Beginnings

Today was the first day of seeding for Whisper Hill Farm. We don't have our greenhouse up yet, but we are starting some herbs and flowers on a heat mat in our basement. We are hoping to have our greenhouse (arriving Monday..yeah) up by the time they all germinate. We are starting them in open flats, where we seed in rows and then "spot" them out about 4-8 weeks from now. Spotting is basically pulling them apart and then planting a seedling in its own cell. Then they will go out in the field about 3 months from now. It's a good feeling to finally start planting-and looking forward to the harvesting.

7 Months Later

If you haven't noticed, I took somewhat of a hiatus from blogging. Not that life hasn't been full of all kinds of crazy things. Just haven't had the time for writing it all down.

Long story short:


James and I are starting a farm in Rapidan, Virginia. Only 30 miles away from where we worked at last year (waterpennyfarm.com). We are renting 4 acres of farmable land, a 1930's farmhouse, and several outbuildings including a barn. We will be going to farmers markets starting in May and hope to grow up to 3 acres of vegetables, herbs, and cut flowers.

Start-up is going a bit slow due to all the snow we have received. But we have managed to order all our seeds, put our house together, apply to markets, and design a logo..among other things! Here it is:

A few more?

We could not stop with the eggplant..here's a few more?! I think we might be on to something. Or as my good friend, Steve, said "you've been on the farm to long!"

New MembersThe Whole Family

Veggies

A hobby of my roommate, Miranda and I's...putting eyes on veggies. This eggplant seemed perfect for the occasion. :) There will be more to come!

Summer...

is here in Virginia. All signs are pointing that way. Squash is being picked everyday, we have buckets of extra cucumbers, tomatoes are just ripening, eggplant is brilliant in its purple skin, melons are getting bigger, and it seems like all we do here at Waterpenny is pick vegetables. Seasons slowly change..gradually we adjust to the differences. The sun is long and hot in the sky, and the daily checking of the forecast for rain is telling of its need here. Our "garden" is enjoying the warm weather and the occasional water it gets from irrigation. Our carrots have been great..and we ended up selling some of them at Takoma Park Farmers Market. Our sweet corn is starting to tassel, and the okra is starting to bloom its magnificent flowers. Life is good. We work hard, eat well, and enjoy the peace of the mountains. Each day is a gift that we savor. I promise to post some pictures of farm happenings soon.
peace.

Free Time

Yes...this is how we spend much of our free time these days-as if we don't get enough field labor! James and I have taken on a good portion of the "intern" garden here-having planted sweet corn, carrots, peppers, green beans, and most recently, okra. Here are a few pics of the okra transplanting.

Working Hands

My hands have many wounds from the various tasks around here, but no worse for the wear I suppose. The cut on my left ring finger was done while cutting spinach for the C.S.A. It is finally healing up after a week of super strong band aids. I have stopped counting how many blisters I've got. Dirt under the nails is also an everyday occurrence in which I have given up on. Ahh... life on the farm-brings me back to my younger days! :)