Let me start out by saying that life in a dairy farming family is not a piece of cake. We have struggles and hard days… just like everyone else. But here are some random thoughts on why I love this life.
I get to live and work with my family – my best friends. To me, it doesn’t get much better than that! We have shared so many experiences together – fun and not so fun – and those are bonding. Working as a family draws us together, and I so love that.
I have always loved exploring and wandering through the pasture and woods. I know that many people don’t have the space to roam and spend time alone in nature, and I am so grateful to have that.
Farming builds character. Throwing haybales? Builds character. Picking rock? Builds character. Getting your hands covered in nastiness? Builds character. Have I made my point?
I think there’s something so wonderful about taking care of baby calves… then seeing them calve and join the herd in a couple of years.
I’m so thankful for the emphasis my parents and grandparents put on people. Running a farm takes much of their time and energy, but they are good at making sure that people aren’t lost in the shuffle. They make the time to be with family and friends, even when it’s difficult. This is an example I want to follow for the rest of my life.
I’ve learned that in this life there will be hard times, no matter what… it’s how you deal with them that matters.
This was originally published on my other blog, The Farmer’s Daughter.
Laurel Luehmann 