What part of farm life am I referring too?
Anyone who comes in contact with the farmer this time of year.
For us with late April snow and never-ending May showers started us off behind. Now, add a broken-down hay mower and the chopper which has been in the dealership shop since April and no delivery back to the farm date and you have created the perfect storm for needing to know about farm life protection. This is what we call the “Angry Bear” stage of farming.
Here are the 10 guidelines of Farm Life Preservation 101.
1. When approaching the farmer during this stressful time give him wide berth. Stay at least 10 feet away. That way you’ll have a better chance to duck flying tools.
2. When approaching the farmer, make no quick movements and avoid eye contact.
3. When leaving the farmer, back away slowly.
4. While in the presence of the farmer, only speak when spoken to and speak in soft hushed tones unless machinery is running and then you must be able to lip read and shout louder than a jet engine revving up. Always agree with what they are saying.
5. Never ask any questions.
6. When feeding time comes push the food under the equipment with a long stick.
7. Unless bellowed to enter, only go into the shop if it is necessary and when doing so, be stealthy and quiet so as not to rile the farmer.
8. If he asks you to help him for just a minute, quietly text your doctor and let him know you can’t make it in for your liver transplant scheduled for later in the day.
9. Always be on guard and ready to jump. The expectancy level is high, and you never know what will trigger it.
10. If for any reason the farmer has fallen asleep, NEVER EVER wake him up unless you have had training.
All nonsense aside, it is a very stressful time of the year and all prayers for all farmers would be welcomed.
But, hey, I can’t fix any of the problems so why not have a little fun. The good thing is Farmer is so busy he won’t read this for several weeks and by then hopefully the “Angry Bear” syndrome will have past.
