Just yesterday we finished Part I of a summer project: erosion control on the stream that cuts through the farm from the irrigation pond. I spent a few hot afternoons with Greg and my fellow WWOOFers, pounding metal stakes into the ground, rolling logs into place, and building 5’ wooden boxes that will prevent the stream from aggressively eroding away at the embankments that hold it (see pictures!)
The great thing about these projects is that finishing them (even though, admittedly, this erosion control is still a work in progress) brings a great sense of accomplishment. Those hours of hard work pay off, and the result is an improvement to this farm that I have grown to love!
I have had such a great time here. Greg and Maureen are truly an inspiring couple that greeted us WWOOFers with a smile when we rolled out of bed at 7:00 each morning (and they get up at 5:00!). Through all of our work together, I didn’t hear a single argument or complaint. Only positivity, patience, and a love for their animals and friends. I feel so lucky to have spent this time with them, to have learned from their outlook on life, and to be reminded that life isn’t about money or prestige: it’s about doing what you love, with people that you love.
Maureen—thank you for your kindness, hospitality, and for making me feel at home (including baking me a cake on my birthday!)
Greg—thank you for teaching me so much (tractor-driving, hose-mending, and lumber-sawing, just to name a few) and for your never-ending patience in your explanations and answers to my questions.
To the other WWOOFers I shared this with—Anna, Holly, Laura, and Grace—I am so happy that I got to know you, and I wish you all the best!
Thank you, GGMR, for being so welcoming—I know I’ll be back the next time I come to Seattle! I’m taking with me many fond memories, new skills (power tools!) and these wise words from Maureen: A stranger is a friend you haven’t met yet.
Love,
Katie