Quilting is a Southern tradition, passed down from a time when quilts were anything but a decorative accent to hang on a wall. The women of Gee’s Bend learned the art of quilting out of necessity – to keep their families warm during cold winter nights. But their unique designs set their creations apart from other quilters and caught the attention of big city art purveyors. Jim Allen hopped on the Gee’s Bend ferry to find out more.

Bugs are a fascinating part of our natural world, but they also can make folks a bit squeamish. Unless, you’re learning about these creepy, crawly critters in a state-of-the-art museum. That’s what the family behind Cooks Best Control created with their Cook Museum of Natural Science in Decatur, and it’s where Jade Randolph learned that life is amazing!

The Alabama 4-H Program has inspired countless students to become leaders who make the best better. Kevin Worthington takes a tour of the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana, where the group’s leaders hope a major renovation will help them serve even more young people.

With a garden growing, it’s helpful knowing… herbs and veggies are really neat, and can be used for more than what you eat. So Sidney Phelps has your recipes for herbal tea and potpourri!

Ingredients for Herbal Potpourri or Tea

• 2 cups of water (only 1 cup for a tea)
• Your choice of aromatic herbs such as oregano, garden sage, lemon thyme and/or fresh lavender with blooms
• 1 slice of lemon, optional
• 1 slice of orange, optional

Potpourri Directions
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a medium boil. Reduce heat but maintain a low boil. Add water as needed. Can last 6 to 8 hours on a low boil.

Tea Directions
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a medium boil. Remove from heat, or keep reduce to low heat. Steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain and serve.

For a winter season favorite, add cloves and/or cinnamon.