Summertime Fun!

Welcome to summer. We are in the thick of it with a patio project, visits with family, bike rides, picking blueberries, and picnics in the park. A busy four weeks for us since school ended and summer began. Allergy season arrived a little late and is hanging on. Lucky for me the worst of it is over.

I've finally snapped a few photos of the Donalds, and I'm including pics of Richard and the soon-to-be beautiful patio, and another of Anna jumping on the trampoline at Jeremy and Derrik's house.

Planting Day!

Today we planted our garden. Carrots, onions, beans, cucumbers, winter squash, pumpkins, and more. Anna helped and was able to stay with it until she got hungry and had to break for lunch. And then later we had to break for a snack. In between eating times though, we did manage to get quite a lot done. Keep your fingers crossed for another fun pumpkin patch!

A blogging hiatus? Perhaps...

We've been working to get our garden in, spreading compost, keeping up with Anna, and generally, well, living I guess. It has also been a few weeks of reflection for us with regard to the planting and the overall farming plan. Richard will be going part time in the fall and I am in the process of looking for new (and different!) clients. It is coming together, albeit slowly, and for that we are grateful. Our original timeline didn't account for many of the things of life, so we are readjusting, and learning to love the unexpected as we go.

So our life can feel haphazard and up in the air, but truly it is not. We are trusting our collective dream, and doing the work to make it happen in the meantime. This year we've decided to plant food for us, experiment with varieties, and do our best to get the soil to happier place in the remainder of the planting area. Thanks to the help of the OSU extension folks and other local farmers it looks like we'll find our way.

In other news, on Mother's Day I had the chance to throw pots all afternoon! Many pots came to be that day and I just recently picked up some of them from the studio. Glazed and (for the most part) beautiful. Overall I am so disappointed with the Craft Center and the inconsistency in their glazes...lucky for me this time I ran into a seasoned potter while I was there to glaze and she directed me to the "sure thing" glazes. In the fall I'll be moving to the studio at the Benton Center. Professional potters, great glazes, and just a better vibe.

Anna continues to look forward to the James Taylor concert in July. We discuss this nearly everyday, at her urging. Today she announced that she would dance AND clap her hands during the "best" songs. I can hardly wait!

A farm plan, revisited

Over the last few months we've been trying on the idea of growing something other than vegetables. With this growing season upon us the reality once again of a disappointing crop is looming. (As I've mentioned in previous posts, our soil is not what it needs to be to grow what we'd like.)

So, trying to find the bright side, we've discussed possibilities like berries, lavender, and my all time favorite--pumpkins. So far, no solid decisions on what's next.

More about the bright side--it looks like Richard may get to go part time in the fall. This has been a goal since we moved here as it would give him more time with Anna, as well as more time to farm.

In other job-related news, I am working hard to secure new clients after my Boise client of 3+ years has decided to hire an in-house writing staff. Their business has steadily picked up over the last year, and I remain one part-time writer and full-time mom. It's great news for the agency, and after my initial adjustment, will be great news for me as well. And with Richard going part time I have plenty of incentive to get out there and find some work!

In duck news, the Donalds are now five weeks old and sporting most of their feathers. In spite of heavy handling as youngsters they are spooky and don't like to be cuddled now. I suspect this is just part of being a duck. They do follow us around a bit and enjoy being outside.

And finally, I just read Bill's post (http://fromfattotri.blogspot.com/) and am so excited to share that he took 2nd place at a triatholon last weekend! I am so bummed to have missed this podium moment. Also, take a look at their latest tatoos. So beautiful.

Observations From an Ironman Spectator

I’ve been thinking about the best way to describe my experience at the Ironman last weekend in Tempe, AZ. My brother and sister-in-law competed—and finished. (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, 26.2 mile run)

Many words have come to mind—dedication, determination, inspiration, awe, crazy folks—but none of these seem to describe my lasting feeling about my experience that day.

It is a mystery to me why anyone would do this. (Keep in mind that I am speaking from a place of limited fitness as a brief walk each day is what I aspire to.) That said, I do not believe training for and competing in an Ironman is about fitness alone. I believe it’s about proving something, pushing limits, expanding the concept of self—and just plain ole’ dig yer heels in and finish even if it kills you kind of perseverance.

I started out the morning in Tempe pondering this question. It was almost 6 am as my Mom and I looked for Bill and Jen in a mass of people—probably about 4,000 including spectators and volunteers. This alone seemed a little crazy to me.

When I am fortunate enough to attend, it is an important ritual for me to see Bill before he begins a race. It is reassuring to see his face and to know that he is OK and feeling ready.

When we found them they were smearing deodorant behind their knees (I didn’t ask) and straining to get into their wetsuits. The loud speakers were—well, loud—and along with the music was a guy delivering warnings about the forecasted heat, a lost bag of gear, and general words of encouragement.

We took a few photos, checked in about how they were feeling (Jen=ready to get going! Bill=calm and confident), and then watched them walk into the crowd to start their day.

I don’t want to minimize or downplay the effort and accomplishment that goes into this kind of event. Bill and Jen are committed, exceptionally fit, and likely mentally stronger than most folks in that they are able to push themselves beyond limits they had once observed. It occurs to me as well that they likely know themselves better now than ever before. Not only in a physical sense, but in a whole-person sense as well.

I believe there is a spirituality not only in the accomplishment of finishing the event, but in the process of training—of honoring their bodies enough to prepare adequately and to pay attention, and make adjustments as they go.

Training and racing have permeated their lives. It has restructured their social group and their interests. It has focused their energy not only on fitness, but on the mental battles behind getting out of bed to run in the rain, going swimming with a sinus infection, and just moving off the couch and, well, moving.

The harmony of breath, adrenaline, and fatigue must be a powerful force. I can only speculate here because I have never pushed myself in these ways. There is power, nonetheless, no matter the source or combination of factors.

Congratulations does not seem an adequate sentiment to express at the end of such an accomplishment. But then the reward must be an internal one anyway. I am proud, I am awed, and I am inspired by their dedication and commitment to their goal, and to their ability to tough it out. So, congratulations guys! You are Ironmen!

Here's a link to Bill's blog if you'd like to read his full account. http://fromfattotri.blogspot.com/

Welcome spring!

We are welcoming the spring weather and are happy to be finally rid of the snow. Last week was some crazy weather, but we still had a great time!

We visited the beach and were so lucky to find the sun and then two days later were making a snowman (really it was a snow bunny) in our back yard. All in all, a very resting spring break for our family.

In farm news, Richard attended an all day meeting/class at a Biodynamic farm in Junction City and came home revived and hopeful. He's familiar with these methods and their success after spending time at a large Biodynamic farm on the east coast. We've moved into a space of taking a longer view of our farming plan and are working to incorporate lasting, sustainable practices that work not only on a biological level, but support our lifestyle as well.

That said, we've got seed starts going and have been collecting soil implements based on soil studies we had completed last year. We're also planning another pumpkin patch this fall!

In pottery news, I've spent many hours the past few weeks throwing pots and playing with clay. Still working out the kinks with regard to back pain, but suggestions and advice are plentiful on blogs and forums on the web. No photos of any pots yet...I'll take some and post them next time around.

Sunflowers and rockets

Feels like a slow start in the farming end of things this year. But then I consider that it's not even the middle of March and realize, we're doing just fine! Still on track for the pumpkin patch and plenty of good veggies.

Anna and I planted sunflowers, dill, thyme and oregano this week and are waiting for the little buggers to pop up. Richard has been working on grafting some new apple and pear trees and has sketched out some ideas for a patio area and greenhouse location.

In other news, we're looking into preschool for next fall for Anna. She's excited about going to "big girl school" and playing with kids. (This has also served as a great incentive for potty training.)

With the time change we are all loving the chance to be outside more in the evenings. Richard has been practicing archery and Anna is convinced that she needs her own set of "rockets" (arrows). I suspect the Easter Bunny will deliver.

Keeping Up

As we've started to discuss our patio and landscape plan it feels more and more like spring. Easter egg hunts are coming up--and so are the daffodils. I've made a few pots, work has slowed to a more reasonable pace and life feels in balance--at least for today.

I tried a new brand of tea last week (Yogi tea) as Anna has daily tea parties and we were running low. On each of the bags there's a tab with a little "fortune" kind of thing. Friday's was "Keep Up." I like these fortunes--they are not gentle, kind or filled with soft fluff. They are directive, honest--and a little abrupt. And, they always make me think. So, I've been trying to keep up. With life mostly. Anna and her shifting interests, her daily changes. Richard and his talk about bows and arrows and his revived love of loading shotgun shells and what our soil needs before we can plant. I've also tried keeping up with myself. Listening to what I need, what I want to do, and how I'm feeling. It's a good exercise in paying attention. Guess I never thought all that could come from a cup of tea!

Finally, some great news about James (Taylor). We somehow made the list for a special pre-sale and were able to get tickets late last week. Anna is looking forward to seeing James and his band. Only four months to go!

How sweet it is!

This morning we awoke to most exciting news! James Taylor will be in concert in Portland this July. We are all so excited to go--especially Anna. Her first concert and her favorite music. What could be better?

If you're interested in tickets they go on sale March 3. He'll be at the Clark Co. Amphitheater.

Hope to see you there.

Time warps and spring flowers

My little brother--who is both brilliant and funny--wonders where last week went (www.fromfattotri.blogspot.com). Today I am wondering where the last year has gone! I'm watching Anna and Richard walk through the field with the dog and examine nearly every rock, stick and bug--and I wonder when exactly she went from being a baby to being an almost-little-kid. From what I hear this kind of time warp will continue to happen. I guess it just makes it even more important to remember to live in the moment.

We are getting antsy for spring around here--I failed in my vow to not buy the first flowers displayed at the front doors at Fred Meyer. I know they will suffer either a death by frost, or neglect, but I spent the $4 anyway. Seems like Valentine's Day is the gateway to spring--all the red and pink clear out to make room for all the Easter merchandise. This is proof enough for me that spring is on the way. So what if I have to buy more flowers in a few weeks?

Richard is inspired not only by the coming of spring, but with the opportunity to attend some local workshops about soil, worms, ducks, and some other farm-related topics. The information will be helpful as will the networking.

Happy spring!

My traveling bug is dead

Three airports in less than two weeks. A quick trip to Vegas, a weekend in Tahoe, and then a meeting in Boise. The Tahoe trip was planned and perfectly lovely. The others—well, gotta love the work, right?

It is reassuring that our hopes of building my freelance business and client base are coming true. And it’s refreshing to have work that is fun and clients who are nice. I’m just looking forward to some consecutive nights at home and the chance to see Anna and Richard, do my laundry, clean the bathroom, and buy some milk.

It’s nice to settle into our home and our new life. It’s nice to feel connected to our little town and to actually like coming home.

When my plane landed in Boise this morning there was snow and fog everywhere. But, just yesterday I noticed the daffodils peeking through the mud by the front door so I know that spring is on the way.

I’ll be home tomorrow—and then it’s back to life in Philomath.

The first time around

So I mentioned a few weeks back that I was waiting for the arrival of my new pottery wheel. It finally arrived, grumpy FedEx man and all, and I spent a few hours yesterday throwing. Funny, it felt like I was starting all over. I was a little nervous to get the wheel dirty and just sat at it for a few minutes hoping that whatever came out wouldn’t be too disappointing.

I ended up with a plate and a small vase. Not so bad for the first time around. Then I spent some time looking at other pottery blogs out there and holy cow! are these folks talented. These are real artist people.

But, I am thrilled to have my own space and a way to get my work fired (thanks to OSU craft center!). I’m sure more classes are in my future. I’ll share some photos as things get more interesting.

And, on another, farm-related note—we have once again been honing in on exactly what we want our farm to be—and not to be. It’s a bit of an evolution, a journey I am trying to enjoy. Richard is big on process and believes that process (or the journey) can be more fulfilling than the actual product. It is an admirable position, and one to strive toward. (Considering that I love an immediate, tangible result, this can be a stretch.) For now, I am working to see the beauty in the process and enjoy the fact that we get to make such luxurious choices.

The seed of an idea

I was reading about metaphors the other day for a client and ran across an interesting one about the difference between ideas and innovation and using the metaphor of planting a garden to explain. Metaphors are usually challenging for me as I tend to take things literally—but this one worked.

Essentially, the seeds are like the idea—and anyone can buy seeds just as they can have ideas. The tricky part is actually putting those ideas into action and nurturing them along until they work out to be something successful—this is the innovation part. (The stick-with-it and carry it through to the end kind of thing.) So in the garden it’s like nurturing seedlings and watering them, making sure they have light, and then transplanting them when it’s time for them to move outside and grown into big garden plants. (I realize my explanation is not as graceful as the one I am referring to. I’ll look for the citation and post it when I find it.)

It was only a few hours later that I found Richard sitting at the dining room table, seed catalogs spread out in front of him. He looked up and said, “do you want a pumpkin patch this year?”

I like the metaphor, and although I am reluctant to make claims of innovation, I do think we have a good idea with the farm. This much I can be sure of. Meanwhile, we’ll try another pumpkin patch this fall and see how it goes.

Hey, it's snowing! Where's Matt Zaffino?

We awoke to a light dusting of snow this morning. It was mostly gone by lunch time, but how nice a surprise to have on a quiet Sunday morning. One of the things I noticed right away last winter is that there is little-to-no local weather coverage. There are no reporters on the overpasses reporting on the first few flakes to fall, no screaming headlines about ice on the roads. Really, the only way you’d know it was snowing is to actually go (or look) outside. (Not at all like getting snow in Portland!)

Anyway, it was a beautiful morning. And we got to talking about our plans for the farm and the likelihood that our timeframe for starting to recruit members is a bit aggressive. (We had hoped to be up and running this spring/summer.) But, after talking about our goals for the farm, and considering the needs of our soil, we’ve decided that we’re in need of a bit of a course correction. Richard still plans to go from full-time to part-time work next fall, and we will hit the ground running this spring with planting and new soil treatments, but we’re revising our timing with regard to actually recruiting families.

That said, we hope to find a few “beta” families as willing test subjects to try out our vegetable varieties and delivery schedules. In return we’ll ask for a lot of feedback and perhaps some assistance with a few heavy lifting items around our place. More on this to come.

On another, non-farm related note, I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of my first pottery wheel. It should be delivered in the next three-to-four days. Richard has cleared space in the room off of our garage as a mini “studio.” No at-home kiln for now—but a membership at the Craft Center at OSU will take care of glazing and firing needs.


Here’s to quiet mornings and more snow!