Farming and the Lessons We Have Learned

Two years ago, we sold our home, packed the moving tracks, and headed south to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Not long after, we got some laying hens....and built a chicken coop. Before we knew it, Sweet Briar Farm was born.

As with any journey in life, lessons are learned. And boy, have we learned some life lessons on the farm. Just in case you were wondering, I thought I would share....

First, we have learned that there is ALWAYS something that needs to be done on a farm. To be honest, I doubt we will ever be caught up.

We learned that we are much more capable than we ever thought or imagined. (And much more tired!)

Find a good pair of work boots....and gloves. They are worth the investment!

With a little creativity and some duct tape, most things can be fixed. It may not look good, but it will work. (most of the time)

Even though we gave our best effort, some things just didn't work out as planned. We had to learn to live with disappointment.

In farming, you reap what you sow. We learned that some things you just can't buy cheap or cut corners.

Expect the unexpected. Things happen...learn to laugh it off (or cry) and roll with the punches.

Someone once said, "Don't buy things you don't need and you can't afford." We have learned that it's better to save and pay cash for items. Wait before making purchases and always look to buy used instead of new.

Get to know your local farmers. This will be invaluable! Learn from them, but never be afraid to follow your own path.

It's ok to eat cereal for dinner... no explanation needed.

But I believe that the most important lesson we have learned is that God is in control. We cannot control the weather, or if our garden will produce a good harvest, but we can trust that God has us in the palm of His hand. He loves us and wants what is best for us. Our life is a journey of faith. There will be good times, bad times and even times we think we won't survive. But we must continue to walk by faith. Remember, God never fails.

Farming has taught us to be independent, self-reliant, patient (somewhat), and how to work better together as a team. We are learning to take a deep breath while finding joy in the mundane.

Yes, farming has taught us so many life lessons.

"The Lord will command the blessing upon you in your barns and in all that you put your hand to, and He will bless you in the land which the Lord your God gives you." Deuteronomy 28:8