Nurturing Our Productivity and Nature Connection
One of the things we all look forward for are weekends! In our home, we get prepared and go chanting: “We’re going to the Garden!”
This nice spot in the mountains is our weekend retreat for getting the perfect blend of productivity and tranquility as we connect with nature, and as time progress, we continue trying to get as self-sufficient as possible. Some of the electricity powering our activities here is generated by the sun using solar panels, and our fresh, clean water comes from a natural spring and stream on the hills behind us. Everything we do when we gather here is with sustainable living and happiness in mind.
We do face a few challenges that we continue to work on. For example, our herb garden is sometimes overrun by insects, although our basil plants are thriving nicely now. We also have to contend with the clay-heavy soil, but we are determined to improve it using organic amendments like bark, manure, leaf mold, and compost. These materials create a protective layer on the soil surface that slows evaporation and prevents soil compaction.
We really don’t complain. We all find it a peaceful spot, luckily nestled on the mountainside, surrounded by fruit trees and a tranquil lake that we use for cooling off on hot days when we’re tending the land. We are also lucky to have a cozy campground where we pitch our tents when we visit, and some of us enjoy morning yoga and meditation sessions while taking in the spectacular view of the lake. In the evenings, we gather around the crackling bonfire to roast our meals and share stories. That is the moment when all the beauty and the realization of the hard work comes to fruition.
One of our goals is to be able to cook using primarily fresh, organic produce from the vegetable and herb gardens we cultivate with love. We are making steady progress, and are grateful to have this beautiful natural oasis to escape to and nourish our connection with the land.
Stay tunned and join our project! All hands are welcome!!