In five months, we will have our first CSA pickup of 2011. Although the wintry winds are upon us, the farmhouse is full of dreams fueled by vibrant seed catalogs. Our mouths water with the promise of purple tomatoes, savory arugula, baby beets, luscious melons and fresh spring peas. We imagine the rows of sunflowers arching toward the sky, the zinnias coloring the landscape and the blossoms of the apple trees scenting the air.
Winter is a time of imagination and rest. Although we still have daily animal chores and regular trips to fill the firewood bin, the cold weather provides us with a balance to the hectic days of summer. From May until October, we have a neverending task list that threatens to steal all the energy from our bodies. It is nonstop work while the world is green. In December and January, we can take time to breathe, catch up with farming friends and plan for the coming year. The seasons provide a balance to the year that we need to stay sane.
So, now, we select our seed varieties. We plan our events. We craft the flavors of Spring, Summer and Autumn. We arrange to teach, to learn and to share. Our farm provides for our social life, our food life and a portion of our income. It is something that connects us, demands from us and gives us purpose. Winter is not a time of dormancy. It is a time to remember the past and carve out our future. Everything is connected. We just have a little more time to appreciate it.
-Brian
