Hey Reader!

If you read about our skid steer fiasco a few weeks ago and thought that was entertaining, well, apparently we like providing ongoing entertainment over here.

Last weekend’s episode: the pool wall.

Getting to this point has been a project all by itself. We have only had weekends to work on it because Theron works during the week, and it felt like every single weekend brought another torrential downpour. So trying to get the ground leveled, sand hauled, and everything ready has been a slow process.

After all the leveling, hauling sand, and even with poor Maddie battling a stomach bug, we finally got the pool wall standing.

Victory, right?

Except in the middle of the night, I woke up to the sound of rain coming off the roof.

Which was especially lovely since there was supposed to be zero chance of rain.

So I woke Theron up in a panic because all I could think about was the sand washing away after we had spent all day hauling it, shoveling it, and leveling it.

He went outside to check, and thankfully the sand was still fine.

Then about 15 minutes later, I heard what sounded like thunder.

Except it was not thunder.

It was the pool wall.

A little wind came through, and the whole thing crashed inward.

So there we were, all of us, in the middle of the night, including poor Maddie with a stomach bug, each holding up a section of a 200 pound metal wall, trying not to panic, and eventually giving up and rolling the whole thing back up.

By some miracle, we got it done the next day.

Water is in, the pool is up, and now, just in time for Labor Day weekend, we actually get to enjoy it.

If you are ever lacking in entertainment, just come spend a weekend at our house!

We’ve got you covered. 😉

And while we are soaking up this last bit of summer, I am also starting to think ahead to fall.

Here is what is on my list for the season:

​Fire Cider Recipe, Immune-Boosting Tonic with Apple Cider Vinegar​

Fire cider is one of those recipes I like to start before the colder months. It is made with apple cider vinegar, herbs, roots, and other strong ingredients, and it is a good one to have steeping before you actually want it.

​Fermented Garlic and Honey Easy Homemade Recipe​

Fermented garlic honey is another simple recipe to keep in mind as we head toward fall. It only takes a few ingredients, and once it gets going, it is something you can keep on hand for the season ahead.

​How To Make Easy Fermented Pico De Gallo Salsa​

Since tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro are still around, fermented pico de gallo is a good late-summer recipe to make now. It is fresh, tangy, and delicious with tacos, eggs, grilled meat, or chips.

​Easy Mango Salsa Recipe for the Perfect Fish Tacos​

And if you want something bright and fresh before summer slips away, this mango salsa is a good one. It is especially good with fish tacos, but it also works with grilled chicken, pork, or as a simple summer side.

And since it is Labor Day weekend, I wanted to add one simple dessert idea before we fully let go of summer.

​Homemade Strawberry Pie with Fresh Strawberries​

If you want a simple dessert for Labor Day weekend, strawberry pie is always a good one. It is fresh, classic, and still feels like summer on the table.

​Best Homemade French Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Recipe​

And yes, homemade vanilla bean ice cream would be delicious with the pie. It is rich, creamy, and the kind of dessert that makes the last long weekend of summer feel a little more special.

I love this time of year because there is still so much fresh food to enjoy, but it also feels like the right time to start thinking ahead a little.

Whether you are making salsa with what is coming in from the garden, starting a batch of fire cider, or putting garlic honey on the counter to ferment, I hope this gives you a few ideas for the season we are in and the one coming next.

If you try any of these recipes, tag me on Instagram @idiesfarm. I would love to see what you make!

From my kitchen to yours,

Stephanie
Idie's Farm

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