Why do you do what you love?
Ever wonder how I got into this farming gig? I do, HA!
Can you believe I’ve been a CSA farmer for nearly 15 years? It all started when Isabelle was a baby, and I carried her around in my brand-new Native Carrier (the best carrier ever, by the way, for all you new moms out there). I even got one for Thomas, the baby of my friend and fellow farmer, Julie, at Oxbow Farm—she LOVES it.
Back then, I was growing tons of food, and my entrepreneurial instincts kicked in: why not start a CSA? Funny enough, I had never actually belonged to one myself. It was so fun but I’ll be honest, I made a lot of mistakes. Planning out vegetables for an entire growing season takes time and attention. There are special skills in CSA farming that many newbie farmers (including me at the time) don’t understand. But even then I had so much great help from friends and family. Friends brought their kids and we all pitched in to harvest and clean veggies for CSA. I have so many fond memories of those early days.
Thankfully, I went through the Beginner Farmer Training Program (BFTP) in 2012 with Future Harvest and found my first mentors, Jack and Beckie Gurley. I learned so much about farming in Maryland from that program and even more by spending one full day a week at Calvert’s Gift Farm. Jack is the most patient mentor, always generous with his knowledge, and Beckie taught me about QuickBooks and the logistics of running a CSA. I could write a whole book on what I’ve learned from them! Over the years, we’ve developed a wonderful friendship, and I still seek Jack’s advice on farming intricacies.
Now, after all these years, here’s what I love most about being a CSA farmer:
1. The Relationships
The connections I’ve built with CSA members are priceless. I’ve learned so much from them, made lifelong friendships, and—bonus—have been gifted some amazing treats: See’s chocolates, cranberry sauce, freeze-dried sweet red peppers, hot sauce, baked goods, lunch, honey, elderberries…the list goes on. Better than treats is the conversation and knowing we all belong to this like-minded ‘tribe’.
Truthfully, my heart especially melts for our youngest CSA members who come to the farm each week. I’ve watched so many little ones grow—starting in the womb, then in carriers, toddling around, running through the fields, hopping in and out of the car on their own, and eventually going off to school where I don’t see them so often. These kids eat veggies. They pick out their favorites, match words on the pick list to the farm signs, and even ask to harvest carrots or cherry tomatoes. They bring me flowers and tell me they love me! Together with their parents, we are shaping good eaters, informed consumers, and maybe even future farmers.
2. Financial Stability and Shared Risk
Keeping it real here folks. CSA members commit at the beginning of the season (they do not need to pay in full, but some do), providing essential upfront capital to purchase seeds, equipment, and cover labor costs. This financial model ensures a stable income and allows members to share in the risks of farming, such as crop failures due to unforeseen circumstances. This shared responsibility fosters a sense of community and mutual support, helping small farms like Oak Spring thrive.
3. The Perfect Job for my brain and family
CSA farming is the ideal job for me. It keeps me grounded—literally—when I’m harvesting, caring for the chickens, or transplanting crops. I get to write, share recipes, and connect with my community. I can “go shopping” in the field or cooler whenever I need to make dinner. Plus, I have access to the best food, not just from my farm but also from the incredible local farms we partner with.
Also when I became a single mom I could put my kids on the bus and be here for them when they got home. Now I won’t lie I worked a lot of hours getting this farm up and running but I had flexibility and I got to see my kids more than I may have if I had an 8-5 pm away from home. Farming gives me flexibility and freedom.
Those are my top three reasons why I love being a CSA farmer. Wondering what the best reasons are for you as a consumer? Get to know us. Know Your Farmer Know Your Food.
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And if you’re curious about bringing more farm-fresh meals into your home, check out my Farm-to-Table Checklist: 5 Easy Steps to Making a 5 Star Farm to Table Meal. It’s waiting for you.
