Why, how do you do?

I've wanted to be a farmer since I can remember. Third grade, high school, college- there has always been an undercurrent pulling me towards livestock and dirt. I kept my passions subdued by raising chickens, helping out some neighbors/family with their chores, growing a ridiculous amount of fresh produce (especially cucumbers), and canning everything in sight. But the full-time farmer dream was kept on the shelf for a variety of reasons, which I'm sure will illuminate in time. Then it became clear that my homesteading habits weren't enough. So, I like I everything I do- I jumped in.

Prior to this September, I worked for a fairly big non-profit as a political organizer. I was good at it. I planned campaigns, helped folks meet with legislators, attended events.

And I was miserable. I was passionate about changing the world- sure- but politics were draining me and sitting at a desk was no help. So, I quit. To take a job on an organically minded livestock farm over an hour from my house, working for half of what I previously earning. No health insurance, no sick days, no vacation- and frankly- I had never been happier.

But the hour drive, combined with reduced hours and a change of job description centering on driving rather than farming made the position unsustainable. So now, here I am rookie farmer, unemployed in a terrible job market. Was it the wrong decision? I'm leaning towards no, though the dwindling bank account and looming bill due dates may beg to differ.

This may be a catastrophic disaster- or it may be a huge success.

So what's the plan now?

I need an internship or an apprenticeship. I need some wise farming elder who will whip my sorry naive passions into a knowledgeable, effective farmer. Aaaannddd..... I need to find something to pay the bills. In either order, really. And I'm going to use this blog to archive of the results of my quest to eventually running a farm. Not just any farm though- the idea is bigger than that. The goal is a farm that teaches people real skills, helps them feel connected to their food, and inspires them to do more.

Enjoy, and expect some sarcasm, delicious recipes, a catalog of set-backs, hopefully a few funny moments, and maybe- just maybe- a dash of success. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.