We're back!

Ahh, the agony of not having internet access at home for more than 2 weeks!   Eye opening to realize how dependent I've become on 24/7 access to this technology.    I'm glad to be back on-line, and return to checking the weather forecast almost obsessively.    Garden is doing well - and so are the critters.   

It's time for the garden to receive more attention focused on fall crops - we've pulled out the spring pea plants and their trellis, and are actively mowing and tilling those early crops that have been harvested.    For those areas that have had early crops, we will either seed cover crops (buckwheat this time of year), or plant fall crops.    We're seeding fall greens, and succession plantings of beans, cabbage, turnips, carrots cukes and zukes.    Still plenty to do!  

We're also planning for the Centre County Farm Tour on August 8th; more info on that to follow.

Our first batch of chickens was butchered 2 weeks ago - yes, there's some delicious chicken available out of our freezer - and they turned out a beautiful plump  5.5# at 8 weeks old.   Our chickens are raised on certified organic feed that is grown and processed in Milton, and we appreaciate the high quality and freshness of the feed.  Although the cooler weather slowed things down some in the garden, the birds sure enjoyed the cooler weather and the grass it provided.

Our muscovy ducks have been doing well, and we've got two big groups of hatchlings patrolling the farm for any pesky bug that dares to cross their path.   It's always a pleasure to see them spread out across the lawn and devour Japanese beetles!

We've got our Turkey poults arriving via mail next week, and the brooder will be clean and ready for them, providing a safe and warm haven for them till they can go live under the pine trees behind the house.   The pine trees, and surrounding meadow,  is the best spot we've found for raising our poultry, as it provides a natural habitat for them, with access to cool shelter and roosting branches, while still allowing lots and lots of grass for foraging.

The piggy trio of Piggly, Wiggly and Squiggly are doing well, enjoying meals of soaked and sprouted spelts raised here on the farm.   They're still a friendly bunch, but big enough now that an unintentional  mis-step on their part can seriously hurt a croc-clad foot - I have the bruise to prove it.   My mistake, those piggies just wanted their bellies scratched and got a little excited.