Returning to Canada to start a Permaculture business hasn't been entirely smooth. Specific challenges include: 'How do I say that in Canadian?' and finding a concise response to 'Well its all good but first we have to eradicate the . . .  [insert hated species here]'.  Scotch Broom is the top candidate for most hated here in B.C. but Black berry, English Ivy, Morning Glory and Periwinkle are all in the top ten. Even Snowberry and Oregon grape [both native] get their share of abuse.

Communication can be challenging at the best of times but having trained in Australia has presented some unique issues. In Canada a 'swale' can mean any kind of ditch or small man-made water channel. 'Dams' are called 'ponds' here in B.C. and 'dugouts' in Saskatchewan. I searched fruitlessly for a 'farmer's level' before I realized that what I wanted was a 'hand held sight level'.

However despite these minor and sometimes hilarious misunderstandings and without any recognizable 'marketing' I have had 3 clients so far. Meeting each client has had an element of serendipity that amazes me. Each has a unique site and priorities but all have a shared willingness to support me with their enthusiasm, their faith in my abilities and their conviction that the work I am doing has significance far beyond their own projects. All have provided me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge and broaden my experience.

And the serendipity continues to astound me. I have earthworks planned for this fall with my first client. I am confident that the swales and spillways I have designed will solve the water problems around her house. However I have been a little nervous about supervising an excavator on my own for the very first time. Today I met with clients that have an urban farm of about 5 acres with 3 potential dam sites. Although they are new to farming and to permaculture, he is a contractor with experience in surveying and laying out subdivisions. He will be supervising the earthworks himself and he is more than happy to let me observe!  

With all this happening in just 6 short weeks I simply have to reflect with awe and gratitude at how blessed I am to be surrounded by all this support and encouragement.