E-I-E-I-Ooh!

James asks:

Hey Beth, I really like using my juicer but the fresh veggies are so expensive.  Farmer's markets seem great, but they seem to only be open while I'm at work.  How can I keep up the juicing without going broke?

From a local orchard, the largest apples I have ever seen.

If you know you'll be eating lots of fruits and vegetables, it may be worth it to look into a CSA:  Community Supported Agriculture.  It is like a subscription service for produce.  You choose the amount of food you want (usually measured in 'shares' which can vary in size from farm to farm), pay up front for what you'll be getting and then go and pick up your produce on a weekly or bi-weekly basis (depending on the farm).

Unlike farmer's markets, you won't decide exactly what you will be getting but it is a great opportunity to try new foods!

To find local places near you, check out Local Harvest.

Shoo cat, don't bother me

Miss Robin asks:

There are some cats in my neighborhood that have taken a shine to using my flowerbeds as a litter box.  I don't want to hurt them or anything, I just have no idea how to get them to not pee in my petunias!

Strong scents and creative planting are the best way to humanely control critters in your gardens.  Marigolds around the perimeter of the plot will keep away the bunnies where as cats tend to stray away from eucalyptus and lavender.  Although I am told it works, I would stray away from using moth balls due to their toxicity.

Let's keep it brief

Dan asks:

Hey Beth, I need a classic-looking briefcase.  I want something that isn't too fancy, but I don't want to look like a broke college student either.

One word:  Saddleback.

Although a bit on the pricey side, they have a 100-year warranty.  That wasn't a typo.

One hundred years.

So the price may look steep, but you'll never need to buy another briefcase again.  They look pretty casual but the quality of the bag really shows that you're a professional with an excellent eye for detail.

As a bonus, here's how to make a Saddleback knock-off: