It's a new year and I also recently turned 28. New beginnings and birthdays always make me think about the past and future. Recently I was thinking back on a time when I was 19 and told my parents I was leaving for the summer to live in North Carolina to work on a farm. They had their objections but once I have an idea in my head, it's pretty much a done deal. Here is a picture of the farm I worked on.
I fed the chickens, sprayed pigs with water when they were hot, collected eggs, went on hikes, rode horses and ate food from our garden. Some mornings it was my turn to get to the farm really early before anyone else and take care of the animals. I remember the cool mist and fresh smell of the morning air. There were bunnies munching on leaves but by the time everyone else arrived the bunnies were off into the woods. It was a feeling I will never forget.
On one of these early morning excursions, one of the pigs was so eager to receive his food that when I opened the gate and entered his pen he charged right at me and knocked me over. I quickly got up and ran as fast as I could to get his meal with him chomping at my heels and my heart pounding.
Everyday I came home covered in dirt and sweat but couldn't have been happier.
Thinking back on this time has made me think a lot about urban farming. Since I was a kid I have been torn between my love for the city and love for nature, the country and simplicity. I'm excited there is an urban farming movement happening. People are craving a piece of that simple life and bringing it into their lives in the city.
I can't wait to learn about gardening in April!
(Click on workshops and Urban Farming)
Here is an example of a little garden right here in West Hollywood.
(Click on name to see her blog!)
From beginning
To end!
I'm excited to someday embark on a new adventure. One that incorporates the two worlds that I love.