The First Freeze

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The first real freeze came through early this week. There were even a few flurries one night which excited the children into running out into the cold, dark night to catch a glimpse. It almost seems laughable to say such a thing, having family in both Minnesota and Alaska, but cold weather is exciting news around these parts.

Well, exciting for everyone but the garden.

We brought in several big bowls full of the remaining summer squash along with as many mustard and lettuce greens as we could. We left the collards and kale and, thankfully, they still look pretty good despite it hitting the lower-20s one night.

There was also a bucket full of green tomatoes that never quite ripened. So we made a version of green tomato salsa verde and canned it up and some fermented green tomatoes as well.

And then there was the jalapenos. This is the first year we’ve ever successfully grown hot peppers (I know, they are supposed to be “easy” to grow) and we are pretty excited. I am pickling them today with gloves on and since Stewart discovered pickled jalapenos earlier this year, he has been smitten. So we are gratefully looking forward to these spicy little pickles on top of beans, soups, and veggies.

As is the custom in Texas, it is now sunny and in the 60s with no wintry weather on the horizon and I am contemplating how we can grow some salad before the next freeze.

Are things frozen over where you are?

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  2. We had our first frost here in NW Arkansas a bit later than usual. It was nice to have a little extra time. Alas, all is brown and crispy now……..Looking forward to a Winter’s rest and then more work and reward next year! God bless you and your precious family!

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