They continued to move forward with the to-do list and then the BIG day arrived in November 2009, time to plant 800 trees. With family, friends and a hope to finish in 8 days they put on their work clothes and became a unified team. Two and a half days later the 800th tree was planted. Thanksgiving that year was the best ever.
Of course, when you feel you’ve accomplished some major hurdles, the rose colored glasses must be removed to see all the other projects that need to be done. Living and working full time jobs 2 ½ hours from Mariposa and being a weekend warrior was taking its toll. It was time for Dave to retire. So, in August 2010 he became a full time farmer. Due to the economy Beth continued to work in Folsom, near Sacramento.
With all the care of a loving parent, Dave tended the new trees using biological and sustainable farming practices. Work by day and research by night, Dave gained a new insight into the 24/7 of a farmer’s life. Beth continued her job in Folsom and spent most of her weekends working on the orchard.