I have lived in the San Juans since my teenage years, in the mid 1990s. The mountains, mesas, canyons, and communities of this powerful landscape shaped me into the person I am today. Through the years, sustainability and living closer to the land became a priority in life. My partner Ryan and I have set roots in Norwood and are raising our two boys on Wrights Mesa. We live on a small hobby farm, where we are gaining a humble understanding of what it takes to grow food in this high desert environment. I am an amateur beekeeper, gardener, and practitioner of restoration ecology. I have a deep appreciation for the agricultural heritage and the current local food movement in Norwood. Supporting and celebrating regional farmers, ranchers and producers is integral to a thriving agricultural legacy. I am honored to be involved with the Fresh Foundation and the important work this organization continues to do in connecting food with community.