Where we'll be

Every year, come Thanksgiving, I know I'll be at my farm. This year we almost changed our minds but the the farm is where everyone wants to be. It's a very humble little place in the Texas Hill Country but for some reason when people drive through that gate, that peaceful, easy feeling comes over them. My kids love it and the grandkids love it even more. Nieces and nephews come for this one long weekend of family, fun, and surprise.

Of course, there is the usual turkey, dressing, football games, and hayride but, sometimes we get a wild hair and head to Fredericksburg or Llano to shop and dine, Luchenbach to buy souvenirs or to Enchanted Rock (in the pick above) for a great way to walk off the pumpkin pie!


Not far away (and where some of our visitors may be lodging) is Lake Buchanan fed by the Colorado River. At the north feed is the Colorado River canyon, home to 25 wintering bald eagles. Kayaking along that stretch takes you past waterfalls and the eagles. Just as the river stretches into the lake, there is Fall Creek Vineyards with award winning wines, wonderful patio for picnicking, and a play area if children are along for the trip.

For those who came last year, you know the bunkhouse was the project so we could sleep more people. A few weeks ago, we had a freak storm blow through and take half the porch roof off. So, from now til T-day, we'll be scouring Craigslist for material and completely rebuilding the porch. *Sigh* I though we might skate till Thanksgiving without a big project. I hope it's not becoming ANOTHER Thanksgiving tradition!!!

Small Spaces

I planted a very large garden in the raised beds and mulched them heavily to retain moisture (thank you SO much, Mom, for teaching me this!!!) Although we've been living 2 hours away from the farm and visiting for short visits each week, the garden grew very well through the hot dry summer. Two large pumpkins, lots of squash (several varieties) and several bushels of tomatoes! I share the garden with armadillos, raccoons and deer and it still provides food for us and our neighbors!!
I really miss the meditative effects of gardening so I have moved containers to the RV park we live in when away from the farm (and making a living). We are growing tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, basil, and salad greens. Everything is coming up very well. I hope to be able to bring more containers for more gardening (without causing problems with the RV park manager!).
It's like living in a small apartment (with low mountains, creeks, trees and wildlife of the animal variety) all around. I hope to show urban dwellers how farming in a small space can still provide organic veggies and the comfort of gardening.
I'll end this now so I can go have a slice of apple, pecan cake purchased at the apple orchard down the road. Until next time!