Paying It Forward ....... With Peaches

I picked peaches yesterday. If you recall, I already picked the peaches of one tree. That was the smaller tree. This is the bigger tree's yield. Well, some of it. I would say I got close to 5 bushels from the big tree.

Some are spotty, but these are organic, no spraying of pesticides. Even with spots, they still look yummy.

Maybe not so yummy to me. I peeled these yesterday. I was sticky with peach juice up to my elbows.

This bucket was full to overflow ......... I decided to start handing out peaches to anyone who happened my way. The first bag went to some campers looking for the state park. They bought ice and left with directions and a bag of peaches. They already had reservations at the state park and you lose your deposit if you cancel. I assured them they did not have to stay here just because I gave them peaches. They thanked me over and over.

The next bag went to a man looking for some RV parts that I do not carry. I gave him directions to the closest place that would have what he needed and a bag of peaches. Since he was alone. I asked him if he would eat the peaches and he told me he wanted a couple and would give the rest to his boss for the boss's four children. He was quite smitten with Mr. Martha and asked to take some pictures of the cat. I agreed, after asking if he were a 'pet'ophile. I have managed to maintain my sense of humor, after all.

Next came the man to fill my big propane tank. He checked both tanks and came to let me know that I didn't need a fill while I was clipping dead branches on the tree. I gave him a handful of peaches straight from the tree. I left some for the birds to peck at. I couldn't reach them without a ladder anyway and am hoping they will leave the apple trees alone as they eat the peaches.

I gave out peaches all day. Not to worry, Nick, yours are safely tucked away in the freezer. I am trying to lure my son-in-law with peaches. I want to see them and am not above bribery. Really, there could be apples involved, too. I will make your favorite potato salad ........... I will brew green tea ........ I am your favorite mother-in-law and you might have competition soon, so .........

This is before the picking .........

This is after! Having birthed many children, I know just how relieved this tree is! Her limbs are bouyant now, no longer staggering under the weight of her fruit. I lost two small limbs and a few tiny ones, but she is looking better after the trim.

Back to the pay-out of peaches. I had no reservations last night, but got four campers in yesterday. The first three were all from Georgia and were not together, didn't know each other! I had two cancellations for Labor Day weekend, but got three reservations!

I am still sad to lose the seasonal campers and my heart is heavy when ever I look at the spots they occupied, but the pity party is over! I have my big girl britches on and I am ready to meet some new people. I don't know that I will open myself to friendship, though. I think I will maintain a little distance from now on. I think maybe I won't care so much about the new people. Maybe.