Congratulations to all our grads!
It’s been a busy few weeks with lots of parties to celebrate the
accomplishments of our students. If
you’re having a graduation party or a July 4th get-together, come on
down to the Village Commons for Pathfinder Produce, this Thursday, June 30,
from 1 to 5 p.m.
We’ve got a great variety of fresh produce and other items, and
our staff is ready and waiting to help you with your purchases. We hope to see you then!
***
A while ago, I wrote on reducing one’s screen
time, and I’ve been taking my own advice to heart. I’ve tried to look at electronic screens
less, not be so hooked into my social network feeds, and become more physically
active at home.
To that end, I took on a job I’d put off for
too long … leveling out a large pile of soil that sits out back. The soil, taken from an old barn, was carted
in a few years ago for garden beds and fixing spots in the lawn. I cut back all the wayward weeds, and this
Saturday, I started the task in earnest, screening the dirt so that I could use
it where it’s needed. I must say, it was
a “grate” work out!
My tools for the task were simple, and all
are treasured “friends” that have been relied on many times. There’s the large wheelbarrow and the sturdy
shovel and rake, used on many gardening and concrete jobs. And the old pick and straight clawed hammer,
which I used like a geology hammer to break up compacted soil.
I also used my grandfather’s old cultivator
to level the pile and ferret out rocks.
As I used it, I could hear the voices of my grandparents, talking about
how dry the weather has been. But
because it has been dry, it made the screening job go much easier – no clumps.
My actual screening tool, though, is a bit of
a wonky idea. I used a beat up tennis
racket, which was supported over the wheelbarrow. I took a half-shovel of dirt, put it on the
racket, and sifted out the stems, roots, and stones. The old racket did a great job in creating a
fine, rich soil, although it took time to make a full load.
If you take on a job like this, you will
encounter creatures, like mealworms and night crawlers, ants and spiders, and
even an occasional millipede (ugh). But,
like an archeologist, you may also find some artifacts -- I found glass and
pottery shards, nuts and bolts, baling twine and an old cow’s tooth.
Physically, the sifting provided a sustained
workout for my legs, mid-torso (lots of steady twisting), and upper arms. I got a bit sunburned and bug-bit, and I had
to drink lots of water to keep hydrated.
By the end of the weekend, I was sore all over, but I felt mentally
relaxed and satisfied with the progress made.
Until next time, unplug, get moving, and
enjoy the outdoors,
Lori
