we have seen the barley through

To most farmers...planting a barley hay crop isn't exactly rocket science. But for me this process has been a process that has affirmed my feeling of belonging here on the ranch. Was this the greatest crop of barley? Not really. But from start to finish, it was my first farming success, and I can't describe the sense of satisfaction I feel, seeing the whole thing through.



Farming this summer has been... overwhelming, in a word. It has been a real gut check for me. I wish I was a numbers person, because I'd like to know how many hours I've spent on the tractor.So much time to think, and to think about what I'm thinking. There have been several uncomfortable moments--when I have to acknowledge that my romantic notion of farming and my real feelings about it are discordant to say the least.

Only one more week of summer. Sad to say it, but hopefully, come this weekend, I won't have to worry about cutting hay again until next year.That being said, when evening comes and I'm sitting in my chair with the hay baled and the assurance of another winter's feed is assured.