2024 - Another Wild Year
The Best Year Yet
Going into 2025, it’s time I realize that summers here will always be very, very busy. Whether it’s daily chores, building new things or maintenance, there’s always something to do. I’m thankful this winter started early, giving me time for a break, to stop and reflect on the busy months that have passed and revel in the summer’s accomplishments.
2024 Was THE Best
Before spring had sprung, building the barn had begun. By the end of summer, we had a new barn, a beautiful greenhouse and a wood shop. On those last days of summer, as snow began, we finished insulating and siding a new storage room for winter supplies. It was crazy busy, and though still far from ‘normal’, things feel homey and very cozy.
This year goes down as my favourite on the mountain. There was less struggle than in previous years, but still plenty of failures to learn from. Building is getting easier as we learn and become more skilled.
Like a snowball falling down the mountain, our productivity is gaining weight and momentum as it goes.
Gardening
In previous years starting seeds indoors has been a challenge, so this year building the greenhouse took priority over keeping a garden. We also cleared a new space just downhill from the bunny hutches hoping it will passively fertilize the soil, which appears to be working. I’ve never seen thistles and mullein so big! I have high hopes for the garden in 2025.
Meat and Milk
The rabbits have provided the mountain with manure to help establish the soil for gardening. Next year, I plan to cut back on rabbit meat and instead turn my focus toward hunting, keeping a minimal bunny herd, plus a few angoras for fibre projects. My goat, who kidded a month ago will be providing me with milk while she works to clear more space for gardening.
Foraging
Wild mushroom foraging was a bust this year. It was odd. In the spring, I’d get excited after rain and go mushroom hunting, only to find nothing. None of my usual spots came up with any. The same happened in the fall. I only ended up with a few Morels in the spring, some wild Oysters from a fallen cottonwood tree, the occasional Matte Jack and in the fall, a few Shaggy Manes. Next year I hope to get a lot more wild mushrooms and get serious about cultivating as well.
Berries!
Wild berries did amazingly. We picked a huge amount of wild raspberries, huckleberries, and strawberries, eating lots while fresh, and we froze a few pounds to enjoy through the winter. I’ve already brought out one package, which we ate on warmed brie cheese. So so good! I don’t think I’ll ever need to intentionally cultivate berries.
Exploring and Fun
There’s no shortage of history in the area, and I love learning all about it. British Columbia is covered in old gold and copper mining history to explore, which we did with friends and family. We took time to check out old mining sites, the railway and a couple of small-town museums.
Richard the Pickup
In lieu of a vacation, Curt and I took a day trip to get this pretty little pickup. An odd choice, perhaps, but as you might know, I love Toyotas and couldn’t stop myself. With a seized brake caliper, it was quite an adventure as Curt drove the mountain highways depending entirely on gears. Once home, I took off the driver’s front fender. Surprisingly, the bolt heads have never been touched. Amazing for a nearly 40-year-old truck! This is by far my most original Toyota, and I look forward to registering it as a collector next year.
Nothing But Change
Usually, I go for an annual haircut and dye, but this year was just too busy. My natural brown is coming in with bits of tinsel, feeling very festive. These past 5 years have been a ton of work; my muscles are sore, and my body has changed into a much more muscular version of itself. On the darkest days of the year and going into 2025, my heart is full.
While trying to remember to keep expectations low, I’m massively looking forward to the new year. I’m looking forward to utilizing the new barn, greenhouse, and wood shop to step things up in my goal to become self-reliant and self-sufficient. I’m looking forward to foraging, exploring, and everything the new year has in store.
Thank you for your support, whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just got here - I love sharing on Substack, and I’m glad you’re here ❤️
What one doesn’t do the other does. They are a great team.
You are a very gifted writer and it's fun following your progress.
What hunting in particular do you plan on doing?
Do you get much wildlife walking by your house?
Tell us a bit of history about Curt since you are both in this together.
Excellent choice on vehicles. I also love your barn.
All the best to you both at Christmas and may this next year bring many blessings for you guys.