Spring is coming!

Over the past week or so, I have been working on the garden and orchard area. I have been cutting back the blackberries and started seeds in the greenhouse. So far I have planted Purple Passion asparagus, Royal Red lettuce, Super Jericho romaine lettuce, Forellenschluss romaine, Champion collards, arugula, Violetto artichoke, Rubine Brussels sprouts, Golden Star sweet pepper, Mole pepper, and celeriac were planted on February 2nd. All the lettuce and the arugula have sprouted as well as several of the Brussels sprouts. Yesterday, I planted the Costoluto Genovese tomatoes.



 
Here is a picture of the first sprouts.                                                This is the greenhouse.

There are also some trees that are starting to flower on the property. I am not sure if they are ornamental or not, but they are a sure sign that spring is just around the corner.

Renee and I went to the Alameda Home and Garden Show yesterday. We saw lots of remodeler/contractors, roofers and solar installers there. It was a great place to get information!

— Darryl

Turkeys and Deer and – SKUNKS! – Oh My!

    Wildlife has been the theme on the farm. Darryl counted 32 wild turkeys last week! Chief just saw 32 playmates, and went running for them. That same day, a deer was right in front of the house. It saw Darryl and Chief, and jumped over the gate, into the garden, then out the other side. (We have since bought deer fencing)  But wait, there’s more! While Darryl was feeding the horses he saw a skunk crossing the pasture!
    Today we took Chief to the farm, and Darryl let him into the pasture. I like to keep him out of the pasture because he rolls in and eats the horse manure. Typical dog behavior. YUCK! I had to give him two baths this week alone. As we debated whether he should be in there, we heard him barking. Next thing we know he got sprayed by that skunk! So, now you know what these pictures are of. Notice that I made Darryl clean Chief!