Flowers, Dreams, Neighbors

I came to Epsom to follow a dream.  I knew I wanted to start my farm business as a commercial cut flower grower specializing in anemones. Within days of moving to Epsom in 1981, neighbors stopped by to help as word spread that I was building greenhouses.  They worked with me, welcomed me to the community, and taught me how to be a good neighbor myself.  

Sure, there was neighborly reciprocity expected for shared chores like cutting firewood or plowing snow.  Yet the larger expectation was clear:  take part in Epsom town affairs and contribute to the general well-being.  In the next few essays I’ll describe some of the ways I have done that over the past 45 years.

But back to the cut flower business.  I am well aware that it’s an unusual way to make a living.  As an anemone farmer, I got one crop a year with which to put food on the table.  Harvesting flowers through New Hampshire winters was high risk, hard work that required a commitment to always be on hand to pick, process, deliver, repair exhaust fans, rebuild oil burners, and install well pumps.  Flower farming was a great way to raise a family and be connected to neighbors, community, church, and town.

The accompanying photo is from the January 1987 Yankee Magazine.  My late wife, Sabrina, was well known from being active in many community roles.  Before she died in 2013, Sabrina suggested that her best friend and neighbor in Washington, DC would be a good choice for me.  I followed her advice and married Michele Clark.  Epsom is a place where dreams can come true.  I couldn't have done it without the help of neighbors.