Green Acres

Damali Lavender Farm and Winery, 2014

After two ferries, and four buses, I made it to Vancouver Island one week ago to work on a lavender farm and winery. Alexis Kay Arana from college graduate with a degree in Integrated Marketing Communications to farm girl. Surprisingly it wasn't me who was doubtful of my farming skills, but my volunteer coordinators. Could an office girl be fine in the dirt and under the sun all day?

I would be lying if I didn't say that every day I woke up after my first five days of farm work with every fiber of my being aching, but it aches in a good way. Your body hurts and lets you know that yes, today you have accomplished something and made a difference. It's only been one week but I have already found out a few things about myself. I found out that I have never slept better after a day of hard work. That I love being outside, and I love driving tractors. I already feel healthier and stronger.

The work isn't paid. I found out about it through workaway.info, where you can find volunteer work opportunities around the world. In exchange for 30 hours of work a week, I get room and board and all of my food and meals. I know work without pay doesn't sound too exciting, but it's a good opportunity to explore, and learn something new whether it be skills or about myself. Also I probably eat better than I do living on my own. Omelette's made from eggs collected from the chickens the day before, fresh mint for my tea, greens collected straight from the garden for your salad.

My clothes may be worn out, I'll be covered in dirt, and my body will be aching, but at the end of three weeks here, I have a feeling I'll be changed for the better.

Xoxo for now,

Alexis the Farm Girl