Our Mindanao - Jessie's Sunshine Farm

Exploring a new Trail at the West Cliff

March 27, 2025October 30, 2025 by admin

West Cliff Section

In the myriad complexities of agricultural landscapes, certain corners remain cloaked in mystique, offering a gateway to nature’s hidden treasures. One such location on our farm is the West Cliff Section—a rugged expanse that, until recently, had remained largely untouched. We have not yet traversed. As we embarked on the mission to cut back the towering Napier grass. It had claimed our paths. We stumbled upon rich discoveries. Not only delighted they our senses but enriched our appreciation for the land that sustains us. This essay endeavors to delve into the experience of exploring the West Cliff, unravel the wonders we encountered, and reflect on the implications of these discoveries on our understanding of nature, agriculture, and even culture.

Starapple Tree

In addition to the agricultural implications, the starapple’s presence connects us to the broader cultural narrative of an indigenous food system. Fruits like the starapple are more than gastronomical delights. In contrast, they are parts of culinary history, woven into the fabric of regional cultures. Such fruits represent the bounty of our environment, foods often misunderstood outside their native contexts.

Undiscovered Fruits

Contemplating the culinary landscape of North America and Europe, one is reminded of the myriad flavors that remain undiscovered by many. Hence, the advent of globalization has integrated numerous exotic items into mainstream cuisines; however, the starapple—an exquisite delight bursting with subtle sweetness—has yet to find its rightful place. Advocating for awareness around such fruits offers an opportunity to enrich culinary experiences. Therefore it could promote diverse dietary habits.

Cutting Grass and Trail

My exploration of the West Cliff Section of our farm transcended a mere cutting of grass; it was a journey of discovery, reflection, and an affirmation of the intricate web of life that characterizes agricultural landscapes. Through the serendipitous find of the starapple tree, we have bolstered our understanding of biodiversity and its significance in sustainable agricultural practices.

The Perils of the Devils Hole

The perils faced near the Devil’s Hole reminded us of our responsibilities as custodians of the land, while the North Meadow Section represents hope and potential for future growth. Our experience compels us to look beyond our familiar terrain. Indeed, urging us to acknowledge and embrace the hidden treasures lurking in the wilderness of our land. All overall, this journey stands as a testament to the interconnections between ecology, culture, and agriculture—an intricate dance that shapes our existence and influences the legacy we leave behind.

Tiring Work under Enormous Heat for Tree Planting

March 23, 2025October 30, 2025 by admin

The sun hung high in the sky, casting relentless rays on the North West Meadow Section where we gathered to embark on our ambitious project of planting 75 hybrid coconut trees. The terrain was undeniably challenging – a sloped landscape ending in an alluvial fan with troublesome water run-offs and potential landslide areas. This terrain creating an environment that demanded both resilience and teamwork.

As we stood at the edge of the cliff, mentally preparing ourselves for the task ahead, I couldn’t help but admire the lush surroundings; the beauty of nature never ceased to inspire me. However, as I looked at the steep drop, I knew we had our work cut out for us. With coconut seedlings hoisted on our shoulders, we carefully navigated the descent, each step requiring caution and balance. The heat was unyielding, with temperatures soaring to a blistering 35 degrees, but the challenge only fueled our determination.

Our First Mission in the Valley

Our first mission was to tackle the thick weeds that had laid claim to the land. Armed with herbicides, and shovels, and sheer willpower, we cleared the area where needed. The sweat was cascading down our brows and was proof of our labor. As the days went by, we laid out the designated spots for the coconuts, driving stakes into the ground to mark their future home. The excitement was palpable as we discussed our strategy: Furadan, salt, and fertilizer would act as the nurturing triad to ensure our coconut trees flourished in their new environment.

Prepping the Ground

The preparation required meticulous attention to detail. We decided to dig the holes a little deeper than usual, anticipating the erosion that might accompany the impending rains. The thought of soil being swept away by runoff and laying bar our coconuts was a daunting prospect, so each hole was carved with care and precision. Once everything was in place, we transitioned to using the auger, drilling holes with determination and purpose. Finally, the moment came; one by one, we planted the coconuts, gently nestled in their new homes.

The Evening comes Big Rain

As the evening approached, dark clouds rolled in, promising relief from the relentless sun. I felt a wave of anticipation wash over the team as raindrops began to fall, nourishing the soil and our newly planted saplings. A day later, more rain came, greasing the wheels of nature’s cycle just as we hoped. With our first section complete, a sense of achievement enveloped us.

It is time to move on to the next chapter of our journey: The West Cliff Section awaited us. With the experience gained from our efforts in the North West Meadow Section, we will be better equipped for the challenges ahead. Each step we took not only drew us closer to our goal of planting hybrid coconut trees but also forged memories that would linger long after the coconuts began to flourish. Through hard work, collaboration, and a deep-rooted connection to the land, we would continue planting seeds of hope, literally and metaphorically, in the canvas of nature.

Grandiose new Sandstone Entrance to the Bridge

March 17, 2025October 30, 2025 by admin

As we embarked on the journey of constructing our second flower tunnel. Bamboo on sandstone floor. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. We armed ourselves with 10 mm steel rods and bamboo. Consequently, we began to shape our vision into reality. The strong steel rods provided a sturdy framework. Therefore, It intertwined seamlessly with the lightweight bamboo, lending an organic touch to the structure.

The Siding of the Flower Tunnel

The sides of the tunnel were adorned with hamakan. In fact, we encased the railing in bamboo stripes, and halved bamboo tubes. Furthermore, to cover the tops, a combination that not only offered durability but also exuded a rustic charm.
At the bottom of the fence, we drilled holes to release standing waters. For this reason, Mosquitos won’t get a breeding ground. The solid concrete footings, forms made of flower pots. Those anchors are drilled into the Panas. Hence, they ensured that our creation would stand firm against the elements, providing a sanctuary for the vibrant life that would soon flourish within.

The Roof of Bamboo

Bamboo halves gracefully formed the roof. They created an airy canopy that would create a shadowy space. A cool breeze from the cliff was caught, while rain was draining to the northern side.

On one side of the tunnel, rose bushes—each a riot of color and fragrance—stood proudly, their delicate petals swaying gently with the breeze. Alongside them, two oil palms towered gracefully, their fronds casting delicate shadows on the earth below.

The Flowers, Roses

And close by we have vibrant roses with the grandeur of oil palms created a harmonious balance of beauty and elegance.
And in between, we find a tropical evergreen, soon slick, slender, and tall, dominating as the towering princess of this stretch of the Flower Garden.

The Flooring

Underfoot, the flooring comprised natural panas. In fact, it people affectionately do know it as sandstone. But we meticulously laid panas tiling in strategic areas for practicality and visual interest. Consequently, warm tones of the sandstone naturally complemented the vibrant colors of the flowers, creating a cohesive and inviting space.

This is Our Second Tunnel

This second flower tunnel became a testament to our dedication and love for gardening. Indeed, a place where nature could thrive, and beauty could be savored in the most exquisite forms. The combination of robust construction and lush, lively plants transformed the space into a dreamy retreat, offering a glimpse into the tranquility and joy that a well-tended garden can inspire.

Decorative Small Bananas

The other side was festooned with decorative bananas, their lush foliage adding an exotic flair to the landscape. As the backdrop to our floral oasis, shadow-loving Alocasia, Caladium, and Giant Taro formed a verdant sanctuary, their large leaves unfurling like sails in the wind. This verdant backdrop not only complemented the floral display but also enriched the overall aesthetic, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of greenery and flowering hues.

From Rain-Soaked to Safe and Sound!

March 10, 2025March 10, 2025 by admin

New compartments for our feathered companions.

Hey everyone! It’s been a wild week here on the farm, and I’m excited to share some updates about our feathered friends.

First up, the chicklets! Remember those adorable little guys we were raising? Well, they’ve finally got their own two walkout compartments! It was a long time coming, and we lost a few little ones to the harsh weather. Rain and wind, you’re no match for our chicklets now! We have 7 in total, 4 native chickens and 3 “monster chickens” (they’re just a bit bigger, haha!). They’re all safe and sound now, and I can’t wait to see them grow up.

Speaking of growth, our pabos have a new compartment too! Their mom wasn’t exactly the best at taking care of them, and we lost 8 little ones. We built a second compartment to give them some extra space and hopefully a little more protection. We’re keeping our fingers crossed that this new setup will help them thrive.

It’s been a lot of work, but it’s so rewarding to see our little flock growing and thriving. We’re taking it one week at a time, and we’re excited to see what the future holds for our feathered friends!

What do you think of our new compartments? Do you have any tips for raising chicks? Let me know in the comments!

A Tale of Big Landslide and Strong Flooding

February 25, 2025October 30, 2025 by admin

A Tale of a Landslide, Floods, and Grass That’s Out to Get You Ah, nature!

The ultimate interior designer, always ready to throw a surprise party with a side of chaos. Picture this: a quaint little creek, minding its own business, suddenly decides to channel its inner Niagara Falls. Cue the landslide and flood damage! It’s like Mother Nature looked at our peaceful pathway and said, “Boring! Let’s wash it away!” The Great Flood of the Small Creek Our beloved creek, once a gentle trickle, transformed into a raging river faster than you can say “waterlogged.” If you’re looking for a scenic detour, you’ve found it! Just be careful not to take a wrong step—unless you fancy a swim in the muddy abyss or enjoy a fall into the pit of hell, which is 30 feet deep and dark. There will be no escape from that tomb.

Grass That’s Gone Rogue

And let’s not forget the grass! Oh, the grass! It’s grown to a staggering 6 meters tall—that’s taller than your average giraffe! It’s as if the grass decided to audition for a role in a jungle movie. Who knew that a little rain could turn our farm into a scene from “Jumanji”? If you’re looking for a new hiding spot, this grass is the perfect camouflage. Just don’t forget to bring a map and bolo; you might get lost in there!

The Great Green Wall

You thought you were entering a lush paradise, but surprise! It’s more like a botanical version of a lost in the desert. Every step forward feels like a battle against a wall of leaves that seems to have a personal vendetta against you.

Conclusion: Embrace the Chaos

So, what’s the takeaway from this delightful disaster? Nature has a sense of humor, and sometimes it likes to remind us who’s really in charge. Whether it’s a washed-out pathway or grass that’s plotting to take over the world, let’s embrace the chaos and enjoy the wild ride. After all, who needs a perfectly manicured lawn when you can have a rainforest right outside your door, when God is in charge?

Stay tuned for more adventures in the great outdoors—where every day is a new episode of “Survivor: Farm Edition”! 🌿