These two photos capture ups and downs of getting a neglected, run-down farm into working order. City fire code required our landlord to mow the extensive retention ponds in front of the farmhouse. If we timed it right, we had a free source of Bermuda grass but had to gather it up by hand to feed our goats and sheep. Nothing like riding on a truck bed of sweet-smelling hay. The down part, as seen in the photo below, was about 20 feet deep and just wide enough to squeeze in an extension ladder. With rope and bucket, we had to haul up the trash tossed in over the years — rocks, bricks, beer cans, bones — you name it. Once cleaned out, this hand-dug well became more productive. Here is Ethan helping his dad empty another load.