Early Summer

This last week has been uncommonly warm to the extent that I have twice gardened in a vest top. The usual frost and chill that we expect from January, or even the possibility of being completely snowed in,  has not materialised. It may still come, although at the moment its hard to imagine. There have been bees buzzing and birds singing their hearts out. Someone even saw a butterfly. More beds have been mulched and put to sleep for the winter (or is it summer?) and potatoes have been planted. Multiple varieties of salad leaves continue to provide in the polytunnel. Last night, with the assistance of Katie, a gluten-free apple cake was constructed which was actually really tasty and encouraged me on my future baking journeys. I am still trying to admire the sauerkraut and all its health giving properties. Several plastic buckets of salted green and red cabbage became my charges in December. They smell a little strange and have to be checked and pressed every few days before ultimately being eaten. Unsurprisingly they do not entice my digestion to wellness and as a fermented food appear to ferment for a second time on reaching my stomach, with unsociable results. Yet I persist as its good winter fayre and it is about food for everyon. Squashes, leeks and beetroot continue to dominate our seasonal diet with soups galore and the occasional risotto.
It's still quite quiet here as we are closed to the public and slowly build up to the busier times. The rams are still making ridiculous noises, presumably partly because they are still separated from the ewes and the owls are making beautiful songs at night. I may have a resident mouse or rat in the roof and I hear him chewing occasionally. My stash of cashew nuts is untouched so I think he is staying outside.
Last night I was introduced to "courageous conversation"; saying what you truly believe without fear of the consequences of the responses of others in the group. I was a courageous listener but hopefully I'll get there in time.
My friend Rob has also just achieved a new job and will become the new site manager here in March, and my friend Katie who is a fellow apprentice, will be now staying here in the long run as it is her husband. Exciting times and I am really happy for them as they are great people and will bring alot to the project. Gotta go and search for tinder for next week's bushcraft session.