It’s hard to believe that we’re at the end of another season.  Some things about it were difficult (between the wet and cold spring and the wet and warm fall we lost more broccoli and winter squash to mold than we care to think about).  But some things did better than usual (we usually are only able to give spinach once or twice to the CSA, but this year we were able to put it in the share multiple times).  We often hear questions about the “actual value” of the share compared to what you pay.  This season, if we were selling the veggies that went into your share to one of our stores or restaurants at wholesale prices, we would have sold the veggies for $357, and a store would sell them for around $572 retail.  But we know, more than anyone, how one year in the CSA can differ so much from the next.  Even if you love broccoli, and were saddened by the lack of a broccoli bounty this year, next year there will be another pattern of rain, another pattern of sun, a new field for the broccoli to grow in, and a new chance for broccoli to be the star crop of the season.  Farming is both stressful and rewarding, I think for both us and for our members.  Thank you for taking it on with us.

We were unbelievably lucky with the weather and the attendance at last Sunday’s fundraiser.  Thanks to all the generous contributors and attendees, we raised $3000!!  Half will go to the CSA scholarship fund, and half will go to the Rockland host of the CSAs, the UUR.  It was a fun, beautiful, delicious afternoon, and we were happy that so many of you could make it.

Remember that next Saturday, October 22nd, we are planning on having the garlic-planting, cider-pressing, csa potluck at the farm, starting at noon.  Bring apples to make cider if you have an apple tree, a dish to share, a plate and utensils to enjoy the food, and a folding chair or blanket to relax on.  It’s always a lovely, relaxed afternoon of popping garlic cloves and sharing good food, and we hope to see you there.   If the weather report calls for rain, I’ll send out an email with updated plans by Friday afternoon.

You should have already received an email with a link to our 2011 survey.  Thanks for taking the time to fill it out.  We really appreciate it. Sometimes it’s a little bit confusing what to do with all the information (for every person who hates beets or kale, there is another person who wants more of both!).  But we take it all into account, and it certainly impacts our planning in the winter.

Be well, and don’t be startled if you have a furry, bumpy little ball in your share this week.  It is my favorite soup component:  celeriac.  Just peel it, chop it up, and use it like you would use celery in any cooked dish.  It may be ugly, but it’s one of my favorite winter veggies!

Take care, and thanks for being a part of the farm this season.  We couldn’t do it without you!

Reba and the HCF crew

Week 18 (of 18) veggies:  Salad Mix, Brussels Sprouts, Celeriac or Celery, Potatoes, Red Cabbage, Garlic, Winter Squash, Redbor Kale

This week’s recipes:  Spicy No-Mayo Coleslaw, Kale Chips