Not every pumpkin grows into a giant, but sometimes the smallest pumpkins come with the biggest stories.

This year’s “Small but Mighty” Runner-Up in Claystone’s Giant Pumpkin Contest is Deanna Klassen of Ryley, whose entry captured the spirit of the competition through enthusiasm, perseverance, and a sense of humour.

Deanna’s love of gardening began early in life, helping her mother in the garden before her family moved to the Far Arctic, where the growing season was much shorter. Later, gardening became a way to help feed her family and teach her children valuable lessons about growing and preserving food. Along the way, friends and family in the Ryley area helped her learn what works best in local growing conditions.

Like many gardeners, Deanna has experienced both successes and setbacks over the years, but she continues to enjoy trying something new each season.

When it came to entering Claystone’s Giant Pumpkin Contest, the decision was simple.

“Cyndy said, ‘Here, get a pumpkin,’ and I thought, why not have some fun?” Deanna said. “I try growing something different every year.”

The contest also gave Deanna an opportunity to honour the memory of a friend who would have enjoyed the challenge of growing a giant pumpkin.

While her pumpkin didn’t quite reach giant status, Deanna embraced the experience from start to finish. Watching the pumpkin develop throughout the season became part of the fun, and earning recognition as this year’s runner-up came as a complete surprise.

“Absolute shock! Because it’s so little, it forgot the giant part,” she joked. “It’s been fun watching it try to grow.”

Congratulations, Deanna, on earning this year’s Small but Mighty recognition. Your pumpkin may not have been the biggest in the patch, but your enthusiasm, dedication, and gardening spirit helped make this year’s contest a success. 🎃🌱