One down, and many more to come! Thanks from Emmalyn and Cody.
One year in the books, can you believe it!?
Whenever anyone asks me how the farm is doing, my go-to answer has been, “It’s been a ride.” This past week has perfectly illustrated the bumpier parts of 2020. During last week’s wind and snow, the plastic on one of our hoophouses ripped clean off the building. Less than a day after that, we learned that our car’s head gaskets are leaking. An expensive week indeed.
Of course, we also celebrated our second Christmas as farm-owners last week, and tonight we’re celebrating the conclusion of our first full year of business. While it’s easy to focus on the bumps in the road (and there have been a LOT of bumps this year), it’s important for me to reflect on some of the things that went right throughout the year. As Hank Williams once put it, “We’re still livin’ so everything’s ok.”
For starters, there was a ton of interest and support for our CSAs, and we were able to provide food for 260 members between the Spring and Fall shares. Thanks so much to everyone reading this for taking a chance on us this year. Transitions are always a little bumpy, but it can only get smoother from here, eh?
Another thing I’m really proud of is how much produce we were able to donate. Again, thanks go to you all for helping to contribute through our online store. Between donating to Food For the People CSA, Twin Cities Food Justice after farmers markets, bringing boxes to South Minneapolis during the uprising, and giving directly to families, we estimate our food donations to total at least $2,000.
Last and most importantly, despite the pandemic and the death of social engagements, we still broadened and strengthened our community ties. Commiserating with other farmers about bugs, blight, weed pressure and deer (not to mention MOLES) helped us see that we weren’t the only ones struggling this year. On top of that, I’m still amazed that so many wonderful, hard-working people made the choice to work with us this year. Andrew, Sarah, James, Valerie and of course my mom Janet came out to the farm multiple times to help with various projects over the year. Our neighbors Nora, Dave, and Hahns helped us put the plastic on one of our hoop houses in the spring. It’s nice to know that even when we struggle to believe in ourselves, there are people like you that believe in us.
We’ll be sending out a survey about your thoughts of the Fall Share, please let us know what you think of our CSA this year. Have a safe and happy time ringing in the new year, and see you in 2021!
-Cody
