Farmers on the beach

As a family, as farmers, and as business owners we make an effort every year to spend some time relaxing by the ocean. Perhaps it is my childhood memories of learning to sail, the endless treasures and mysteries of ocean life or the calming rhythm of waves breaking in the beach that draw us? Whatever the pull, we are fortunate to have grandparents who lovingly host our family in a small village on Cape Cod. The same village where I grew up learning to sail.

One of my first hurdles was the notion that it was crazy, unheard of, and downright foolish for a farmer to go on vacation during the busy months of July or August. And for me, a notion is one of the most difficult barriers to hurdle. Yet with practice, love, and two bouncing balls of human energy we call children, Racey and I have been pretty consistent at our yearly pilgrimage to the ocean. I still get a few raised eyebrows year after year from friends who ask, “oh you managed to get away from the farm…?” I am proud to reply “yes, and it is enjoyable to leave and makes coming home even sweeter.”

The ocean is full of magic and surprises, especially for those of us who live on a farm and only see the ocean once a year. But we also managed to see a first in the suburban forest of Cape Cod. We found a hummingbird nest! Does anyone know what species this is?

We stopped to inspect the leaves of a not so familiar maple tree species only to look closer at a lump on the branch. Perfectly disguised with lichen chips and bark pieces the lump was actually the home of a tiny hummingbird chick waiting for breakfast. Racey and I wondered if the high traffic branch hanging over a sidewalk was a clever strategy to scare off predators? Seemed to be working. Two days later after a few more attempts at discrete visits, the best was empty and we wished the young bird well in its fledging.

We arrived home on the farm missing the feel of salt water and sunburned in new places. The familiar sounds and humidity greeted us this weekend, and the kids are not the only ones to express their longing for the cool sea breeze and the ocean to play in.

Thank you to Holly, Healey, Chad, Gwen, Scott, Cara and Otis for making Farmers on the Beach possible.