In true vagabond style, we have spent much of our lives moving around the country and around the world…experiencing new and different cultures and climates. Our most recent sojourn found us aboard a sailboat in the Mediterranean for the better part of 6 years. As we considered our "next life" sunshine and farming became our prime objectives.

We could not believe our good fortune in early 2002 when we discovered Ojai. A beautiful community nestled in the hills of Southern California, 25 miles southeast of Santa Barbara and inland from Ventura. Ojai's charm and diversity immediately attracted us. Then it got even better … we found New Oak Ranch. Formerly a dry land walnut ranch, the land had suffered from years of neglect. It was just right for Bill who brought his energy and passion for learning to the property.

Within just two years, he managed to clean and clear the land and plant 300 Ojai Pixie Tangerines, nearly 5,000 lavender plants and 1,400 olive trees. Even the remaining 42 walnut trees have benefited from his attention. Once again, they look healthy and are generously producing.

Karen weeding the Provence rows.

By the way, the name, New Oak Ranch sprang from our family tradition of planting a new oak tree on the property each year. On New Year's Day, family and friends gather to plant a new oak, our way of continuing and helping to maintain the beautiful oak enhanced beauty of California.