Squashed

Edible Gourds

Glorious, thought Annie as she and LJ drove along highway 1 through Big Sur. The cerulean blue sky and the sun’s rays shimmering off the waves crashing into the California coastline was spectacular. Early fall in Northern California often felt like summer, and this hot, perfect day was a testament. After driving through a groove of ancient Coast Redwoods, they began to look for the Ali’s pumpkin farm.

“The entrance is coming up. Make a left turn here.”

Thump! Annie and LJ looked at each other with wide eyes. “What was that?”

“I’m going to pull over and find out.”

As they got out of the car, they heard the distinct laugh of their friend, Aafiyah.

“Hey, Hi Annie and LJ, glad to see you made it. Don’t worry about that pumpkin you squashed; it was on its way to the compost heap anyway.”

Annie smiled, “Good to know, and what a gorgeous day to visit you all.”

“Yes, we planned the weather,” she joked, “and our bountiful crops because we want to make sure that you have a great time while you’re here, so you’ll visit more often. How about you follow me up the road. Aadam is waiting to get you squashed.”

As they drove past a field, Annie noted the Spaghetti Squash. The variety had steadily grown in popularity in recent…