Trying to overcome Imposter Syndrome at the Plowing Match

 As I write this, the plowing match has not yet happened.

Ready, set, plow!  If you have passed by the former Kemptville College grounds lately, you will have noticed a tent city being built. It’s rather impressive how the people behind the International Plowing Match have transferred their model for a successful event to our site, setting up auxiliary power and lighting and facilities to host thousands of people in less than a month of preparation.

I heard the call for volunteers and offered my services close to nine months ago. I was asked to use my experience as MC to assist in the hosting of the Celebration of Excellence – the awards gala. I’ve hosted dozens of events for charities and different organizations so I know the drill – you have to have stories to tell if there are delays, to keep people interested – sometimes a joke or two, and I’ve been known to occasionally break into song (consider yourself warned). However, I don’t believe I have ever hosted an event this LARGE. I’m trying not to get intimidated as I drive slowly past the massive circus tents.

I’ve had imposter syndrome more than once in my time as an Accidental Farmwife (thus the name). Whenever I’m asked to speak at an AGM for a local agricultural society or a group of farmers, I feel a bit dumb. I don’t know how to drive a tractor, for example (tried once on our ancient International but my leg wasn’t strong enough to push the pedals). I’ve never successfully baked a pie or mended torn overalls. I’m allergic to hay. My vegetable gardens, although prolific, have been overtaken with weeds, and I don’t like feeding chickens because they peck my ankles.

Over the past fifteen years, however, I have learned how to raise sheep and cattle. I have rejoiced over their births and cried over their deaths. I have worked hard to keep them comfortable and happy, and felt the determination to find solutions when they were laboring or unwell. I made sure their short lives here were happy and safe. I contributed to the agricultural economy and the foodchain. I guess that makes me a farmer too.

I’ve documented my farming experiences over the past decade and a half in this column, and although we don’t raise animals anymore, I still feel strongly connected to the farm as we watch the corn and soybeans grow through all kinds of weather. Thank you to everyone who takes part in the International Plowing Match in North Grenville – the competitors, the volunteers and the spectators – and thank you for coming!

Now I just have to figure out what hat and boots to wear.

 

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