Dirty Jews

Today Micah and I began our adventure in composting. In conversation, we realized that we were both independently interested in composting, opened his copy of Gardening for Dummies, and resolved to become proficient gardeners. Or at least reasonably competent gardeners. Composting not only reduces the waste that would otherwise fill landfills, but also recycles nutrients back into the earth. Especially in Israel, trash reduction and soil improvement are both essential tasks. We spent much of the day clearing out the weeds, branches, leaves, and dead grass that made up a thick layer above the ground, exposing the topsoil and tiny green grass shoots that Micah thinks have already grown, and starting what will be our compost heap. I had a massive allergic reaction to something in the dried plants and dust, and we were both sore and filthy by the end of the day. It dawned on us that while we’re no Halutzim, we were, for a few hours on a Friday, involved in physically working the land of Israel. Updates on compost, gardening, and our burgeoning rugged masculinity will be forthcoming. Also, any advice on composting would be much appreciated.