For the last few weeks I feel as though I’ve been walking around with a boulder on my back. Money problems, deadlines and….well it’s mostly money problems and deadlines that have been bringing me down, but pepper in a little bit of stress over lack of time and insecurity about my future and you’ve pretty much got a case of the “free woman” blues. It’s the pits, right now. Is this how career independence is supposed to feel? I can’t let myself believe that this is how it will always be. I have to know that I can live the life that is right for me without having to spend 1/3 of my life as a cog in the wheel.
I’m kicking myself for possibly getting in over my head, thinking I could just cobble together a sustainable life on my own, but now I’m in the thick of it and I have no choice but to keep pushing forward. I can’t imagine going back to a normal job. I’d feel like I was merely puppet-ing my way through each day for little more than some spending cash in my pocket. Frankly, I’d rather be poor.
I’m having a hard time justifying the things that I’m doing these days. Yields across the board are pretty low because I have so little to work with. I’m speaking mostly of space to farm, but I suppose you could use that as a metaphor for other parts of my life. The only thing I feel really confident about is teaching. I enjoy sharing what I know with those who want to know. It’s a great exchange and I always leave classes feeling light.
I’m really fortunate that I’ve been able to teach workshops to make a little extra cash here and there. So, thank you to all the folks out there who have put their hard-earned cash and faith in my abilities. I won’t let you down.
I’ll never ask for a hand-out, but I will ask for a chance to earn my way. Please consider helping me carry on by signing up for any of the workshops or classes below or the ones I’m presently teaching at 3rd Ward or New York Botanical Gardens. You’ll be helping me to not only pay the rent, but to grow as an urban farmer and teacher. And, of course, you’ll learn something!
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(Me and the Catskills bees)
Online Urban Beekeeping 101- 1/22:
Learn the ins-and-outs of beekeeping from a city-dweller’s perspective. From honeybee anatomy and behavior to pests and diseases to honey harvesting, we’ll cover a full season of beekeeping from Spring through Winter so that you can feel confident starting your first beehive this year!
Growing Edible Mushrooms at Home- 2/12:
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to turn waste into delicious, meaty mushrooms. We’ll make mushroom logs from tree cuttings, grow oyster mushrooms in espresso grounds and discuss stem butt cultivation with salvaged burlap sacks! Students will take home a mushroom log of their own!
Backyard Homesteading Bootcamp- 4/7 (all day):
In this day long workshop, you’ll learn how to turn your small space into a functioning homestead. Learn gardening, composting, chicken and rabbit basics, beekeeping basics, diy home and body care, homebrewing and food preservation.
More workshops coming soon!
<3 Meg
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