Amyitis Gardens (Am-it-'iz): Farmers Anonymous

There really is no stopping a moving train. At this point we've gained enough critical momentum that there is no stopping or turning back. Not that we'd ever had plans to stop. Simply put; the reality of the encroaching growing season and, its unique backyard slant for us, is setting in quickly and deeply. We predicted we'd be busy, but as we've learned recently with our economy, predictions are one thing, reality is another.

During the past two weeks, both Jessie and myself have moved homes and started building a new garden space in the Mission. We've developed strategic tag-team watering plans for all of the spaces (plants don't give us a day off!!) And we've begun to take the first of our weekly shipments to The Corner (18th and Mission www.thecornersf.com). We are jumping with glee each time that we do. Moments like that are when what we do most feels like a selfish act rather than an environmental or communal one. Mainly because it is. When what you happen to enjoy is also something that is good for communities and the environment, there is no reason not to be as selfish as possible. The pure satisfaction I get from bringing our own city-grown organic produce to a restaurant 4 blocks away is narcotic. All idealism aside, I like this.... a lot.

Of course I knew that I liked it when I was farming in VT, but this is something different. I am continually awestruck by how little I know each time I learn something new. Each piece of food we pull from a backyard feels like a triumph, a victory. It feels like we are regaining control of our spaces and inspiring others to do the same. And not simply because it is trendy or altruistic, but because it feels good. It feels right.

Here are some pictures of what we've been up to:

"talkin' it over"