community farm

Oh my. I am SO excited.

We have joined Chestnut Ridge's Community Farm. I went for the first workday of the season on Saturday and brought Sarah and Eric with me on Tuesday. I wasn't sure how they would do, or if we could help in anyway, but they were more focused and interested than I had anticipated. (I've got to learn to give them more credit.) They helped mulch new beds, plant seeds, pull spinach and kale, and water the beds. They may not have been exceptionally efficient in their work, but as the farm manager graciously shared, "We're about process here, not product. It's about learning."

We used some of the spinach in our spaghetti sauce this week, which (thankfully) got two thumbs up from both kids.

And - not only are there lots of vegetables and fruits to tend to and enjoy eating over the next many months, but there are pigs, goats, sheep, and chickens too. There will be fresh eggs to gather and bring home!! If we're really lucky, we'll be able to milk a goat or two. As for the pigs, they're being raised for meat, which goes to campers at Chestnut Ridge. Although we won't be eating the meat, it will be quite interesting to learn about raising animals for food. (Side note - when I learn more about the cows that were recently taken to the butcher, I'll fill you in.)

Just in case you thought it was all work - here's some proof that there was a lot of play happening too . . . it's all about balance, isn't it? One of the spring workdays will be focused on building a swing set and a sandbox, so there's even more to look forward to . . .