January 5, 2008

The Artisan Organics New Year begins with the publication of this, our new web site. And what you are reading is the first entry in our new Farm Life blog. What an auspicious beginning to the New Year! This blog will be updated regularly so be sure to check back to see photos of the farm and read my musing on everything from compost, to planting schedules, to the best recipes for celeriac.

As I write this entry, the winds are howling and it is pouring rain. It is clearly winter in the Willamette Valley. In addition to being our rainy season, winter is often considered a time of rest and rejuvenation. The growth of perennial plants has slowed or stopped. Many of the soil microorganisms have slowed their activities. With the long nights and dreary days, both the ecosystem and I spend much more time resting, to be ready for the burst of activity in the spring.

Winter is also traditionally thought of as a time for looking inward. This is true for the farm as well. I spend the winter months attending to the inner workings of the farm, the business side of farming that is often neglected during the hectic harvest season. I am catching up on the accounting before tax season rolls around, creating material for the web site, and planning the crops for the coming year. On the face of it, this is less than thrilling work. But it is appropriate to the season, and essential for laying the foundation for the bountiful spring and summer to follow.

This year, our family is also spending January in eager anticipation of a new arrival. Our grand child, nicknamed Baby Jane, is not due until mid-February. But all the signs indicate that she will come several weeks early, just like her big brother. Be sure to check back here for developing news…. there are certain to be photos!