For Danielle Botterell and her family, this summer will be full of new beginnings at Northbrook Farm.
Our farm in the Kawarthas in Ontario has been our haven since 2011. We spend most weekends and holidays in the country and are happy for the respite from our city lives. Over the last decade, we introduced an extensive vegetable garden as well as flower gardens and landscape features. We’ve planted an orchard and hundreds of other trees as we’ve worked to create habitat for wildlife and to ensure a healthy ecosystem. We care for about 10 acres around the house and barn area, and our endless projects keep us busy and happy.
Last July, our beautiful farm was devastated by a direct hit from a tornado. We lost our original large bank barn, our pole barn and its contents, and our newly built bunkie (a Covid project). We also lost almost all of the mature maples around the house. Miraculously, no people or animals were hurt and our farmhouse was largely unscathed. Still, it was a heartbreak.
The silver lining: Kind neighbours were immediately at our doorstep ready to help, and support from friends and family has been overwhelming. Over the last year, we’ve had a chance to reimagine our farm and we’ve rebuilt our pole barn and the bunkie. We have planted more than 30 new trees and have plans for new gardens. It’s an ongoing labour of love for our favourite place and has taught us all a lesson in the value of community and the power of resilience.
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