

Category: Living Ground Suelo Vivo
Everyone is invited to attend our Launch. Our Microbes are happy and so is the Soil Squad. Fun, games and discovery about our Living Ground Project. This project has the potential to transform our communities from the foundation up! We welcome everyone to join us and find out more. At 3, we will make a pilgrimage to the new Project Site and introduce the plan for us to become the Microbe Education Center for Ecuador. WE are READY!
This POD is about providing a weekly basket of Microbe Rich Grown Food and gourmet products. We will have baskets for singles, couples and families. We are creating and designing this as we go..this will be an experiment in how to service you and nourish the soils at the same time.
A lot of what we are doing is moving with the microbes. Our mission is to change the path of war to raising the “little good guys” in mass. Whether that be the little good guys of the soils or little good guy humans (souls). When you work and love a garden, you have to create. For me, that is most precious experience. Been doing this for decades now. All that learning, discovering and enjoying. It honestly is my most favourite action of my day….garden to my tummy. I love to alchemize the garden for enjoyment of the senses.
These skills of experience are a part of the Living Ground. Everything is connected. In the last 2 years I have discovered the microbes and learned how to harness and make them happy. They work with the plants to ensure bounty. I harvest the plant with joy. I make food and medicine. I am apart of the microbes and they are a part of me. It is really quite simple.
Living Ground will offer gourmet, nutrient dense, taste bud delight foods. We made Basil Infused Sun Dried Tomatoes, started a wine of basil vinegar (watermelon homemade wine) that is florescent green, buttered up a turmeric pepper horseradish sauce. There is plenty and more than plenty if you try! Last night, we had a meal that literally knocked our taste and digestion into healthy gear.
This is what this about! Diversity. Growing! Alchemizing! Healing! Loving! Deliciousness! It is all connected.
And, as it is connected, this is a part of the Cooperative POD ..the weekly basket program. It is beyond organic and always alchemized.
Here we present some photos of the first Microbe 101 Workshop presented at Madre Tierra November 24th and 25th. There were 29 participants in the workshop from diverse and different backgrounds. The intention and mission of the presentations was to help others enter into the paradigm shift of understanding the importance of the microbes instead of being afraid of “germs”. The Soil Squad feels this mission was successful. We are looking forward to presenting many more workshops and refining and improving our work.
We’re in trouble. Our over-reliance on fossil fuels and our taste for foods with a high carbon footprint is causing disruptive climate change. Our throwaway society has flooded the land and seas with plastic pollution. And we face a growing public health crisis triggered by the rise of disease-causing microbes that we cannot kill with antibiotics.
Now for the good news. Living Ground is entering the busy-ness of selling food…but our primary intention to provide a system where people can have ready and affordable access to gut food – that is food grown in microbe rich soils.
Our guts are a real brain. They form part of an intelligent control system which manages our bodies, particularly our appetite and so decides how much and what food we want to eat and how much and where we store fat. Our guts are also home to the bulk of our immune system. Poor guts health is at the source of modern chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity and its related heart attacks, dementia etc. A health gut is really important.
But to have a healthy gut means we need the right biology in the first place and we need to feed it the right sort of food. When people find out how gut food is grown the whole idea puts most people off, which is why you can’t buy gut food from the supermarket or in a bottle from the chemist.
Healthy gut biology starts in the guts of creatures that live in the soil. Read that again! This microbe biology passes from the guts of the microbes and into the plants where if we eat them soon after they are harvested they will enter out guts and the plants will provide them with food so they will flourish.
We, and all animals, have been doing this for millions of years but the whole idea is totally at odds with our modern antiseptic society so eating gut food will always be for a minority group. And, humans will diminish! We can not duplicate Nature as much as science and technology tries.
We know how to grow gut food, you have to have soil which is full of creature of the soil. To feed the creatures, the soils must be full of organic matter. We don’t have to be concerned with minerals..there is plenty of that!
And we have to avoid chemicals which will harm the beneficial biology – modern chemicals may not hurt us but they can be a disaster for micro-biology. And, I will add that Natural insecticides also are harmful.
And we have to eat the plants shortly after they are harvested before the beneficial biology dies.
All this is a more expensive process than modern chemical industrial farming and supermarket system and to many people quite revolting, which is why we don’t see gut food products on super market shelves.
Good and nourishing food is really about growing food to feed our brain. To do that we have to feed the microbes that already are living in our gut – that’s a pre-biotic.
But we also have to breed new microbes in the soil, which will go into the plants that we will eat and hence from part of our gut brain – that’s a pro-biotic.
To breed these microbes we have to feed and water them – for that we need plants that take the energy from the sun and covert it into microbe food. The plant will exchange this food for the food it needs. So, the microbes go get the plants food. Now the snag is that there are good bugs which will make us strong and healthy and bad bugs which at best just want to use as a comfy home to breed in – but unfortunately they often get it wrong and kill us.
To breed the good bugs – without the bad bugs taking over – we have to manage the conditions, which means food and water. The good bugs like oxygen and a little water….but not too wet (aerobic) while the bad bugs breed when it is wetter and no oxygen (anaerobic). How is oxygen transported in the human and what does it need to transport oxygen? Iron. But parasites love stored iron. Is this a rabbit hole or what?
Let’s get to the nitty gritty of true health! That means a paradigm shift. It is a 360 on our beliefs about health and microbes. Well, remember, Douglas Adams wrote : “The answer to the ultimate question of life, the universe and everything is 42.” We probably only know 5% or less of how Nature works..but we do have some good information to change our ways NOW. And, NOW IS THE TIME TO DO IT!!!
Will you be apart of this soil revolution?
Good Morning Soil People
Two of our members of the Soil Squad team have studied with Dr Elaine Ingham and we are completing the master’s program with her
Organic is not enough. Our tests show that our soils are depleted as they are all over the world. It is a critical situation. So, our primary mission is to return and restore the soil food web and educate everyone.
Recently, we chose to launch (earlier than anticipated) due to a gas company that is prospecting a site we feel is perfect for our mission. This one hectare property sits an the main highway, with 1005 m2 of structures that could be easily converted to become the Microbe Center for Ecuador and South America.
It is Microbes vs Chemicals situation…..little guys vs the big AG guys.
Living Ground is a project that can (and will) positively impact our local community, Ecuador and South America. We believe we can (and we are) co-creating an ecosystem business that enables an entire bio-region to thrive, restoring balance to Nature, nourishing microbes, plants and people, and generating improved conditions for future generations. The project puts people and microbes before profits as it is created as a collaboration and cooperation project where everyone wins.
Our Project Overview:
We have created PODS that are operations that rise form the microbe rich soils. All PODS will be inter-dependent connected to the Microbe Rich Compost and Consultancy POD. We will train and raise leaders for success in each POD (ALL PODS are underlined)
Fundraiser
A look into the life of Leisha and the home land of Living Ground.
Microbiology soil testing done with a microscope. Every test is explained to you in simple terms. A suggested way forward is offered so that you gardens and land can flourish with the “good guy” microbes.
Quality, tested and certified with minimum microbe requirements for all plant life. Our piles are a science in art of Nature. Guaranteed no pathogens or bad guys.
Little stories about soil health and reclaiming soil health. Everyone is learning this new science Here I share to educate and help. Here I desire you to understand and take this knowledge and change our world.
There is a router on site sitting outside the house.. It is fiber optics high speed. The password in posted in the house and is listed under the router as well. Feel free to turn this off at night if you desire.
The water is from our own water system and is from the Podocarpus mountains. For foreigners, we suggest using the Berky Water Filter as your biome is not used to the water born microbes.
Kitchen is fully stocked for 4 people. There is a fridge/freezer and an oven. Hot water is provided by a Califone. If you run out of propane, please let us know. We can replace immediately
Google Maps
Our location is 15 minutes south of Vilcabamba. A taxi from Vilcabamba is $6.
The nearest ariport is Catamayo, Loja. This is a $30 -$40 taxi ride and approximately 1 hour drive. Catamayo airport is connected to Quito and there are generally 2 flights every day. For international guests, we are most happy to help arrange the taxi
Driving Directions: Go south from Vilcabamba towards Quinara. You will be going over the mountain. Drive past the Quinara turn-off. On the left is the Living Ground Project Site. Go through the town Masanamaca and over the river/bridge. Make your first immediate left. There are signs for the Trout Resaurant. Go up this dirt road 500 m. At the top of the incline, our driveway in on the right. It is a chain-link fence. Please come in and drive into the propery. Our dogs will let us know you have arrived.
The drive is cicular. The guest house is on the other side of the driveway. It is green and has its’ own driveway.
Please close the gates once you drive through. Thank you!
We do not have phone towers at our location. Therefore, google maps is not available once you go over the mountain. Please use these directions.
There are many animals who live with us
Two Dogs: Clara and Rambo. Clara is an older dog who loves attention. If you pet her she will stay for more and more. Rambo is young. He loves to play. Both are sweet.
Three Cats: Chicory, Max and Bobina. Chicory and Max are private cats and you probably won’t meet them. Bobina is our healing cat and likes to welcome all guests. If you let her, she will cuddle with you at night. If you do not wish to cuddle, please close the door at night.
Ducks: Our main couple is Pink and Floyd. They like to hang out at the main house.
There are special instructions to unsure hot water. This is an outdoor tub. We do clean it the day before you arrive. However, debris will blow in. Also, there are protective covers on the jets to prevent ants making their home. Please remove before use.
You are welcome to use the herbs from the Guest House gardens. Also, please feel free to walk the property. We have a lot of oranges, lemons and mangerines. Enjoy!
Below is an outline of the servives and offerings we share. The Living Ground Soil Squad is most happy to share about our project and take you on a tour of the Project Site. If you are interested in any of the products or services, please let us know.
We offer Live Blood Analysis, Dried Blood, Iridology, Ozone Treatments, Lymphatic and Spinal Care therapy and Bowen
We also have an amazing musician on site who offers lessons. He often can be heard playing music which is very soothing for the land and soul. We also have a basket program so you can visit the Market Garden (5 mins) and harvest your own microbe grown products.
On January 6th, the dream and vision of Living Ground ~ Suelo Vivo was presented to the community here in Southern Ecuador. The intention was to share hope that, together, we could actually enact a solution to the state of affairs we are all facing and enduring. I do feel many of us know what the problem is. Here is a solid “soilution”!
Are we ready?!
A US Foundation (whose intention is global food sovereignty) gifted us with a tractor and a Mighty Mike Microbe Compost turner. A huge gift that enables us to make massive amounts of biologically rich compost. The Foundation’s name is “River of Kindness” So, we have the equipment. Over the past two years, I have been in actively studying and applying experiential knowledge of the teachings of Dr Elaine Ingham (www.soilfoodweb.com). We have the knowledge. We have negotiated a long term lease on land and a potential to purchase two parcels. We have the land. Now, we need the team and the financial means to make this happen. Call me crazy, but I see it all coming together easily.
As I shared in the presentation on January 6th (see video below), I have no intention of “running” a business nor do I wish too. BUT THIS IS IMPORTANT. I would much prefer to walk next to others in this dream as a group. So, I am giving it my best shot to inspire others to collaborate. If it doesn’t work, I just make a lot of compost and share with clients who want to regenerate in a small scale. We are gearing up to do a fundraiser and that will be announced soon.
THE PODS & LEADERS
We need leaders to rise with intention and focus. At the workshop, many did sign up for PODs. This is an amazing opportunity at so many levels. Not only can we regenerate the soils and remove the harmful chemicals and sprays seeping into our food system, we can harvest amazing results at all levels of existance from the smallest of the microbes to the human being. We can reduce farmers/growers input costs; we can reduce water needs; we can increase crop yields; and, my favourite, we can ensure plants have nutritional fullness (human health). This Operation Microbes means everyone wins (profits). It really is a win/win/win!
The vision….
It will be an education center, hang out, and fully alive business. Everyone will win. Profit sharing is horizontal so everyone benefits.
Can you see it?
Here is a view of the presentation in English and Spanish (and, sorry, it announces this is January 22nd…I really do not know what the date is anymore…it was January 6th).
For the creation of Living Ground, Suelo Vivo, to happen, we need to rise and educate POD leaders. That was the intention of the presentation. There are nine PODS each having equal worth to the bigger whole. All PODS are formed on the foundation of the “good guy” microbes. Whether it be the compost makers, testers (lab techs), growers, artists, gourmet market operators, distillery creators (essential oils) they all connect to the infusion and presence of the microbes. We are mearly the creative force in the “soil food web” rising its’ importance (foundational) so all thrive and benefit.
For more details on the POD descriptions (listed below), view the POD CREATION SHEET
I also encourage everyone and all interested parties to connect on the Living Ground Telegram Channel
The Operations Microbe goal is rise up and inspire 2 POD leaders for each section (preferably one local and one gringo) who will be fully trained and mentored in the creation process. The leaders will be linked together to ensure all teams are working with integrity, empowerment and inspiration. Each leader will be trained in Tools and Art of Sacred Commerce. All training will be offered freely in exchange of the commitment to make this happen.
It is my commitment to offer all training (whether in the operations and understanding of the microbes, soil food web or sacred commerce) to all those who show up. If the team member chooses not to continue with the creation, there will be an agreement made that training costs will be reimbursed. There really does need to be a common vision and a selfless commitment towards this creation. My effort will be given and shared only for those who really do want to put this dream into action.
For those who attended the workshop on January 6th and signed up for the PODS, you have been added to the mailing and communication lists. If you are interested in a POD after watching the presentation video, please contact me EMAIL
mailto:info@livingground.art
We are now preparing to raise the necessary funds for “Operation Microbe” set-up. Here are the PODS…
Full Financial Requirements for “Operation Microbe Creators”
BREAK DOWN OF THE PODS
Compost Makers ~ Microbe Makers | Build Microbe Compost, Teas & Extracts. Two Team Leaders (Gringo/Local) |
Lab Techs ~ Microbe Testers | Laboratory Soil Testing of the Microbes Two Team Leaders (Gringo/Local) |
Consultancy Team Microbe Infusers |
Off Site Consultancy to regenerate lands, farms and gardens. . Two Team Leaders (Gring/Local) and a team of compost workers. Must be fully trained in understanding the soil tests, compost and applications to regenerate land (including removal of toxins, chemicals and toxins) |
Distiller | One Team Leader with team Creation of pure essential oils and operations of the stills. Bottlings and labeling |
Onsite Gardener and Grower Microbe Planters |
On site part time Potting of plants and seeds for sale |
TiendaOperation ~ Microbe Sales | Two Team Members (Gringo and Local) Operations of the Microbe Market that will showcase Microbe products and produce. Tea/Tapa Bar and making of food and offerings. |
Off Site Microbe Artists | Microbe Creatives Product makers but the base must be all products are connected to the microbes |
Off Site Microbe Growers | Produce to sell in the Tienda/Market or used for Essential Oil making |
As above, so below! Up, up and away!
Listen to the Music of the Tardigrade (the little bear of the soil)
In am world that has gone mad with sexual orientation, let me introduce Meosis!
And Haploids..who love working together.
When they reach fusion, dipoilds happens. The process is Plasmogamy!
There is an internet of nature that we are just beginning to understand. It is absolutely amazing and we are just beginning to understand and be able to measure. Together the soil food web and the trees work harmoniously. Here is a video which explains it very well, simply!
Super cool webinar!
Compassion of the work we are doing..and should be doing!
Is your favourite fruit about to go extinct?
The deadly disease pathogen Fusarium wilt TR4 (previously referred to as Panama Disease) has been wreaking havoc and ravaging the $25 billion global banana industry – with infected plantations experiencing 100% loss and being quarantined for decades. Colombia has already declared a National State of Emergency, but it may be too late. A flurry of apocalyptic media accounts have followed, revealing a race to save bananas from extinction after the disease has left a trail of scorched banana plantations in its wake.
The world’s most destructive banana disease is spreading, and there are currently no chemicals available to kill the disease. This might be a blessing in disguise as it is highly likely that chemical use has actualy contributed to this problem in the first place.
In August 2021, the Ecuadorian Government has raised the banana disease Fusarium wilt TR4 to pandemic level. “Ecuador’s message to the global banana community is clear: Fusarium is not just a pest; it is a lethal pandemic for bananas that currently has no solution and that threatens one of the most important industries for the Ecuadorian economy.”
Fusarium wilt is a common fungal disease that attacks many types of herbaceous plants, including banana trees. Also known as Panama disease, fusarium wilt of banana is difficult to control and severe infections are often deadly. The disease has decimated crops and has threatened an estimated 80 percent of the world’s banana crop. Read on to learn more about banana fusarium wilt disease, including management and control. Banana Fusarium Wilt Symptoms Fusarium is a soil-borne fungus that enters the banana plant through the roots. As the disease progresses upward through the plant, it clogs the vessels and blocks the flow of water and nutrients. The first visible banana fusarium wilt symptoms are stunted growth, leaf distortion, and yellowing, and wilt along the edges of mature, lower leaves. The leaves gradually collapse and droop from the plant, eventually drying up completely. A good article https://draxe.com/health/banana-fungus/
The good news is there probably is a natural organic solution, simply utilizing the natural defense mechanism of microbes.
https://sfamjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1365-2672.2006.03083.x
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2019.00616/full
Fusarium Wilt is a problem in the soil…a bad guy is taking over! Raise the good guys and let them do their magic!
Bananas As We Know Them Are Doomed VICE News
Disease Is Ravaging the $25 Billion Banana Industry Bloomberg
Why The World’s Most Popular Banana May Go Extinct Business Insider
The world’s bananas are in trouble BBC World Service
Why The Banana Business Of Chiquita And Dole Is At Risk CNBC