The Farm Wife Sagas

Am I present enough?

Do I spend enough time with her?

Sometimes I wonder… Are the memories we’re making truly fun and meaningful—or will she only remember the long days on the farm and the late dinners eaten on the tailgate?

Truth is, I have no idea.

But I do know this:

My favorite memories growing up weren’t on a fancy vacation. They were in the garden, in the fields, racing through the corn rows under the irrigation sprinkler. Riding horses. Splashing in the creek. That kind of magic can’t be bought—it’s lived.

Now that VJ is getting older and life is busier—between the farm, the businesses I help with, dance, preschool, and trying to just be present at home—I find myself asking these questions more and more.

But then I’m reminded:

She’s learning through it all.

She’s learning how to be flexible.

She’s learning when to work and when to rest.

She’s learning that quality time matters more than quantity.

And it shows. People notice her sweet nature. Her respectfulness. Her kindness. They tell me she listens well, and behaves wonderfully even when we aren’t around. That means more to me than any academic milestone.

So maybe we don’t need extravagant plans or picture-perfect outings.

Maybe the core memories we’re shaping are already enough.

So here’s your permission slip—from one mama to another—to let go of the guilt.

Get messy.

Get outside.

Make memories that matter.

This summer, you’ll find us in the mud kitchen, playing with animals, splashing in buckets, painting with outdoor watercolors, and chasing sunsets. And I have a feeling those moments will be the ones she remembers most.