Friday, 17 May 2013

The Best Things in Life are Free

More than two years ago I asked on this blog if anyone had suggestions of employment for me based on what you know about me and my interests.  Many of you suggested doing voluntary work as a way into a new job.  Well, I have been volunteering for almost two years now on a regular basis.  There is still no paid work coming my way but I have gained so many riches from my experiences.  The wonderful scene above greets me as I walk towards the farm/vineyard/orchard/market garden/historic house etc.  Why pay to go to the Chelsea flower show when there is natural beauty on my doorstep (I still wouldn't mind going though!) and it is all for free!

The vineyard is a labour of love and we have yet to harvest any grapes.  We should be harvesting our first bunches in the late summer/autumn and magically turn them into bottles of organic wine.  The vineyard is looking to become bio dynamic using  various herbal preparations and return to the old ways by employing a draught horse for ploughing and farm labour.  I am sure he will become a valued member of the team.

There is so much happening in and around the farm land.  A new forest is going to be planted and we are going to get a cow and use her manure for bio dynamic preparations.  Students still come to the farm and look after the animals as part of their training purposes.  They get to handle a wide variety of animals such as rare breed pigs, sheep, horses, ducks, geese, chickens etc.

Today I did some voluntary work in the market garden.  I planted over 1000 seeds so hopefully some will crop up!  We are growing vegetables for an organic box scheme and if it takes off we could be supplying local businesses and restaurants.  There is so much going on I feel I could burst with happiness!  I truly have found my vocation working with lovely like minded people, doing varied, challenging and changing work, surrounded by nature; plants and animals.

Thank you to everybody who recommended that I try volunteering.  You have changed my life in a most positive way.

9 comments:

  1. 1000 seeds! And I thought I'd done a lot..
    Well done Simone, it all sounds perfect.

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  2. Wonderful, you sound so happy Simone!
    1000 seeds !! That's a lot of planting! :)
    V xxx

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  3. Simone!! I was so excited to read this post - you sound so happy!!! I am very, very happy for you!! Sounds wonderful!!xxx

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  4. Wow that's a lot of seeds, Hope they all grow and you'll have something to show for you gallant endeavours. Well done.

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  5. I'm really happy you feel so content, Simone! Living so close to nature is a true gift.I also can't have enough of it on my way to work, to the market etc!

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  6. I have a vague memory of suggesting that working in a garden centre might suit you and it seems that your volunteering in the market garden is something similar and something you have enjoyed. Volunteering can be very rewarding and I'm so glad you are enjoying what you do. 1000 seeds? I hope every single one of them grows:)

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  7. Simone, I have never heard you so optimistic, keep it going m'dear - you are doing good things.

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  8. this post made me smile, you sound so happy and positive Simone!

    Im truly happy for ypu

    leanne x

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  9. I am so very happy for you, Simone. The vineyard et al seems like such a magical place and I'm glad that you have found your niche there!

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