There is a sure sign of Fall in the air.....
Kurtis and I have started this nice little habit of taking rides on the mule in the evening around the farm...the weather has been so incredible beautiful, it seems like a shame to not get out and enjoy it...So we snuggle ourselves in the mule, with the dog of course...and we head out to bounce around the fields...tonite I couldn't help but to notice all the obvious signs of fall in the air...you can just feel the change in the season, especially when you pay attention...so I took my camera and tooks some pictures of what nature is doing to get ready for the impending change.......
This is a little wildflower that grows down by the creek...I looked it up in my Native Iowa Wildflower book..it is called a "Touch me not" and is related to the impatient. It is so delicate and pretty..I had never noticed it before. It grows down by the creek where its shady and damp...


One of my favorite signs of fall....the bountiful apple crop. Looks like this year is going to be another good one. This is the snow apples. I have already made a nice batch of apple crisp and it was wonderful! We will have to get out the newly patented "Sharon apple picking box" and Kurtis will enjoy hoisting me up in the Bobcat again...Hey, it works!






Well, I warned you. I knew when we planted the potatoes this spring...it was going to be bad! So, this is one row. There are three...you do the math!
They are beauties...and taste great!! Kennebec's of course. Just place your order, I'll deliver.










Another nice harbor of Fall...the nice white oyster mushroom...I just didnt have the heart to pick it..It was nice and fresh and no doubt would of made a great mushroom gravy, but think I will wait for the prized Rosie Beretta (what the Czech's call the hen's nest) or at least that is what Richard used to say...







Attention: Allergy sufferers...goldenrod. When you see Goldenrod, you know Fall is close. I sat for awhile while photographing this and just watched the bees ...it was so pretty, they were just encased in yellow pollen...making up some wonderful honey somewhere imagine.

So, hope you enjoyed my little diversion....and "Happy Fall!!" Oh, and by the way...Kurtis and I celebrated our 9th anniversary yesterday...Happy Anniversary big guy!!
Until next time.....MOM

It's so hard to believe it has been two months since I updated this blog last....but it actually has. We have been absolutely snowed under with gardening, canning and just keeping up with day to day activities. As usual this summer has blown by way to fast, and I'm not sure I have alot to show for it. Lately I have been canning like mad and have put up green beans, pickles, tomatoes and spaghetti sauce. Still planning to do more....yes, its probably more than we can eat...but its fun to give to the kids too.
Despite the un-believable amount of rain we have had this summer...our gardens have done very well!! As usual we have way overe produced, but I'm managing to give alot away too. We have a rule that you cant come and visit this farm without taking home some tomatoes, potatoes or onions.....so far it seems to be working.
Kurt and I just got back from our fall vacation to Mt. Pleasant Old Threshers Reunion. We had a fabulous time...we camped for 8 days and it was wonderful. We had such nice people camped all around us and its really interesting to meet the people from all over the US. One evening we BBQ'd with our neighbor from Washington state. We brought steaks and they provided fresh caught Halibut from Alaska...it was some of the best fish I have had in a long time. As usual the time went fast..but we will look forward to going back next year....god willing.
Jessica, Rob and Ellie came down Saturday and stayed overnite....Ellie took in all the kids attractions and had a great time....Grandma and Grandpa rested Sunday...haha!! I had forgotten how much energy a 3 year old has....but she is a joy to have around!! I think we got her one step closer to having a pony.....well at least until she saw the sand pile and took off to go over and play with a dump truck....tell me..what am I doing wrong??? Grandma will get her to come around...just a matter of time...ha!
So, until next time.......MOM

MORE FUN AT THE REUNION......

Ellie giving a big wave to Grandma, Grandpa and Daddy!! The horses name was "Jack"

"Can you tell me the shortest direction to the dog-pottie? Millie was a big hit with the parade crowd!! She was a very good little campin' dog...

Just too much energy exerted at the log village, Grandpa had to lie down on the log for a little break!

Well, Miss Ellie....now, can you say "Grandpa....I want a PONY!! Looks darn good sitting in the saddle doesn't she....This is "Dolly"

Heading through the parade in downtown Mt. Pleasant.