Greetings, Wayfarer!
As we make our way through these cold January days, I’ve been spending more time noticing the small rhythms that carry us forward this time of year. Even in the quiet, there’s a kind of momentum building here at Wayward Haven—work that happens indoors, work that asks for patience, and work that reminds me why tending a place like this feels so meaningful.
I wanted to share a brief update from the farm and the shop as we move toward Opening Day on March 6. These weekly notes are becoming a way for me to mark the season, name what’s emerging, and offer a glimpse into the behind‑the‑scenes life of the Haven.
You’ll find this week’s reflections below.
I’ve (Michael) always needed to work with my hands. I enjoy reading, especially about new things of interest, but eventually I want to take what I’ve learned and make something real. Lately, that’s meant returning to wood burning after years away from it. There’s a particular warmth to it—the smell of the wood, the slow emergence of an image, the way it seems to breathe into being. I’ve been making bookmarks, one of my favorite small canvases. A few of these will likely make their way into the shop for Opening Day on March 6.
We’re now in Week Two of our first seed‑starting fest. This week is all about preparing more seed‑starting soil. We reuse as much as possible from previous seasons, which takes a bit of effort but feels worth it. More herb seeds are on the way, and next week we’ll start more early spring crops: the brassica crew—cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts. For now, we’re planting another round of leafy greens in the greenhouse – lettuce, spinach, mescaline. They keep us stocked for salads and cooking, especially since we go through them at an impressive rate. Some endive is sprouting and the Swiss chard is growing well in grow bags.
The snow and freezing temperatures will keep us indoors for most of the week, but winter always brings its own kind of work. Even with the cold, there’s a quiet sense of momentum building as we prepare for opening day here at the Haven.
The broccoli has already begun to sprout, and some skullcap finally pushed through the soil. We use this medicinal herb in teas for its calming and restorative qualities—supporting anxiety, easing inflammation, and tending to liver health*. These early signs of life are a good reminder that as the light returns, so does growth.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This information is for educational purposes only.
