In the 35 years of harvesting, I have easily stepped in or ran anything for anyone when it comes to getting the fields cut, grain and equipment moved and business settled. BUT I have, however, yet to master the week before I hit the road and the week I return!

It is just a “part of the job” I know, but it is not easy and is a true test!

The worst of the two is returning home after eight weeks, knowing that I have a month and then will be back on the road again. The idea of cleaning and setting up my home, my camper and the crew camper becomes overwhelming! Groceries, dust, cobwebs, spiders, grasshoppers, mail, weeds, dirt, making ice, etc., etc., etc.

—insert a glass of RedAss Rhubarb wine😂🍷—

So many memories over the year of trying to master these two weeks, some very funny and some not so much! It was a lot crazier with kids, school and sports – plus harvesting. Then there were the weddings!

Yet, somehow (this year and the last 34) the meals got made, the clothes got washed and the cupboards, fridges, freezers, campers and house got cleaned and stocked. And everything worked out!

I am blessed to be near all of our grandkids and was able to (in the last couple of days) squeeze and visit with them. So good for the heart, soul and a definite plus as they truly take my mind off of my to-do list.

The good Lord sent a little rain, as well, which made the house cool and gave me some extra time…to get a haircut and mani/pedi! I still have some unloading to do but am feeling pretty good!

I can say for certain, that it’s good to be home and we are ready to go to work (just a little sunshine and the reels will be turning). As the days turn into nights and I literally plop into bed, I still count my blessings…not my worries.

(If I knew how to draw a red heart around this bottle, I would!)