the first years in Harvest Moon: Friends of Mineral Town is really difficult BUT i figured out an easier way. My technique is that at the 2nd day of spring, and so on with the whole spring season, all you should do is ship the grasses. Next, in Summer season, befriend with 2 harvest sprites, ask the first sprite to water the crop and the second sprite to harvest it. Dig 6 9x9squares and plant Pineapple seeds(cost 1,000 each bag but worth it). You can also ship items. Look at your money in the 30th day of Summer and be surprised! In the Fall season, buy a basket. go and ship items until the 30th day. Finally, on the winter season get your basket and go to the lake mine. THATS ALL!! HOPE THIS HELPS TO YOU HAVEST MOON FANATICS!!!