I am the only sibling of the five of us who isn’t really involved in the transition of the family farm. My three brothers are selling it to my sister’s daughter Karen, her husband, and son. So, I was surprised at my emotional response. But seeing two large cattle trucks at the farm today totally unglued me. They were there to take more cows away. I think only 50 are staying.
We are excited that the Hershey farm is staying in the family – the sixth and seventh generation. It is going to be fun to see what Larry, Karen, Travis, and Ashlea do with the farm – and I KNOW they will take good care of it. The dairy barn is being leased to another farm who is bringing in their own cows – and we are pleased about that.
I just had to cry awhile. Now I am okay again. 🙂
Major changes are always difficult — anad it’s usually the dismantling of the old routines that is most difficult. The new meets with lots of anticipation, and is often very exciting. I’m sorry you’re having to go through this, but it sounds as if a good cry was all you needed! May tomorrow be a better day!
Thank you. Part of me is hurting for my youngest brother and his wife because they are the ones still living there. It is their cows that are being sold.
It must be almost like losing several pets all at once! How difficult! But at least your brother and his wife will still be living there, and it will still be a cattle barn. It is tough, though, to see the family grow older and prepare for the next generation’s management of the barn and the farm. Hugs!
The house is a two family house, so Larry and Karen and their two children are preparing to move in – probably in about a month. Steve and Brenda will rent from them and can stay there until Larry and Karen’s son Travis gets married and needs the other side of the house. Travis is 19 and a partner in the farm purchase.
Change is hard! Last year, after my parents passed, we watched as my parent’s home and possessions were either sold or distributed among children and grandchildren. Most of it (including the home) were not what I grew up with until marriage but it’s where we all gathered for holidays and special occasions. I still shed a tear or two when I think about it or when the holidays come even though I have peace about it now. Your memories are deeper as the farm has been there for many generations. Blessings to you during this change. I wondered about you this week with the tornadoes in your area praying that you and your family were not affected.
I think I was sobbing for my youngest brother and his wife, as they are the ones selling the cows, and it has been emotional for them.
The tornado-high winds went around us but were very close. Some of our church family had tree damage, some friends had serious house our barn damage, our son Jeff and his wife Chris had hail and wind damage on their farm.
Thanks for caring.