Most of us have some sort of childhood memory of being on a farm, visiting relatives or friends. My story is like so many others. I remember waking up early to hear my uncle start with his day as the kettle whistles through the house from the kitchen. The sound of the doves as they welcome the day with a constant call, “ohr ohr ohr”, while sitting on the nest.

Then comes the delicious smells that cannot be ignored any longer! Followed by working in the sun, smelling the farm smells, and caring for the animals. What a privilege it is to have memories like these.

Visiting places that have this rustic, welcoming, homely feeling is one of the ways that I use to de-stress in times like these. To have a place to walk about and feel alive and free. I have also come to value these privileges more as I believe we have taken for granted so many of the little things we crave for now.

“My grandfather used to say that once in your life you need a doctor, a lawyer, a policeman and a preacher, but every day, three times a day, you need a farmer.” – Brenda Schoepp

I guess my musing is more about the farmer, creating these instances of beauty and how the land can bring people together. The beauty of nature and community are the tonic for life. That is the most important lesson that I have learned from my stays on farms throughout the years.

Southdowns often reminds me of this and I love that I can come here and spend time in a relaxed environment with friends and family.