This past week has been different for me here at ABC acres, signaling the nearing conclusion of my time here, and the coinciding reflection it brings. I told the Southwells my family and I were moving to Iowa to be close to family the beginning of March, and so I would be ending my time as farm manager and lead designer here in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley of Western Montana. Tim has since asked me to put together informational orientation materials for the new farm manager and any future interns and employees of the farm. Honestly, it has been nice being in the office this week, with wind chills in the -10 to -20 range outside! It has also given me the opportunity to pause a bit and be grateful for all I have learned and how I have grown during my time here at ABC acres. For anyone interested in taking over the farm manager role, you can find out more here: https://abcacres.com/abc-acres-seeks-immediate-new-hire-farm-manager/
I have been busily filming short how-to videos for the tractor and implements, mini-excavator, rocket mass heater, weedeater, and more, as well as beginning to write on animal care, and introduce all the various major projects we have taken on over the past 4 1/2 years, with the subsequent lessons from the successes and failures, as well as maintenance protocols to ensure this permaculture farm will continue to thrive in my absence. It gives me contentment and satisfaction knowing I can share some of the knowledge and wisdom gained through trial and error, triumphs and laughable debacles, and even small efficiencies developed through the everyday rhythms of the routine. Having put so much heart, sweat, and yes a little blood into this special place, I am glad to know I can have my last big project be empowering my successor to be set up for success. I will be cheering you on, whoever you are, to continue on the work I have helped start, and to share it with others with passion. Also, don’t break stuff: Tim doesn’t like that!
Blessings,
Grant
