Alright here I go again, singing praises of winter. I truly love it and although I am excited to grow for you again, I am not wishing for spring to come any faster. I know, I know I am an anomaly, but I find winter to be bright and crisp; comfort and kitty cat snuggles; full of quiet, reading, breath and space. Maybe it’s just my body needing restoration or maybe I am covertly lazy or maybe I need the balance of the winter brain work of planning or maybe I am just a snow bird. I do run hot and I like to sleep cold and beat the elements with cozy wool and outdoor activity. I hope you can find some joy in the “good parts” of winter — *see poem at bottom

Do you know a neighbor, friend or co-worker who could use a little help with groceries? With your $25 donation, we will buy healthy local food from our FarmDrop producers and discreetly deliver to the family (within Lisbon, or give to you for delivery). Currently we work with the Lisbon Area school guidance counselor for local families in need, but you can also let me know of individuals. You may purchase the donation through FarmDrop or write a check to “Little Ridge Farm Donations”. The box changes every time I pack, but they always include a dairy, eggs and vegetables. And often bread and meat.

Buying a “Maine Ag in the Classroom” license plate makes a difference! One of the many incredible programs it supports is “harvest of the month” where a vegetable or group of vegetables are highlighted. Participating schools then buy local produce and make school lunches using that vegetable. Last month was potatoes and this month is root veggies and I am proud to have served both Lisbon area school and Falmouth Schools with product. The program introduces new vegetables to students (like watermelon radishes!), educates them on their health benefits, and how they are grown and promotes buying local!

*FIELD GUIDE — BY TONY HOAGLAND

Once, in the cool blue middle of a lake,
up to my neck in that most precious element of all,
I found a pale-gray, curled-upwards pigeon feather
floating on the tension of the water
at the very instant when a dragonfly,
like a blue-green iridescent bobby pin,
hovered over it, then lit, and rested.
That’s all.
I mention this in the same way
that I fold the corner of a page
in certain library books,
so that the next reader will know
where to look for the good parts.