“The ultimate goal of farming is not the growing of crops, but the cultivation and perfection of human beings.”

― Masanobu Fukuoka, The One-Straw Revolution

We began the week with this quote and a discussion of possible meanings. After determining what "cultivation" meant, the students brainstormed about all of the qualities that a farmer must possess including patience, discipline, compassion and perseverance, just to name a few. These characteristics are nurtured in the person through his or her work and are even more valuable than just the food that is being grown. We then talked and wrote about how we can cultivate these characteristics in ourselves.

Our adventures with Captain Bluebear continued as he escaped from the island of the Hobgoblins. After a voyage at sea and a fortunate encounter with the dreaded Tyrannomobyus Rex, Bluebear finds himself on the mysterious "Gourmet Island" where he experiences a multitude of culinary delights. But, all may not be as it seems. The students also began work on a class map of Zamonia that will be used to track Bluebear's adventures. We worked on setting up a grid and each student will soon begin working on their section.

We visited Chiwara House this week to learn more about permaculture and solving problems related to food, energy, transportation, building, water and waste management. The students had a chance to observe shapes and designs inspired by nature that maximize growing space (mounds and spirals) as well as improve irrigation. The idea of "weeds" was also touched upon as the students were introduced to wild plants that are full of nutrients and could easily be substituted for spinach. The students couldn't get enough of the lamb's quarter!

We finished the week with the other 3rd / 4th grade class at Food Gatherers, a local non-profit that works with other organizations to help alleviate hunger in the community. The students toured the facility and then quickly got to work sorting food, checking expiration dates and packing boxes. They loved it and were clearly proud knowing that their work would help feed families in need. Many thanks to Food Gatherers for allowing us to contribute to their wonderful work and to the parents that were able to join us there.