The Long Haul

I’m bleeding money and I’ve never been happier.

Bizarre, I know. But as I watch my bank account drop, life is suddenly easier.

This is the year of efficiencies. The year that steps are saved and the ‘process’ gets a little easier. It’s the year that the back-end of the operation gets a face lift.

Granted, it’s not nearly as sexy as 2018 when a big building sprung up out of the ground. Last year was showy and fun. It was tangible and full of reassuring feedback from customers. If I could, I’d spend every minute working on making the market more beautiful.

But 2019 is all about the long haul. It is the year of the projects that make the business better for the next decade. It’s building a ‘greens’ washing station that will save upwards of ten hours a week. A flower arranging station that will allow us to grow more flowers and get them to market quicker.

2019 might not be showy but in the past month alone the two-year drama of no hot water was solved! Yes, finally, I have a hot shower after a cold day’s work.

The irrigation now works effortlessly.

The farm hand trailer was revamped. It’s not only livable but cozy.

Next week a second high tunnel goes under construction.

It’s painful doing all of this in the slow season. Watching the dollars flow out and only trickle in. But, like always, the angels appeared and made it happen.

David, a friend and volunteer, showed up and started to build. He built and built. He’s fast, a perfectionist and an amazing talent. It was his sole mission to get the hot water running. Opening day the hot water flowed.

It’s clear to me now that with a certain amount of money life could be so much easier. But there is a pride in knowing that each inch of progress is hard fought. That the farm and the business has grown only through your support and the help of some very special people.

2019 is the year of being here for the next ten years. Thank you for making it happen and for traveling this journey with me.

And thank you, as always, for stopping by.

Carolyn

#FarmLife