Hello Everyone! It sure seems like a long time ago that we were meeting under the trees out front for fresh veggies. The reality is that it wasn’t all that long ago, but it leaves a huge hole in my weekly schedule of things to be completed. Instead, there’s a list of outdoor tasks that need to be done for winter readiness, a list for winterizing gardens, a list for prep to reduce springtime work, and throw in some things like cleaning, purging, organizing the barn & garage. In other words, my time has been diverted to other areas. Most things are done and we’ll be ready when winter arrives, but I went out today to work on getting another area in the fenced-in raspberry patch ready for new planting beds. The goal for 2025 is to grow everything here on our property.
Sounds easy, doesn’t it? I’ve managed to get a lot of prep work done and moved several things to free up some bed space. And, really, once everything is set up and working, it will be easier to have everything here. It just means more filling of beds, trenching in water lines, and figuring out where to grow everything when spring rolls around again. Seed orders will get started this week, too. One of my suppliers is having an actual SALE, so my mind is thinking about seeds for sure!
In addition to all this organizing and prep, I’ve been making my natural body products, too! Those cold, windy days last week were perfect for making stuff, and it feels like I’m ahead of the game on these products! You can see my display at Rescued (825 1st Avenue in Silvis) or you can place an order directly with me. There are sugar scrubs, bath salts, foot products, lotion bars, room sprays, rollerballs, hemp hand creams, pillow sprays, lip balms in an assortment of scents. I’m probably forgetting some things. All of these use natural (most are organic) ingredients that promote healthy skin without the addition of water or chemical preservatives. Get in touch if you want to place an order or have questions.
Right now, the dehydrator is humming away downstairs and soon, our house will smell like savory herbs. Today, it’s filled with thyme and Mexican oregano. Many of the plants are still outside and have viable leaves. Let me know if you want any fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, lemon thyme, sage, Mexican oregano) or packages of dried herbs to restock your cupboard before the season of comfort food cooking begins.
Does anyone want baked goods? I’d be up for some baking! Cookies? Mini loaves of bread? Focaccia bread? Ooohhh – anyone want to try mini loaves of English muffin bread and a fresh jar of jam? There are jars of chai latte and dark cocoa mix ready, and more chai is being made every few days, so if you need a refill I’ve got you covered. Jams and pickled veggies are on the shelf, too. There are spicy green tomato pickles, hot pickled peppers and banana peppers – all are good for topping sandwiches or nachos and can be used to make a variation on Mississippi pot roast. Get in touch if you want something off the canning shelf.
Hope you are doing well and maybe we’ll see each other soon. Here’s to a Happy Thanksgiving filled with good food, great company, and much laughter and fellowship. Thank you all for your support, friendship and conversations through the year!