My eyes open onto another day in Chimacum. I roll out of bed and gather my clothing for the day to come, as the birds chirp and the horses graze next door. I step out of my humble trailer onto the dewy grass and wet my shoes walking towards my bike. As I near the storage container, I reflect on my past couple of years and I keep coming back to a similar conclusion. I am fueled by the sun and the outdoors, and I should not deny myself this energy in my life! With these affirmations swirling through my thoughts, I put my best foot forward and head to the safe and friendly confines of Red Dog Farm to continue my agricultural journey.
            The tires start hitting the gravel road as I hop off the seat and get ready to dismount. The fields glean with progress and call to me as I pass, “morning, got a hard day ahead!”. The crew gathers as we have our morning meeting and set out our goals for the day and reflect on the work we have done from the previous week. I may be hyperbolic about the fields talking, but the conversation and culture of the crew is warming and makes showing up that much sweeter. It is great to be around people with a similar drive and appreciation for food. The care we have for each other is a great microcosm of how we at Red Dog Farm treat our produce. And though I have only been here for a month, the crew exudes attentiveness and care.
            Truck engines begin to roar as we set out for harvest. I set my feet into the soil and get my body ready for the hard work that dawns on the crew every day. With our hands dirty and our crates filled with produce we know we have done well. The sun gently reminds us of the passing time as we chatter the day away. I am here in Chimacum because I love farming. I feel like I have found a place where I am supported, a place where I can grow. Red Dog Farm is truly a magical place and I hope our produce reflects these values!

~Auster