As a crimson fire crackles and hums in the stove, glistening with warmth as it toasts the cabin, the winds roar and cascade through the Sussex Downs; tumbling through the hedgerows and shrubs, arriving rugged at our doorsteps here in the Rodmell Food Forest.
Winter has arrived. Or at the very least, graced us with it’s first enchanting spell of serene snow that carpeted the East of London earlier this week. Here in Lewes, we patiently await for our landscape to transform into a shimmering snowy plateau. For now, however, we endure the saturating downpours feeding our soils, and the tremendous winds, sculpting and contorting the flora and our faces as it tears past the Downs.
This time of year breeds resilient change; physically, metaphorically, psychologically, ecologically. Nature transmutes green to brown; ochre mud paints the pavements and floors, puddles grow and morph into ponds that envelope the roads. Darkness takes it’s withering toll on the plants, our minds and energies, things become heavier and a little harder than the summer swiftness. Yet equally, this season is an opportune moment for letting go, passing away, renewal, collecting oneself and the harvesting of the year passed – preparing for the much needed winter hibernation!
Here at Rodmell Food Forest, we’ve also been swept into the flow of change, saying goodbye to the precious volunteers of the summer frenzy, and now having welcomed some new, eager nature-lovers to the project.
Nestled within the woven walls of the Yurt now live our two long-term volunteers, John and Sandra, with their little wild man, Ezra (almost 2 years old). Sandra and John will help to manage the day-to-day running of the project, especially care-taking the chickens and assisting in the garden garden.
Also new to woods is Luke (that’s me!). I will be staying as the Volunteer Coordinator of the Food Forest and working alongside our Gardener (and fountain of knowledge) Mark, to develop and maintain the Permaculture Garden. Together with Roger and Susie – as the projects creators and benefactors, and other colourful creatures such as, donkeys, cats , ducks, chickens and resident native fauna; we make up the Rodmell Food Forest!
So as winter begins to chant its cooling, contemplative and sleepy serenade; for us out on the land, it’s time to finish preparing the plant beds for a protected and nourishing sleep. Also for ourselves, to prepare for an equally nourishing, slow and sacredly dark season ahead.
More information will begin to sprout about projects, courses and events nearer Spring.
Enjoy the winter slumber, festivities and above all be grateful for the shelter keeping you warm!
Sincerely,
The Rodmell Food Forest