emergency rations stash. 1 lb. lean boned beef, cut in cubes1 tbsp. bacon drippings4 c. water1 c. dried corn1/2 tsp. salt Brown meat. Add water;…
Winter Crane Flies: widespread and little-known
As I was walking over to my in-law’s place one chill and sunny afternoon, I happened to spot a fly. A gangly, long-legged fly, seeming to bounce up and down in the brisk winter air. Unlike the cluster flies lining the edges of our ceilings, this one was fairly active, despite the temperature.
Ask the Entomologist: Bug on my kitchen wall
“Is this a stink bug? Our house has a few of these, and they’re often walking on the walls. Why?”
Trego's Mountain Ear 