Feeling overwhelmed, not sure I want to do this anymore

[seabreeze]

What a wonderful update! I remember your original post and recall replying; however, I can’t believe it’s been over a year. Boy, does time fly!

It’s finally dry here (after a really long, wet past year), and that makes everything better…lol. I made a couple of improvements/changes last summer that made my chores easier, and that made a big difference for me this past winter. This spring I bought a new mower that has reduced my mowing time by half, so that is a huge help, too.

I have been riding more, and I find that is really key to enjoying the work involved with the horses and farm. I also think that, if I can afford it at some point, finding someone to regularly do chores a couple of times or a couple of days a week would be life-changing. Just knowing I have a day or two “free” would probably improve my outlook more than I can imagine.

Really happy for you, AlterOG! So glad you have been able to find a solution that works for you

[Cat_Tap]

Just found this thread. Glad you didn’t fill your Rx for antidepressants. Can’t remember what they were called but within a few days of taking the pills I became suicidal. What has worked for me is a “Happy Light” recommended for SAD syndrome. I have used it this past winter. I have it beside my computer and turn it on each morning when I check emails, weather etc. Even though I was stressed as we had four weeks of solid ice everywhere I did not get depressed.

Glad to hear you are back on track.

[Lucassb]

What a fantastic update. So happy for you, OP… that is great that you were able to make the changes that allowed you to rediscover the joy of having your farm!

I would echo @seabreeze as well regarding some part time help, if needed. I only have four at my place - two riding horses and their two retired buddies. But what made all the difference for me over this muddy, wet winter was having someone who would come in the morning and do the AM chores. The person I have now is a lovely young woman who feeds, does the mucking out, and turns the horses out so they are ready to start their day even if I have an early conference call (or want to sleep in, LOL.) I bring them in and feed dinner, then do night check and usually pick the stalls out as needed. It gives me more time to ride and enjoy my place and I highly recommend it!