In this compact book, Robert Smith gives clear and detailed instructions for gardening organically in a semi-arid climate. Using New Mexico as an example, he gives full directors for raising everything from asparagus to zucchini; shows how depressed bed planting protects plants and conserves moisture; and includes instructions about a labor-saving method of soil cultivation. After receiving his master's degree in English from the University of California at Berkeley, the author taught in a small high school in Jackson, California, and then at Tampere University in Finland. He then moved with his wife and two sons to a ranch near the old village of San Geronimo in northern New Mexico. After building a house, he devoted himself for several years to growing vegetables and raising goats. He then became an instructor at New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas. After retiring from teaching, Smith moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico where he now teaches computer skills to seniors, maintains a web page, and keeps a backyard vegetable patch.

I do not claim to be an expert, but living with stroke since 1990 has taught me many things about "life." I hope that as you read this book you will share some of my findings and perhaps gain the understanding that there is life following a stroke. People have inspired me in ways that made me realize that no one has to face any crucial medical emergency alone. Many stories of their adventures have shown me how to guide my own life through the ups and downs of a daily routine. It is my desire that one can understand my situations in a way so as to help them deal with the problems they may face or are facing. I remind you that these are only my opinions or circumstances; each individual situation varies, but in the resolution of any problem, the methods from many sources may help. I only hope some comfort and knowledge may be gained from my walk through life.

The Stroke of Midnight chronicles moments of my experience suffering a stroke, paying particular attention to the physical, emotional, and financial considerations typically associated with a medical emergency. Primarily using anecdotal approach, I recount the night when the stroke hit, and the subsequent events that followed. Throughout the text, I emphasize the likely importance of belief, using generally straightforward language in an effort to create a thorough yet accessible resource. Part memoir, part guide, the volume incorporates an understanding of diverse scientific principles, furnishing data from various sources. Overall, my contribution is designed to commemorate phases of my journey as well as to enlighten, inspire, and provoke thought for the reader who may confront similar circumstances.