Cardigan Farms - New Sugar Shack

Things have been moving along here - although they always do!

A new sugar shack is in our future!  I can't imagine why we need a new one!  A few pics of the existing one:








 People have been telling me for years, that this WILL fall down!  It hasn't as yet.
Its beginning to look like we will have to tear it down!  Structures like this are just not built anymore!

And the curb side appeal?  I might point out that the best maple syrup has come from this mini-barn!  And, the added attractions is that when the sap is being boiled down, you have the smell of maple syrup on all of your clothing!

The man behind the scenes, you can find him during sap collecting season, on his snowshoes, checking the taps, wiggling the lines and overseeing the smooth flow of sap to the evaporator. 

To enjoy the best tasting maple syrup, it takes time, energy and patience.  On the other hand, it solves the problem of what to do during March and the ever present mud season!

A picture of the curb side 'old' sugar shack.


Kids love to watch the syrup and put it on snow!
They are always surprised to see that the hot maple syrup and the snow turn to tasty chunks!
More on this next sap season!


And, we always see a small group of helpers and watchers. 

The inside of the 'old' shack doesn't look too bad but then again looks are deceiving!~










A new sugar shack is under construction and here we have the progress so far!

The forms are filled with cement and ready to dry -

The new foundation is in place - continued work is dependent upon funds and time.  But I ask you, is that any different than any other project?

The weather has been cooperating so far
and although we have already had snow, it is not stopping any work.


The next project will be the 'new' structure for boiling maple syrup.  So exciting!

I am not sure the syrup will taste as good as it has processed from the 'old' sugar shack????




In other news, the horseradish has been divided and planted - the horseradish jelly is wonderful!

We experimented with garlic jelly this year with the 3rd year garlic production. Deeeelish!!! Especially on grilled pork and veggies.
Such a difference using fresh, roasted garlic.



This year's planting includes over 1300 garlic bulbs.  Various types and colors.





And, finally, we had a very poor grape turnout this year but the blueberry plants did wonderfully! The area has been mowed, mulched and ready for the spring!

Well that's it for now!  A Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!!!!