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With the start of September comes a bounty of seasonal fruits and vegetables, like peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, blueberries, pumpkin, and more! Just a short walk or drive away from a number of local grocery stores, produce stands, and markets, the Beacon's location offers many options to find fresh, local produce and spark inspiration for your fall culinary creations.
An awesome way to make your grocery choices more sustainable and support your local community is to buy locally and seasonally. Buying locally, when possible, not only helps small businesses, it reduces the environmental impact of your food by cutting down on fuel consumption and emissions associated with transportation. Local produce also tends to be fresher and more nutritious, because it wasn't bred for long shipping times and an extended shelf life. Buying locally also allows you to look for farmers avoiding or reducing their use of pesticides, hormones, etc.
According to the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, if all Maryland families who are able spent ~$12 per week on locally-grown products for 8 weeks, $200 million would be invested back into the livelihoods and growth of local farmers! Click the farmer's market guide below to find some great places to find local produce and visit the AACED website at www.aaedc.org/agriculture/farmers-markets/agriculture-guide/ for the annual Arundel Grown Guide, a directory featuring local agricultural businesses, from produce, baked goods, and honey to eco tourism, vineyards, etc.
Late summer, early fall is the perfect time to enjoy a wide selection of seasonal produce. What seasonal ingredients are you most excited to use in your recipes this season? Check out the recipes below for some inspiration:
Cozy Entrees:
Butternut Squash Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1.5 Cup onion, diced
- 3 Cup carrots, diced
- 1 pkg (20 oz) Butternut Squash
- 1 container (32 oz) Vegetable Broth
- 1 Tbsp Vegetable Broth Concentrate
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat oil in stockpot on low. Add onions – cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 min, until soft, but not browned. Add carrots – cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 min. Increase heat to high. Add butternut squash and broth – bring to boil, about 7 min. Reduce heat to med-high. Simmer, about 30 min, until squash is tender. Add broth concentrate – stir. Remove from heat – cool slightly. Add mixture to blender in two batches – puree until smooth. Season as desired.
Turkey Pumpkin Crockpot Chili
Ingredients:
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 Tbsp ground coriander
- 1 Tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2lbs ground turkey
- 2 Tbsp thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 (15oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (15oz) cans cannelini bean, drained
- 2 Cup chicken broth drained
- 1/2 c. heavy cream
Instructions:
- Saut̩: In a large stockpot or skillet set over medium, heat the olive oil and saut̩ the carrots and onions until they become soft Рabout 2 to 3 minutes.
- Toast the spices: Add the minced garlic, coriander, paprika, cumin, black pepper, fresh thyme, and salt and toss with the vegetables to toast slightly for 1 additional minute.
- Brown the meat: Move the vegetables to the side of the pot or skillet and add the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it down into small pieces as it browns and then toss it together with the other ingredients in the skillet.
- Set up the slow cooker. Add the mixture from the skillet to your slow cooker along with the pumpkin puree, beans, and broth (leave the cream out). Set the temperature to low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. When ready to serve, stir the cream into the chili.
Breakfast Treats:
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients:
- 1 Cup rolled oats
- 2 Cup milk or water
- 2 apples, diced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
Instructions:
In a saucepan, combine oats, water or milk, and diced apples. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until oats are fully cooked and apples are softened. Stir in cinnamon and sweetener, if desired. Serve hot. Garnish as desired with chopped nuts, raisins, etc.
Blueberry Muffins:
- ½ Cup Butter
- 1 Cup Unsifted Flour
- 1 Cup Sugar + 1 Tbsp for topping
- 2 Large Eggs
- ½ Cup Milk
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy; add eggs one at a time and beat. In a second bowl, combine dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Gradually add dry ingredients to creamed mixture along with milk and vanilla. If desired, mash 1/2 c. blueberries and stir into batter, turning it blue-tinted. Next, add remaining blueberries and stir.
Prepare baking sheet with muffin cups and preferred method for greasing. Fill greased muffin cups with batter. Sprinkle with sugar, if desired. Bake for 25-30 mins. Remove and cool in pan. Run a knife around the edge of each muffin until it is loose and can be freed from the pan, then let cool. If desired, brush muffin tops with butter and sprinkle with sugar. Enjoy!
Fall Smoothies:
Apple Pie Chia Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 apple, cut into small pieces
- 1 c. of your preferred milk
- 2 Tbsp chiai seeds
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg & salt, to taste
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.
Power Pumpkin Seed Smoothie
Ingredients:
- ¼ Cup vanilla yogurt
- ¼ Cup pumpkin puree
- 1 Tbsp pumpkin seeds, raw
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ Cup you preferred milk
- 1 Cup ice
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.
Oatmeal Pear Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 large pear seeded and chopped
- ½ Cup your preferred milk
- ¼ Cup vanilla yogurt, low-fat
- ¼ Cup rolled or quick-cooked oats
- 1 Cup ice
- ½ Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp almond butter
- ½ tsp ginger, finely grated
- Pinch cinnamon, to taste and extra to garnish
Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth; add ice if desired. Note: You can replace maple syrup (or any of the sweeteners) with honey, agave or even stevia, if you prefer.
Happy Fall, everyone!
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Nestled in Crofton, Bell Branch Park is a delight destination, just a short 12-minute drive from The Beacon. The park boasts a wide range of amenities, including inviting picnic areas, trails for leisurely walks, and playgrounds for the little ones to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a tranquil spot to relax or an active outing with friends and family, Bell Branch Park has something for everyone.
Located just 13 minutes away from The Beacon, Piney Orchard Nature Reserve offers a peaceful oasis as you explore its well-maintained trails, ideal for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. Enjoy 3 public-access trails: Lone Wolf Trail (2.1mi), Piney Orchard Loop (3.2mi), & WB&A (6.1mi). All are great for birding and getting away from the hustle and bustle.
A mere 21 minutes away from The Beacon, Montpelier Farm beckons with family-friendly attractions that promise a memorable experience. Mark your calendars for Sundays from June 5 to July 31, followed by the annual Sunflower Festival on August 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, and 21. As autumn approaches, the farm transforms into the perfect Fall Festival destination, open from September 17 to November 6. Feel free to bring your four-legged friends, but remember to keep them on a leash while enjoying the farm.
Sandy Point State Park, just 25-minute drive from The Beacon, invites you to bask in the sun and embrace the cool waters of the Chesapeake Bay. This splendid destination offers a pristine beach setting, perfect for lazy beach days with family and friends. Hikers can explore scenic trails and abundant wildlife. The park is also a popular fishing destination and offers boat rentals.
Downs Park & Quiet Waters Park
Ready to soak up the sun? Embrace the summer vibes at two dog-friendly beaches along the Chesapeake Bay, a short 25-minute drive from The Beacon. Downs Park and Quiet Water Park provide idyllic settings for picnics, outdoor concerts, water activities, and events along calm waters. Both destinations offer a splendid escape to unwind and savor the sun-kissed season.
Immerse yourself in the charm of Kinder Farm, a delightful farm turned county park just a short 25-minute drive from The Beacon. This family-friendly destination offers an engaging array of farming activities and an opportunity to interact with adorable animals. From exploring the farm's natural beauty to learning about traditional farming methods, Kinder Farm provides an enriching and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Kayaking & SUP in Annapolis
Annapolis is surrounded by water, making it a perfect destination for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) enthusiasts. Head to one of the local rental shops near the city's waterfront, such as Capital SUP, where you can rent kayaks or SUP boards and explore the scenic waterways of Annapolis. Paddle along the Severn River, Spa Creek, or even venture out into the Chesapeake Bay for a memorable outdoor experience. Both Capital SUP locations are only a 26min drive from The Beacon.
About 28min away, on the way into Washington, DC, the U.S. National Arboretum awaits you with its beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. This 446-acre green oasis is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic, or a serene moment surrounded by nature. The Arboretum grounds are open every day of the year except for Christmas and feature gardens, wooded trails, a bonsai museum, and frequent special events.
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Another gem in Washington, DC, is the Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. This unique destination boasts beautiful water gardens filled with lotus flowers and water lilies, offering a picturesque setting for nature lovers and photographers alike. An oasis tucked into the city, the park offers wildlife viewing, scenic boardwalk trails, educational programming with park rangers, and seasonal cultural events. Summer is peak bloom and the best time to fully experience the garden’s beauty.
Historic London Towne & Gardens
Step back in time at Historic London Towne & Gardens, located just a 28min drive away from The Beacon. This living history museum and gardens provide an immersive experience into colonial life along the South River. Explore the restored 18th-century buildings, stroll through the gardens, and learn about the area's rich history. It's an educational and enjoyable outdoor destination for visitors of all ages.
With over 200 miles of scenic trails, explore lush forests, hidden treasures of the past, babbling brooks, and waterfalls, Patapsco Valley State Park offers a sense of wilderness only 30mins away from The Beacon. Our team member, Kaitlyn, recommends checking out the Avalon Area of the park for a first visit. There is a playground for young adventurers, pavilions, restrooms, and easy access to cool off in the river. The beautiful, beginner -friendly 2.3mi Cascade Falls Loop Trail wanders through the forest, across streams, and past small waterfalls. Also close by is the Swinging Bridge which crosses the Patapsco River and provides access to additional trails and ruins.
With The Beacon’s convenient location, there are so many ways to get away and re-connect with nature without going far from home!
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Are you pulling out your pumpkins and plaid, and getting your home ready for Halloween? Fall is the perfect time for a refresh! While we may be excited to go out and buy new seasonal décor, that isn't very sustainable. This year, consider starting your search at a secondhand store. You never know what unique items you might find! If you're ready for some DIY, consider swinging by your recycling bin before heading to the craft store. There's so much you can make by upcycling items found in your own house, after all, trash can also be treasure!
Would dripping pillar candles give your Halloween party a magical touch? Try saving some paper towel and toilet paper rolls to use as the base for you candles. Once you have the number you'd like, cut them to you preferred height an adding hot glue drips around the top edge to mimic melting wax. Next, paint them your preferred candle color and filling them with scrap paper. Finally, place a battery tea light on the scrap paper filling to add the flame. Want to mimic the floating candles of the Hogwarts Great Hall? Thread clear fishing line through the paper roll and hang the candles from the ceiling for a magical effect!
What about something for your front door? Try making a rustic and cute wreath using worn-out clothing items or other spare fabric in your preferred color scheme. Start with a wreath frame, embroidery hoop, piece of wire, or other base in a shape you like, then cut the fabric to similarly sized strips and tie them on to the base until you reach your desired fullness. Trim and shape as needed and finish with any additional decorations you'd like, such as a bow, some leaves, or fall flowers. Once you're happy with your custom wreath, place it on your door to enjoy all season long!
Looking for a unique pumpkin you can enjoy year after year? You can make fun and funky pumpkins from a variety of objects, from empty bottles, to old socks, and even a laundry detergent container. Check-out the great tutorials below and, before you know it, you’ll have a whole patch of these festive upcycled squashes!
- Book Page Pumpkin
- Jar Lid Pumpkin
- Sock Pumpkin
- Soup Can Pumpkin
- Bottle Pumpkin
- Mason Jar Pumpkin
- Wine Cork Pumpkin
- Tide Pod Container Pumpkin
There are so many options for fun fall upcycling crafts! What will you make first?
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Welcome back cooler weather!
Summer 2022 has come and gone. Goodbye to shorts, flipflops, and relaxing by the pool, hello fuzzy socks, sweaters, and warm drinks! The fall equinox began on September 22 and people may feel a bit melancholy with the cooling temperatures and falling leaves. But Fall is a wonderful season and we have some great ideas for how you can embrace the changing season.
With the arrival of autumn, comes an abundance of season favorites, such as pumpkin spice, apple cider, cinnamon, etc. Did you know that this season is one of the best to get healthier due to the harvest of apples, grapes, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkin, and eggplant that can detox your body naturally? This is a great time to experiment with new recipes using these fruits and vegetables to help jump start your mind and body.
The start of a new season is the perfect time to begin new habits and create balance in your life. For example, you could try taking 10 minutes each morning to stretch and practice breathing techniques. Daily routines like this can help you focus and reinvigorate you for the day ahead. Remember that incorporating a little bit of exercise into your daily routine can also help you feel better. Try visiting our on-site fitness center for a more rigorous workout!
Everyone talks about spring cleaning, but, as the season changes, this is the perfect time to bring fresh balance and order to your home. Set goals to complete household chores that may have been neglected during the summertime. Don’t forget to swap out your summer wardrobe and sort through what you want to store, sell, or donate. We have GreenDrop boxes available on-site to make donations easy and convenient.
Are you pulling out your pumpkins and plaid, or maybe even getting ready for Halloween? Fall is the perfect time to refresh your home! For a more sustainable approach, consider picking-out decorations and costume pieces from a secondhand stores or making some of them yourself. Keep an eye here on our blog in early October for some great fall craft ideas and tag us on socials if you try any of them!
Happy fall, everyone!
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During its early history as a colonial capital city, Annapolis was considered the “Athens of America,” for its cultural and intellectual offerings, as well as its thriving social life. This small port town has gone by multiple names since it was founded, from the Puritan name “Providence” to “Anne Arundel’s Towne,” after the wife of land owner, Lord Baltimore. In 1649, Royal Governor, Sir Francis Nicholson, decided to move the colony’s capital city and, in doing so, give the new capital a name change. He settled on “Annapolis,” after the heir apparent to the British throne, Princess Anne. To this day, Anne’s royal badge, a crown on a Scottish thistle and Tudor rose, is depicted on the city flag.
Best known today as home to the US Naval Academy, Annapolis played an essential role in early American history. Only a 20-minute drive from The Beacon, Annapolis is the perfect place to step back into the past or enjoy modern offerings. Check out the list below for some of our favorite places to visit!
Historic Annapolis
Annapolis is a cozy, walkable city with plenty of attractions, shops, and restaurants to explore. One of the first cities to receive the National Historic Landmark District status, the vibrant Annapolis Historic District is bursting with ways to step into the past. This part of the city is centered on the spiritual and government hubs, with streets radiating out from there. Check out this unique city planning design as you explore.
The Maryland State House’s spectacular wooden dome is one of the most beautiful in America and also one of the oldest. This building played an important role in post-Revolutionary America. Explore the halls that saw George Washington resign from leading the Continental Army, housed the new nation’s government from 1783 to 1784, and hosted the Annapolis Convention, a precursor to the Constitutional Convention.
From the State House, take a short walk down to the harbor to visit the Naval Academy Museum and Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park. One of Annapolis’s most unique destinations, the Naval Academy Museum features two floors of exhibits focused on the history of wartime seafaring, the development of the U.S. Navy, and more. Experience the stories of men and women who served their country at sea through artifacts and multimedia displays. Focused on Annapolis’ rich maritime heritage and the ecology of the Chesapeake Bay, The Maritime Museum teaches visitors of all ages through engaging, hands-on exhibits, programs, and events.
As the State of Maryland’s official museum of African American heritage, the Banneker-Douglass Museum offers a variety of events, exhibits, and educational programs to build appreciation of African American history and cultural. Their permenant exhibition focuses on African American nation-builders, community leaders, activists, and other prominent figures who shaped Maryland and the nation as we know it today. Be sure to check their website to see upcoming temporary exhibitions and events.
Want to explore the city with a local guide? Consider booking a tour! If you'd like to rest your feet and still see as much as possible, the Towne Transport Historic Annapolis Trolley Tour, starting at the Annapolis Visitor’s Center, will take you past the most popular historic sites and along the waterfront. Another fun tour option is the Tours and Crawls Ghost Tour! During this leisurely stroll through historic downtown, you’ll be treated to a spooky journey through the darker side of the city’s history.
If you’re looking for a sweet treat while exploring the Historic District, check out Annapolis Ice Cream Company on Main Street, one of four Always Ice Cream Company locations. Voted Best Ice Cream in Annapolis and Central Maryland in Best of Annapolis 2022, this Maryland small business offers homemade ice cream with unique, seasonal flavors. You can't go wrong with any flavor, but a staff favoite is Cookie Moster!
A quick drive into the countryside will also reveal a number of great destinations to both relax and learn. One of our favorites is Historic London Town & Gardens! From living history demonstrations to thriving gardens, this beautiful destination is a treat for the senses, offering a variety of learning opportunities and events.
Looking for more to see, do, and taste? Check out visitannapolis.org or flip through the official Annapolis Visitor’s Guide.
We hope you enjoy your Annapolis staycation!
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