Welcome to the off-farm edition of this week’s email! As much as I would love to talk about our pest struggles for the third week in a row, we’re at a point in the season where a lot of the on-farm happenings are more of the same, more of the same.
To avoid the redundancy of “its hot outside”(it was quite nice this week actually!), and “the tomatoes are growing quickly”, I want to capitalize on the fact that the train has arrived at vacation station, with more of us off the farm than on. And so I bring you this week’s email: the off-farm postcard edition.
The deserters:
Me! (Sophia): I must confess, I have not been on the farm for the past 3 weeks. I spent my time off visiting my family & cats back in New Jersey and went on a trip to visit a dear friend of mine in Italy. It was my first time traveling alone out of the country, and it was honestly life changing. Sometimes (because I am young and know everything already), I can be quick to dismiss common sentiments and age-old sayings. Thus, I did not expect to get so much out of travel. I feel like my time in a completely different culture was perspective-shifting and gave me some newfound clarity about what I want my life to look like post-graduation. A major highlight of my trip was spending a few days in Rome. I really don’t consider myself someone particularly interested in history, but there is something about seeing massive 2000 year old structures that can give you an intense feeling about legacies and your place in the world. The food was also incredible, and I got to meet and talk to so many new people. Still, I’m excited to return to my quaint farm life after all that excitement.
Musaka: Musaka’s off-farm adventures included a trip home and a visit to Greece. Greece has been full of exciting historical visits, hikes, and beach days. A highlight has been the reactions she gets from telling Greek people her name, as Moussaka is actually the name of a popular dish in Greece.
Emma: Emma’s off farm adventure this week involves a trip to the Pacific Northwest with her mom. My inquiries about her trip have gone unanswered (as they should be, she’s on vacation!)
Slade: I believe he is on a camping trip of sorts. When asked for an update, he said “Give me a minute, I have to drive a boat”. With no further response, I am forced to assume he capsized. He will be missed!
The remainers:
Interestingly, with the exception of our boss, all of those who remained on the farm will be gone permanently over the next week, as their summer chapters come to a close.
The Boss(Chris): This week, Chris’ off farm adventures have consisted of going to bed earlier and cleaning the house. Reflecting on this he says, “I think I’m getting old”.
Kayla: Kayla is spending this last week getting ready for her move to Texas on Monday, where she is about to begin a position as a lab tech at UT Austin! Her off-farm update also includes a classic component, the details of which are unfit for this email… boy troubles.
Raffi: Though he has been present on the farm, he is preparing for his departure back to Ball State next week. He is in the process of switching his major from music education to a double major in music performance & biology with field botany (#yayagriculture).
Ashley: With her lease ending this week, Ashley has been in the middle of a packing and moving extravaganza. Without utensils easily accessible, she laments the cold takeout that has served as her sole nourishment for these days.
And for our spotlight this week, I would like to introduce another remainer, Ren. One of my favorite things about him is how he’s almost like a humor litmus test. I can make a lot of dumb jokes, almost nonstop, but if one gets a reaction from him, that’s how I know I have a winner.
Hi! I’m Ren, I’ve worked on and off at the student farm since my sophomore year and loved it the whole time. I graduated this spring with a double major in SFS and Horticulture and have been working at the farm while I figured out my next steps. My favorite job on the farm is harvesting, so I’ve been having a great time as the zucchini, peppers, and more come into season. Unfortunately, this is my last week, so I won’t get to be here when the peppers get going with gusto. I’ve had an amazing time working with everyone on the farm, and getting to recognize all of your faces. I hope that you all continue to enjoy the produce, there are still so many great things yet to come!