Shades of Violet

Spring has sprung and shades of violet fill the garden. The soft hues of pansies, lilacs and the tiny budding beauty of violets are images and scents one can only aspire to capture. I did just that by suggestion from one of the fellow Farm Girls on MJ Farm. She made a batch of violet Jelly and I followed in suite along with many other enthusiastic girls. It was great to read the posts as each member excitedly posted the results of their Violet Jelly making. Some said theirs came out tasting like honey, others said cantaloupe. Mine, well... sort of has a sugary sweet taste with a ever so slight taste of violet. I will be making another batch, but this time I will steep lemon verbena to enhance the flavor, yet keep the clear vibrant hue of violet. The other interesting thing is that some said their jellies were fuchsia, some purple and some a shade of blue. I think this may have to do with where the violets are grown, depending on the mineral and nutrient variations in the soil.

Glory Days

Definition of Glory Days according to Websters:

1. best time of life: the period of somebody's greatest achievement or happiness Well, maybe not my greatest achievement, but darn close..... Considering my garden skills, or lack there of.

This is my prize winning tomato. I grew this giant baby when my

neighbors and I challenged each other to see who could grow the largest tomato. It was the size of a dinner plate and it

won first place at the Topsfeild Fair which is the largest agricultural fair in our area. It took its place of honor in the enclosed glass case next to the giant pumpkin. Today, the remaining evidence, a blue ribbon and silver bowl now sit in my office. Some days you can catch me admiring myself in the gleaming sliver of the bowl..... (OK, not true, but it sounds fun and I might just try it!)

Thank You Easter Bunny

It was a quite day, the warm weather and a cool breeze was perfect for relaxing on the porch and talking to neighbors and those passing by. Nibbling on holiday goodies and relishing in the treasures that were found in our Easter baskets made for the perfect day.