We’re a couple of weeks into the spring CSA now, and the farm is bursting at the seams. The fields are growing like gangbusters, the mornings are still cool and kind, and the humidity hasn’t yet stomped in with its sweaty boots. It’s a golden little window of time — and we’re soaking it all in.
We do have some news to share: Emily, who joined our crew earlier this spring, has decided to move on to another opportunity. Her last day will be soon, and we’re busy working out how to reshuffle the farm dance without her. Lee is here three days a week, steady and strong, and Kirstie brings her good energy for three half-days. And come early May, Finn will be finished with school and ready to jump in and fill the gap.
It’s hard to believe, but this will be Finn’s last season with us. He’s been part of our farm family since he was a homeschooled 12-year-old — and what a joy it’s been to watch him grow. While we’re going to miss him immensely (seriously, it’s hard to imagine the farm without him), we’re so excited for this next stage of his life. We can’t wait to see where his journey takes him — and we know he’s going to do great things.
Of course, once Finn heads off to college in the fall, we’ll be hiring someone new to take over those hours. August isn’t exactly the ideal time to start a new farm job, but we’re hopeful the right person will find their way to us. (They usually do.)
In happier news, Ben has nearly finished the barn extension! We didn’t quite beat our goal of finishing before the CSA season started, but we weren’t too far off. The wash/pack area now has a lot more elbow room, which makes an enormous difference when you’re wrangling mountains of produce. Huge thanks to the friends who gave up parts of their weekends to help Ben with scaffolding, roofing, and moral support!
Meanwhile, the daily farm symphony rolls on: harvest, wash, pack, deliver, seed, plant, cultivate, mow, and hand-weed — all to the soundtrack of cheerful birdsong and the occasional dramatic crow. Most everything is thriving. Sure, there’s a little bug nibbling here and there (our bok choy has some battle scars), and the fire ants continue their endless campaigns. The deer tried to push their luck too, sending Ben into a full-on Elmer Fudd phase — but for now, the fences are holding.
One of the things we’re most grateful for this season is the shift to full-time CSA work. Leaving the farmers’ markets wasn’t easy, but it’s allowed us to focus more deeply on farming itself — and the difference shows. We miss seeing our market regulars every week, but the health of the farm (and our family) is better than ever.
So, thank you — truly — for being here with us. For believing in what we’re doing. For letting us grow for you.
We’re honored to share this season with you.
In Good Heart Farm 