Here’s our story…

In a small, country town in SW Florida known for its cattle, orange trees, and cowboys, we are getting back to the simpler things in life.  We brush the roosters aside when we need to enter the post office or grocery store.

Residing on the bank of the Intracoastal Waterway, we enjoy the wonderful Florida wildlife on a daily basis.  We frequently see manatees, alligators, waterfowl, bald eagles, hawks, pelicans, herons, sandhill cranes, gopher tortoises, bobcats and too many others to list.

Although we live on almost 3 acres, we still have to abide by neighorhood convenants.  I don’t think we’re supposed to have horses, cows, goats and many other farm animals.  We’re probably not supposed to have ducks, but we do…only three. 

It’s our desire to raise our children outside (the way we grew up).  We want them to be able to recognize plants, fruits, vegetables, fish and the different sounds of the outdoors.  We certainly do not deny them the pleasures of modern technology, but we steer them to understand and participate in their natural environment as well.

Our family shares a love for gardening.  Even the toddler loves to pick plants from our garden and “serve” them to her friends.  The 8-year-old is the garden tour guide.  He’s proud of his work and loves to talk about it to anybody that shows an interest.  It’s important to us that our children learn as much as possible about the food they eat and its source (we hope that everybody  starts to question the food supply).

For my part, I have a profound love for all things Jamaican.  Their food, vibes, music, style and culture are a major influence on my lifestyle.  I have always been in awe of the wealth of knowledge that Jamaican children have about their foods.  I believe Jamaicans will never go hungry because they have “mad skillz”.  I want my children to have these mad skillz too.

I have traveled extensively around the world and lived in the Caribbean for half of my life.  I love the cuisine of every country I have visited…this definitely influences my tendency to grow food in my garden that might seem unusual to some.  When it comes to fruits, vegetables and grains from around the world, I embrace the different tastes and flavors.

There is so much to learn.

We invite you to come grow with us in mind and in spirit.