A Tribute to Chip

On August 12^th, a warm sunny summer Sunday morning we had just finished breakfast… scrambled eggs and toast for us and timothy pellets and fresh veggies for Chip.  Enjoying the Sunday comics, we relaxed while Chip hopped around, playing beggar for crumbs on our plates (having a secret, unrequited weakness for toast) and just generally committing his usual cuteness.

As I cleaned up the kitchen and started to get ready for company, expected in the early afternoon, Chip hopped into the kitchen, following me and hoping for handouts.  I stepped away for just a moment and when I returned Chip was overtaken by a seizure and died within minutes. Chip was four years young, not old for a bunny at all. So all this was quite unexpected and I still find myself in disbelief.

Chip was my pal, my confidant, a true friend in the best sense… keeper of secrets, comforter during rough patches and yes, even a mentor; teaching me to relax and appreciate the small but very important things that make life a joy. He was a character, a charmer and pesky at times, but always loving and lovable. He sat at my feet, loyal as I typed my way through endless papers, studying for exams, and connecting with friends through email and Facebook.

Chip had his own gardening friends and fans, people who enjoyed his stories and escapades and to whom I am eternally grateful to be able to share my love for this furry, lovable little guy who gave me so much. He was companion and companionable, never one to hold a grudge and an outstanding appreciator of herbs, and vegetables from the garden.   I’ll miss my Chipster… the house is not the same without him, but he entered my life and the lives of my family and others and made his mark. While he has left this earth and our home, he will always hold his place in our hearts.

Céad slán Chip ~ Beidh mé ag chailleann tú

July 2008 ~ August 2012

Well, it has been a looong fall, winter and early spring but the Chipster is BACK!

I've been helping my caregiver study psychology. She spends long hours at the books and her laptop. I've taken to sitting at her feet keeping her company and encouraging her to keep up with her homework. But now, the school year is finished and it's time for her to get busy in the garden.

I've made a list for her of things that I believe are absolutely necessary for any garden. So... here we go. The list includes sweet basil, arugula, green beans, lemon cucumber, and zucchini.  Now, I personally don't care much for zucchini, but I know my human family likes it, so I'm being generous and including it on the list.

Life is good in my household. I have a steady supply of hay (my favorite is oat hay), timothy pellets and fresh veggies. The parsley has reseeded in the garden and is doing so well, I get organic fresh parsley almost daily. I tell you, does it get any better?

Now here’s a recipe my caregiver made last night. It uses wonton wrappers, which I don’t like, but… I sure liked the filling!

Napa Cabbage Potstickers

1 cup finely chopped Napa cabbage

¼ cup finely chopped cilantro

Grated fresh ginger to taste

Soy sauce, enough to bind the mixture together

2 tblsp rice flower for additional binding.

1 package  round wonton wrappers

1 or 2 tblsps coconut oil

Mix first 5 ingredients in a small mixing bowl

Place 6 wonton wrappers on a cutting board and scoop small spoonfuls of  filling onto each wrapper. Don’t put too much filling or you’ll not be able to close the wrapper.  Dip your finger in water and run it around the rim of the wonton wrapper.  Carefully fold wrapper in half and seal the edges.  Repeat with each wrapper. Mixture is enough for about 12 potstickers.

Heat coconut oil on medium heat in a wok and place pot stickers in oil. Cook on medium for about 5 minutes. Stickers should be browned on one side.  Reduce heat to low, place a lid over them and let them steam for another 5 to 7 minutes or until cooked. Serve hot.

Makes about 12.