Whew! 2022!

This was the most liked and seen post from our Instagram page in 2022. I clearly remember this day at the Sara Hardy Farmers Market in Traverse City, Michigan. Even though I was VERY cold that morning, the sun felt so good on my face. I love those brisk spring mornings when the sun is out, something that all of us here in Northern Michigan really appreciate. A couple was walking by, looking at the plants. The man had a camera hanging around his neck, the woman was wearing sunglasses. There was some morning market chit chat between all of us, and then I was asked if he could take a photo. "Sure, I'm fine with that" I said. It's unusual for people to ask anymore, and I felt happy, but then also awkward, to pose. I had so many layers on that day, and felt like a big bulky marshmallow. Who cares though, look at those lovely plants! I didn't know if this couple was visiting or if they were local. Weeks go by, then I get an email with the photo attached. I didn't realize at the time I would soon get to know Don and Alison Connors over the summer while they shot a video for the farm.

What kind of writer am I? The last post I really wrote in 2022 was at the beginning of the growing season. My gosh! Growing is a full time job plus, and then trying to write something more than a quick social post has been a bit tough. This year has been FULL! And I'm grateful for that. Let's see....I came up with a brilliant idea to start a small roadside stand, which I sometimes forgot about. I will do better with this in 2023. There were some issues, such as the heat, and how to keep everything cold, in a cooler, in the sun, or how about watered? Oh, and I almost forgot, critters!!! During the later part of the season, critters were nibbling on my handcrafted soaps. I pulled a lot of materials out of the stand. If you have read this far, and you were one of the visitors to our roadside apothecary & plants, comments are welcomed!

On farm experiences. This has been such a pleasure to do. This is a 2 hour farm tour and class. Participants tour the farm harvesting herbs that will be blended into tisanes, and then create their very own unique herb/flower bundles. I offer these weekly, via Airbnb and/or Eventbright throughout the growing season. I have met so many amazing, beautiful people from many places, and truly appreciate what I learn in exchange. I was hesitant to open the farm only because I live here and treasure my privacy and "down time" when I'm not attending markets or open at the Apothecary. But this has been one of the highlights of my week, and will continue to offer similar, smaller events at the farm next year.

I can't thank the people in my life enough, family, friends, people that helped me here at the farm, customers and those that have visited the farm. Most of all, I am happy to be sharing what I love to do with all of you. Herbal Blessings and wishing you a Healthy and Happy New Year in 2023!