As pundits rush to be the first to tell what is coming economically and politically, farmers wait for Spring. As the bloggers condemn, exalt, rejoice in or are burdened with the news, we measure the amount of water the snow may make, and prepare to prepare the soil for the seed. As the news of the day tells of empty pantries, and we are told not to worry, there will be no bread lines, sustainable farmers hope and plan to grow food.

I could warn you about outdated laws that hurt the small farmer, agri-business looking to crush family farms, and scientist’s hell bent on inventing the food your Grandmothers once grew – but there are plenty of good people fighting those fights.

I want to do is remind you: Everything you need is at hand.
This Earth, our home, is a breadbasket.

I want to salute those who care for her, who delight in the mystery of all that she gives, who get delirious over fresh greens and are not afraid to eat “weeds.” I want to champion those who are challenging farming practices that harm the land, and those who refuse to treat their animals cruelly.  I want to thank those of you who enjoy organics, support the CSA’s, and congratulate those who call for laws to support organic and sustainable farming.

And at this moment, with Spring so close you can feel her warm breath in the wind, I really want to encourage those who are creating or continuing community gardens - GO FOR IT. And to those who are beginning to recognize the importance of feeding our children good nutritious foods and are taking it to the schools – you are in an important battle, many people are getting involved - support one another.

Here are some of my favorite links for those who are reclaiming the right to live from the land, and to feed people, locally and sustainable.
www.communitygardens.org
www.growingpower.org
www.kitchengardeners.org
www.seattletilth.org
www.greenguerillas.org
www.learngrowconnect.org

NOT TO BE MISSED        www.eattheview.org

Quotes to consider:
It is not too soon to provide by every possible means that as few as possible shall be without a little portion of land. The small landholders are the most precious part of a state.                           Thomas Jefferson to James Madison, 1785

America’s farmers are America’s future.
                           Barack Obama, Oct. 23, 2008