Probably the thing that has taught me the most, has had the greatest learning curve and most challenging lessons this summer so far, has been the farm stand. Having a neighborhood farm stand was part of my business model from the beginning, but there was definitely a day in the late spring when I decided, Hell, I can totally, actually, have a farm stand this weekend! I felt like I had finally gotten enough food growing in the two farm plots that I could share it with my neighbors, and, just maybe, get paid for it (!). This is what makes being a gardener and foodie into being a
farmer. So Exciting!
My excitement translated into a really gorgeous, colorful, soulful display of chard, kale, flowers...all kinds of fine produce ready to grace the tables of my community. I was
so sure that I would sell out that first day!! And though I totally did sell produce and actually made a little fist-full of cash, I also
totally didn't sell out. Thankfully, the veggies I harvested for the farm stand were easily distributed to my family and friends, and to my own fridge.
Here's the thing...our little farm stand is so much more than just a commodity market for perishables. The best part of the stand is being there in my community, talking to people about food or just the state of the world, sharing tastes of things that people haven't tried before, enticing them to try growing a lemon cucumber plant in their own backyard next year. So, though the farm stand isn't making me tons of dough, it IS helping to create a shift in consciousness towards good food and growing things...and growing community. And that's the whole point of Flying Bear Farm! So, in my book, the farm stand is a success!
But seriously people, come buy some unique, delicious veggies!! They're good for you, and for your community!! ;)
Love,
The Flying Bear
