I have always been somewhat energized by the unpredictability inherent in farming. Every season has it’s own peculiarities that farmers navigate- timing plantings and adjusting priorities in an ever shifting landscape. There’s one exception to this general enjoyment of constraints: labor problems. It’s no fun to realize we are short-handed and the tasks are piling up. Almost worse than that is working with difficult or uncurious personalities, pouring lots of time into people management. This year, Bob and I are feeling super fortunate; we’ve got a healthy crop of apprentices. The crew of three are diligent, inquisitive and thoughtful. We’ve stayed on top of the field tasks and had fun in the process. The meals have been delish and our activities infused with good spirits.
Beyond agriculture, they have some great hobbies: jim as guitar mastermind, alex as sourdough maven and kealey with an eagle eye for eagles (and other birds). If you see them around the farm, don’t hesitate to ask questions or strike up a conversation.
Jim, Alex and Kealey at annual strawberry stock up!
All in all, we are in great shape at littleGrasse! A field update will follow soon.