Ode to WWOOFING
My day begins as I sit down to meditate on the zafu made for me by Michelle and Kirk (UK). On my way back into the house, I pick and enjoy a couple of blueberries from bushes planted by Claire (Canada). I sit down to enjoy breakfast with our current wwoofers, and we start the meal by bringing our hands together in appreciation, and saying “itadakimas” (a Japanese word that gives thanks to everyone who was involved in preparing the meal - from the people who grew the food, to the woman who scanned the muesli packet at the store, to person who will do the dishes etc), taught to me by the first wwoofer who ever stayed with me, Kanako (Japan). We eat bread made from flour ground on a purpose built cabinet that Eric (France) built for us one rainy day, bread kneaded in the French style as taught to us by Aurelie (France). Then after breakfast, we are off to enjoy the garden together.Later I smile at the alphabetised spice cabinet where spices are now so easily found, organised by Emma (US), while preparing a delicious lentil soup, the recipe for which was given to me by Caz (NZ). After lunch I do the laundry and I enjoy the spaciousness of our recently organised laundry room, done by Lyra (Canada) who found herself something to do on a wet day. As I hang the washing out, I remember Natalie (UK) as I spot the fantastic addition she painted onto our mural.
I decide to do some study of a Japanese method I’m learning, and get frustrated with not understanding something, so I drop an email to Sayuri (Japan) who within hours has replied with a translation and some insight into what it’s all about. I go outside and tend the seedlings, happily growing in the mini-greenhouse made for us by Scott and Sarah (US).
Just another day in the life of a very thankful wwoof host, whose life has been so enriched by all those passing through. What wonderful opportunities on our organic farm. :0)
Jo
