Saturday, December 12, 2009
the value of the blog?
Last night I attended a gathering to celebrate the holidays. I was talking with a farmer about getting his story out, having a way to let people into the daily life he leads to get a final product out the door. I was arguing that people are interested and wanting to connect with "the farm". He didn't believe me. I have received so much feedback from this blog, I had no idea. His questions and doubt leads me to wonder, how many people do check into it, and what are the reasons for checking in on it, and do people really want to know and connect with what is happening on the farm or are the readers of this blog extra special because you are members in the CSA therefore you have an invested interest? So many questions. What do you think? Do you think that people would appreciate if farmers did more blogging type things? For me I want to provide a way for those of you who read it to see a bit into our world on the farm. It is hard to portray everything but it is a start. Anyway, last night as I was trying to fall asleep, I kept thinking that I want to ask you for your thoughts on this one. Many farmers tell me that people don't care. I say that they are wrong, people do care. What do you think? Care/Not Care, Blog/Not blog? Just a bit of pre Christmas dialogue:)
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ReplyDeleteBlog
There! I love reading the blog. Keeps me in touch with my food which to me, is really interesting. May not be for everyone, but I care and I read.
Taryn
I've been reading a great deal about sustainability, food security and food miles lately. Will be planting a very few veg of my own, and since my household is just me and therefore a bit small for CSA I will be finding my way to your farm gate for other veg I need. Have just discovered a locally sourced supply of meat. Sustainability and a smaller carbon footprint is where it's at and I can't find that info without blogs. Rural Nova Scotians must support one another.
ReplyDeleteHi Patricia - I love reading your blog - and check in regularly. I enjoy reading about food, farming and life in general.
ReplyDeleteSo - my response is also - I care and I read.
Jill
I care and love the blog as well. I have learned a lot from reading about what is going on and have gained even more respect for what farmers do on a daily basis after seeing what goes on day to day through your blog and newsletters.
ReplyDeletePatricia,
ReplyDeleteI think many people care. I also understand the reality of running a farm and I really appreciate that you take the time to update your blog. I am sure it is not always easy.
I care, Patricia.
ReplyDeleteTrouble is that only us who read the blog will reply to your question. Only you know how many people are involved at this time of year (probably we are the only ones still reading the blog?) or through the year (some might still check), so you might want to put the question on the application form and on the weekly sheet? Then you might find how many don't care.
You could check the site stats.
See you Wednesday.
Cheers!
Ellie
I definitely think people care. I still read the blog even though I'm only an 18 weeker. I have really appreciated the blog and the newsletter and all your efforts to give us a window into your world.
ReplyDeletelisa
I love the blog, and I find it interesting, even if it's just about small things like broken thermometers or spinach tunnels.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, you and the naysaying farmer are probably both right. Some people care, and some really don't. You (Patricia) will see more the ones that care, because the CSA is self-selecting for that. Some people have other priorities and concerns, and we can't change that.
But by putting yourself out there, by sharing bits of your life with us, you're taking us in the right direction. The abovementioned farmer will never make a difference by sitting around being negative. You, on the other hand, have significantly changed the lives of some of us, and we will in turn try to educate others and spread the joy of yummy local organic food and all the benefits that come with it.
So thank you for that. :-)
Dana
Hi Patricia,
ReplyDeleteWe care alot about where our food comes from and how it is grown, and therefore are very interested and concerned about how our farmers are coping with the many challenges that confront them. We really appreciate your Blogging, which keeps us informed and connected to the issues. The reporting on the conferences you attend, the Boards you serve on, and all the networking that you do, also gives us a unique perspective of agriculture provincially. We thank you for that. We also enjoy hearing about the ebb and flo of daily farm life. The excitment of Spring planting, the joy of needed rain, the thrill of harvesting a bumper crop, even the weeding brings a smile! Do people care? I believe they do. You are leading by example, and your message IS getting out:) Thank you!
Brenda & Bruce
I don't get on very often since I am stuck with dial up, but when I do get on I find it very interesting, keep it up!
ReplyDeleteKrystol
Dear Patricia,
ReplyDeleteI can't add any more to what has been said above except
Ditto, ditto, ditto, ditto, ditto ... etc
* Definitely * Care. Blog.
(Please!)
(: Sydney :)
While I think most people (myself included) are guilty of reading but not posting comments, I too regularly check in and enjoy the blog immensely.
ReplyDeleteI for one certainly hope that you keep it up!
Trish
i write my blog as a way of thinking out loud and perhaps no one but my mom reads it. for me it is important and personal. when a complete stranger takes the time to read what is on my mind, bonus! do it for yourself and let those who want to learn, learn and those who don't want to learn, that is their problem.
ReplyDelete