Better Late Than Never, Right?

Hey all,

I am not even going to apologize for how late this one is. Nearly two months, actually. Time to talk, I think, if there are even still readers out there.

Well, I am obviously not still on the farm, much to my chagrin. I just spoke to my friends today and yesterday. I can only imagine the jungle my garden is now. The little kernals I planted so long ago are now cornstalks taller than I am; arranged in a maze I had hoped to wander through at some point. The reports say that I have at least one large watermelon, abundant cherry and plum tomatoes, and more okra than I can shake a stick at. I had also hoped to introduce my Northern friends to a real okra fry, but alas, time did not permit. My adopted rabbit Nathaniel Hawthorne (yes, I named him, and yes, I think it's an excellent rabbit name) is doing well, and my favorite buck goat, PB and J, is finally getting some action, as the breeding season for Nubian goats is apparently upon the Farm. I even miss doing the dishes that covered the counters, sink, sanitizer, floor, and walkway in the Global Village fkitchen for HOURS with my friends, to music we knew all the words to because we hadn't changed the CD for days.

Being back at Maryville has taught me several things. I understand how activists can get carried away and sometimes earn their reputations as being pushy and preachy. I've tried not to continue that stereotype, but I do LOVE telling people about my summer and what I've learned, and why I've changed. I'm just careful not to be too "holier than thou" with my word choice.

I appreciate the goodness of freshly picked herbs and fruits, the work it takes to send food around the world. I can't say that eating in the cafeteria here is even close to pleasurable, like this summer was, but I know it could be worse. Funny things sometimes occur about that, though. I found myself wondering why the eggplant tasted so terrible the other day. I actually said out loud, "but it's in season!" Alas, beggars can't be choosers.

I am always thinking about my experience at Overlook Farm. I am trying to figure out how to come back for some time soon, but it's sadly not that accessible from Blount County, Tennessee. I know it'll be in the plans eventually. Until then, I'm trying to use my experience as an Ed Vol to guide me as I enter the second half of my college career. Both the Peace Corps and law school are in the game plans for post-graduation. If all goes to plan, I can start applying for the Peace Corps at the beginning of the second semester this year. Terrifying, but so wonderful to have reassurance that I want to do that with my life.

On another note, I was accepted by Maryville to submit my application to study abroad at Reunion Island for the spring of this year! I hope to hear back about my placement soon. I can't wait!

Well, since my post at the Farm has long been officially over, I suppose thus ends this blog. Perhaps I'll use it to chat about related topics, but don't expect too much. I am grateful for all the support from my family and friends for this summer. I can't say what it means to me for my college (specifically the Center for Calling and Career) to give me this chance to prove that my silly ideas can actually be legitimate plans for the rest of my life. Encouragement was all it took. I took it, and now I'm running with it! Thanks, everyone!

Think Sustainably,
Chelsea