Are We There Yet?

There was a time in my life, not long ago, when I dreaded the coming of winter. Like so many unchecked neurosis that creep in with age, my fear of short, frigid days had grown to the point of panic. Instead of savoring the splendor of fall, my mind would swirl trying to figure out ways to survive the dark season.

But things are different these days. Life is so full, so overloaded with chores and possibilities, with tasks and opportunities, that winter barely seems long enough.

With all the recent activity on the farm, I wanted to take a moment to fill you in on our future plans. While we’ve been working on the changes since early May, it is gratifying to finally witness the high tunnel being built and planted, and the parking lot expanding.

Here are a few other hopes and dreams for the New Year.

Next year we hope to have 2 ½ acres in production, growing fruit, vegetables and cut flowers. While I’ve decided to take a break from the chickens, I have a wonderful young farmer who is taking over the business. Don’t worry, we’ll have plenty of eggs for the foreseeable future!

Next year we plan to grow the number of honeybee hives we have on the farm. The past few years I’ve only managed the bees for pollination, not honey. Although the four current hives are healthy and have lived for years, we hope to have a larger honey harvest next summer.

Next year we’ll open the farm stand in early March in a new building. The pole barn will be built in December. While it will be mostly open, the barn will allow us to get out of the weather and be able to expand our veggie offerings. The adorable stand that we use today will be an even more adorable flower cart, bursting with beauty.

Next year we plan to offer even more farm fresh foods. We’re excited about partnering with several local chefs to bring our produce to life. And for those items we don’t raise ourselves, we’ll continue to point you to the small farmer who does.

Next year we’ll begin to host community events at the farm. These will range from classes and/or talks and will allow everyone to enjoy the beauty of the farm.

As our third year in business comes to a close it is with tremendous gratitude that I look forward to the future. Thank you for keeping the dream alive and contributing to a community that cares for each other.

And, as always, thank you for stopping by.

Carolyn

#FarmLife