Farm update and invitation to workdays

It's been an unusual August around here. First, there is the rain--so much of it! Mushrooms are flourishing at a time when I expect dry brown grass and the end of mowing.

Second, it's the first August since 2015 that I am not prepping for a Three Season Harvest Adventure. This year is a sabbath year of sorts, and though I still haven't quite figured out what that means (or how to rest and create the space for reflection so I can figure out what's next) I am grateful for the reduced pressure. I still planted way more than our family can use, so I'll probably be offering some pop-up sales later this fall so you can stock up on carrots, shallots, winter squash, ginger, turmeric, and soap.

It's been a delight to lean into one of our original core values--connecting people with the land and developing community. A dozen folks showed up to our "Plant Your Own Pumpkin Day" and we are starting to see some pumpkins growing amid the lush foliage. Folks from Penn's Civilians are growing spaghetti squash, sweet potatoes, and melons to supplement their raised beds at Steelton Highspire schools. A friend is experimenting with maypops and artichokes in the plot she tends. And our volunteer workdays have been a great connecting point and have helped keep me from feeling overwhelmed by basic farm maintenance.

Upcoming farm workdays:

• Saturday August 29 from 9 am to 1 pm

• Wednesday September 9 from 5-7 pm

• Wednesday September 23 from 5-7 pm

I'll provide a big pot of vegan gluten free soup and you are welcome to bring something to share. Tasks range from heavy lifting to weeding to sit-down-in-the-shade jobs, and if you have physical limitations, I'm pretty sure we can find something for you to do. Kids are also welcome (whether to work or play) and feel free to invite a friend. Bring your tools, gloves, hats, water, and sense of humor. RSVP appreciated but I know life is fluid.

The goat kids that were born on August 6 are definitely at the bouncy stage and are sure to bring you joy. There are lots of flowers and herbs to pick, so even if you don't have energy to do any work, know that you are welcome to come just to delight in the abundance of August.

Mikey Spicket and Gerard Buggy