03/14 2016

Yesterday was one of my favorite days of the year… the annual Seed Savers gathering at the Oliver H. Kelley Farm in Elk River.

Each year expert heirloom seed gardeners share their experiences and passion for maintaining the integrity of seeds from the 1800’s. It is a beautiful thing.

This year the Oliver H. Kelley Farm’s buildings are under construction so we met in the portable trailer that has been on the site since last summer. It appeared to me that twice as many of people showed for this years event compared to last year. This put a huge smile on my face because that means that more people are thinking about what they are eating in terms of fruits and vegetables. (I personally, cringe at the sight of GMO,Genetically Modified Organism, foods. )

That is why I love the Kelley Farm.  They help people understand the importance of saving our history through seeds and crops.  They want us to be able to enjoy the same vegetables as Oliver H. Kelley did when he was farming.

Here are some of the seeds that I received yesterday:

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This was one of the many tables that was set up for people to share their heirloom seed knowledge and to share seeds.

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While the grown ups learned more about heirloom seeds, the children were invited to make seed art.  Here is one art piece by G.

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We were also told about the new buildings that are being erected at the farm.  This building was designed to be available year round for meetings and workshops.  I was given the impression that this will be were the 2017 Seed Savers gathering will be held.

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This is the main visitor center.  Visitors will be able to partake in culinary classes, workshops and other hands on activities inside this building.

March 13, 2016-4 Another view of the main visitor center.  I love how there is a porch that overlooks the Kelley farm house and the Mississippi River.March 13, 2016-6

After I took the above photo, I turned around and saw one of my favorite sights… kids running down the dusty dirt path towards the Kelley house.

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As always, the annual Seed Savers gathering made me extremely excited to get outside and for the garden season.  I cannot wait for spring!

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