I took a trip to Southern Belle Farm in McDonough, GA. I’ve been meaning to visit since I moved to Georgia. It was a cool cloudy day, beautiful weather. No beaming sun to worry about while in the patch, and although there was a slight chance of rain later in the day, I was willing to take a chance.
It was the perfect time for a visit, as it was strawberry season, and we love strawberries in this house! Lately, the strawberries in the store have been disappointing, so this was the perfect opportunity to pick some fresh ones.
The visit made a lasting impact on me so much that I am now wondering how I could bottle up some of that farm tranquility and take it with me. Being there took me back to the time when life was simple, and we enjoyed the little things in life. As kids, we played outside and made up good ol hand games for entertainment rather than staring at a screen all day and avoiding getting daily fresh air. It was a simple time, miles away from chasing aesthetics or following the latest trend to fit in with everyone else. I feel like farm life preserves that simple time, and once you visit, you’re literally walking into a time capsule full of that beautiful time with a station for each of your sweetest childhood memories. It’s no wonder people still run to visit them.
Here are 5 Lessons I Learned Spending the Day at Southern Belle Farm, and if you stay tuned until the end, there will be a special extra bonus 😉
1. Slow down and live in the moment.
I originally went to pick strawberries, especially since the ones in the store haven’t been fresh lately, but the more time I spent out in the strawberry patch, the more I felt at peace. It was as if life really slowed down. I wasn’t thinking of the long to-do list waiting for me back at home. I just wanted more of this moment. As someone who tends to rush to the next thing, this showed me how slowing down and being present in the small moments could be rewarding. Oftentimes, those small moments become the greatest memories. It was that feeling of serenity that made me decide to stay longer at the farm.
2. I want more of the things that bring me joy.
On the activity side of the farm, there were many fun things to do, from bubbles to slides. My toddler loved the slide! He kept running back to the trail that would take him back up to the top, so that he could slide again. Looking back on this behavior, I think of how he knew that he enjoyed something so much that he wanted more of it, and so he chose to repeat it again and again. How many times do we do the same? I want more of repeating the things that I enjoy, and it’s completely up to me to make that happen. No matter the obstacles in the way. If climbing up a hill to the top of a slide didn’t deter my toddler from something he enjoyed, then no obstacle should keep me from repeating the things that I enjoy, either.
3. Don’t be Afraid to Pivot
Once we finished picking strawberries, I thought we would head home. Especially since it was nap time for my little guy, but after grabbing a strawberry lemonade, sitting down, and admiring the scenery around me, I decided to call an audible. Besides, what exactly was I rushing back to do?
Not too long ago, I was in a season where I was bogged down by my responsibilities – motherhood and work, to name a few, but I wasn’t happy. I wasn’t thriving. I was simply surviving from day to day, and it wasn’t enough for me.
I remember writing down in my notes that I wanted to make life beautiful again. I didn’t know what it meant then, and I don’t claim to know what it means now, but I would imagine that deciding to forego plans that don’t align with that for something that is bringing you joy, refueling you, and filling your cup would be a step in the right direction. Every now and then, forget your plan and just go with that inner voice telling you to pivot! On the other side of that, there can be something beautiful.
4. Motherhood is easier when you take it outside.
When I join in on my child’s childhood, it feels easier. That sometimes means being in an environment where he can be his full, energetic self without reprimand. That is not always in our home. When I am having a hard day with him, and I push myself to take him to the park or his weekend activities, I almost always feel relief afterwards. Not only does it give him an outlet, but it also gives me one as well.
Fresh air, conversation with other adults, a chance to play together, no distractions. It’s the breath of fresh air we both need. It’s not always easy getting out of the house, but when I am able to push through my frustration and moods to do it. It is totally worthwhile.
5. Don’t wear your good shoes to the farm.
It has to be said! I am still trying to get the stains out of our shoes! If anyone knows anything that can help, please let me know, because those were definitely some of our good sneakers. One lady I met in the bakery line told me she normally wears Crocs because they can be wiped off easily. That’s definitely something to consider, though those aren’t on my list of favorite fashion choices 🤔.
In all seriousness, If you haven’t done so this year, I highly recommend visiting and supporting a local farm. It’s beneficial for you and for them as well, and I guarantee that you won’t regret going.
Let’s Chat: Have you been to a farm? If so, what is your favorite memory? Also, do you have any tips for someone going for the first time? (Because I definitely wish someone had told me about proper shoe wear 😅)
SPECIAL BONUS: It’s official, I’m on YOUTUBE! & If you’d like to see the fun that we had, here’s our Farm Video! 👉🏾 A Perfect Day at the Farm It’s half picking strawberries, and half enjoying the many activities and rides that Southern Belle Farm has! Hope you all enjoy.
Simply Janeen 