I've not posted anything for a bit because, like everyone else, I've been busy. Unlike the many I admire here I've found nothing terribly instructive or amusing to yak about. I am still very much a student and glean what I can from those who've been immersed in the 'gardening/farming sustainability game' longer than I have.
We've had a few light frosts that've killed off the leaves on things like the squash plants but have left other things still struggling on. I check them out and work around them. I gather seed and from all the wonderful blogs I read I also gather priceless info. If for no other reason I will be forever grateful to the interwebs for such a cornucopia of knowledge.
Additionally, it's also the time of year to do alot of other chores, i.e., painting/staining things that the literally endless rains of summer prevented me from tackling earlier. So it's hurry up time now.
Anyone who lives in the country, or even quasi-countryish living, especially this far North, knows how much lugging, lifting, storing and preparing for the weather to come entails, even for me who is still lightyears from true sustainability. One is forced to think ahead...maybe that's the crux of the whole philosophy of sustainability, thinking ahead, what a novel notion! Wouldn't it be a kick if our politicians did such a radical thing?!
After this rather unsuccessful season growing my own has taken on a tremendous significance. I suspect that for many of us it's a stab at counterbalancing that utter feeling of powerlessness one has with every glance at the headlines. There is an undeniable political aspect to this notion of self reliance and in my daydream world I fantasize all those wasted suburban lawns and vacant city lots turned to healthful production. Where kids actually got the connection about where their food actually comes from..ah me. Unlike many I read who are naturally more optimistic than I, I don't envision such a thing happening until the trucks that roll no longer do so, and the shelves where the twinkies calcify are empty and the fryers of MacDonalds are cold will we see true change. And though I'm a world weary cynical old crone in my more even moments even I dare to hope a little.
Imagine this country not chronically ill from eating garbage and sitting sedentary all day. Can you? If so please let me know, I need a lift.
