Think ahead to what you plan to use the okra for. If you're putting it in a stew, chop it horizontally to create chunks. If you plan to serve it as a side dish or stuff it, chop it lengthwise to create strips. Leave the seeds intact. If you want to make fried okra, it's best to bread it before freezing. Follow the steps in the next section. Lay out the pieces in a single layer and make sure none of them are touch. Put the tray in the freezer and freeze the okra for 1 hour, or until the pieces are firm and slightly icy. Don't leave the okra in the freezer uncovered for longer than this, or the chill will affect their texture. Fill each freezer bag to within an inch of the top with the frozen okra pieces. Close the top of the bag, leaving just enough space to stick a straw into the empty headspace. Suck the air out of the bag so that it closes tight around the okra, then remove the straw and seal the bag. Removing the air will keep the okra from breaking down as quickly. If you have a vacuum sealer, the machine will remove the air for you. Consider labeling your bags with the date they were packed. Frozen okra can be added to stew, soup, and casseroles without thawing it first. In fact, it's best to immediately cook the okra instead of thawing it first. The more the okra is handled, the likelier it is to get mushy.

Summary: Chop the okra. Place the okra on a baking sheet. Flash freeze the okra. Place the okra in freezer bags. Use the frozen okra.

At least 2 weeks before the pups are due, let the dog explore her whelping box. Make sure it's placed somewhere quiet. She will want to nest in a quiet place in the time leading up to the birth. To help your dog get used to the box, plant treats in it regularly. Then she will associate this box as a quiet place with good things. Don't worry if the dog doesn't choose to labor in the whelping box. She will choose a place where she feels safe. This might be behind a sofa or under a bed. As long as she is not in danger of hurting herself or the pups, leave her be. If you try to move her, she may become distressed. This can slow down or even stop labor. If the dog chooses to labor under a bed or behind a sofa, it can be helpful to have a flashlight. This way, you can visually check on her. Program your vet's number into your phone or post it on your fridge. If an emergency arises, you want to have ready access to the number. Consult with your vet about how to get a hold of them if your dog gives birth at night. A trusted person should stay with the dog to make sure things go smoothly during the birth. This person should be very familiar to the dog. Limit people entering and leaving the space where the dog is giving birth. This can distress and distract the dog, potentially postponing her labor. Your dog needs to concentrate on giving birth. Do not invite the neighbors, children or other friends to watch the action. This will distract and distress the dog and could potentially postpone her labor.

Summary: Let your dog explore the whelping box. Put your dog's favorite treats in the box. Let your pregnant dog choose the place to labor. Keep a flashlight handy. Keep your vet's phone number handy. Have one adult monitor the birth. Do not bring visitors to watch the birth.

You want the leaves to be slightly bruised, and you want to smell the aroma of the shiso.

Summary: Muddle the lime juice, shiso and sugar together in a Collins glass using a muddler, a pestle or the back of a spoon. Add ice until the glass is 2/3 full. Add the green tea and the rum to fill the glass. Garnish the drink with a lime wedge or a shiso leaf, or both.

You can find breed rescues by searching for them online, or by contacting your local humane society, dog officer, or vet's office. Many pet-related businesses will be able to provide information about local rescue organizations. Don't forget about talking to German Shepherd owners or visiting breed shows to meet more owners. Any puppy coming from a rescue should be fully checked by a veterinarian for basic health, parasites and vaccinations before they are adopted. Generally, they will be spayed or neutered before they go to their new homes, or you will sign a contract to do so in the near future. Beware of any rescue group who skips these steps. Many rescue groups have an extensive placement process. They will require an application, an interview, and a home visit to ensure a successful adoption. Some may even ask to consult your current veterinarian for information about you and previous pets. If you don't own your home, be prepared to provide a letter from your landlord stating that you are allowed to have a dog. If you already have another dog, that dog will need to be evaluated to make sure that the dogs will get along. While this may seem excessive, the rescue group just wants to place the dog with a family in a home that's prepared to handle the responsibility.
Summary: Contact breed rescues in your area. Make sure you're dealing with a legitimate rescue group. Go through the application process.