Hello from Michigan

[ekampe]

Hello,

I've been reading along from home for about a year or so. (I guess the computer term is 'lurking') I really enjoy the energetic and diverse conversations here.

I'm new to permaculture, trying to self educate (books and such) before taking a design course (this summer I hope).

Last summer I took the plunge and dropped out of the the corporate world (computer engineering) and became a field hand at an organic CSA farm in Boulder, Colorado. The season was a fantastic learning experiance, not only regarding the basics of working with plants, but about a different lifestyle or culture that's out there. I was (and am) shocked at how different the economic realities are between engineering and farming, but in the same sense amazed at how rewarding working with your hands, with great people, and in service of others can be.

Now in Michigan I'll be working at the local botanical garden, helping in the greenhouse with heirloom propagation and with an outdoor exhibit about community gardening. Lots to learn!

peas,
Eric Kampe
Ann Arbor Michigan, USA

[Jez]

Welcome Eric.

There's no doubt the more you can learn on your own before you do a PDC (whether that be from from past experience or just reading), the more you can get out of it. Less new information to absorb all at once and a better chance of asking more advanced questions in a situation where you can benefit from someone else's knowledge and experience.