The "Why" Behind The Patio Farmer

I feel like this is something I don't spend nearly enough time talking about so today, I want to share with you the "why" behind why I do what I do. To be honest, there are so many "why's" behind The Patio Farmer from having my hands in the soil, soaking up vitamin D during consultations, doing something different every day, being my own boss... so many perks! But the biggest reason I do what I do is sharing information with others to help develop a stronger connection to something greater than ourselves. People come to their food growing journey for many different reasons. Whether they're looking for a new hobby, wanting something to do as a family, inviting more sustainable practices to their home and life, or trying to stay grounded in our ever changing world. Maybe it's something else, and that's great too! My growing journey started with wanting to understand the food system. I did not grow up on a farm. I grew up in South Charlotte, in the suburbs, and I hated doing yard work chores on the weekend (isn't that right, Mom and Dad, hee hee). I have a BA in Spanish and Global Studies from Appalachian State University and an MA in Global Ethics & Human Values from King's College London. After graduation, I wanted to go into international food policy work. But all I had was a classroom education, no practical life experience. The philosopher in me knew this was not enough to effect true change, I needed to experience the food system. So, I started working on farms. I worked on farms in Iceland, Pennsylvania, Charlotte, and Waxhaw. I helped start a food system non-profit here in Charlotte and served on the Board of Directors for the Charlotte Mecklenburg Food Policy Council. Smack dab in the middle of all that, I started The Patio Farmer, to help people understand and experience HOW food is grown. The very practice of growing your own food can drive a greater appreciation for farmers, our food system, and how food shows up on our plates and in our bellies.

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