96 F/ 36 C

These dry benches can
produce in abundance when
you just add water

~carliewired

I could not miss a venture into the Desert Hills Ranch along the Thompson River in Ashcroft. This growing agriculture business continues to produce crops in this arid, parched region. Their farm market is amazing. They supply bedding plants, farm produce and delight families with their petting zoo and ice cream. As I drove in I found two alpacas, two donkeys and a highland cow in a pasture. Parking is at a premium, Customers just keep coming.

I love to watch the children walk through the petting zoo. A little band of goats have a walkway up and over the barn. At the top there is a 'lift' where food pellets can be cranked up to the top landing to feed a goat. One was waiting patiently as I arrived.

The Clydesdale horses are present on weekends. During the week they are out to pasture.

The sheep were resting alongside the barn in the shade. One ewe came forward with her little black lamb hoping I had something to offer.

I haven't been able to find Canadian onions in my local grocery store since April. I refuse to buy US products, so I was amazed I could buy a 10 pound bag of beautiful onions for $5.00.
I will be sharing my good fortune with friends.

All plein air painters will rally again at the church today for the wet paint sale after lunch. I am always excited to see what has been created and how artists have interpreted this region in their medium. Perhaps I will go home with a painting.

It's going to be a hot day, but I will be home in the afternoon. I appreciate air conditioning.