Amazing Spring

Isn't it funny how spring and market season always seem too early and yet not soon enough? We're still waiting for that ideal spring day, perfect for shorts, but for now, we're out in the garden dressed in layers and hats. As unpredictable as the weather can be, with the sun playing hide and seek behind the clouds, we're rolling with it. We're buzzing with energy in the kitchen, bottling, preparing and packing our tasty products for the upcoming markets and festivals. But oh, I might be getting a bit ahead of myself here!
 

Trillium are strutting their stuff, flaunting their elegance along our morning walk. 

How it went down

When they conceived of March 16 and 17th being Mass maple weekend, I doubt they thought it would be the weekend that many maple producers, including us, ended their season. Some seasons come to an abrupt end, some come to an end with making off-flavored syrup. This one ended like it began - slowly and making great syrup the whole time. We never experienced the "big run" and had to work for every drop. Thank you trees.  Thank you nature.  Thank you to all who helped us have a great season.

Trout lilies are amazing and delicate flowers that are only here for about a week

Spring Optimism

I have been out earlier this year than usual, pulling up the garlic mustard. I feel like I have a pretty good handle on it this year but also realize that I can come back tomorrow and pull just as many as I did today. I am feeling optimistic about the state of things around the farm. The flower gardens look good and the vegetable garden is waiting for plants. This week, the avian chorus swelled, though I eagerly anticipate the arrival of orioles, scarlet tanagers, and indigo buntings. Bluebirds and tree swallows are fighting over nest boxes and I rushed to get the hummingbird feeders out when I heard that familiar buzz this last weekend. All this fills me with optimism for a wondrous spring.

Lungwort shows off its flowers and leaves in early spring

Come see us…

We are looking forward to the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival at the Howard County Fairgrounds on May 4-5th.  It might be soggy but it is always such a great event. We are at the Amherst Farmers Market every Saturday and will be at Great Barrington every Saturday starting on May 11th. There are new vendors at both markets to make your farmers market experience all the more delightful. Drop by and say hi.

Thank you to Berkshire Grown for a great winter season at the Berkshire Grown Winter Market.