Sweet and tart

 The birds left a few black currants on the bush that grows beside the wood pile. Just enough for a tart.

Amherst Island

Amherst Island is just one short drive and ferry boat away from the farm.

Every summer our cows come here to graze. 

And every week my dad checks in on them, brings them treats. They run to him the minute he steps out of the truck. It is truly something to see.

Unfurl

I came home to the farm yesterday and ran straight to the garden. I was completely taken in by this patch of zinnias, each one at a different stage of growth, each one with its own sweet charm.

Summer's end (there, I said it)

Last week of August and I don't know how.  Summer is the one season that, as soon as it arrives, we already miss. 

Harvest dinner

I spent the afternoon with this beauty at Savour Ottawa's Harvest Dinner, an annual event that celebrates local food, producers and makers.

Charcuterie: wild boar pâté, smoked corn & pepper relish, peppercorn salami and sausage, pickled summer vegetables & edible flowers, artisan cheese.

Beet salad with goat cheese and juniper & cardamom soil.

Smoked heritage pork in apple cider glaze.

Countless other dishes followed. Beef brisket, curried summer squash, swiss chard and potato croquettes. We smacked our lips and made room on our plates. 

Finished with cheesecake topped with mixed berry compote and a maple cookie.

A very nice alfresco meal that I would gladly eat all over again.