We’re going nuts!

It’s walnut harvesting time here in Lalinde, France. Remember we’re on a large walnut plantation? You’d think an old country girl like me would know about how walnuts grow, but I’ve never been exposed to it, so we’re finding it fascinating!

First, they mature on the tree in their cozy green cocoons.

First, they mature on the tree in their cozy green cocoons.

Then the bad boys bust out...

Then the bad boys bust out!

… and drop to the soft earth below.

Then Gerard collects them with this machine, which sucks them up like a golf ball picker-up, blows the grass off, and loads the nuts in the back.

Then Gerard collects them with this machine, which sucks them up like a golf ball picker-up, blows the grass off, and loads the nuts in the back. [Sorry for the ‘in the barn’ photo.]

Then they're loaded to be washed. They sold over 4 tons on just the first 'sweeping.'

Then they’re loaded to be washed. They sold over 4 tons on just the first ‘sweeping.’ Here’s Theo pretending to be a farmer.

Lucky, us. We get to pick up all the nuts that land on the road. Yum. Guess we better get crackin'!!!

Lucky, us. We get to pick up all the nuts that land on the road. Yum. Guess we better get crackin’!!!

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5 Responses to We’re going nuts!

  1. Anne-Marie says:

    How fun! Ya know, walnuts, considered the ultimate superfood, are the same shape as the human brain for a reason. They have loads of omega-3 fatty acids, an essential fatty acid to keep the brain functioning normally. Low omega-3 intake can be linked to depression and cognitive degeneration (not that either of you are experiencing these symptoms). Eating a fistful of walnuts regularly can keep your spirits up and prop up the grey cells for good measure. Walnuts are known to raise melatonin levels by a whopping three times. So, Theo, if you’re tired of counting sheep at night, consider snacking on a few walnuts before bedtime! Munch on!!

  2. thecindy@mail.com says:

    Question is, will eating walnuts replace all the brain cells we’re killing with all the wine we’re drinking??? ???????

  3. Stewart Smith says:

    I guess any reference to nuts is off limits?

  4. Stewart Smith says:

    Geez kids, Lalinde has all sorts of ” cheep housing ” with garages!
    If Mom weren’t around I could see buying a $400k place in Lalinde !

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