a relatively high beta-carotene (Vitamin A) concentration. We’ll be feeding alfalfa hay (thanks Bill & Shirley) and squash during the winter to maintain good nutrients in the eggs. And they are tasty, too. We did have to increase our prices to try and help with the cost of transporting feed.

We’re happy to report that we have delicious, fresh, whole goat’s milk for our organic oat meal in the morning. And we have two 6 month old very nice bucks FOR SALE!

A concerted effort to garden by the moon resulted in stellar performances by heirloom watermelons (thanks to Chuckie), peppers, cabbages, tomatoes (thanks again Chuckie), broccoli, carrots, squash, and potatoes! Essentially, above ground crops are planted during the light of the moon (waxing) and below ground crops during the dark of the moon (waning). Compost is applied and dug in during the dark of the moon. Certainly moon experts point out it is much more complicated than this, however, time seemed at a premium this summer. The weeds and miscellaneous forbes also did very well despite drought conditions in July and August. Barb kept up with the new Isle Area Farmer’s Market for exactly one month before succumbing to the call of other farm and home duties. By all the reports, the new Farmer’s Market did very well and local folks and seasonal visitors rallied to support. New vendors were added and a variety of crops were at their best despite the lack of rain. Paul and Barb did set 20 pounds of sauer kraut, but the pigs ate about 200 pounds of cabbage before they got to it. Brocolli was plentiful, however, the pigs and sister Betty both declined it’s healthful benefits. Pigs are very discerning gourmands, so Barb did not push the broccoli.

The gardens are fertilized with composted manure from the farm animals, no chemicals are used or needed, as the “good” and “bad” bugs seem to remain in balance. I do interplant marigolds and nasturtiums that also seem to help. Next year I’m trying some Russian Comfrey rows to keep the creeping Charlie in its place. We’ll see if this works. Sage and thyme are favorite herbs.

We’ll continue our garden enterprise, but with marketing direct from the farm next year. We have no pathogenic E. Coli to contaminate our fresh greens. Those of you who wish to sign up for weekly eggs and vegetables, give Barb a call.

Gardening by the Moon & Farmer’s Market !