Archive Article: 1997/04/11
SHORTAGE of space means that we can only print a few of the letters we received on this subject but here are notable quotes from some of the others:
"Be content with your lot. You never see a satisfied farmer". Ruthe E Durose, Staffs
"Make local friends with similar interests – a safety valve for you and them".
Joyce Hayward, Shropshire
"Learn your place. Dont try to compete and, in time you can attain a comfortable little niche behind the collie, the John Deere and Daisy (10,000kg/2nd calving) – just ahead of the muck spreader".
Celia Haynes, Hants
"Always have a bristle broom and wellingtons handy. I have always found a broom invaluable for turning animals. This was my first lesson when a large sow came in through the front door into the spare bedroom where apples were stored".
M S Ricketts, Surrey
"A wise farmers wife never volunteers".
Delyth Roberts, Anglesey
"Find time for yourself. Swamped by other peoples demands as farmworker, housekeeper, wife, general dogsbody and unchoker of drains when nobodys around, you can forget who you are". Fiona Sinclair, Orkney
"An ideal farmers wife puts up with a lot, does not expect to be appreciated often. Needs thick skin and one deaf ear".
A Stonier, Cheshire
"Always have a bottle of whisky ready for your father-in-laws visits. He will forget your lack of practical farming skills if you put enough in his coffee".
Sandra Murchie, Herts
"You dont have to justify yourself. A farriers wife is not expected to shoe horses!"
Joan Mason, Warwicks
"Learn to tie an unslippable knot with a piece of baler twine, essential when assembling calf or sheep pens, or gate to catch up cattle. Worth more than a degree in any "ology".
Sue Ledbury, Devon
"You will never know from your husband how good you are, but if you are lucky a neighbour will tell you. Do hope for more praise, but dont be too disappointed if you dont get it and just enjoy the life. It is good".
Sandra Perraton, Devon