Life on a farm is all about life and death. In the spring everything comes alive. Seeds sprout, plants start grow again, and babies are born or hatched. Life springs forth with the warmth of the springtime sun.
But sometimes death also comes with spring an unexpected cold snap takes the life of young seedlings before they have a chance to mature, plants burn up in an unusual early heat wave, and sometimes new babies don’t make it to adulthood.
Yesterday, I came home from work to find one of my newest hatchlings lying on its back, feet stretched out, and crying loudly.
Of course, I flipped it over scooped it up and cupped it in my hand. It looked frail and worn out.
Although, I raise chickens and ducks for eggs, meat, and sales I still have compassion for them, like any living being deserves. So I held it in my hand for a half an hour or so till it died. Warm, safe, and loved. I suppose the way we all would chose to leave this world.
Today, I was pleased to see how much my plant starts have grown in a week. New life bursting forth! Each seedling is identical to the other, planted at the same time, grown in the same environment, sprouted from the same species of plant. And yet each one grows, thrives, or dies in it’s own time.
Most have sprung forth in vigorous growth to which I am well pleased. Hopefully my planting efforts this year will be rewarded with delicious and life sustaining fruits to enjoy for my labor.
And as always, building a self-sustaining life is not easy, so I hope you find the inspiration and encouragement you need in this publication and these channels to begin your journey to a healthier and more beautiful self-sustaining life
With love,
The Upstate Gardener/Farmer
The Upstate Gardener 
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