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The first frost is always a bittersweet moment in the heart of a gardener. While we know it is nearing time to rest, rejuvenate and hibernate the memories of the summer still flash vividly as if it was only yesterday. We have had a great garden and harvest this year and I am very grateful. There were surprises and dissappointments as it usually is with the garden. With the cool weather crops in the ground it only takes a quick glance to know that summer is on it's way out and quickly vanishing.
Included in the dissappointments this year was the loss of many of our giant sunflowers, all of the purple beans and half of the English peas to the deer who evidently have exceptional taste in food plants. The rabbits did get some of the lettuces but that was quickly remedied and we were able to save the crop.
The surprises include the bumber crop of Blackberries, Black Raspberries and Red Raspberries this year. This was the best year ever for these tiny treasures.
We met so many wonderful people and made great new friends at the Purple Porch, Local Harvest and Urban Garden market.
So now as we pamper the garden soil and let it rejuvenate this winter I am already thinking about all the things I could do next year! Oh the liist of crops continues to grow! Of course we will not grow everything we do not have the room but it is fun to fantasize about it. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 2010 seed catalog and making my list of things I want to research this winter while in hibernation.
The wisdom of nature continues it's course leaving hints of it's bounty everywhere and inviting us to join in the path of cycles and life. Many people are stepping in with their choice to eat seasonal and local foods. This one choice is so profound yet nearly silent as the ripples extend onward. An entire summer of eating seasonal and local fruits has brought an awareness that is gentle and provoking to each of us.
The peace and calm that comes from eating slow food is priceless and shows in so many areas of our lives. Somehow life became a bit more simpler and enjoyable. Meals became an event and an important time for family and friends. Appreciation seeped into our consciousness with each delicious bite. Patience became part of our understanding and we embraced it.
Slow food is culinary salvation.
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