Time for a New Adventure

A lot has changed in my life the last month.

I quit a job I hated. I started a job that (so far) I love. I’ve moved to a new state. I’ve purchased a house. I left the farm.

I’m mostly excited.

The law firm I joined has been wonderful so far; nice people, better compensation, and interesting work. It is all the things my other job was not. I’ve also received an amazing amount of support to pursue something that I’ve been interested in since before I graduated from law school: agriculture law.

Of course, I’m also a little worried. What if it ultimately doesn’t work out? What if all law firms are as bad as the one I was at? What if I can’t build a successful practice? All of these thoughts stem from one thing: fear. There is always risk is trying something new, but I’m more afraid of living my life without trying or making an effort. Heck, that fear is the reason it took me so long to start writing about agriculture, and I haven’t regretted one single second of it.

Moving to a new town and away from the farm was also a big deal. I’ve lived on my own before, but actually leaving the farm makes me a little sad. While I wouldn’t necessarily enjoy driving a tractor all day, I appreciate and enjoy the bustling the farm provides. There is always work that needs to be done, something that needs tending, and something else to fret over. It’s a lifestyle; it consumes everything.

Mischa will (eventually) be moving with me. I worry about taking her off the farm. That’s practically the only life she has ever known, and I know how much she enjoys being outside and exploring. But I also know that I’m her “person” and she won’t be happy if we’re seperated for too long. She wasn’t happy while I was in London, and I missed her too. So despite my initial reservations, I’m bringing her with me so we can have new adventures together.

And, yes, I purchased a house. No, unlike some internet activists, The Farmer’s Daughter USA did not pay for this house. I earned it through my day job. I’m so excited to finally have my own space again. I love decorating and designing, so I’m excited to have a house that I can totally customize for myself (and not necessarily have to think about selling it again).

So, the state that I’ve moved to? Indiana!

No, I’m not that far from home, and I’ve been practicing law here for the past 6 years. Still, it is a whole new world. I’ve come to appreciate the state as an attorney; it is so much more efficient and tech savvy than Michigan. Though Michigan–and the farm–will always be home.

What does all of this mean for The Farmer’s Daughter USA? Not much. I’m still just as passionate about agriculture and the challenges facing modern farmers as I always have been. I doubt I could stay quiet about all of it for very long, even if I tried. You’ll still find me explaining production methods, complaining about advertising, and commenting on politics.

But I’ll probably also share the challenges, rewards, and new interests that pop up during this new adventure.