Farmer Post 2

     The second portion of Growing a Farmer was as enjoyable as the first. Timmermiester does an excellent job communicating his experiences in lessons applicable to both business and life. Throughout the middle section of the book, Timmermeister describes situations he faces and approaches them like a businessman -- he researches the topic and comes up with a plan of action. He never blindly throws himself at a project because he understands that can only lead to failure. Another interesting trend I found while reading is the fact that most of his projects stem from a gift or tip from a friend. A book from a friend inspired him to try beekeeping. Two animals gifted to his farm by friends started his venture into livestock.
     The chapter discussing his orchard was fascinating. When he is pondering his trees he relates them to a more reliable 401(k) than one he could find a financial institution. This was striking to me because it communicates the idea that projects you work on with your own two hands can be incredibly successful if you are willing to put in the work. The story of his venture in cider making was also amusing. After caring for his new cider trees and watching them grow slowly, they were eaten by deer. Timmermesiter describes that he felt nature would be good to him for attempting to refurbish old land. He realizes his naïvety and makes a claim that applies to all of life, "nature is cruel: it is neither fair nor equitable...and everyone is out for themselves" (78). You cannot simply trust that the system is going to cooperate with you if your practices are well managed. Things can still go wrong and it is necessary to adapt.
     The next chapter about animals was one I was anticipating. Ever since I was a kid I have been fascinated with farm animals and love a good petting zoo. I was surprised to hear that Andrea had never attempted to raise livestock but after hearing about the regulations she faces I understood. One idea I derived from Timmermiester's writing is the importance and interdependence of every aspect on a farm. To a bystander, a pasture may look like just rolling hills of grass when it is actually the heart of the farm. As Timmermiester says, "the lawn deserves respect" (93). His experience with cows also communicated the importance of persistence. Cows are not easy to take care of and many problems can arise when caring for cows. However, Timmermeister is determined that to truly call himself a farmer, he needs to own a cow. Similar to all his other projects, he studies up on the topic and takes it head-on. Timmermiester was not afraid to fail because as a new farmer, failure is an excellent means of learning how to do things correctly. This is an important lesson I hope to use when taking on new projects. One final idea that was striking to me is the process of dairying. When I see milk in the grocery store it is one of the most simple and boring items available. However, the means by which Timmermeister describe the dairy process made me appreciate the work that goes into one of the drinks that has been around me since childhood.
     I believe I am enjoying this book because Timmermesiter does not describe this process of becoming a farmer through the lens of a successful farmer. He takes us back to when he was making the important decisions as a novice in his field. We learn about farming through Timmermiester's journey which creates a more unique and inviting story that I continue to enjoy.