Tuesday, April 08, 2025

Surprise! A quick 'farm' post

I have 'breaking news' from Sunday–we actually got some garden prep done! When Rick said rather reluctantly that maybe he should till up the garden before the rain started in earnest Sunday morning, I dropped everything to rescue the remaining beets and pull up all the tomato cages and watering lines. There was also a good stand of volunteer kale on one side that I asked him to leave. He ended up mowing first and then tilling. All four sides still need to be whacked back but I'm excited because this is an early start for us. I worried that with my surgery, a garden may not happen this year, like the year I was in TX so much with my folks. And folks, I think we will really need a garden this year.

And look at my beet harvest! That back bucket is five gallons, the front one smaller. I gave my MIL a 3# bag and made a double batch of beet salad (which keeps well). I still need to pick and freeze a bunch of the kale, a volunteer from at least two years ago that keeps on giving. Once frozen, kale is easy to crumble and add to various dishes for added color and nutrition. I also have parsley that overwintered in my 'herb' barrel on the opposite side of the house.

Speaking of food, the girls are producing well; one day last week our nine hens laid 10 eggs. Actually, eight of our hens laid 10 eggs in one day, since whoever lays a beige egg hasn't been laying in awhile (it's probably Puff, who has been broody). I've heard of hens occasionally laying two eggs within a 24-hour period, but don't think I've seen it happen here before. My neighbors who buy eggs from me are appreciative, as were church members at potluck last weekend, because I took deviled eggs. Shoot, that's  like serving caviar now, isn't it?
the overachievers (probably the three in front; they are the youngest)


one day's haul
Puff, still broody 
Here are a few more tidbits from my photo file that I didn't include in the last post.
Chuckie, ever ready for love
evening clouds from horseback
Tahiti, my favorite – and last to bloom – daffodil
yesterday morning

Finally, this morning's comic relief from Puff:



Thank you all for your comments, prayers and encouragement. You are wind beneath my wings!

That's really it until after surgery from . . .

7 comments:

A :-) said...

Wheeeeeee! A bonus post!!! :-) And yeah, deviled eggs = strong currency ;-D So glad Rick stepped up with the garden stuff. I agree that a garden could be a really good way to go this year. Won't happen for me, but, there are two local farm who have farmstands and also participate in our local farmers' markets. I will be frequenting them regularly and helping that local part of the economy.

Boulderneigh said...

Glad I made you happy, A. 😁 And as good as you are at growing African violets, I'm SURE you could grow some foodstuffs inside under grow lights or in containers around your house. There are smaller 'patio' varieties of tomatoes, bell peppers, and probably lots more available. Nothing beats grabbing fresh ingredients from just steps away!

Donna Schoonover said...

Congratulations. It will be nice to have a garden all ready to go. Best wishes for a quick recovery.

Boulderneigh said...

"All ready to go" would be a stretch, Donna. But it is certainly a good start! Thanks for the good wishes.

Jeanne said...

Wow! I didn't expect a post today!! But I want to wish you God's great blessings tomorrow and during your recovery. If you need to whine at any time, just let me know! I know what you'll be going through.

Michelle said...

I appreciate both the blessings and invitation to whine, Jeanne!

Retired Knitter said...

Well we have been busy here with all our own medical stuff, but you have been in my thoughts every day. And I I am remembering it right - today, April 9 - is THE DAY!! I so pray this goes well.