The Harvest Widow

After last night, I had to write this blog.... Harvest was going so well, until mother nature stepped in, all this recent rain has slowed things right down and left me with a non-existent, grumpy husband!!

It's a bit of a morbid turn of phrase, but rest assured, being known as a "Harvest Widow" does not mean that your husband or other half has died. It is an endearing pet name for those who are left at home whilst the farmer is busy out in the field during harvest time! During this season, it is noticeable that you are spending numerous evenings alone, attending parties and events on your lonesome and feeling like a single parent. so, hands up if you find this a problem or it causes friction in your house? I mean, of course it would surely and I wouldn't be telling the truth if I said it didn't affect me and my family. However, it happens, it's life and I do admire how hard Mr M works this time of year, so I have been looking at the pro's of the "Harvest Widow Effect" , here goes:

1.) Getting lots of cuddles from my babies
2.) I am in complete control of the TV remote!!
3.) After you've sent your "meals on wheels" out to the field, you can cook your favourite food and sneak the odd treat, as much as you like!
4.) When the kids are asleep, relax and enjoy some rare peace and quiet.
5.) I can actually get on with some uninterrupted work! (like now!)
6.) Baby sitter dependant, spend some much needed time with your girlfriends. This is the perfect time to hang out with your girls (who are usually in the same boat!) and not feel guilty about leaving your other half home all alone.
7.) Online shopping!!! (shhh)
8.) Pamper yourself, by that I mean have a nice hot bath / shower!
9.) It's the best entertainment for the kids, taking them to the field to see the combine.
10.) Which just leaves, when he is does eventually come home safe you appreciate him that little bit more...

 This time of year is rewarding, but never easy. It tests everything you have, your families, your relationship and your sanity, it pushes you to your limits, but every year you get through it and look back and say "we love harvest" - that is, until next year!!

Everything about farming thrives off team work and harvest is no exception, however, those times that you are lonely and you hate being in a quiet house for the 4th week running, it seems very far removed from team work, so do something for you and have that all important self discovery time. Before you know it your other half will step through the door, leave a trail of wheat, chaff and dust then dump his dirty overalls in the kitchen!! Bang, there goes your 'you time'.... take advantage of being a 'Harvest Widow' it's only a short period of time really, you'll look back and think how lucky you are.... Bring on drilling!!!
Happy harvest and stay safe. x