Margarita Crews - Tailspin Farms

November 1, 2025November 1, 2025

WELCOMING NOVEMBER 2025

Welcoming November

The calendar flips, and there it is—November, the quiet hinge between autumn’s blaze and winter’s hush. The air carries a sharper bite now, the kind that sneaks under scarves and reminds you you’re alive. Leaves that clung stubbornly to branches finally surrender, carpeting sidewalks in muted golds and rusts. It’s a month that asks us to slow down, to notice the small, steady rhythms of the world turning colder.

A Season of Subtle Shifts

November doesn’t shout. It whispers. The sun sets earlier, pulling blankets of dusk over the day by late afternoon. Pumpkins linger on porches a little longer, their orange glow softening into memory. Mornings greet us with frost-laced windows and the faint scent of woodsmoke drifting from chimneys. There’s a stillness here, a pause that invites reflection.

This is the month when nature strips itself bare, not in defeat, but in preparation. Trees stand skeletal against the sky, unapologetic in their nakedness. It’s a reminder that letting go can be beautiful, that shedding what no longer serves us makes space for what’s to come.

Traditions That Warm the Soul

November carries gratitude like a lantern. In the U.S., Thanksgiving anchors the month, drawing families to tables laden with turkey, cranberry sauce, and stories retold with each passing year. It’s a day to name what matters—health, love, the simple miracle of another trip around the sun.

But the rituals aren’t confined to one day. There’s the first hot cider sipped on a chilly evening, the crunch of leaves under boots during a twilight walk. Some light candles for Dia de los Muertos, honoring ancestors with marigolds and memories. Others mark Veterans Day or Remembrance Day, pausing to acknowledge sacrifice with poppies and silence.

A Time for Intention

November invites us inward. The frenzy of summer has faded, the sparkle of December not yet begun. It’s a month to curl up with a book as rain taps the window, to journal by lamplight, to plan—not with urgency, but with care. What seeds do we want to plant before the year ends? What habits deserve to take root in the quiet?

For some, it’s simply the resolve to cook one new recipe, to call a friend, to step outside and breathe the crisp air deeply.

Embracing the Month Ahead

November doesn’t demand perfection. It asks for presence. To notice the way streetlights halo in the fog. To savor the steam rising from a mug of tea. To wrap ourselves in layers—both literal and metaphorical—and walk gently into the shortening days.

So, here’s to November: the month of bare branches and full hearts, of gratitude spoken aloud and quiet hopes nurtured in the dark. May it hold you softly, steady you, and carry you toward winter’s light.

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Tailspin Farms

September 30, 2025September 30, 2025

WELCOMING OCTOBER 2025

Welcoming October: A Month of Crisp Air, Cozy Vibes, and a Dash of Spookiness Hello, fellow autumn enthusiasts! As the calendar flips from September 30 to October 1, we’re officially diving into the heart of fall. The leaves are turning those fiery shades of red and gold, pumpkins are popping up on every porch, and there’s that unmistakable chill in the air that makes a hot cider feel like pure magic. Whether you’re here for the haunted hayrides, the harvest festivals, or just the excuse to layer up in your favorite sweater, October has a way of wrapping us in its enchanting embrace. Let’s kick off the month with some highlights, fun facts, and a calendar tease to get you in the spirit. Why October Feels Like Fall’s Grand Entrance October isn’t just any month—it’s named after the Latin word octo, meaning “eight,” because it was the eighth month in the ancient Roman calendar (back when they skipped winter altogether). Fast-forward to today, and it’s the tenth month, but it still holds that transitional magic. In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s when the Harvest Moon rises—peaking on October 6, 2025, at 11:47 p.m.—bathing the world in a golden glow perfect for late-night stargazing or early-morning walks through crunching leaves.

Fun fact: This full moon is called the Hunter’s Moon, ideal for spotting game in the fields, and it’s flanked by two meteor showers—the Draconids (early October) and Orionids (late October)—for some cosmic fireworks.

And let’s not forget the folklore: October is prime time for Jack Frost’s first visits, whispering promises of snowflakes on the horizon.

It’s a month that balances the warmth of summer’s end with winter’s playful nudge.October 2025: Holidays and Observances to Mark on Your CalendarThis year, October is bursting with celebrations—from federal holidays to quirky “national days” that beg for Instagram-worthy moments. Here’s a curated snapshot of key dates to plan around. (Pro tip: Use these for everything from family gatherings to solo self-care rituals.)

Date	Holiday/Observance	Why It Rocks
October 1	International Coffee Day & National Pumpkin Spice Day	Fuel your fall obsession with a spiced latte—because who needs an excuse?
October 2	World Farm Animals Day & National Boyfriend Day	Hug a pet (or your partner) and reflect on the unsung heroes of our food chain.
October 6	Harvest Moon Peak	Step outside for a moonlit picnic; it’s the closest full moon to the autumn equinox.
October 10	World Mental Health Day & National Chess Day	Prioritize your mind with a strategy game—checkmate stress!
October 13	Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day (federal holiday)	A day for reflection: Celebrate Native cultures with events or readings on history’s true narratives. 2 sources
October 16	World Food Day & Boss’s Day	Cook up gratitude—thank your leader with a homemade treat.
October 17	National Pasta Day	Twirl some carbs in celebration; October is National Pasta Month, after all!
October 20	World Osteoporosis Day & National Red Wine Day	Toast to strong bones (in moderation, of course).
October 27	National Make a Difference Day	Volunteer or spread kindness—small acts add up big.
October 31	Halloween	The grand finale: Costumes, candy, and carving pumpkins under the stars.

Beyond the dailies, the whole month vibes with themes like Breast Cancer Awareness Month (wear pink!), National Pretzel Month (twist into snack heaven), and Domestic Violence Awareness Month (empower through education).

Weekly spotlights include Free Speech Week (mid-October) and National Baking Week—perfect for whipping up pumpkin pies.

For the spooky side, the Halloween season stretches all month with “Frankenstein Friday” vibes and Howl at the Moon Night.

Fun Facts to Spice Up Your October Chats

Meteor Magic: Catch the Orionids shower around October 21–22, remnants of Halley’s Comet streaking across the sky—up to 20 meteors per hour if you’re in a dark spot.
Historical Hits: The five-day workweek was born in October 1926, and the U.S. Naval Academy opened its doors on October 10, 1845. Navy Day (Oct 27) salutes that legacy.
Global Goodness: From Bat Appreciation Month to Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, October reminds us to celebrate the quirky and advocate for the overlooked.

A Cozy Challenge: Your October Bucket ListTo make this month unforgettable, here’s a simple starter list:

Harvest a Haul: Visit a pumpkin patch and snap that obligatory “I’m basic” photo.
Moonlit Adventure: On the 6th, host a full-moon gathering—s’mores optional.
Bake the Season: Try a pumpkin cheesecake (National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day is Oct 21) or a pretzel braid for the month’s salty-sweet theme.
Give Back: Join Make a Difference Day on the 27th—plant bulbs, donate books, or just call a friend.
Spookify Your Space: Start with subtle decor now; by the 31st, go full haunted house.

October, you’re a whirlwind of wonder—may it bring you more treats than tricks, more warmth than wind, and endless reasons to smile. What’s your must-do this month? Drop it in the comments (or just daydream it). Until next time, stay groovy. Cheers to the tenth month,

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Guided By Grace

September 20, 2025September 20, 2025

SUNDAY

Sunday: A Day to Refuel Your Soul and Embrace Gratitude

Sundays have a special kind of magic, don’t they? The week’s hustle fades into the background, and the world seems to slow down just enough for us to catch our breath. It’s a day to pause, reflect, and refuel your soul with gratitude, love, and connection. So, take a deep breath, let the worries slip away, and let’s dive into why Sundays are the perfect day to recharge and celebrate life’s blessings.

A Moment to Breathe

In the midst of our busy lives, Sunday offers a gentle invitation to slow down. It’s a day to step away from the to-do list and endless notifications and just be. Start your morning with a deep, intentional breath. Feel the air fill your lungs, grounding you in the present moment. Maybe it’s sipping your coffee slowly while watching the sunrise or taking a quiet walk in nature. Whatever it is, let this be your time to reconnect with yourself. This simple act of slowing down can recharge your spirit and remind you of the beauty in the present.

Gratitude: The Heart of Sunday

Sundays are a perfect time to reflect on your blessings. No matter how challenging life gets, there’s always something to be grateful for – a warm bed, a kind word from a friend, or the laughter of someone you love. Take a moment to jot down three thing you’re thankful for today. Maybe it’ the roof over your head, the meal you shared, or simply the fact that you’re here, alive, and full of potential. Gratitude has a way of shifting our perspective, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. When we focus on what we have rather than what we lack, our souls light up with contentment.

Love, Laugh, Live

Sundays are made for connection. Gather with friends and family, whether it’s a big brunch, a cozy movie night, or a simple phone call to catch up. These moments of togetherness are what fuel our hearts. Share stories, laugh until your sides hurt, and let love fill the spaces between you. Laughter is medicine for the soul, and there’s nothing like the joy of being surrounded by those who matter most. If you’re spending the day solo, treat yourself with the same kindness – curl up with a good book, dance to your favorite music, or indulge in a hobby that sparks joy. Live fully in these moments, because they’re what make life rich.

A Day to Refuel

Think of Sunday as your soul’s pit stop. Just like a car needs fuel to keep going, your spirit needs care to thrive. Whether it’ through prayer, mediation, or simply sitting in silence, take time to nurture your inner world. Reflect on the week behind you – what went well, what challenged you, and what you’re carrying into the days ahead. Sundays are a chance to reset, to let go of what’s heavy, and to fill your heart with hope and possibility.

Embrace the Joy

Above all, Sundays are about joy. They’re about savoring the little things – a warm hug, a shared meal, the sound of birds outside your window. They’re about laughing until you cry, loving fiercely, and living with intention. So, as you move through your Sunday, hold space for gratitude. Celebrate your blessings, big and small. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and let yourself feel the lightness of simply being. Take a deep breath. Relax. Enjoy your friends and family. Love, laugh, live. This Sunday, let your soul refuel, and carry that warmth into the week ahead. Here’s to a day that reminds us of what truly matters.

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Tailspin Farms

September 13, 2025September 13, 2025

IT’S SATURDAY

It’s Saturday: Embrace the Day with Loved Ones

Happy Saturday! The weekend is here, and there’s no better time to slow down, soak in the moment, and spend quality time with the people who matter most. Whether it’s your family, friends, partner, or even your furry companion, today is all about connection, relaxation, and making memories that warm the heart.

Why Saturdays Are Special

Saturdays have a unique vibe. The workweek’s hustle is behind you, and Sunday’s “prep for Monday” mindset hasn’t kicked in yet. It’s a day to breathe, unwind, and just be. There’s no need to rush or check off a to-do list. Instead, focus on what brings you joy and strengthens your bonds with those you love.

Ideas to Chill and Relax

Here are a few simple ways to make the most of this beautiful Saturday:

Morning Moments: Start the day with a leisurely breakfast. Whip up some pancakes, sip coffee together, or head to a cozy café. The key? No hurry. Let the conversation flow and enjoy the little moments.
Get Outside: Take a walk in the park, have a picnic, or just sit in the backyard with a good playlist. Nature has a way of melting stress and sparking meaningful chats with your loved ones.
Movie Marathon or Game Night: Pick a favorite movie series or binge a new show with snacks galore. If you’re feeling playful, dust off some board games or video games for a fun, low-key evening.
Cook Together: Nothing says love like a home-cooked meal. Try a new recipe with your partner, kids, or friends. It doesn’t have to be fancy—pizza night or taco-making can be just as memorable.
Just Be: Sometimes, the best moments are the quiet ones. Cuddle up, share stories, or simply sit in comfortable silence. Being present is the ultimate gift you can give.

Make It About Connection

Today isn’t about grand gestures or over-the-top plans. It’s about the small, intentional moments that remind your loved ones they’re cherished. Laugh together, share a hug, or reminisce about old times. These are the threads that weave your relationships tighter.

A Gentle Reminder

As you enjoy this Saturday, let go of any pressure to “do it all.” Life can be hectic, but today, give yourself permission to pause. The emails can wait. The chores can wait. What matters is right in front of you—your people, your peace, your joy.

So, grab your favorite people (or pets!), kick back, and make this Saturday one to remember. Here’s to love, laughter, and a whole lot of chill vibes. Enjoy the day!

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Tailspin Farms

September 10, 2025September 8, 2025

WOW IT’S WEDNESDAY

How many pounds of potatoes does your family go through in a year? Probably more than you think! Canning potatoes gives you a great quick fix item from your pantry. You can use canned potatoes in so many ways! Try adding them to soups, stews, and casseroles. And don’t forget about mashed potatoes! I have to say when you are trying to figure out what to fix for dinner canned potatoes is a time saver.

Canning Potatoes

For 7 quart jars you’ll need about 20 pounds.. That is an average of 2.5 to 3 pounds per quart. This will vary according to the size of your potato and how much peeling you do.

Supplies and Ingredients

Pressure Canner
Canning jars
Canning lids and rings
Jar lifter and canning funnel
Large bowl
Potato peeler
Sharp knife

Ingredients

Potatoes – about 20 pounds will do 7 quarts
Canning salt – optional
Sea salt –

Prepare your jars and lids and keep them hot until needed. Check the air vent and overlock on the canner lid to make sure they are not blocked.

Preparing the Potatoes

Wash and peel your potatoes. Cut into pieces between 1-2 inch cubes.

Fill a large bowl with cool water and stir in 2 teaspoons of sea salt. Stir it up until it dissolves. This will keep the potatoes from turning brown as you cut them up. This will also rinse away some of the starch. When you are done peeling and cutting, drain, and I like to rinse again. The more you rinse the less starchy your jars will be.

If you have small potatoes that are 1 to 1½ inches in diameter you can leave those whole. Larger potatoes need to be cut into ½ to 1-inch cubes. As you cut them, put them into the salt water. If you have time, leave them in the water for 20 to 30 minutes, changing out the water about halfway through. After the potatoes have soaked in the salt water, get the tea kettle going for the hot to pour over the jarred potatoes.

Drain the potatoes in a colander. Pack the potatoes into the hot jars, leaving 1 inch headspace. Now add the boiling water leaving 1 inch of headspace.

Add canning salt, if desired, using ½ teaspoon in pints, ¾ teaspoon in 1½ pints and 1 teaspoon in quarts. Using a bubble popper or thin knife, run it around the inside of the jar to release any trapped air. Top off with boiling water if needed.

Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean dry cloth or paper towel to make sure it’s clean.

With your lid lifter, pull out the lids and put them on the jars. Screw the rings on finger tight.

Now take that water the lids and rings were in and pour that into the canner, adding a splash of white vinegar if you have hard water.

Processing Potatoes

Ok. Now that the lids are on, it’s time to put the jars into the canner. Put the lid on and seal it and turn the heat to high.

Allow the canner to vent for the specified length of time for your canner.

Now put the regulator on the air vent and bring it up to pressure.

Once it has reached the required pressure, start your timer.

Processing Times

Pints – process for 35 minutes
Quarts – process for 40 minutes

Be sure to use the pressure according to your altitude see the chart below. For more information, see this altitude adjustments page.

When the processing time is up, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to return to zero.

Once the pressure is zero, remove the regulator and wait another 5 to 10 minutes before unsealing the lid.

Make sure the lid is facing away from you when you open the canner.

After processing, remove the jars from the canner and allow them to sit undisturbed for a minimum of 12 hours.

After 12 hours, check the seals, wash and label the jars, and put them away.

Canning potatoes at home gives you a lot of bang for your buck!

Especially if you grow your own.

But you can also save big by stocking up when potatoes are on sale in November and December.

Stored properly, canned potatoes will last a minimum of 2 years.

Must You Really Peel for Canning?

Canning potatoes with skins on is not recommended. Potatoes need to be peeled for canning. It is a safety issue, not just a quality issue. Peels will naturally carry more bacteria that is found in the dirt. Scrub as you like. You’ll still get a cleaner product if you peel.

Yes, you really must peel. The reason is that the spores that can cause issues with botulism are found in the soil. Since the potato grows directly in the soil, there is a higher chance that botulism may be a risk. This is the same with all root crops.

How to Reduce Starchiness in Home Canned Potatoes

Rinse, rinse, and rinse again to reduce starchy, cloudy water. Adding clean, fresh water will reduce the amount of starch in the jars. That high starch content is unappealing but not dangerous.

One thing I noticed with my last batch of potatoes. As the jars set on your shelf… the water gets more starchy with time. This is normal and doesn’t hurt a thing. So don’t be surprised by the unappealing look.

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Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Tailspin Farms