barn - view of pond

An amazing view out to the field & ponds from the barn

Earlier last week, I got back from Vermont after attending a 10 day Permaculture Design Course (PDC) with Whole Systems Design. Let me tell you, it’s taken me a few days to fall back into the groove of things here after a very rich, fulfilling, and thoroughly intense experience. It was a joy to participate. The days were long and full of great conversation and new ideas. It was actually quite moving at times and gave me lots of opportunity to think about what I want not just from the land we’ve recently come into, but from life overall.

I’ve barey begun going through my photos in hopes of writing a summary of my experience. While I do that, I want to at least share a few enticing photos from the journey. Here ya go… stay tuned for more of an in-depth rundown soon.

Whole Systems Design Barn

The beauty and function of this barn (the PDC HQ) inspired me greatly

PDC Field Tour

Ben Falk gives a rundown of swale design and tree management in the field

Seaberries

Citrus of the north — freshly harvest seaberries soon to become delicious juice

Seaberry plant

There’s something very beautiful about these young seaberry plants before they’ve fully matured

Whole Systems Design Balcony View

This view to the pond and beyond summarizes the beauty that is a well-planned permaculture homestead

Whole Systems Design hugelkultur mounds

Standing atop some massive hugelkultur mounds…

Swimming Hole

We’re treated to a well-earned break at a local swimming hole in the Mad River Valley

Whole Systems Research Farm Swimming Pond

Taking a quick dip in the pond in the warm afternoon