My mom’s friend Doug Hagley gives me a tour of his family’s farm that packs in a surprising variety of experiences.

Walking through the woods we hear a million starlings. I take a video just for the sound.

They have a white pine tree farm about 25 years old.

There are apples everywhere, on trees and on the ground. We gather a few from this spot by the road Doug noticed.

I learn what asparagus looks like gone to seed – wild red berries!

Doug takes us through his organic garden, giving us plenty of vegetables for the week.

Last I see the calves in the barn, guarded by cute cats and kids.

And finally we sip coffee around the dining room table, and Doug’s parents impress me with their wit and optimism. It’s encouraging to see a small farm with all this going for it.