These gorgeous autumn days hold promise of hillsides of brilliant color and cool crisp nights. They also hold threat of the upcoming short dark days and brutally cold winter winds. Yesterday I did a backwater paddle with Merry Green Marvel Kayak Tours, and as we soaked up the tranquility of the Winneshiek Slough in the fading golden light, our host commented that these are the times we save up in our hearts for a rainy day. So true. We treasure each golden moment as a gift.
Iowisota has an upcoming weekend (October 17-20) on the calendar to welcome overnight guests to Iowisota to “go nuts”. It is a flexible option to enjoy all the autumn woods have to offer, including learning how to collect, process and use local tree nuts. Activities and accommodation will be customized to meet the needs/desires of our guests. To seize the opportunity, go to the Iowisota event page and reserve a spot. We also have our monthly free “women’s walk in the woods” on that Sunday afternoon, October 20th, from 2-4. You can RSVP for that on the website too.
Interesting story about acorns: I have been using previously processed acorn flour to make yummy wild crackers this summer, but I was out of acorns to process. Last year was a mast year (with lots of acorns), but alas, the acorns I left sitting in a bucket from last year were no longer any good (note to self and others: remember to throw the acorns in the freezer if you expect them to stay good!). I have been scouring our woods and whatever city parks I encounter for a fresh crop of acorns, especially white oak acorns; but the squirrels have been busy and there were none to be found. So, I used my “phone a friend” lifeline and asked for help finding acorns. Maria came through for me and guided me to a local church parking lot to find an abundance. I seized the opportunity and holy buckets-- I now have plenty of gorgeous white oak acorns to play with (and eat!) this fall and winter! Nature’s clean-up crews will be out there soon, and the remaining acorns will disappear. We foragers need to take advantage of the opportunities when they present themselves! Also, it is great thing to build community to share in the finding, harvesting and processing, and the eating.
Speaking of sharing in the eating… On October 26th we will have a ½ day workshop on making your own charcuterie board (we will provide the board and guide you through customizing and finishing it to take home) and learning how to put together a tasty and attractive charcuterie. Sign up on the website to be a part of this fun and delicious event!
The theme for this post is seize the day… take advantage of the opportunities! Get out there! Go enjoy all the woods have to offer! And if you want someone to go with you or a place to go to, come see us at Iowisota!
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