Get to know life on the farm: an experience report

A farm getaway—without really imagining how it would go or what to expect, I booked my break at the Zittrauerhof in the fall of 2020.

What I hoped for from this time out was a distraction, learning new things that I could take home and put into practice, getting some distance from my usual daily routine, and getting to know farm life. And that is exactly what I was able to experience here.

I was never bored, because there was so much to do on the farm. Whether I was allowed to help in the garden, with processing products outdoors, with the animals, making our own products, or other tasks around the farm, it was always fun. Especially when I worked together with Katharina or other helpers on the farm.

What will stay with me in particular is the morning stable duty, when I was allowed to take care of the small animals all by myself. That was a very special start to the day.

But the four calf births in my second week were also an absolute highlight. I will never forget being allowed to teach a newborn calf to drink.

The hours I spent with farmer Katharina processing products were very instructive, funny, and valuable for me. Thank you for your advice and tips.

Of course I mustn’t forget farm dog Nelli, who I grew especially fond of. She knew exactly where I was, and we were a great team, especially when herding the chickens into the barn.

It’s not just me who’s thrilled with my break. Via my Instagram account @cottage_love, I kept family, friends, and acquaintances up to date on my experiences here. Via the story highlight “Farm break” anyone who follows me can get an impression of my time here. Feel free to send me a message if you’re interested.

Thank you for these wonderful 3 weeks—I’m almost sure we’ll see each other again on the farm!

Jennifer