Meet Sandra Cook, who grew up in Phoenix in a poor family and learned gardening at an early age.

Sandra went to nursing school and moved to Idaho in the late '80s and enjoyed a lengthy career as a registered nurse and Army Reservist. She developed serious health problems and although it ended her nursing career, she delved headlong into gardening as a means to achieve physical activity. Her chicken obsession was an accident as she only wanted three to start with for pest control. Instead, she fell in love with the birds and now has well over 100, with plans to add another 100 more this year. Visit crazycatchickfarm.square.site for details.

1) When and why did you create Crazy Cat Chick Farm?

The farm was officially formed in 2016 after realizing how many people wanted to buy my organically grown plants and produce. They absolutely love all the questions I answer to guide them to purchasing the right plant and how to grow it. I enjoy thinking outside the box and creating new ways of helping people out, such as the Egg It Forward program. This program allows people to donate money toward the purchase of eggs for those in need.

2) What do you love about gardening, raising chickens and living the farmstand life?

I love that it forces me to get out of my house multiple times a day, seven days a week, no matter the weather conditions. I love growing my own food, knowing it is organically grown. I love knowing my eggs are fresh and the chickens are well fed and treated well. I love the pride of knowing I can provide fresh, organically grown produce at market and to restaurants. And most of all, I love watching the plants pop up and seeing chicks born.

3) Where did you pick up your love of gardening and why is it important to share that love with others?

My mom was in Future Farmers of America as a kid and enjoyed gardening, providing for the family and canning what she grew. My mom was amazing and has inspired me greatly in so many areas of my life.

4) What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I think many people would be surprised to know that less than 20 years ago I was wheelchair bound and unable to speak. The farm has rehabilitated me by keeping me active and forcing my brain to remember how to perform previously learned functions and to learn new things as well.

5) What are a few tips you have for people interested in urban gardening or joining a farmers market?

It’s OK to start small. Even if all you grow is one thing in a pot. I tell people to think about the one garden produce they look forward to every summer and start with just one plant. Even expert gardeners have bad years and make mistakes. We learn from them and try again. With a farmers market, find the specific market that fits your availability and personality, then start small and let it grow organically. Most vendors are happy to offer advice and encouragement.