Okay, well the entire area is pretty cool. Last weekend I had the privilege to teach a Practical Intro to permaculture course in the beautiful town of Penetanguishene. I am so grateful to Erin, Sylvie, and Jenn at the Karma Marketplace and 100 Mile Huronia. They all did a wonderful job at getting the word out, helping me through the weekend, and providing great company as well. Oh, and I can’t forget to thank them for putting me up for the weekend!

The workshop took place in the Ecology garden in Penetanguishene. It’s story is inspiring. In y a few short years the Ecology gardens has become a hub of agriculture, and now permaculture activity in the area. There are many rented garden plots as well as some plots that are used in the community. Many more plans for community and social enterprises are in the works at the gardens as well. It was very exciting being there. All 14 participants were eager and braved the cool winds and soggy ground. Much needed rain had arrived the day before. By the afternoon we were all hot and enjoying being outside in the sun.

Everyone came with a different experience of permaculture and a wealth of knowledge in their area of expertise. I was really blown away with the knowledge and innovation that came to the workshop. We had a great time all learning from each other during the games and lunch. the overwhelming favourite activity though was by far the sit spot time. People enjoyed learning how to begin wholistic observation.

During lunch everyone took notes of the books that looked interesting. Taking a mini-library was more than worth it! The afternoon was a little more low-key. We had covered a lot of ground in the morning. We focused more on guilds, and relationships. The final section was a practical.

Throughout the day we had to be mindful of the killdeer family that had made the garden their home. She sat on the eggs most of the afternoon while he stayed close by to try and ward off any potential threats to his eggs.

I just wish I could have seen everyone’s gardens both indoor and outdoor. Yes, one participant had what sounded like an AMAZING indoor garden. Thanks everyone. I can’t wait to do the next one!