Hopeful Story, Aug 12, 2012

  Have you ever had an idea to start something and then after you’ve completed all the planning, it never got going. This happened after our small group decided to start a Community Garden in Courtice. We arranged to use Hope Fellowship land, attended a workshop, advertised, and had a number of committed, eager gardeners. And then it rained, and rained, and rained some more. That was the spring and early summer of 2011, and by mid June it become obvious that the Lord had different timing for this project.
  Fast-forward to May 2012, and the plans we had for 2011 became reality. With the preparation of garden plots and paths last fall, installation of a unique water system (rain barrel and toilet tank parts), and the benefit of an early warm spring, nine Hope Fellowship families have been enjoying the benefits of planting, weeding, watering and harvesting fresh produce. Additionally, we have learned a few things:

• Tomato hornworms are voracious, munching entire leaves, small stems, and even parts of immature fruit 
• Cucumber mildew can be eliminated using simple home made remedies 
• Bean plants that are yellow and stunted in June can quickly turn green and lush and produce more beans than you can possibly eat 
• A “friendly-looking” scarecrow has not only kept the birds away, it is attracting both locals and tourists. Recently a couple from Florida driving on Bloor Street, noticed the scarecrow, stopped and asked if they could take a picture with it. 

  Our Mission Statement includes a commitment to supporting others by having a “community plot”, where produce is shared, either directly or through local food banks. This has already proven to be a blessing to a number of families and individuals, and as we create plans to increase the number of plots for next year, we also hope to attract interest from families outside of our church within the Courtice community. In the meantime check out the garden (east of the church building), take a picture if you wish, and let us know if you would are interested in participating in this project next year.
- Simon and Roland