Here at Doe Run Farms in Tennessee, we have reached another milestone! With the end of our autumn season CSA, we are now taking registrations for the 2020 CSA season and celebrating 15 years of operating CSA from the farm.
There aren't a lot of CSA's in our part of the country that have enjoyed this kind of longevity, for many reasons. One reason is because CSA is not an easy farm model to hang your hat on and from a personal perspective, I'd say it's not for the faint of heart. I've always heard that farmers are gamblers, and being a bit of a farmer myself and a farm wife, I am a believer in that old saying. The challenges of CSA are many, and so are the rewards.
I'd say some of our biggest challenges are finding enough competent help on the farm, keeping all the equipment running and in good condition, and the weather! The weather concerns are a constant and a frustration, because we have no control over it.
The absolute best reward for us is the knowledge that we are providing some darn good healthy and delicious plant based food, for all of our farm supporters and their families. We have been blessed by seeing many children who have eaten our food through the years, grow up and leave home for new adventures. Many of our Shareholders are "empty nesters" who have "downsized" their CSA shares, but they still continue to support the farm's CSA program. We can't thank them enough.
Today with "thankfulness" on my mind, in the comfort of our farmhouse with a cup of java nearby, and with the Thanksgiving holiday fast approaching, I offer a silent prayer that everyone will take time to savor the moments you share with family and friends, reach out to others less fortunate, and say a prayer for peace in the world.
Happy Thanksgiving Friends!
Judy