As the growing season starts to kick in high gear, I find sparse time to take note of how fortunate I am to be here, growing life in order to sustain life. But even amongst all the madness, there are simple things that never go unnoticed. The second the sun rises above the pine forest and drenches the farm in the brightest of greens, warmth returns the dexterity to your fingers. This is the highlight of my day and my daily reminder of why I love this gig.

Planting something new everyday inhibits me from really taking stock of what is in the ground. Until, that is, it is time to harvest. Then I think, this is just the beginning. I am in a vegetarian´s paradise, and living in a house filled with them definitely does wonders for my palate. My name is R.J. Kessler, by the way. I donated my hands on March 8th and will not get them back until the middle of November. Thankfully I trust Paige completely with them.

Having grown up in these parts, I am relishing the beautiful days we are having on the farm as I know full well the relentless onslaught of summer heat and humidity which is just around the corner. But in case I do take too much pleasure in this lovely present, the newly swarming bugs around my face and legs gently remind me of what is to come. It is amazing, these telltale signs that we as a planet are always changing, even if that change leads us right back to where we were before.

This weekend, the Serenbe Farmer´s Market will be in full swing to celebrate Memorial Weekend. With 14 vendors lined up there is certain to be something for everyone. And for those who cannot wait to enjoy the delicious dishes that await us from The Hil, your appetite will be satiated for the moment by a delectable tasting from our newest set of hands on the farm and chef extraordinaire, Hilary White. I would especially like to thank her for donating her back to help dig the pond for our ducks.

Until next time,

−r.j. and my farming compatriots, paige, matthew, lauren, mary, and Niko