Nurture the Land, Nurture the Future: CSA Shares for 2026 Now Open

After a season of unusually warm days, the crisp winter air has finally settled in. The days are getting longer, the temperatures are dropping, and there's a certain quiet energy in the air—it's the kind of crispness that signals change is coming.

Though winter has arrived, our minds are already on the horizon, looking forward to the 2026 growing season. At Urban Green Harvest, the changing of seasons isn’t just about the weather—it’s about the cycles of life on the farm. From the stillness of winter to the energetic renewal of spring, the farm is always in motion. And while we enjoy the slow rhythm of the cold months, we are eagerly anticipating another year of planting, cultivating, and sharing our harvest with you.

That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that CSA shares for 2026 are now available!

CSA Shares for 2026: Fresh, Seasonal, and Local

Joining our CSA is about so much more than just receiving fresh produce each week. It’s about becoming part of a community—one that values local, sustainable farming, the changing seasons, and the connection between land and table.

Over the course of 18 weeks, you’ll receive a bounty of farm-fresh, seasonal produce, harvested directly from our farm in West Boise. Whether you’re a returning CSA member or a first-time participant, we are excited to share this year’s harvest with you.

Your CSA membership not only provides you with fresh veggies but also supports our Farm School program. By purchasing a share, you’re directly funding an educational initiative that connects local kids with the land, offering them hands-on, nature-based learning experiences outside the traditional classroom.

Through our Farm School, children aged 4 to 12 explore farming, engage in unstructured play, and develop a deep appreciation for nature. They care for animals, plant seeds, climb trees, and let their curiosity lead the way—all in a playful, outdoor environment. This approach is perfect for children who are homeschooled or for families seeking an alternative education. Our nature-based curriculum allows children to learn at their own pace through hands-on experiences. It’s a rich learning environment designed to support individual learning styles. We also offer drop-in optionsfor added flexibility, allowing families to join when it works best for their schedules.

Our students also participate in entrepreneurial education through the Farm School Summer Market Stand. They help run the market, selling produce they've grown and learning important business skills like teamwork, responsibility, and financial literacy.

By supporting our CSA, you're contributing to both sustainable farming and youth education. Your membership helps grow the next generation of farmers, entrepreneurs, and land stewards, while providing fresh, seasonal produce for your family. It’s an investment in a more sustainable future and in the children who will shape it.

Flexible Share Options: Pick What Works for You

We offer three share sizes to accommodate different household needs:

• Quarter Share: A smaller option for those new to CSA or lighter eaters who want a taste of seasonal produce.

• Half Share: Our most popular option! Perfect for individuals or couples who cook regularly and enjoy a variety of produce.

• Full Share: Ideal for families or avid home cooks who want a larger weekly selection to create diverse meals.

Each week, you’ll choose from a variety of seasonal vegetables, giving you the flexibility to stock up on your favorites and try something new. From spring greens to hearty fall root vegetables, we grow a diverse array to keep your meals fresh and exciting all season long.

Pickup at the Farm: More Than Just Produce

Picking up your share at our West Boise farm is an opportunity to connect with the land and see where your food comes from. During your weekly visit, you can meet the farmer, explore the fields, and witness the growing process firsthand.

This is also where our Farm School shines. Each week, our students engage with the farm—planting seeds, tending crops, and learning sustainable farming practices. Your CSA membership helps fund these educational opportunities, giving children the chance to learn through real-life experiences.

Embrace the Seasons: From Seed to Table

The beauty of a CSA lies in its connection to the seasons. Over the course of the 18-week season, you’ll experience the full spectrum of what the farm has to offer—early greens, summer tomatoes, beans, and squash, and hearty fall root vegetables. Every week brings a new selection of fresh, seasonal vegetables, keeping your meals exciting and your connection to the land strong.

Join Us for the 2026 Season

We’re excited to have you join us for the 2026 CSA season. Your membership not only provides you with fresh, seasonal produce but also supports our Farm School program, helping to create a richer, more sustainable future for both the land and the next generation.

Sign up today for your share and become part of a community that values local food, education, and the future of farming. Together, we can make a lasting impact—one season at a time.

The Simple Acts That Save Us—Reclaiming Joy in 2026

Every January, the world tells us to reinvent ourselves. Social media fills with flawless planners, color-coded routines, and endless resolutions promising a better, more perfect version of ourselves. “Love yourself,” it says. “Take care of yourself.” “Optimize your happiness.” And yet, despite all the effort, so many of us are still stressed, still overwhelmed, still disconnected. There is something exhausting about self-love when it is measured by checklists rather than lived experience.

Perhaps what we are missing is not self-love, but generosity—generosity directed with intention rather than obligation. Real generosity does not drain your cup; it fills it. It is noticing the opportunities that surround us every day: the moments to connect, to share, to simply be present. Your children, your partner, your neighbors—they are not obligations. They are part of your cup, sources of nourishment if you allow yourself to see them that way.

And connection often comes quietly. It does not require a planned activity, a structured game, or a performance of engagement. Sit with your children. Watch them play. Listen to their stories. Snuggle on the couch. Let them invite you into their world rather than the other way around. In these unhurried, unscripted moments, life reveals its richness—the kind of richness no schedule, no carefully orchestrated activity, no social media trend could ever create.

Generosity and presence extend to adults as well. When your spouse or partner is struggling, it is easy to respond with frustration or defensiveness. But generosity asks for something different: pause. Ask yourself what is happening beneath the surface—stress, overwhelm, fear—and how you can support them without sacrificing yourself. Offer patience, presence, and understanding, but recognize your limits. Healthy boundaries do not diminish your care; they define it. They allow you to help without absorbing their stress entirely, to hold space without being pulled under. By caring in a way that respects both your needs and theirs, you create a circle of connection that fills both cups. A partner who feels supported is a partner who can bring you peace in return.

Love, connection, and generosity are never about perfection. They are about showing up, over and over, in the messy, unpredictable moments of life. Civilization thrives on community, yet our culture too often teaches division in the name of love. Boundaries are necessary, yes—but love also involves patience, forgiveness, listening, and the courage to participate fully. It asks us to heal relationships where possible, to contribute rather than retreat, and to recognize that our presence matters.

There is also wisdom in stepping outside. Leave the phones behind. Walk together. Breathe. Move. Feel your body and notice the world around you. Forget the gym, the planned classes, the curated routines. The simplest moments—exploring a park, noticing the changing seasons, running your hands through the grass—are often the ones that leave the deepest marks. They cost nothing, yet they strengthen both body and spirit, while reminding us that connection is not only with people but with life itself.

Generosity extends beyond our immediate circle. We cannot wait for governments or institutions to solve the problems around us. Real care, real responsibility, belongs to each of us. Volunteer, serve, help. Even small gestures ripple outward: preparing a meal for someone in need, helping clean a park, or teaching a child to care for the world around them. These acts are not performances; they are expressions of attention, intention, and presence—the truest forms of generosity.

So this year, forget the resolutions that demand perfection. Forget the curated social media moments and the endless striving for optimization. Turn instead to what is real: messy, beautiful, alive. Notice the small opportunities to connect, to give, to share. Rediscover your children and family not as obligations, but as companions who fill your cup. Step outside, cook together, volunteer together, and love with intention.

Life is not a checklist. It is a network of relationships, moments, and experiences that demand presence and attention. Generosity restores. Love unites. Boundaries protect. Connection heals. And in embracing real life—without filters, without perfection—we discover a richness and fullness that no resolution could ever deliver.

Part 3 — A Christmas of Kindness and Generosity: Giving Without Commercial Pressure

When Christmas is rooted in faith rather than frenzy, generosity begins to flow naturally. Not the pressured kind fueled by ads and expectations—but the quiet, joyful kind that comes from a full heart.

This is the Christmas that looks outward.

When we step away from the noise of consumption, we make space to notice others. We become more aware of need, more sensitive to loneliness, more willing to give—not because we have to, but because love compels us.

Generosity as the Antidote to Commercialization

Commercial Christmas tells us that more spending equals more love. A faith-rooted Christmas tells a very different story: love multiplies when it is given freely.

Generosity doesn’t require excess. In fact, it often flourishes best in simplicity. When gifts are no longer about proving worth or meeting expectations, they become expressions of care, presence, and intention.

Simple Ways Families Can Practice Charity

Acts of kindness don’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful. Small, thoughtful gestures often carry the greatest impact—especially when done together as a family.

Some simple practices:

• Preparing a meal or baked goods for a neighbor who is overwhelmed or alone

• Creating care packages for those in need—warm socks, food, handwritten notes

• Visiting elderly relatives, neighbors, or community members who may feel forgotten

• Offering time and skills: helping with childcare, yard work, errands, or listening

These moments teach children something powerful: generosity is not seasonal, and it doesn’t require wealth—only willingness.

Rethinking Gifts

When we release ourselves from commercial pressure, gift-giving becomes creative and personal again.

Meaningful alternatives include:

• Handmade gifts created with time and care

• Experience-based gifts like shared outings, lessons, or projects

• Letters, blessings, or prayers—words that endure far longer than objects

• Simple, thoughtful wrapping that reflects care rather than excess

These gifts carry stories. They say, I see you. I know you. You matter to me.

Teaching Children That Christmas Is About Giving

Children learn what we model. When they see generosity practiced joyfully—without recognition or reward—they begin to understand that Christmas is not about what they receive, but who they become.

Involving children in acts of service helps them experience:

• Empathy and compassion

• Gratitude for what they have

• The fulfillment that comes from helping others

These lessons stay with them far beyond the holiday season.

How Small Acts Transform Communities

Kindness is contagious. One small act can ripple outward—lifting spirits, restoring hope, softening hearts. Communities are changed not by grand gestures, but by consistent, quiet care.

Often, the most transformative acts are the ones no one sees.

The Joy of Unnoticed Service

There is a deep, steady joy found in giving without applause. When service is done for love alone, it frees the soul. It aligns us with the heart of Christmas—the gift given humbly, quietly, and fully.

This kind of joy doesn’t fade when the decorations come down. It lingers. It grows.

And it reminds us that the truest celebration of Christmas is not found in what we buy, but in how we love.

Part 2 — Living Slowly in December: Simple Crafts, Slow Routines, Slow Cooking, and Home Rituals (The how)

We’re already halfway through December, and for many families this is the point where things start to feel full—work schedules stack up, school events multiply, evenings get busy, and weekends disappear faster than we expect.

If this season has been moving quicker than you hoped, take heart:
you haven’t missed your chance to slow down.
You can begin right here, in the middle of it all, with small choices that shift the atmosphere of your home.

This isn’t about having long stretches of free time—most families don’t.
It’s about creating pockets of slowness that fit into real life.

Simple Ways to Slow Down During the Week

Even with work, school, and obligations, small rituals can bring calm into ordinary evenings.

Try:

• Ten minutes of quiet with the lights low

• Reading one short story after dinner

• Lighting a single candle while everyone winds down

• A short walk after school or work, just around the block

• Saying no to one extra thing so you can say yes to breathing room

Slowness isn’t measured in hours—it’s measured in presence.

Simple, Handmade Traditions for Busy Evenings or Weekends

Handmade doesn’t have to mean complicated.
These projects are doable in short windows—after school, after dinner, or on a free Saturday morning.

• Paper Stars

Quiet, calming to make, and beautiful taped to windows.

• Dried Citrus Garlands

Bake a sheet of oranges while you’re making dinner. String them another night.

• Gathered-Branch Wreaths

Pick up a few branches on a weekend walk and bend them into a circle.

• Salt Dough Ornaments

Mix, cut, and bake in under an hour. Paint on another day.

• Beeswax Candle Rolling

No melting, no mess—perfect for tired weeknights.

These crafts create moments of connection without requiring hours of time or planning.

Slow Cooking That Fits Into Work-Life Rhythms

Slow food doesn’t always mean long cooking times—it means creating warmth and connection around meals you’re already making.

Try:

• Stews or soups you can start in the evening or toss into a slow cooker in the morning

• Fresh bread on the weekend—or bakery bread warmed in the oven

• Hot chocolate or tea after school/work

• Cooking one thing “together”—even small tasks like stirring or sprinkling cheese

• Family recipes that tell a story

It’s not about gourmet meals.
It’s about creating a table that feels like a pause in the day.

Daily Rituals for a Home That Feels Calmer (Even When Life Is Busy)

These rituals require almost no time, no prep, and no pressure—just intention.

• Light a candle during dinner

• Read one short Advent verse before bed

• Turn off overhead lights and use lamps or twinkle lights

• Choose one simple corner to decorate: greens, a candle, a nativity

• End the day with gratitude, one sentence from each person

These small practices shift the whole tone of the home.

A December That Feels Like Home

Being halfway through the month doesn’t mean you’re behind.
It simply means now is the perfect moment to reset—to remember that the beauty of Christmas isn’t found in efficiency, productivity, or a packed calendar. It’s found in presence. In noticing. In a few unhurried moments shared with the people you love.

Even if you only have:

• ten minutes in the evening

• half an hour on the weekend

• a single afternoon free

You can choose slowness.
You can choose peace.
You can choose a gentler Christmas, starting right now.

In Part 3, we’ll talk about how this slower, quieter way of living naturally overflows into kindness, generosity, and simple acts of service.

Part 1: Christmas, Uncluttered

December always seems to arrive faster than we expect, and when it does, it rarely comes quietly. Almost overnight and even several months early, the world erupts in color and noise. Store aisles swell with overflowing displays, calendars fill with obligations, and the pressure to “make the season magical” hangs in the air like a command. Everywhere we turn, someone is selling us a new must-have or a better way to celebrate.

But somewhere beneath all that glitter, a quieter invitation remains.
Christmas, at its core, is not loud.
It is not hurried.
It is not about accumulation, comparison, or performance.

It is a story that begins in simplicity — God arriving in the stillness of night, in a small town, in a borrowed stable. There were no dazzling lights, no designer gifts, no perfect Pinterest-worthy moments. Just humility. Just presence. Just love.

This is the heart of a simple Christmas. And it’s still available to us, if we’re willing to step out of the noise and return to what matters most.

Minimalism: Making Space for What Matters

Minimalism in December isn’t about having less for the sake of less. It’s about making room — room for quiet, room for connection, room for God. When the world tries to convince us that celebration requires excess, minimalism gently reminds us that clarity often comes from subtraction.

A minimalist approach to Christmas might look like:

• Choosing a handful of meaningful decorations instead of boxes full

• Creating one peaceful corner in your home instead of filling every shelf

• Simplifying traditions to the ones that actually bring joy

• Allowing your schedule to breathe instead of cramming every minute with activity

When we remove what distracts, the season’s beauty sharpens.
Peace becomes something you can feel.
Joy becomes something you can hear again.

Minimalism is not anti-Christmas.
It simply makes space for the Christmas we’ve been missing.

Returning to the Center: Letting Faith Lead Again

It is surprisingly easy to celebrate Christmas without ever touching its meaning.

We can decorate, bake, buy, host, wrap, and plan with a frenzy that blocks out the very One we are meant to celebrate. But when faith leads — when we pause long enough to remember who came and why — the season transforms.

A faith-centered Christmas reorders the heart.
It draws us away from hurry and into wonder.
Away from comparison and into gratitude.
Away from consumption and into presence.

Slow down long enough to imagine the manger:
a cold night, an exhausted teenage mother, a quiet miracle wrapped in cloth. Nothing in that moment was impressive or orchestrated, and yet it changed the world.

A simple, faith-rooted Christmas still has that power to change the world in the small space of a home, a family, a heart.

Slowing Down to See Again

If commercialization has stolen anything from us, it is our capacity to notice. To see the way candles glow against the dark. To savor warm meals shared slowly. To listen to our children’s laughter. To feel God’s nearness in the quiet moments between tasks.

Slowing down is a spiritual posture — a way of living open enough to receive what the season offers.

Practical ways to slow your December:

• Leave blank space on your calendar

• Cut one tradition that stresses you

• Add one moment of quiet reflection to your day

• Walk outside without rushing

• Let evenings be soft and unhurried

• Choose presence over performance, every time

When we live slowly, December stops feeling like a storm and starts feeling like a sanctuary.

🎄A Christmas You Don’t Have to Chase

The truth is, we don’t need to “create magic.”
Christmas is already holy.
Already beautiful.
Already full.

We simply need to unclutter our lives enough to receive it.

A simple Christmas is not a lesser Christmas.
It is a truer one.

In this gentler way of celebrating — with minimalism, faith, and slowness as our guide — we rediscover what we were longing for all along: peace that settles deeply, joy that lingers, and a season that fills rather than drains.

This is the gift of a Christmas lived intentionally.
This is the beginning of a gentler December.

How Farming Practices Shape the Food We Eat 🌱

When we think “food as medicine,” we often imagine vitamins, balanced diets, maybe even supplements. But as Daphne Miller argues in Farmacology, the real medicine begins much further back — at the soil itself. The way a farm is managed, from seed to soil to stewardship of animals and land, deeply influences the nutritional and healing potential of the food it produces.

Soil Quality: The Foundation of Nutrient‑Dense Food

Healthy, living soil isn’t just dirt — it’s a vibrant ecosystem teeming with microbial life. This microbial community helps cycle nutrients, enabling plants to absorb minerals, produce phytochemicals, and grow with resilience.

Farms that prioritize regenerative practices — such as minimal tilling (or no‑till), use of compost and green manure, crop diversity and rotation, and avoidance of heavy chemical fertilizers — tend to maintain or rebuild that soil vitality. Studies comparing regenerative farms to conventional ones found that regenerative soils often have significantly more organic matter — which correlates with higher levels of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial phytochemicals in their crops.

In practical terms: plants grown in “living soil” tend to be more nutrient‑dense, flavorful, and potentially more beneficial for our health than those grown in stripped, chemically-dependent soils.

Crop Diversity, Livestock Care & Sustainable Farming

But soil is only part of the story. Miller’s journeys — visiting vegetable farms, pasture‑based livestock farms, and even urban farms — show how thoughtful farming practices extend beyond the ground.

• Crop diversity: Rather than monoculture, growing a variety of crops (or rotating them) helps sustain soil health, breaks pest/disease cycles, and allows different plants to draw different nutrients from the soil. This can lead to a more balanced, nutrient-rich food output.

• Livestock care / pasture‑based farming: Animals raised on pasture and managed holistically add value back to the land through natural manure, grazing patterns that mimic ecological cycles, and balanced ecosystems that support soil life. As Miller notes, the health of the animal — and by extension the food it produces — reflects the health of the land it lives on.

• Sustainable/holistic methods: Avoiding synthetic pesticides/fertilizers, using compost or biofertilizers, rotating crops, and nurturing soil microbes — all these reduce soil degradation and support a cycle of renewal, rather than depletion.

In short: when farms steward the land with care, we get food that’s not only abundant, but truly nourishing.

The Farm School in Action: Farm‑to‑Table, From Soil to Plate

That’s why we love integrating these ideas into our farm school. Our students don’t just learn about nutrition or cooking — they see farm‑to‑table in real time. They help plant seeds in rich soil, tend compost piles to build soil life, harvest vegetables, and care for animals in humane, pasture‑based systems.

By engaging in planting, composting, harvesting, and animal care, students experience firsthand how what happens underground — in soil — affects what ends up on their plates. They witness the full cycle: soil → plant → table → nourishment.

This hands‑on experience cultivates respect — for the land, the food, and the community that shares it. It transforms “Where does food come from?” from an abstract question into a lived, meaningful reality.

Connecting to Weston A. Price’s Legacy

Miller’s message echoes truths long championed by Weston A. Price and those who followed him: high‑quality, nutrient‑dense foods are not simply a product of clean recipes — they’re the result of deeply intentional farming practices, traditional preparation methods, and a respect for the land. Weston A. Price Foundation+1

When soil is treated as a living ecosystem — not an inert medium to be exploited — and when farmers prioritize the health of soil, animals, and plants, the resulting food nourishes our bodies more completely. Traditional preparation methods (fermentation, slow cooking, minimal processing) can further preserve and unlock the full potential of those nutrients.

In other words: good farming + thoughtful preparation = food that nourishes body and soil.

Practical Tips for Families: Bringing Soil, Food & Cooking Home

You don’t need a big farm to benefit from these ideas. Here are simple ways families can start connecting with soil, food, and health at home:

1. Start a small garden, even in containers or raised beds. Use compost or composted manure to enrich soil rather than relying on chemical fertilizers. Even a few herbs or veggies can foster connection to the soil.

2. Compost kitchen scraps. Vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells — all make great compost. Composting helps build soil life, even if you’re only gardening on a small scale.

3. Choose produce from local, sustainable/regenerative farms when possible. If there’s a farmers’ market, farm‑stand or CSA nearby, prioritizing farms that use regenerative or organic methods can help give you more nutrient‑dense, flavorful food.

4. Cook from scratch and use traditional preparation methods. Simple, home‑cooked meals — especially when using whole foods — tend to preserve more nutrients than heavily processed items.

5. Teach children where food comes from. Even if you don’t garden, talking with kids about how soil, sun, rain, and care contribute to the food on their plate can deepen their respect for food and nature.

Why It Matters — Beyond Nutrition

As Farmacology makes clear, this way of farming and eating isn’t just about vitamins or minerals. It’s about relationships — to the soil, to the land, to our communities, and to our own bodies. When we care for the earth, we also care for our health. When we treat food as more than fuel — but as nourishment that honors the living land — we participate in a cycle of healing, regeneration, and respect.

That perspective can shape not only what we eat, but how we live, how we teach our children, and how we view our role as stewards — of our health, our community, and the Earth.

Why Traditional Diets Supported Strong, Healthy Children — and What Modern Nutrition Often Misses

A Deep Dive Into the Principles Behind the Weston A. Price Framework

For generations, parents across the world raised strong, resilient, healthy children without multivitamins, fortified cereals, or modern nutritional theories. What they did have were nutrient-dense, whole foods and deeply rooted food traditions that supported childhood development in every possible way.

Nearly a century ago, Dr. Weston A. Price, a dentist and researcher, set out to understand why children in some traditional communities had broad faces, straight teeth, strong immune systems, and remarkable overall vitality — while children in industrialized cities were developing cavities, chronic illnesses, and compromised development at dramatically higher rates.

His work, once observational, is now strongly supported by biochemistry, nutritional science, and microbiome research. And while traditional diets varied enormously — from seafood-rich island cultures to alpine dairy communities to grain-based agrarian villages — the core principles were almost identical across the world.

Today’s post explains those principles.

1. Fat-Soluble Vitamins: The Cornerstone of Development

Across cultures, the healthiest children consumed foods rich in Vitamins A, D, and K2 — nutrients now understood to be essential for:

• bone formation

• dental development

• immune regulation

• hormone balance

• neurological and cognitive growth

These vitamins work in concert to direct minerals like calcium and phosphorus into bones and teeth where they belong. Without them, children may absorb minerals poorly, leading to structural and developmental challenges.

Modern challenge:
Fat-soluble vitamin intake has plummeted due to low-fat diets, processed foods, and farming practices that reduce nutrient density.

Traditional solution:
Egg yolks, organ meats, butter, raw or lightly processed dairy, shellfish, and fermented foods — all naturally dense in A, D, and K2.

2. Traditional Fats Support the Brain, Hormones & Nervous System

Traditional cultures consistently relied on natural fats: butter, tallow, lard, coconut oil, seafood fats, nuts, seeds, and olive oil.

Modern science confirms these fats provide:

• cholesterol for hormone production

• fatty acids that build brain and nerve tissue

• steady energy for children’s high metabolic needs

• stabilized blood sugar and mood

Modern challenge:
Industrial seed oils (canola, soybean, corn) now dominate diets. These oils oxidize easily, creating inflammation and oxidative stress — a concern for developing bodies.

Traditional solution:
Stable, natural fats that nourish rather than stress the system.

3. Fermented & Cultured Foods Build a Resilient Microbiome

Traditional diets universally included fermentation:

• yogurt and kefir

• sauerkraut and fermented vegetables

• sourdough

• fermented fish and meats

• miso, tempeh, and other cultured foods

Fermentation predigests food, increases nutrient availability, and introduces beneficial bacteria.

Modern science reveals:
A healthy microbiome influences:

• immune function

• digestion

• emotional regulation

• stress response

• attention and cognitive development

Modern challenge:
Pasteurization, sterilization, antibiotics, and processed foods leave many children with poor bacterial diversity.

Traditional solution:
Regular intake of live, fermented foods.

4. Raw & Minimally Processed Foods Preserve Nutrients and Enzymes

Traditional cultures ate many foods in their raw or minimally processed forms:

• fresh milk

• raw or lightly cooked vegetables

• fermented dairy

• sprouted or soaked grains

• fresh fruits

• meats cooked gently over low heat

These foods contain enzymes, probiotics, and biologically active compounds often destroyed by modern processing and high-heat methods.

Modern challenge:
Ultraprocessed foods are calorie-rich but nutrient-poor, contributing to hidden deficiencies.

Traditional solution:
Foods close to their natural state, where nutrients remain intact and bioavailable.

5. Properly Prepared Grains & Legumes Enhance Digestion and Nutrition

Traditional cultures never consumed grains the way most people do today. Instead, they:

• soaked

• sprouted

• fermented (e.g., sourdough)

• paired grains with fats or fermented foods

This reduces phytic acid — a natural compound that blocks mineral absorption — while increasing B-vitamins and improving digestibility.

Modern challenge:
Quick-rise breads and unsoaked grains can be difficult for children’s digestive systems and may lead to mineral imbalances.

Traditional solution:
Methods that turn grains into nutrient-rich, gut-friendly foods.

6. Whole-Animal Nutrition Provides a Full Spectrum of Essential Nutrients

Traditional diets used the entire animal:

• organ meats

• bones (broths, soups, stews)

• skin

• fat

• connective tissue

• eggs

These foods supply nutrients that muscle meat alone cannot provide, including:

• iron and B12

• collagen and glycine

• choline

• fat-soluble vitamins

• minerals stored in bones

Modern challenge:
Children often eat only muscle meat, missing the nutrient diversity required for optimal development.

Traditional solution:
Balanced, whole-animal nutrition.

7. Seasonal and Local Food Patterns Provide Natural Nutrient Cycles

Traditional communities ate what was available in each season:

• bright, hydrating foods in summer

• grounding, nutrient-dense foods in winter

• preserved and fermented foods during cold months

• high-fat and high-mineral foods during growth seasons

Seasonal eating aligns with circadian rhythms, metabolic cycles, and microbiome diversity.

Modern challenge:
Year-round access to the same foods can flatten natural nutrient variation.

Traditional solution:
Seasonality supports physical and emotional well-being.

8. Universal Patterns Despite Vastly Different Diets

Perhaps the most remarkable finding in Dr. Price’s research was this:

Traditional diets looked wildly different from one another — yet the foundational principles were almost identical.

Inuit children thrived on marine fats and fish.
Swiss alpine children thrived on raw dairy and sourdough rye.
Polynesian children thrived on tropical plants, fruits, and seafood.
African cattle-herding communities thrived on milk, blood, and root vegetables.

The common thread was not what they ate, but how they nourished themselves:
whole foods, traditional fats, nutrient density, fermentation, proper preparation, and respect for the nutritional needs of growing children.

Conclusion: A Nutritional Blueprint for Resilient, Healthy Children

The Weston A. Price principles offer a timeless, science-backed framework for nourishing children:

• nutrient-dense foods

• traditional preparation methods

• natural fats

• fermented foods

• bioavailable minerals

• seasonal rhythms

• microbiome diversity

These principles help explain why children in traditional communities showed such remarkable physical and emotional resilience — and why so many modern children struggle with deficiencies, sensitivities, and imbalances.

By understanding the nutritional patterns that supported healthy societies for generations, families can make informed, science-aligned choices that support their children’s long-term wellbeing.

How Food Shapes the Whole Child

The Farm-to-Child Connection: Growing Food, Skills, and Whole-Body Health

At our city farm and farm school, food is naturally woven into everything we do because it’s part of daily farm life. Growing vegetables, caring for animals, harvesting herbs, preparing meals, and sharing food are simply the rhythms of our days. Nothing is added or staged; the children step into real, meaningful work every time they’re here.

Our belief in healthy soil and nutrient-dense food shows up everywhere on the farm — in the way we compost, plant, harvest, cook, and eat together. And because our school exists within the farm, these values flow directly into the children’s experiences. When food is raised in healthy soil and prepared traditionally and simply, it supports the whole child — their energy, attention, mood, sleep, digestion, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

This is the heart of our farm and our school: healthy soil, healthy food, healthy children.

-Food Shapes How We Feel

Most adults know the feeling of being tired after a sugary breakfast or foggy after skipping lunch. Children feel these things too — often with even more intensity.

We see it every day on the farm and at the table:

• Nourishing foods help children stay focused.

• Steady energy comes from deeply nourishing meals.

• Fermented and cultured foods support calmer digestion.

• Healthy fats support emotional regulation.

• Protein supports balanced moods and resilience.

• Real food supports better sleep and calmer bodies.

• Children behave differently when they are nourished deeply.

When children eat food that’s fresh, familiar, and grown right beneath their feet, their bodies can relax into learning and exploring. Their nervous systems settle. Their curiosity opens. Their behavior smooths out.

This is why real farm food matters — not because it’s a lesson, but because it’s life here.

-Positive Food Experiences Start Early

Children become comfortable and confident with real food when:

• they see ingredients growing in the soil

• they help harvest vegetables and gather eggs

• they prepare meals with their own hands

• they touch, taste, smell, and work with whole ingredients

• they knead dough, chop herbs, and shake cream into butter

• they feel proud of the food they helped create

These early experiences build:

• openness to trying nourishing foods

• familiarity with real ingredients

• confidence in preparing simple meals

• a lifelong relationship with real, deeply nourishing food

In a world filled with processed options and rushed meals, these grounded, hands-on moments are deeply protective.

-Introducing Weston A. Price and Farmacology

These two frameworks quietly guide how we grow, prepare, and share food on the farm — even if we don’t teach them explicitly to the children.

Weston A. Price helps us understand what nourished children have eaten for centuries: whole milk, butter, broth, eggs, fermented foods, sourdough, fresh vegetables, slow-prepared grains, and other simple, nutrient-dense ingredients. These foods naturally support:

• brain and nervous system development

• strong bones and healthy teeth

• steady moods and emotional balance

• immune strength

• restful sleep

• stable, sustained energy

• long-term protection against chronic disease

Farmacology: Total Health from the Ground Up by Daphne Miller, MD reminds us that nutrition begins long before a meal is prepared — it begins in the soil. Healthy soil grows healthier plants, healthier plants feed healthier animals, and healthier foods nourish healthier children.

Children who participate in growing their own food gain not only nourishment, but lifelong habits and skills.

Together, these ideas help us nurture whole-child wellness through the natural rhythms of farm life.

-What’s Coming Next

Over the next two blog posts, we’ll explore each side of this whole-child relationship with real food more deeply.

Post 2:
Nourishing Kids the Weston A. Price Way
How nutrient-dense foods support behavior, mood, immunity, growth, sleep, and energy.

Post 3:
How Soil Health Becomes Child Health
How regenerative farming, soil care, composting, and hands-on gardening support children’s physical and emotional wellbeing.

We’re excited to share our approach with you — cultivating nourishing food, essential skills, and healthy, happy children every day.

The Dirt on Wellness: What Gardening Really Does for Kids and Adults

We often think of gardening as a relaxing hobby or a way to grow fresh food. But decades of research shows it’s much more than that — especially for children. Spending time in the garden and working with soil has measurable physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits for people of all ages.

Let’s start with the soil itself.

Healthy soil is alive with microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, protozoa — that support life above ground and below. One of those microbes, Mycobacterium vaccae, is naturally found in dirt and has been shown to increase serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is the chemical that helps regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and support feelings of well-being. Simply digging, planting, or walking barefoot in the garden introduces these microbes to our systems — helping to boost both mood and immune health.

For kids, this matters a lot. Their bodies are still developing, and exposure to soil microbes helps build stronger immune systems. This is especially important in today’s indoor, sanitized world where many children aren’t getting the same exposure to the natural environment that previous generations did. Playing in the dirt isn’t just okay — it’s healthy.

Gardening also supports healthy movement.

Tending a garden involves digging, lifting, carrying, pulling, and squatting. These movements strengthen muscles, improve balance, and develop coordination. For children, it supports gross and fine motor development. For adults, it’s a natural way to stay active — especially for those who don’t enjoy traditional exercise.

There’s also the stress factor.
Time in the garden — even just 30 minutes — can lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and calm the nervous system. The combination of fresh air, natural light, and sensory input (smelling herbs, feeling textures, hearing birds and bees) helps settle an overstimulated brain. Children, in particular, show improved focus and reduced signs of anxiety and behavioral challenges after time in a garden setting.

And then there’s the brain.
Gardening supports cognitive development. Kids learn sequencing (what to plant when), patience (watching something grow over time), and responsibility (daily watering and care). They also begin to understand natural systems — how soil, water, sun, and pollinators work together. This hands-on learning improves memory, problem-solving, and observation skills.

Adults benefit, too. Gardening gives us something to nurture and care for, often offering a sense of accomplishment and purpose that’s hard to find in screen-based or sedentary routines.

Food from the garden teaches something different.
When kids grow it, they’re more likely to eat it — even vegetables. Research has shown that children involved in growing fruits and vegetables are more willing to try new foods and are more aware of where food comes from. They build a connection to food that supports healthy habits for life.

In short:

• Gardening supports physical health, immune strength, and mood

• Soil microbes help reduce anxiety and support serotonin production

• Children develop motor skills, focus, patience, and confidence

• Adults gain relaxation, mindfulness, and low-impact exercise

• Everyone benefits from time outdoors, sensory engagement, and the joy of growing something real

You don’t need a full backyard to experience these benefits. A few pots, a raised bed, or a community garden plot can be enough. What matters most is consistency — and the opportunity for kids and adults alike to engage with something alive and growing.

Whether you’re a child discovering how a seed turns into a tomato, or an adult finding calm at the end of a long day, the garden offers something simple and lasting: nourishment for body and mind.

The Sacred Pause: Parenting Without the Rush

It’s easy to forget how much life changes when we simply pause.

Not the dramatic kind of pause — not a weekend retreat, not a big lifestyle overhaul — but a breath. A quiet moment before reacting. A beat before answering. A slowness woven into the everyday rhythm of raising and working with children.

We live in a culture that rewards quickness: quick responses, quick fixes, quick growth. But children aren’t built for speed. Neither is real connection.

At the farm, I watch children move at a different pace. They crouch in the dirt for ten minutes to watch a worm wiggle back into the soil. They take six tries to pull up a stubborn carrot. They repeat the same story three times before getting to the part that matters most. And when we rush them, we miss the whole point — their process. Their way of learning, discovering, expressing, becoming. We miss the chance to see how capable they really are when given time and space.
My role is not to hurry that process, but to hold space for it — to protect it, trust it, and let it unfold.

The sacred pause in parenting (and caregiving) isn’t about being passive — it’s an intentional slowness that says: I’m here. I see you. I don’t need to control this moment.

What the sacred pause looks like:

• Waiting quietly while a child searches for the right words

• Breathing before reacting to a meltdown

• Slowing your walk so little legs can keep up

• Not rushing through a goodbye, a hello, a question

• Pausing before saying “no” — to check if there’s a real reason, or if you can offer a “yes” instead

• Letting a child solve a problem you could fix faster

It’s also about pausing internally — noticing your own stress rise and choosing not to pass it on. That’s not always easy. Sometimes we rush because we’re tired, overwhelmed, or caught in our own inner clock. But on the days we can pause, everything softens. The atmosphere changes. And the child in front of us responds to that shift — not to our words, but to our energy.

What the Pause Does for Us

The pause gives us space — space to breathe, to notice, and to respond rather than react. It slows the rush of emotions and thoughts, helping us move from tension toward calm. In that stillness, we can see more clearly: the child’s needs, our own feelings, and the situation as it really is.

The pause reconnects us with presence. It invites patience and compassion. It breaks the cycle of stress and hurry, opening the door to understanding and deeper connection. When we pause, we’re choosing awareness over autopilot — and that choice transforms not just the moment, but the relationship itself.

Whether we’re guiding toddlers, teens, or even our adult children, there’s power in slowing down. The pause reminds us that the relationship comes first. That presence often matters more than productivity. That connection lasts longer than correction. And that sometimes, when we pause before saying “no,” we find space for a “yes” — or a creative compromise.

So today, maybe just once, try it out—.

Pause before the reaction.
Pause before the rush.
Pause before the “no.”

And let the moment unfold on its own.

You might be surprised what grows in that stillness.

We’d love to hear from you:

What’s one moment recently when you chose to pause instead of rush—and how did it change the experience for you or your child? Please share your stories or thoughts in the comments below. Your experiences might inspire someone else to try the sacred pause today.

Savoring July’s Harvest: Delicious Zucchini, Squash & Beets

Wild & Rooted: What We're Harvesting in July – Zucchini, Squash & Beets

It’s midsummer, and the farm is humming with life. The sun is high, the soil is warm, and the kids are bringing in baskets full of vibrant zucchini, golden squash, and deep red beets. These vegetables aren’t just beautiful—they’re brimming with nourishment and possibility.

This time of year invites creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking with little ones or just trying to use up a bumper crop, here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate what we’re harvesting now.

Zucchini & Summer Squash: Gentle, Nourishing, and So Versatile

Zucchini and squash are packed with hydration, fiber, and vitamins A and C. Their mild flavor makes them a perfect base for all kinds of meals—and a gentle way to introduce fresh vegetables to kids.

Try this:

• Zucchini Fritters – Grate, squeeze, mix with eggs, garlic, herbs, and a spoonful of flour. Pan-fry until golden. Serve with yogurt or sour cream for dipping.

• “Squoodles” – Spiralized squash tossed lightly with olive oil, lemon, and garlic for a light, pasta-like base.

• Mini Zucchini Pizzas – Slice into thick rounds, top with sauce and cheese, and let kids customize their own before baking.

Beets: Sweet, Earthy & Full of Surprises

Beets are nutrient powerhouses—rich in folate, iron, and natural nitrates that support energy and blood flow. Their deep color and subtle sweetness make them fun to work with, especially in unexpected ways.

Try this:

• Beet Brownies – Roasted and pureed beets folded into dark chocolate brownie batter = rich, fudgy goodness with a boost of fiber and minerals.

• Beet Smoothie with Raw Milk – Blend beet with frozen banana, strawberries, and raw milk for a creamy, naturally sweet smoothie. It’s a favorite around here—we call it Unicorn Fuel.

• Quick Pickled Beets – Thinly slice and soak in apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices. A tangy snack or salad topper that even beet skeptics might love.

🧁 For the Kids: Taste, Touch & Play

When kids help grow and prepare their food, they’re more likely to try it—and enjoy it. Cooking becomes a sensory experience: the crunch of a raw squash slice, the swirl of pink in a smoothie, the satisfaction of stirring, sprinkling, and tasting.

Here are some simple, hands-on ways to invite them in:

• Beet Cupcake Decorating – Use beets to color naturally sweet cupcakes. Set up a decorating station with coconut, sunflower seeds, or dried fruit.

• Zucchini Boats – Halve and hollow, then let kids fill with cheese, beans, or sauce before baking. Add a flag on a toothpick for extra fun.

• Veggie Stamping – Slice beets or squash and use them with food-safe paint for garden-inspired art.

• Frozen Squash Pops – Blend cooked yellow squash with pineapple juice and banana, pour into molds, and freeze for a refreshing, hidden-veggie treat.

• Rainbow Jar Salads – Layer shredded beets, carrots, and greens in a mason jar. Let kids shake it all up at mealtime.

Rooted in Season, Rooted in Story

This is what we’re about: connecting kids (and grownups) to the seasons, to the soil, and to the food on their plate. These quiet, ordinary moments—picking squash, mixing batter, watching a beet stain their fingers—are where lifelong learning and love for real food take root.

Thanks for being on this journey with us. May your table be full of color, your fridge full of ideas, and your summer full of flavor.

We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite way to enjoy zucchini, squash, or beets? Share your go-to recipes or creative ideas in the comments below!

Stay wild & rooted.

Celebrating Our Nation’s Birthday: Reflecting on Freedom, Sacrifice, and Connection🇺🇸✨

Each year on the 4th of July, we celebrate the birth of our nation—a day that marks the courageous stand of those who fought for the freedoms we now hold dear. It is a powerful reminder that the United States was founded on principles of liberty, justice, and self-governance, earned through sacrifice, perseverance, and a shared vision of a better future.

The story of America’s founding is one of resilience—a testament to the determination of individuals who believed deeply in the right to live free from oppression and to shape their own destiny. Their courage laid the groundwork for a nation where freedom is not simply given but must be protected and nurtured by each generation.

Strength in Faith, Family, and Community

The freedoms we celebrate on this day are rooted in more than laws and declarations—they are sustained by the strength of our relationships. For many, family is the cornerstone of our lives, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging. Friendships, faith communities, and chosen families also play a vital role, offering guidance and encouragement as we navigate life’s challenges.

Faith, whether private or shared in community, has long been a source of comfort and strength—guiding many through uncertain times and inspiring us to live with purpose and compassion. These connections ground us and remind us that we do not face life’s trials alone.

Carrying Forward the Legacy of Freedom

At Urban Green Harvest, we honor this legacy by championing freedoms that empower individuals and families in their daily lives. We believe every child should have the freedom to learn and grow at their own pace, nurtured by curiosity and respect. We support parents in making informed choices about health and wellness that best serve their families. And we celebrate the freedom to step back from the pressures of modern life—to find balance, connection, and meaning through community and a closer relationship with the natural world.

The freedoms our nation was built upon, and the personal freedoms we uphold today, both require ongoing commitment and care. Through education, sustainable living, and community engagement, Urban Green Harvest is dedicated to helping these freedoms take root and flourish for generations to come.

From Our Family to Yours

This Independence Day, as we reflect on the birth of our nation, we wish you peace, joy, and meaningful time with those you hold dear. May this celebration inspire renewed faith, strengthened relationships, and a shared commitment to the freedoms that unite us all.

God bless America—and may God bless you and your loved ones.

Mindful Consumption: How to Make Every Purchase Count 🛒

Building resilience through intentional choices

Every item we bring into our homes carries more than just immediate use — it holds the potential to support or strain our long-term wellbeing. Mindful consumption is about choosing carefully to ensure that what we own truly serves us, reduces waste ♻️, and strengthens our ability to thrive even when unexpected challenges arise.

Know How It Fits: Stuff, Skills, and Your Plan 🧩

Before bringing anything new into your home, think about how it aligns with your resources, skills, and personal or family goals. Ask yourself:

• Does this item complement or duplicate what I already have? 🤔

• Do I know how to use it well, or can I learn quickly? 📚

• Will this item be useful not only in my daily routine but also when life throws curveballs—helping me stay prepared, flexible, and supported through change? ⚡

• Does it support my goals for sustainability and resilience? 🌱

By thinking this way, you avoid accumulating clutter or purchasing things that don’t truly serve you. Instead, each item becomes a purposeful tool or resource — one you can rely on. 🛠️

Choose Quality Over Quantity: Cry Once, Buy Once 💧🛍️

In a culture that often values “more,” shifting focus to quality and durability is a powerful act of self-care and sustainability. The phrase “cry once, buy once” reminds us that investing in well-made, reliable items upfront can save the frustration, expense, and waste of repeated replacements later.

For example, choosing a sturdy pair of boots that can handle work, play, and rough weather is far more valuable than several pairs of cheap shoes. Similarly, a well-crafted cooking pot will serve you better than multiple flimsy pans. 👢🍳

Support Local and Ethical Producers 🌎🤝

Where possible, buy from local, ethical producers who prioritize sustainable materials and fair practices. This choice reduces your ecological footprint and helps build resilient local economies — a crucial part of reducing dependencies on fragile global supply chains.

Learn to Use and Maintain What You Own 🔧🧵

Owning useful items is only half the equation; knowing how to use, repair, and maintain them is just as important. Developing these skills not only saves money but also empowers you to rely less on external services or replacements.

Consider taking time to learn basic sewing, tool maintenance, food preservation, or gardening skills — all of which enhance the value of your possessions and your independence.

Simplify and Curate Your Home Environment 🏡✨

Mindful consumption often means saying “no” to impulse buys and “yes” to simplicity. Curate your belongings so that each thing has a purpose, brings you joy, or supports your overall plan.

A simpler home can reduce stress, increase efficiency, and make it easier to find and use what you need — especially in times when flexibility and calm are most important. 🧘‍♀️

Practical Tips for Mindful Shopping 🛒✅

• Make a list of what you truly need before shopping. 📝

• Research products for quality, durability, and ethical sourcing. 🔍

• Choose versatile items that can serve multiple purposes. 🔄

• Avoid impulse purchases by waiting 24-48 hours before buying. ⏳

• Consider secondhand or upcycled items to reduce waste. ♻️

• Invest in learning skills that help you maintain and repair what you own. 🧰

In Closing 🌻

Mindful consumption is more than a lifestyle choice — it’s a way to build a home and life that support you through everyday joys and unforeseen challenges alike. By thoughtfully choosing what enters your space and ensuring it fits within your resources, skills, and personal or family goals, you cultivate resilience, reduce dependencies, and live with greater intention.

At Urban Green Harvest, we believe that these small, purposeful decisions add up — helping families grow stronger, live more simply, and connect more deeply to the land and each other. 🌿❤️

🎶 How to Create a Rhythm, Not a Routine

Supporting peaceful, connected days with children—without the clock.🕒

There’s a quiet magic in knowing what comes next—not because the clock says so, but because it feels right.

In a world that often demands structure, deadlines, and speed, many families are longing for something slower and more meaningful. At Urban Green Harvest, we’ve found that rhythm—not routine—is the heartbeat of peaceful, engaged, and connected days. It’s what keeps our days flowing gently, even when life feels unpredictable. And the best part? You don’t need a rigid schedule or a perfect plan to find it.

Let’s explore the difference between routine and rhythm—and how to begin creating one that supports your family.

⏳ Routine vs. Rhythm: What’s the Difference?

Routine is typically tied to the clock. It’s often strict, specific, and time-bound—think: “Snack at 10:00, storytime at 10:30, rest at 11:15.” It can offer security, but for many families, especially with young children, routines like this feel confining or stressful when real life doesn't follow the plan.

Rhythm, on the other hand, is a flow. It follows the natural rise and fall of your family’s energy, the light outside, the weather, and the season. It allows for consistency without rigidity. Think of rhythm as a gentle pattern: like breathing, waves, or the cycle of a garden—predictable, but always flexible.

Children thrive on this kind of rhythm. It creates a sense of security and trust—not because they’re told what time it is, but because their bodies and hearts come to know what comes next.

🌱 Why Rhythm Works So Well for Children (and Adults)

• It’s grounded in real life. Whether a child wakes up extra early, the weather shifts, or you’re having a quiet or high-energy day, rhythm adjusts with you.

• It builds trust and confidence. Children begin to anticipate transitions gently: they know after snack comes rest, or after free play comes a walk.

• It fosters deeper connection. Rhythm slows us down. It gives us time to notice each other, to pause, to engage.

• It helps regulate energy. Rhythmic days move between high and low-energy activities, helping children (and adults) stay balanced.

At Urban Green Harvest, our daily rhythm isn't about checking boxes. It's about creating a natural flow that invites learning, play, rest, and nourishment to unfold organically throughout the day.

🌾 How to Begin Creating Your Family Rhythm

You don’t need to reinvent your life to begin. Start with observation and intention:

1. Observe your natural flow.

When do your children wake up? When are they most active or most calm? What transitions are already happening each day (like meals or outside time)?

2. Choose anchor points.

Pick a few natural markers for your day—like breakfast, outdoor time, quiet rest, and bedtime. Let these be your rhythm’s “posts.”

3. Follow the energy.

Try alternating high-energy times (running, exploring, creating) with slower moments (reading, cuddling, quiet play).

4. Use visual or sensory cues.

Songs, bells, or even lighting candles can gently signal transitions. Young children respond especially well to consistent cues.

5. Leave space.

Build in open time for nothing—or everything. This is often where the magic happens: spontaneous art, deep focus, or unexpected wonder.

🐓 A Sample Rhythm (Inspired by Our Days at the Farm)

Every season brings its own flow, but here’s a glimpse at the kind of rhythm we follow at Urban Green Harvest:

Flexible, seasonal, and rooted in real life

➤ Arrival & Morning Connection
A peaceful start with greetings, open exploration, and time to settle into the space.

➤ Breakfast
A shared morning meal, with opportunities for children to help prepare and serve alongside staff—building independence and a sense of community.

➤ Voluntary Farm Chores & Self-Directed Play and Projects
Children may choose to care for animals, tend the garden, or follow their curiosity through hands-on play, building, nature exploration, and creative projects.

➤ Lunch
A nourishing mid-day meal shared together outdoors as a community.

➤ Voluntary Farm Chores & Self-Directed Play and Projects
More time to engage in meaningful work or open-ended play—digging, creating, collaborating, or simply wandering with wonder.

➤ Snack
A simple shared snack, with opportunities for children to participate in preparation using seasonal ingredients from the garden.

➤ Self-Directed Play and Projects
A final stretch of free time for exploration, rest, or focused creation—whatever the day inspires.

➤ Clean-Up & Reflection
Together we care for our space and close the day with gratitude, storytelling, or quiet reflection.

➤ Departure
A gentle transition home after a full day of learning, play, and connection.

🌻 Let It Grow & Change

Just like a garden, your rhythm will evolve. It may look different in winter than in summer. It may shift as your child grows, or as your needs change. That’s not failure—it’s living.

Rhythm isn't something you impose. It’s something you discover, together.

💚 In Closing

A daily rhythm offers what so many of us crave: grounding without pressure. It's a soft structure that allows freedom to flourish and helps us stay connected—to each other, to the seasons, and to ourselves.

At Urban Green Harvest, rhythm guides everything we do. It’s how we make space for wild play, meaningful work, and deep learning—without needing a bell to tell us when to begin.

Your rhythm doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It just has to feel like home.

📚 From Seed to Harvest: The Story of Urban Green Harvest

Welcome to Urban Green Harvest — or welcome back.

For those just discovering us, and for the many families who have been part of our journey over the years, we want to share the full story of how we got here: from a small city farm in 2009 to a thriving outdoor learning space today.

🌱 Our Beginnings

Urban Green Harvest began in 2009 as a small-scale commercial farm right here in the city. Using the SPIN (Small Plot Intensive) farming method, we transformed our large urban backyard into a productive space and grew fresh food for our community. Our roots were in sustainability, simplicity, and a belief that growing food — even in the middle of town — could change lives.

Over time, our focus shifted from production to people. We began offering in-home and commercial childcare, weaving gardening into our daily rhythms, even when we weren't officially "farming." The joy kids found in digging, planting, and harvesting was unmistakable.

👩‍🌾 From Gardening to Growing Minds

IIn 2016, our work evolved with the launch of Urban Green Kids, a multi-site childcare program focused on organic, respectful care and centered around play and nature-based learning—offering unlimited outdoor time. Over the years, it served hundreds of families and became a familiar part of Boise’s early childhood community until it closed in 2023.

That same year, we launched Mugwort Sudbury School — a 100% outdoor micro-school located on our urban farm. Rooted in the Sudbury model of self-directed education, Mugwort was a space where children could explore freely, care for animals, grow food, and learn through experience and community. It was small, free-spirited, and deeply aligned with our values.

🌾 Full Circle: A Farm with a School

As the 2025 season approached, we began to feel a familiar pull — toward the land itself. Over time, our daily life had shifted: the farm was becoming the core again. Education remained essential, but it began to grow more organically out of farm work, seasonal rhythms, and sustainability practices.

So we made a decision: to return to our roots. And with that, Urban Green Harvest is back.

🌻 What We Are Now

Urban Green Harvest is now, once again, a working urban farm with an educational mission. We offer a year round outdoor program for children 4-12yrs that is self-directed, farm-based, and deeply connected to nature. We’re not a traditional school — and we never really were. We’re a living classroom. A place to plant seeds, dig deep, and harvest more than just vegetables.

Whether you’ve known us as Mugwort, Urban Green Kids, or from those early farmstand days as Urban Green Harvest — welcome. We're grateful you're here.

Stay tuned for updates, seasonal opportunities, and community events. We’re just getting started — again.

🕊️ Finding Peace in a World on Fire

The world feels loud right now.
Newsfeeds scroll like storm clouds.
Tension hangs in the air like wildfire smoke—unseen but deeply felt.
And yet… the garden keeps growing.

The sun still rises.
A bee still burrows into a squash blossom.
Children still laugh in the dirt.
There is something sacred in that.

In the quiet rhythm of weeding rows or watching sunflowers tilt toward light, we remember:
There is a deeper peace—one not dependent on politics, prices, or even personal circumstances.
A peace that whispers instead of shouts.
That steadies our hands and softens our hearts.

Sometimes, peace begins with stepping away.
Stepping outside.
Stepping into stillness.
Or prayer.
Or gratitude.
Or just the silence between breaths.

We are not called to ignore the brokenness of the world.
But we are invited to live differently within it.
Rooted.
Aware.
Gentle.
Faithful.

And maybe that begins in small, daily choices:
– to nurture a garden
– to listen more than we speak
– to forgive
– to pray
– to notice what is beautiful
– to trust that goodness still has the final word

You are not powerless.
You are not forgotten.
You are not alone.

You are the hands that sow peace.
You are the rhythm of renewal.
You are the living reminder that the world is still full of good things growing.

Even here.
Especially now.

🩺 Breaking Free from Dependencies: Building Self-Reliance Through Health

When we talk about sustainability, we often focus on food, energy, or finances—but one of our most overlooked dependencies is on our own health. Without a strong foundation of personal well-being, everything else becomes more difficult to manage. Just as we strive to reduce reliance on external systems, building a sustainable, self-reliant lifestyle means taking ownership of our health to reduce dependency on medical interventions, processed foods, and unhealthy habits.

Eat to Fuel, Not Just to Fill

One of the simplest ways to reclaim control over your health is through food. Cooking more from scratch doesn’t mean complicated meals every night—it means shifting away from processed, convenience foods that keep us dependent on quick fixes, and instead choosing nourishing, whole foods that support sustained energy and wellness.

Try this simple smoothie for a quick, nutrient-packed breakfast that can replace processed options:

🥤 Nourishing Morning Smoothie

• 1 cup raw milk or unsweetened almond milk

• ½ cup frozen berries

• 1 banana

• 1 tablespoon nut butter (almond or peanut)

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds

• Optional: 1 scoop of protein powder or collagen

Blend all ingredients until smooth. This easy recipe helps start your day with whole-food nutrition that supports long-term health.

Learn Holistic Basics

Many of us depend heavily on pharmaceutical solutions or commercial products for everyday ailments. Learning basic herbal and holistic remedies can provide natural, empowering alternatives—reducing dependency on external medicines while supporting your body’s innate healing.

Here’s a simple herbal tea to help reduce stress and promote restful sleep:

🌿 Calming Herbal Tea

• 1 tsp dried chamomile

• 1 tsp dried lemon balm

• ½ tsp dried lavender

Steep in hot water for 5–10 minutes, strain, and enjoy. These herbs work gently with your nervous system to promote calm and wellness.

The Power of Daily Choices

Prioritizing health is less about dramatic changes and more about consistent, intentional daily habits. Walking regularly, drinking enough water, paying attention to your body’s signals, and exploring natural wellness practices are small but effective ways to reduce your dependency on reactive health measures and build resilience.

How do you prioritize and take ownership of your health to reduce your dependency on external health systems?

Your journey to greater sustainability starts within—by caring for the most essential resource: yourself.

🍳Summer Camp as a Test Kitchen for Life

Why unstructured days in the dirt may be just what your child needs this summer.

Summer break has a funny way of arriving with both relief and a hint of panic. The relief: no more early alarms, rushed breakfasts, or packed lunches. The panic: Now what? Especially for parents whose children are no longer toddlers but not quite teens, those long summer days beg for something meaningful—but not overly scheduled.

At our summer program, we think of camp as a test kitchen for life—a safe, supportive space where kids get to experiment, explore, and discover who they are without the usual rush of school schedules or adult-led outcomes.

👣 Real-world learning, no worksheets required

In a typical day, you might find a group of kids inventing a game with made-up rules and wild laughter echoing from the trees. Others might be harvesting veggies, chasing bugs, or using scrap wood and hand tools to build a “fort village” that lives and evolves over the weeks.

These aren’t just activities to keep kids busy—they’re experiences that teach:

• How to resolve conflict

• How to solve practical problems

• How to listen to their instincts and ideas

🌿 Freedom with gentle structure

While there’s plenty of freedom, it’s not chaos. There’s rhythm and flow—snack breaks in the shade, lunch on the patio, and check-ins from grown-ups who know how to listen more than they talk. We trust kids, but we also guide when needed.

🔍 Trying on new roles

One of the most beautiful things we witness is how kids "try on" different aspects of themselves at camp. The quiet observer may become the trail guide. The imaginative storyteller becomes the group leader for an impromptu puppet show. Without grades or gold stars, they get to be more of themselves—curious, messy, and whole.

🧭 Camp isn't escape—it's immersion

For many kids, summer camp is the first time they experience something that feels truly their own. It's not a break from learning; it’s learning reimagined. And that makes it the perfect environment for growth—not just academically, but emotionally, socially, and personally.

So, if your child is home this summer and you’re wondering what kind of experiences will actually stick with them—think less about keeping them busy and more about giving them space.

Space to test. To try. To fail. To grow. Just like in any good test kitchen.

🛠️ Breaking Free from Dependencies: A Path to Greater Sustainability in Every Lifestyle

Breaking Free from Dependencies: A Path to Greater Sustainability in Every Lifestyle

In a world where our lives are increasingly connected and dependent on external systems, it's easy to feel like we have little control over the things that impact us most. Whether it's food, energy, finances, or even personal health, we often rely on services, businesses, or resources outside of our control. This dependency can leave us vulnerable in times of crisis, when systems fail, or even in moments of personal hardship.

But what if you could reduce those dependencies—no matter your lifestyle—and move toward a more self-reliant, sustainable way of living?

The Reality of Dependency

Most of us aren't living off the grid or practicing full-scale homesteading. We don't necessarily grow our own food or generate our own energy. But, whether you live in a city, suburb, or rural area, we all share some common dependencies—on grocery stores, the electricity grid, gas stations, internet providers, and more.

The idea of full-blown homesteading, often romanticized on social media, may seem like an unreachable goal for many. It involves growing your own food, raising livestock, and living in a way that minimizes external needs. For some, it may seem like an idyllic dream, but for many, it’s a lifestyle that’s simply not practical.

However, that doesn’t mean we can’t adopt aspects of it. We can build a sustainable lifestyle tailored to our needs and circumstances, taking the essential skills and concepts of homesteading and making them work for us in our modern lives.

What If You Could Build Your Own Plan for Self-Sustainability?

That’s where the concept of personal sustainability comes in. Just like we prepare for emergencies by having the right tools, a plan, and the skills to use them, we can approach sustainability in a similar way.

When we think about preparedness—whether it’s for a storm, an economic downturn, or a health crisis—the goal is simple: to be ready. But many of us make the same mistake when it comes to self-sustainability. We buy the tools, we gather supplies, but we don't know how to use them or how they fit into a larger plan.

It’s the same with sustainable living. We might want to grow our own food or reduce our energy use, but without a clear strategy, those goals can feel overwhelming. We need a plan—one that takes our unique circumstances into account and helps us break down complex sustainability goals into actionable steps.

Creating Your Own Path to Sustainability

So, how can you start? It begins by recognizing that even if you can't fully homestead, you can certainly build a lifestyle that’s more self-reliant and sustainable. Whether you're an urban dweller with limited space or someone living in a suburban neighborhood with more room to grow, there are steps you can take to reduce your dependencies.

1. Assess Your Dependencies: What are the things you rely on most? Do you depend on grocery stores for food? Do you rely on the electric grid for energy? Understanding where your dependencies lie is the first step to creating a more self-sufficient life.

2. Start Small: You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Start with small changes, like growing a few herbs or vegetables on your windowsill or using solar-powered lights in your garden. Little changes add up over time.

3. Learn Key Skills: Whether it's gardening, food preservation, or learning to generate energy from solar panels, gaining skills that help you reduce reliance on external systems is key. The more skills you have, the more self-reliant you can become.

4. Create a Plan: Just like a preparedness plan, you need a sustainability plan. Set goals for reducing your dependencies and increase your self-reliance incrementally. Think about what’s realistic for your lifestyle and what skills you’d need to acquire to make it happen.

5. Build Community: Sustainability isn’t just about doing things alone; it’s also about creating networks of support. By sharing knowledge, tools, and resources, we can all become more resilient and self-sufficient together.

Homesteading Isn't Just a Trend—It's a Mindset Shift

While homesteading is certainly a hot topic right now, the real value lies in shifting our mindset. It’s not about building a farm or living off the grid—it’s about learning how to be ready in ways that are practical and achievable for you.

We can all become more sustainable, more independent, and less reliant on outside systems. The journey toward self-sufficiency is a personal one, and it can look different for each of us. What matters is that we take the time to plan, learn, and adapt to a lifestyle that makes us feel more prepared for whatever life throws our way.

So, if you’re ready to think beyond the surface of “homesteading” and explore what it truly means to be self-sufficient in today’s world, join me on this journey. Over the coming weeks, we’ll dive into actionable steps that can help you build your own plan—no matter where you live or how much space you have.

Let’s start by asking: What are your dependencies, and how can you start building your path to sustainability today?

💡Raising Self-Sufficient Kids: A Path to Lifelong Learning

At Mugwort Sudbury School, we believe education should prepare children for life—not for standardized tests or arbitrary benchmarks, but for real-world challenges, personal growth, and meaningful contribution. Self-sustainability is one of the most empowering paths toward that goal.

In our self-directed, nature-based environment, students explore how to meet their own needs—physically, emotionally, and intellectually. Whether they’re growing food, cooking meals, caring for animals, or starting micro-businesses, they’re developing practical skills and a strong internal compass. These experiences don’t just teach them how to “do”—they teach them how to be: capable, confident, and connected to the world around them.

More Than Just Sustainability

While self-sustainability is a major focus, it's just one part of the rich learning ecosystem at Mugwort. Students also dive into math through building projects, explore reading and storytelling during quiet forest gatherings, investigate science by studying ecosystems and weather patterns, and express themselves through art, music, and movement. Emotional intelligence, communication, and community building are woven into daily life. Learning emerges naturally from curiosity and lived experience—not from a set curriculum, but from the world around them.

Why Self-Sustainability Matters

Self-sustainability is more than gardening or learning how to cook (though those are great places to start!). It’s about learning to depend less on systems that don’t serve us, and more on ourselves, our families, and our local communities. It fosters creativity, responsibility, and problem-solving—skills that serve children for a lifetime.

In a world where so many systems feel out of our control, teaching kids that they can grow their own food, make their own tools, build their own solutions, and trust their own instincts is a powerful gift. They begin to see themselves as producers, not just consumers.

What It Looks Like at Mugwort

At Mugwort, you might see a child starting their morning tending the garden, then moving on to help build a chicken coop or repair a broken wheelbarrow. Others might be researching herbal remedies, learning to ferment food, or planning a pop-up stand to sell their harvest. It’s all learning—without worksheets or formal assessments. Instead of passively absorbing information, our students are actively engaging with the world.

We don’t tell kids what they should care about—we invite them to discover what matters to them, and then we support them in going deep. From soil health to solar energy, from sewing to systems thinking, these are the kinds of “subjects” that arise naturally when you live in a community that values hands-on, real-life learning.

How Families Can Apply This at Home

You don’t need a full homestead to begin weaving self-sustainability into your family life. Here are some ways to start:

• Grow something—anything. Even a windowsill herb garden can teach children patience, observation, and the joy of tending life.

• Cook together from scratch. Invite your kids to help plan meals, shop intentionally, and prepare food. Talk about where ingredients come from.

• Repair instead of replace. Let children see (and participate in) basic fixes around the house. Learning to use tools builds skills and confidence.

• Learn a new skill as a family. Try knitting, canning, building a birdhouse, or learning about wild edibles in your area. Model curiosity.

• Talk about needs vs. wants. Invite your kids into conversations about budgeting, resourcefulness, and intentional living.

• Celebrate effort, not just results. Whether the garden thrives or not, whether the recipe works or flops—the learning is in the trying.

Raising Capable, Caring Kids

Self-sustainability isn’t just a skill set—it’s a mindset shift. It teaches children to trust themselves, rely on their community, and move through the world with a sense of purpose and agency. At Mugwort Sudbury School, we’re honored to hold space for that growth.

And the best part? These lessons don’t stay at school. They ripple out into homes, into families, and into the wider world.

Let’s raise a generation that knows how to take care of themselves, one another, and this beautiful planet we all share.