Hello everyone – greetings from the farm!

We trust this message finds you in good health and good humor…and all things going well on your end of the rainbow. The 2009-2010 year has been the CSA season of delayed gratification…or the year of crisis intervention perhaps. This is our final week of harvest – small as it is - it is given to you with our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your support. EVERYONE (full and half members) is welcome to come this final week - the farmer is ready to plow it under so please come to the "gleaning." The 90 degree weather has “done-in” most of the garden with many plants going to seed. In some ways that is what we “take away” from this season – seeds to be sown for yet another garden and another year – farmers – the eternal optimists! We find truth in the quote from Robert Lewis Stevenson: Do not judge the day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you sow.”

With that said, we have heard from many of you that it is no surprise the economy has taken a toll on everyone – from the top to the bottom – everyone’s “bottom line” is suffering. We have always held the policy that we will never turn someone away due to finances. If you and your family are struggling from the stress of trying to make a living – all the more reason you need fresh, healthy food from the garden. We want to make that available to all our current and former members, regardless of your financial situation. Let us know how we can help. Monthly payment plans are available as well as a limited number of work-share options for those of you who are able to come to the farm to help us grow.

We will continue to have farm eggs and honey during the summer as well as a few surprises – perhaps some summer veggies, flowers and herbs! FYI… we harvested 42 pounds of honey from our one little hive!! Also, we have added lots of new fruit trees and vines from the Manatee Rare Fruit Council member sale last Sunday. Soon they will mature and add to the bounty of the farm. We will try to send you a message announcing what produce is available on a first come basis. We are also taking suggestions for workshops on everything from organic square foot gardening, composting, soap making, hydroponics, worm farms, herbs, backyard chickens, rain barrels, etc…let us know what you want to learn!

In closing, thank you, thank you, thank you – whether you are a new member, renewing member or once upon a time member – each of you have helped to keep the only family owned and operated little farm growing in Pinellas County. Our family thanks you ever so much! See you at the farm!