For the past 6 years our younger son Shep has been the farm's pumpkin grower, with his sight's set on producing a modest but attractive supply of decorative pumpkins and carvers. Some years have gone better than others, but we are happy to report that his 2024 harvest is looking great! This year's varieties include cute little white pumpkins (great for painting), small orange pumpkins with sturdy, dark green handles, and large, oblong carvers that fit the bill for a range of fall decorations. After the harvest was complete, Shep brought the load over to pavilion where they are available for sale to anyone who happens to stop by the farm. The pumpkin sales aren't just for his benefit, however. Since the beginning, Shep has been dedicated to a 50/50 split between his bank account and the Green Lake Area Animal Shelter. A lover of animals (especially cats and dogs), he believes in doing his part to support local efforts to care for pets who are in between families. So far, Shep has raised over $1200 for the shelter! He is excited to be at it again this season, so if you're a lover of animals or pumpkins and you pick up your share at the farm, you will have the opportunity to contribute to his efforts.
It's hard to believe that we are already in the pumpkin time of year, but here we are. The cool temperatures that have settled in for a few days remind us how fleeting summer is...it won't be long and the colors will be changing. So far there's been no frost on the pumpkins, and for that we are glad. We aren't quite ready to say goodbye to tomatoes and peppers! It's a good reminder to enjoy the tail end of summer and be to present in each and every day.
Danielle
