Seasons On The Farm - July
Escaping winter up north…
July, has been a wet winter, and winter often feels like a season of waiting. Our days on the farm are dictated by the whims of weather, currently its only citrus, rhubarb, and a few steadfast herbs and greens braving the cold. Yet, there’s a magic in these moments of patience waiting for spring. But sometimes, a respite from the cold is necessary. So, with school holidays beckoning and the forecast promising clear skies up north, we packed our bags and set off for a week in the sun-drenched paradise of northern NSW...
The timing was impeccable. As we arrived, the rain clouds dispersed, unveiling a week of brilliant 20-degree days. The beach beckoned, afternoons by the pool, exploring local markets and loads of fresh produce, and evenings indulging in delicious food at the MANY options.
Byron Bay's charm lies in the complete change of climate, the tropics (it feels to us anyway) and laid-back beach attitude. We relished every moment, it was a week of pure, unadulterated joy, a stark contrast to the sodden fields and bare branches we left behind.
Back on the farm, despite the lingering winter, signs of life and growth bring much excitement. Our newly erected greenhouse soon to be bustling with seedlings destined for the market garden and giving us momentum for spring. The first lambs have made their arrival, a sight that never fails to bring a smile. And the bulb garden, now bursting with delicate snowdrops, provides a spring setting for our annual photo of my kiddos amongst them.
This brief sojourn to warmer climes was a gentle reminder that even in the depths of winter, there are moments of warmth and light to be found. Now, with hearts full and spirits lifted, we return to our beloved farm, ready to embrace the rest of winter and all the exciting growth it promises.
No recipe this month but thought to share some of our favourite spots we ate while in the Northen Rivers, in the hope some of you might know someone or be visiting soon?
Eltham Hotel - https://www.elthampub.com.au/
Good food, warmest service, an authentic place where we ate three times. Great with Kids.
Ciao Mate - https://www.ciaomate.com.au/
Italian in Bangalow, easy, simple delicious menu, family friendly
Various farmers Markets - https://byronbay.com/byron-bay-regional-markets/
There were amazing markets on most days, great food, local produce and my favourite was the Japanese… brown rice handrolls with fresh seafood and produce. Yum!
