Last night I was totally surprised by Tanya and Shari, and about thirty or so CSA members, former apprentices, fellow farmers and friends who came to wish me well in my post SIO life.  I am constantly amazed at the supportive community that circles around SIO, and I am so appreciative for all of wonderful people I’ve had the opportunity to work with over the past seven years.  Since I’ve been at the farm I’ve worked with 25 apprentices, 10 hourly workers, five other managers, dozens of volunteers and hundreds of CSA members.  Nate Johnson, an apprentice from my third year on the farm, wrote a infamous letter after his apprenticeship about all of the things he learned to count during his time on the farm.  I suppose he might have learned some of that counting from me, as I count up, and recount, all of the wonderful years farming for SIO.  I marvel, just like he did, about how much I learned and how much I still don’t know.

    It doesn’t really feel much like I’m leaving to me.  I’ll still be living in the same house, probably still consulting with the farm and visiting when I can.  The farm has changed a lot since I got there seven years ago and this just feels to me like another move forward for both of us, hardly a separation at all.  The farm already has plans to grow, and I’m incredibly excited about expanding my own range as I start talking to folks about offering my services in the greater Portland area, California, New York, Hawaii, and Canada.  

 

    One last note, to anyone who’s actually reading this soon after I post - I’ll be away for the next three weeks - on a little post season, pre consulting vacation.  If I don’t return messages during that time, don’t despair.  I’ll be sure to get in touch as soon as I get back.