Caitlin Harris Moore is the owner of Shepard’s Flock Farm, a woman-owned and operated Elgin-based permaculture farm specializing in Texas native habitats and the cultivation of seasonal produce. Caitlin teaches classes in her apothecary on the farm.
1. Why did you move to Elgin?
I grew up in a small town near Houston and went to Austin for college (Hilltopper pride). After college, I met my husband and we started our family. I really missed the comfort and speed of small-town life. We weren’t cut out for Austin. So we headed East – in search of bigger sky and fertile soil. Best choice we ever made – I love our community!
2. What compels you to spend time creating?
I’m very stubborn and particular. Once I have an idea in mind, there’s no letting it go. I like to get my hands into new projects. I pride myself on bringing things to fruition – with as little help as possible. I want to live a small life full of handmade things with worn-down edges and coffee stains.
3. Tell me three things you’ve learned in the past five years.
1. The Pythagorean Theorem (for greenhouse building) – I guess I learned it back in high school but those brain cells have come and gone.
2. I’m never going to go through that random bag of stuff I just shoved into the closet – it’s ok to donate it!
3. Getting enough sleep is not overrated. Being well-rested can fix almost anything. So boring but I think most epiphanies are, honestly.
4. What are you currently making, reading, watching, or listening to?
I am opening up a new piece of land for the farm. It’s a brutal process of hard manual labor but to me, it’s the most rewarding part of farming. I’m always reading Stephen King and always listening to angsty ’90s girl alt-rock, or a podcast about farming or murder.
5. Cake or Pie?
This question. Why so cruel? My initial answer is pie. It feeds that human desire to enjoy fresh seasonal native fruits in a simple form. But, I really love making and decorating cakes for my kids’ birthday parties. There have been some complicated ones! They never really turn out quite right but my kids think I am a magician and the joy it brings them is untouchable.
Instagram @shepardsflockfarm
Shop and Sign up for workshops online shepardsflockfarm.com
Bean & Noodle 