As we turn the calendar to June, I’m looking back at everything we accomplished in May 2025 here in the beautiful Catskill region. From new garden beds to building projects, community market days, and time with our pets, May was packed with hands-on work and great memories. Here’s a look at what kept us busy, along with some photos to capture the highlights.

🌻 Local Vendor Events & Small Business Showcases

We kicked off the month by setting up shop at a local Irish Festival event (Memorial Day Weekend actually), showcasing exclusive Colombian emerald jewelry, artisan hats, and handmade accessories. The turnout was excellent, and the weather held up just enough to connect with other vendors and families exploring the grounds. This type of in-person engagement always recharges the spirit and connects us back to community roots.

🐾 Life at Home: Our Loyal Companions

Of course, May wouldn’t be complete without a few classic moments from our pets. Our German Shepherd had his share of joyful chaos — as you can see, he took full advantage of the rug in front of the fireplace for some wild rolls.

Meanwhile, our cat supervised work from the home office, always choosing the highest perch. This photo also shows some of the military memorabilia that keeps me grounded in service and purpose.

🌿 Building Beauty: Garden Expansions and Landscape Work

We made major strides on the property this month. From raised garden beds to fresh landscaping around trees and water features, every bit of work is a step toward long-term beauty and function.

🌱 New Garden Bed Along the Stream

This bed along the stream was planted with perennials and wildflowers to create a low-maintenance but vibrant border to the wooded area.

🪴 Inside the Garden House

The inside of the new garden enclosure came together this month, with a mix of vegetables, herbs, and a place to sit and relax while we work.

🌼 Starting Seeds for the Future

Using Bentley Seeds, we got early starts on sunflowers, zinnias, and vegetables that will fill out our landscape by mid-summer. Germination was solid, and growth is already underway.

🌳 Landscaping Around the Tree

The area around the large tree in the front yard was landscaped with stone, weed fabric, and decorative plants to tie into the rest of the walkway and garden.

🪴 Pathway to the Front Garden

This wide shot shows one of our completed gravel paths, which not only improves drainage but also provides easy access across the yard.

🔧 Outdoor Utility Work & New Equipment

We spent some time in the woods assembling new outdoor tools, including a heavy-duty UTV and equipment for ongoing projects. Every new tool makes future work more manageable.

🔥 Backyard Cooking Upgrade

A new Weber Genesis grill was added to our setup this month, just in time for Memorial Day weekend. First meals on it came out perfect — it’s already a favorite addition to the outdoor kitchen setup.

💬 Final Thoughts

May was a month full of purpose, growth, and small victories. Whether it’s expanding our garden infrastructure, improving the landscape, or building stronger connections at local events — everything continues moving forward in a way that’s aligned with nature and community.