Turn Off the Noise & Get Back to Basics

Recently, something really special happened at Sunnyside Up Farm. Two young boys from the neighborhood came to spend time at the farm. What started as a simple visit quickly became a reminder of why Sunnyside Up exists in the first place. They explored the garden paths with curiosity. They watched the chickens. They asked questions. They got their hands dirty. They slowed down. And for a little while, they traded screens, schedules, and noise for sunshine, fresh air, creativity, and real-world connection. 

We captured parts of their visit on video. Watching it felt like watching the true spirit of Sunnyside Up come to life. Because somewhere along the way, this little farmstand became something much bigger than a place to buy sourdough and fresh eggs. It became a feeling. A reminder that life does not always need to move so fast. 

That healing can happen quietly — through nature, conversation, creativity, community, and simple moments shared together. 

People are craving spaces where they can breathe again. Where kids can just be kids. Where neighbors connect. Where handmade things matter. Where slowing down feels good instead of unproductive. That is the heartbeat behind Sunnyside Up. 

As summer approaches here in beautiful Bend, Oregon, we are reminded how lucky we are to live in a place that invites us outdoors. Morning walks, garden watering, river afternoons, backyard dinners, birdsong through open windows — these simple things reconnect us to ourselves in ways we often forget. 

So this month, we invite you to: 

• Sit outside with your morning coffee before checking your phone 

• Plant something, even if it’s just herbs in a small pot 

• Visit a local farmstand or farmers market 

• Bake bread slowly and enjoy the process 

• Let your kids get muddy 

• Take an evening walk without headphones 

• Watch a sunset instead of a screen 

Turn off the noise. Get back to basics. 

That’s where the good stuff lives.