Our First WWOOFing Experience: A Journey Into Farm Life

As a family of five, we recently embarked on an incredible adventure—our first WWOOFing experience on a farm in Mississippi. This week-long journey was filled with learning, hard work, and unforgettable moments that deepened our connection to nature and each other. We went into this with open minds and a desire to learn, and it exceeded all our expectations. Here’s a glimpse into our adventure and why we’re already planning our next trip.

DONES FAMILY FIRST WWOOFING EXPERIENCE

Living Close to Nature

One of the most magical parts of our WWOOFing experience was how it reconnected us with the rhythms of nature. Every day, we woke up to the sound of roosters signaling the start of a new day. We watched sunrises and sunsets that painted the sky in breathtaking colors, showered outdoors under the open sky, and spent our days moving, working, and learning. Without the distractions of screens or social media, we felt completely immersed in the moment.

Learning the Ropes of Farm Life

Our week was packed with hands-on learning experiences. I learned how to drive a tractor, plant seeds, put up an electric fence, and use tools I had never touched before. Cleaning and storing freshly collected eggs from ducks and chickens was another first for me. There were even moments of creative fitness—racing with 50-pound sacks of sheep feed was an unexpected but fun workout. I also indulged in one of my favorite activities: cold swims in a freezing lake.

My wife and kids had their own unique adventures. Our children embraced the freedom of farm life, waking up early to feed the chickens and collect eggs before running off to play and explore. They thrived in an unschooling environment, learning organically through their surroundings. We never once had to remind them to step away from screens or lower their voices—they were completely free to be themselves.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

While our experience was overwhelmingly positive, there were some challenges that taught us valuable lessons for next time:

• Living Arrangements: We stayed in a spacious tent with room for two queen mattresses and all our belongings. However, the cold nights with only a small heater were tough. Next time, we’ll bring an RV or camper for more comfort and independence.

• Power Supply: Our portable power box didn’t hold enough charge for all our devices. We relied on a single extension cord from the barn, which limited us to using one device at a time. This made working remotely and staying connected difficult. A more reliable power solution is a must for future trips.

• Food and Hospitality: As WWOOFers, we were provided with breakfast and dinner in exchange for our work. While this was generous, it felt a bit imbalanced since I was the only one in my family doing most of the labor. Additionally, visiting the hosts’ home twice daily for meals, with our kids being their loud, energetic selves, sometimes felt intrusive. Having our own kitchen in an RV would give us more independence and lessen the burden on our hosts.

• Connectivity: Poor reception and limited Wi-Fi made online work nearly impossible. Next time, we’ll research better connectivity options or ensure we’re prepared to work offline.

Why WWOOFing Is Worth It

Despite the challenges, WWOOFing is an experience I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone interested in farming, adventure, or simply reconnecting with nature. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge about farm life, whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or run a farm—or if you just want a unique and enriching experience.

For our family, the benefits far outweighed the challenges. My kids had the time of their lives, experiencing true freedom and learning without restrictions. My wife and I found inspiration in the farm owners’ lifestyle and parenting approach, which closely aligns with our values.

Final Thoughts and Future Plans

This experience reinforced my commitment to becoming an expert in farm real estate. Understanding the intricacies of farm life will help me better serve clients looking to buy or sell farms. It also deepened my family’s appreciation for this way of life, and we’re already planning our next trip with better preparation.

If you’re considering WWOOFing, I encourage you to take the leap. Whether you’re pursuing a career in agriculture or simply seeking adventure, this hands-on experience is invaluable. Just remember to prepare well—a reliable power source, comfortable living arrangements, and a plan for food and connectivity will make your experience even better.

We can’t wait to return, learn more, and continue building our connection to this incredible lifestyle.

Thank you Lee and Amanda for hosting us.