One month ago was our last blog. The Fair Share Farm calendar said that December was for family, friends, and farmers. And while a few farmers markets were thrown in there, we did our best to obey.
The month started with a snowfall and a farewell party to the farm crew. We say adieu to Lorne and Lauren, and hope that their time at the farm helps them build one of their own in the northwest, or wherever they may land. Luke is here a couple more days, but is then off to Hawaii, and a host of new life experiences.
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| A final farewell with the crew |
A little food and farm related work did transpire during the month, as we continue to determine the feasibility of developing a fermentation operation here at the farm. One important step is recipe development. What is the best product we can make, which varieties of vegetables grow and ferment the best, how much salt should we use?????? Trialing has been fun and tasty, and we are hoping that the future of the farm includes a food processing venture.
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| Sauerkraut trials |
Vacation was short, but incredibly sweet. Down to the Yucatan in Mexico we went, for 6 days. Our destination was Tulum, home of sea turtles, Mayan ruins, friendly people, fresh seafood, and bare feet. We stayed in an area completely off the grid, where all power is supplied by solar, wind and generator power. It was a very therapeutic time.
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| Climbing the pyramid at Coba |
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| At the ruins in Tulum |
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| Breakfast |
A whirlwind sent us home and then back out to Cincinnati to visit my family…85 degrees one morning and minus 4 the next. During our short stay we found time to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The stories in the museum are ones that have taken too long to be told. If you are ever heading to Ohio, add it to your list of stops.
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| Slave pen from Northern Kentucky |
With the new year now here, we begin our normal routine of planning and anxiousness. The high tunnel, chickens, dog, cats, songbirds, and wood stove need daily tending and keep one busy. 2013 is a tough year to top, but our soil is only getting better. We will be trialing new cover cropping techniques this year and are looking forward to improving our farming methods. We feel rested and ready to go.
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| 50 growing hens |
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| Rocky’s favorite bed |
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| The current view |
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| Sunny staying warm inside |
