Plans Afoot

I am writing now from the living room of my trailer "Buddy" in Austin, Texas. Saturday is my last day on the farm and I'm thinking ahead to future plans to help keep me motivated during the coming weeks of limbo.

I'll be headed back to my home of Western North Carolina, where I'll be renting a house with about 1 1/2 acres of land and starting a small farm. Here are some of my big ideas:

- One full acre in intensive vegetable production for a small CSA (starting at 10 members, eventually growing to 30) and some farmer's market sales

- Perrenial herbs and berries lining the perimeter of the property. The herbs will be used to make dried tea blends.

- Ducks! I plan to raise a flock of Khaki Campbell and Indian Runner ducks for egg production. As well as amusement and companionship!

- Greenhouse production of sprouts and pea tendrils

- Monthly on-farm dinners, workshops and events

It's so very exciting, and a bit frightening because I want it all to work out so badly.