front corner of the back valley

We had our first work weekend of the season. The weather was cool and rain took a break, for the most part. On Saturday, Jim helped us clear the site of and path to where we’ll build the hermitage. On Sunday, Siporah and her parents inspected and approved of the work so far. Now, we’re working with Carlo to finalize the plans and get the permit. Then we’ll order materials and start digging post-holes for the post & beam foundation. More help will be needed in the months ahead.

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Jim & Jo after good work

James joined us Saturday afternoon and we variously prepared veggie beds in the garden, restrained multiflora rosa in the ditch in front of the cottage, cleaned up winter’s manure around the barn, and hauled gravel out of the ditch (washed in by recent T-storms). In the evening we enjoyed pizza with steamed nettles on the side. All slept solidly.

Santi cutting up downed trees for firewood

A bit sore and slow-moving Sunday morning, we nevertheless got more work done in the garden, including planting pepper seedlings supplied by Adrianne. Jim was excellent with the broadfork, while Joe helped Santi prune an apple tree. James continued to clean much of the multiflora rosa out of the ditch below the cottage. Siporah kept us charmed and entertained.

the path

Stories, coffee, and food were shared, including freshly harvested ramps and duck eggs. Jim and James headed back to Milwaukee in the afternoon and the Orsos returned to La Farge a bit later.

Orso inspection team approves

Monday has been too wet for much outside work. Just as well, our bodies needed a day off.

Many blessings to all beings!