Garden Paths

Greetings again...

So, I've migrated yet again from sunny LA to the San Francisco Bay (I just couldn't resist the delicious rhyme)

Here I am, extending the olive branch for Urban Farming. While urban gardens are not new in the Bay area, we are really thrilled to be part of this movement. Since 2005, Urban Farming has been planting gardens on un-used land, roof tops, walls and spaces. We are now international and have over 600 gardens.

San Francisco has been a delightful challenge. Many people have pioneered urban gardens here. The biggest challenge is letting communities know that I am not expecting to storm in and take credit for the hard work of others. I represent a group of people who are serious about ending hunger in our generation. To achieve this goal, we have funding to give gardens to communities. Food for all.

With all of that said, I am grateful for this opportunity. About a month ago I faced two career paths: one was with an innovative clothing company, Moods of Norway breaking boundaries in Los Angeles. The other, Urban Farming; outreach to San Francisco and up the West Coast. So, I chose Urban Farming. Why?

Many reasons. One, I grew up on farm with a perennial nursery in my back yard. "Sustainable" "Green-waste" "Recycled" "Slow-Food" and "Local" have always been in my vocabulary. I hope these seemingly trendy actions continue to expand and reach the masses. I can think of nothing more amazing then to teach someone to garden, grow food and reap the harvest. Teach a man to fish...give a community a garden. This is philosophy that drives me.

August first, I found myself suddenly laid off, with no savings and no back up plan. While waiting to file for unemployment insurance (a bullet to my pride) I helped a man use the internet to search for jobs. I met people with children and families to support, conversed with people from all walks of life and made a decision. I was going to do something good. I hit the pavement with resumes, secured a new job and began volunteering with Urban Farming in Los Angeles.

Now, I'm here. Idealist as ever. Determined to help end hunger and uplift life for at least a few people. I am grateful for the warm welcome and assistance that the city has given me. This is only the beginning.

grow on.