Fancy Farmer
Recently, my brother Jeff and I traveled together on a road trip through southwestern Illinois and into Missouri. We’ve always both been fascinated with farm fields, crops, working farms, and barns and started reminiscing about growing up on a dairy farm that turned strictly agricultural in later years. We were reliving childhood memories and laughing about our adventures and fun but also of the dreaded chores (like rock-picking the fields to be exact). He mentioned how much he missed being a full-time farmer.
Even though he has another full-time career, Jeff still loves to tinker with small projects at the farm including growing sweet corn, occasionally wheat or barley but this year he planted a sunflower patch to add to the mix. In addition to remembering earlier farm memories, Jeff mentioned how a friend always calls him a “Fancy Farmer.” We started laughing again and realized at the exact same time, our Dad could have been called a “Fancy Farmer” too. Not for the same reasons but a fancy farmer indeed.
Even though my Dad milked the cows twice a day, repaired machinery, fed the animals, cleaned manure troughs, climbed in and out of tractors and combines, bailed hay and straw, planted, tended to, and harvested the crops, my Mom never allowed him to wear blue jeans. Well, that is until he finally wore her down. By that time us kids were grown and no longer living at home. She wanted him to look neat and tidy. His wardrobe during the week and working hours consisted of kakis, v-neck white t-shirt, and either a button-up or western snap-up shirt, and cowboy boots. However, on holidays, church, diners out, and special occasions he dressed in beautiful suits, dress pants, striking patterned ties (double Windsor knot), eye-catching shirts and handsome sweaters. He always looked dapper, classy and you might say like a gentleman farmer.
My Dad was proud of his profession, and since his passing being at the farm makes us feel closer to him. I know he would be proud of the work that Jeff continues to honor in his legacy. My Dad was hardworking, genuine and was known for his integrity. He loved farming even though it was often labor intensive, and long hours, which repeatedly resulted in sore muscles and stiff joints. He was usually up before dawn and regularly worked late into the night. He was known for straight planting rows and was a master of the combine. He nurtured the land and fed the world. He also took special care of his equipment, machinery and vehicles, making them look like new even when they weren’t.
There are so many lessons we’ve learned from this humble man. Whatever you choose to do in life, make it special and memorable. As the saying goes, “Choose a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” - Confucious. Whether you’re a fancy farmer or not, make an impact. What legacy are you leaving behind?
xoxox…..Sheryl
PS….My Mom has never owned a pair of jeans. I think a few years ago she did purchase a pair of plum causal pants that were as close as she’s ever going to get…..LOL Love you Mom! You’ve got great style too!