There are so many things going on at the farm right now.  And in my life.  And everywhere else…  On a personal note, we moved our Last One to college last weekend.  She’ll be living with the Middle One in College Station.  The Oldest One is living in Austin starting her career.  The Middle One is in College Station majoring in Nutrition.  The Last One is majoring in Agri-Business. That makes us, well, Happy Empty Nesters.  And in planning for this great event, as many of you know, we sold our house-of-15-years and are building a house on the farm.  So we’ve broken ground and are making great progress.  The kids are out and about.  The new farm dog is chasing ducks, (rather than herding them…still hopeful that will improve) and we are getting ready for the fall!

New plantings include broccoli, brussles sprouts, cabbage, carrots, beets, lettuces, collards, mustard, herbs, fennel, peppers, sweet potatoes, potatoes, lima beans, green beans, fava beans, swiss chard, garlic, shallots, …

And best of all… that faint little promise of Fall in the air!

I love the Local Food Movement. Sometimes I forget how widespread it is. WAY past my kitchen!  And other times I think I’m the last one to be figuring it out! But I loved seeing these young chefs and their instructor stop by the farm to browse the available fresh produce – and see how it’s growing. Not everyone has seen asparagus growing, of course. But once you connect with your food, I just don’t think there is any going back…

It’s always hard to believe it’s time to plant “Fall” crops in July. I think it’s sometimes even harder for the plants to believe! Last year, our fall tomato crop was pitiful. I don’t think we Believed enough. This year, we’re committed to trying harder. So. This is our attempt to give these new babies a little relief from the hot Texas sun. 40% shade cloth to shield the west sun.

There are plenty more crops to get in the ground. Some will need more help than others with our heat; some can wait a little longer to go in the ground. They all offer hope: hope that we can beat the bugs this time, or the weather. Hope for new good food!

The indoor Wednesday market has been such a hit with shoppers, we are considering moving the Saturday market indoors, as well.  Then, I’m thinking, “farm stand open rain or shine, (or blistering heat)” would be so much more appealing. To me!  Be sure to stop by and check us out – but you’ll have to come IN!

And did you see Addie Broyles article in the food section of the paper today? New kids on the block… Springdale Farm!

Austin American Statesman