The "Dream"

Victory gardens, also called war gardens or food gardens for defense, were gardens planted during World Wars 1 and 2 to reduce the pressure on the public food supply brought on by the war effort. In addition to indirectly aiding the war effort these gardens were also considered a civil "morale booster" — gardeners could felt empowered by their contribution of labor and rewarded by the produce grown.

What better way to aid my transition from the corporate world to the next phase of my life's journey than digging in the dirt and discovering through both time and effort the rewards of becoming self sufficient?

Gardening in this area, 50 miles from the Canadian border, takes on a different bent. Growing seasons are short, the soil is rocky and rootie and the garden "pests" come big and small (read everything from bunnies to moose!). I have been devouring the available information on first time gardening (thanks Al Gore and your creation, the Internet) and I have come to three conclusions:

1. I will start small and grow the things we like to eat, vegetables and herbs with a splash of color from a sunny flower or two.

2. Raised bed technology makes the most sense.

3. The efforts will be sustainable and organic, however at this point I can't define exactly what that will mean.

I will also share along the way my thoughts and dreams as I search for a way to financially support my family while remaining true to myself. A quest somewhat larger than the garden, but one no doubt with parallels that will serve me well.

Today is Easter Sunday, 2011. A joyous Christian holiday celebrating resurrection and rebirth, the exact path I am bumbling along!

Twas Easter-Sunday.

The full-blossomed trees 
Filled all the air

with fragrance and with joy.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow