Life on the farm rarely slows down, but sometimes, you need to step back and adjust. For me, that step was taking off half a semester to acclimate to having a newborn on the farm again. Between midnight feedings for the baby and early morning chores with the animals, it was a necessary pause before diving back in.
But now, I’m all in again, and let me tell you, it’s a whirlwind. I was supposed to finish my final Ag class for my Associate’s Degree in January, but it was cancelled due to lack of enrollment (which is definitely fodder for another article in the future). That class got bumped to this current 8-week term, along with my two business classes. Add to that the Business Intensive Cohort I joined in January—a program run by Farmers Rising out of Caledonia, IL, stretching until May—and it’s safe to say my plate is full.
What drives me, though, is knowing this is all for the bigger picture. Every lesson in these courses and workshops feeds directly into the farm. Whether it’s learning how to improve our business plan or figuring out ways to engage more effectively with our community, it’s knowledge I can apply right away. It’s about making the farm more resilient, efficient, and impactful—not just for us, but for the families and community who depend on what we do.
Let’s not sugarcoat it—it’s a juggling act. Balancing the farm, a growing family, and college classes feels like trying to herd chickens sometimes. There are moments of doubt, exhaustion, and wondering how I’ll fit it all in. But there’s also a deep sense of purpose. I’m not just learning for the sake of it—I’m learning to create a future for my family, build a stronger farm, and contribute to a resilient farming community.
What gives me hope is knowing I’m not alone in this. Programs like Farmers Rising connect me with other like-minded individuals who are also navigating the challenges of modern farming. It’s inspiring to share ideas, struggles, and successes with people who “get it.” And it’s a reminder that reinvention and growth don’t mean going it alone.
So here’s to pushing boundaries, juggling responsibilities, and never stopping the pursuit of knowledge—even when the days are long and the work is hard. Have you ever tackled something that felt like a stretch but turned out to be worth every moment? Pull up a seat at the farm table—I’d love to hear your story. After all, we’re all in this together, navigating the ups and downs of life with muddy boots and big dreams.
Until next time,
Traci
