As a new farmer, I had so many exciting things to learn about. First, there was the soil, then the plants, then irrigation, then… well, you understand. Over the years, I’ve added the titles Product Developer, Baker, Bookkeeper, and Mentor. Last week, I added the title Mechanic to my growing resume.
I will always remember how thrilled I was when I bought Ali, my small electric John Deere Gator 4x2 TE dump "truck" in 2017. Since then, she has been one of the hardest working member of our team – until last week, when her engine wouldn’t start.
Engineer Richard and I soon discovered that the problem lay with Ali’s batteries, which were so corroded they resembled the “crust” on the Creature from the Black Lagoon, a classic horror film. Of added concern: getting her to the dealer and back was going to take over a week.
Now, if you’ve been lucky enough to have parents or other elders in your life who never threw anything away, you know where my story goes next. To the world of DIY, of course. Thanks to the internet, we were able to find great information and helpful how-to videos, and we were soon on our way to a solution.
First, Richard and I employed that wonderful “old school” remedy, baking soda, to the corroded cables and connectors and – voila! – they were ready to go. Then, after a search for replacement batteries and a lot of muscle power from me and an amazing woman at Batteries Plus, Ali had eight fresh batteries. (Each battery weighs 50 pounds – what a workout!) Next, we very carefully connected each battery in sequence… took a deep breath …and switched her on! Success!!
We were so happy, we took her for a spin around the Farm. I think she runs even better than before. And, if I say so myself, I’m more than a little proud. With this new challenge, I learned that the “mechanics” of farming include determination, thoughtful study and use of resources, attention to detail, and, sometimes, even bravery.
What‘s growing at our Farm? Plants – and so much more!
