THANKS + GIVING.

Every day we're bombarded with messages that not-so-gently tell us how we're supposed to live / feel / act. As the voices become louder, more frequent, and more intense, it becomes harder to determine the root of our own fundamental feelings and beliefs. In our culture, this seems truer than ever around 'the holidays'. 

Each year, we make a more dedicated effort to take pause and determine the things that hold meaning for us. We cut through the noise to hear what our own voices, deep inside, are whispering.

Here are some things that resonate this year.

GOOD FOOD + GOOD PEOPLE = GOOD WORK
As we look back on the year, we can clearly identify the experiences that held meaning. This past summer, Taylor had the pleasure of spending one afternoon each week participating in a CSA work trade on two different local farms. In essence, she worked a few hours each week in exchange for free produce. These hours represent her most favorite of the season - outside, in good company, learning and doing things that felt tangible and valued.

Both of those farms - Whistle Down Farm and Sparrowbush Farm - are hiring for the 2016 season. If you have a desire to work with some of the most wonderful farmers that we know, take a look at the positions on offer. (Added bonus: Taylor will be delighted to be your neighbor.)

Our words cannot do justice to the quality of these farm operations, and the people that run them, but we'll try anyway:

Eileen and Nicholas of Whistle Down Farm are two of the most humble / hardworking / creative people that we know. They've built everything on their farm from the ground up (fields and barn, greenhouse and home), cultivating a magical piece of the earth. They are known in the area for their super-ripe strawberry patch and their epic themed birthday parties. They are wonderful people, the kind that you feel lucky to have had a chance to know, growing healthy food for all and being stellar stewards of the land.

The Sparrowbush crew are equally impressive, although they'd never use that term. They are as gracious as can be. Ashley, the farm's founder, has over a decade of farming experience, despite having just turned 30. Their whole-diet Winter CSA is coveted, and currently nourishing us through the cold season. They take pride in not just their farming abilities, but the same care and attention shown in everything that they do: merchandising their products, stellar communication / education, partnering with other incredible operations, and bringing the community together.

Both farms bring together such a stellar group of people - customers, co-workers, work-traders, and friends. Special thanks go to all of the other folks that made these enterprises extra special this past season: Kristen, Martha, Antoine, Dayna, Sebastian, Asia, A.Bo, Tusha, Sam, Darcy, James, Alana, Astor, Patrick, Ripley, Emily and Simone. You made for one memorable summer. We're so appreciative for the time that we spent together - having good conversations in the fresh air and doing work that feels worthwhile.

NEW TRADITIONS
While we relish the preparations of Thanksgiving dinner, there always seems to be a disconnect - it takes over 24 hours to prepare and less than 15 minutes to eat. We're looking to elongate our time around the table together, and Seth Godin's Thanksgiving Reader provides a great opportunity to do so.

A RESTORATIVE APPROACH TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON
'The Holidays' are officially upon on. We've been waiting as long as we can to concede, trying our best to ignore the fake snow-covered tree displays that have been up since Halloween (or earlier). 

We'd love to say that the holidays primarily signify the ability to take time in the kitchen and share nourishing meals with loved ones. But even the most mindful people can succumb to the cultural landslide of excess, consumption, and stress. 

We're reluctant to add another thing to your plate this holiday season, but we're hoping to provide an experience that can help realign the meaning of 'the holidays'. This season is so often marked on the outside by joy, togetherness, family, giving, food and fun, and on the inside can feel stressful, expensive, empty and even lonely. 

In celebration,

   Taylor & Dorothy
   Co-Founders, Good Food Jobs