My daughter turned 8 years old this week.  She has been very anxious about her birthday and about the whole process of growing.  I giggled a little when she said, “but, Mom…  it’s hard to become 8!”  Then I realized how right she is.  Growth is hard work.

Curious Farm began selling live-cultured pickles in fall of 2010.  In spring of 2011, we brought our live-cultured pickles, sauerkraut, sauces, and kimchi to the Beaverton Farmers Market.   Each week we offered 10 – 14 different products — changing the selection with the seasons.

Later in 2011, Food Front Co-op began carrying some of our products.  In spring 2012, New Seasons Market began stocking two of your favorite sauerkrauts in four westside stores.

Lots of growth.  Lots of learning.  Lots of growing pains!  And there’s been deliciousness, too.

In order to keep Curious Farm growing strong, I need to focus my energies on Curious Farm’s grocery store partners in 2013.  I am bringing Curious Farm’s product line down from 25 to 6 (5 favorite sauerkrauts, 1 favorite kimchi).  I am investing in new packaging for these products (colorful labels with nutrition facts boxes).  I hope to place these products in more stores during the year and to be in stores frequently, offering samples and teaching people about the world of live-cultured foods.

Curious Farm won’t be at the Beaverton Farmers Market this year.  I feel very sad about this because it has been a joy to be there and to meet all of you.  Curious Farm is mostly just me, though, so in order to grow (or stay steady and not go crazy  …truth!), I must manage production and sales differently.

Curious Farm will spring forward with renewed focus and energy  in early April.  You’ll see a new look to our products in stores — new packaging, new logo, more color.  Hopefully, you’ll see our products in *more* stores.  You also will see me at those grocery stores, sharing samples of sauerkraut and kimchi.  Stay tuned for news about our new look and for a list of the six products we will produce in 2013.

Curious Farm’s popular classes will continue in spring, too.    They’re fun and empowering for all.   I love teaching people how to make live-cultured goodness!

Thank you for your support and encouragement.  Growth is challenging.  Curious Farm is growing stronger. I look forward to sharing even more delicious sauerkraut, kimchi and more with you in 2013.

To your health!