Summertime

I just finished my second week of summer vacation and already, it feels as though time is slipping away.  I still don't feel that I'm able to get everything done on my neverending to-do list.  This week was especially tough to stay focused.  One week ago today I had to say goodbye to my best friend for the past 10 years.  My dog Maxx has been my constant companion. He's been on roadtrips, seen too many changes to even mention, followed me around, and loved me though everything.  Losing him was the toughest thing I've ever had to endure.  He was such a wonderful farm dog.  While out doing my chores daily, he was constantly by my side.  He would walk right into the chicken coop and they barely even noticed.  This week as I've been working in the garden, I've found myself looking up to see if he was sitting by the gate.  His absence has left a hole in my heart that has been very painful.  I am filled with wonderful memories and will cherish the short time I had with him forever.  If you are lucky enough to have a dog like Maxx, spoil them!  I wish he was still around for me to do so!
Things here at Two Bees Farm have been rolling along smoothly.  The garden is doing well for the most part.  Dealing with new beds and mediocre soil has been a challenge this season.  My plants aren't baring as much as I'd like to see but all in all, they are healthy plants.  I have tons of green tomatoes, squash, zucchini, peppers, and okra that will be ready to pick after today's rain.  I'll be at the Beaufort Farmers' Market next weekend so come on out and enjoy the bounty! 
The bees are doing their thing.  I harvested about 4 gallons of honey a few weeks ago and it's already sold.  If only I had 50 hives and a constant supply of honey..
I was hoping to start work on the greenhouse today but rain interfered with my plans.  I'll start tilling the ground as soon as it dries out and will also start building shelves and getting things ready for fall.  I'm very excited to grow in a greenhouse.. a real one.. and can't wait to see how much more I'm able to harvest through the winter. 
For today, I'll veg out on the couch with some baked brie smothered in newly made plum chutney and read my gardening books.  It's a good lazy day on the farm!