Welcome

It's interesting to see where our choices in life take us. My journey so far doesn't fill me with regret, but the realization that I'm a little slow to understand the where I want to be and what I want to commit to as a future endeavor. Being a web writer was fulfilling, but in the end it prevents and even takes me away from the things I love the most: family and the outdoors.

I was raised on a farm in Upstate New York where I ran free through the fields, helped in my grandparent's enormous vegetable garden, made our own ice cream, climbed trees, canned our veggies and such. As I moved into adulthood, much of what I grew up with fell away, but I never forgot. And I never lost touch with nature as I continue to hike, bike and kayak.

But how to incorporate my love of the outdoors into a job? In short, the only way to achieve my dream is to start my own business. And with this blog, I'll be able to document my progress as each step I take in the next year will get me closer to become a farmer.

For now, I have picked the name "Tivoli Bay Farms." I grew up in the village of Tivoli that had a population of about 1,000 back in the day. The Bay is a wildlife management area that's nestled along the Hudson River Valley with hiking trails around the wetlands. I would sneak off there often for quiet or just make out with a boyfriend. Going there meant a chance to see or hear something new.

My ultimate goal is to own a few acres and sell organic herbs, create teas and other medicinal tinctures. It's a lofty attempt in this economy, but this isn't necessarily about the money. Well, let me rephrase that. This isn't about getting rich, it's about following something you love and not letting that chance pass you by.

So check back often. See what I'm learning and the misteps along the way, which I'm sure will be plenty.