Summer Vacation in the Countryside: Becoming a Holiday Farmer
In spring, I planted a series of herbs and eight different varieties of tomatoes.
Text and photos by Chen Chi-Hsiang. In recent years, whenever possible, I have taken short vacations in small rural villages in Burgundy (the Champagne region of France). This holiday farm is owned by my friend V, who uses it for leisure. Whenever I get the chance, I join him there to relax and unwind. Each time I go to the countryside, I help with weeding, tending to flowers and plants, and maintaining the environment. It’s a good way to stretch my muscles, exercise, and sweat. Of course, if time permits, I also visit nearby towns for some strolling.
In front of the living room lies a rectangular lawn with a lush, dense old cherry tree. After being pruned last year, it bore no cherries this year. Along the edge of the lawn are rows of old rose bushes that bloom vibrantly every year, charming and captivating. For a long time, I never had the opportunity to use this lawn. Every spring, when nature awakens, weeds grow profusely, requiring me to weed every time I visit. Last year, my friend and I began considering how to plan this space. We planted some herbs and grapevines along the wall. Surprisingly, everything grew vigorously in this Champagne region, which encouraged us.
Starting this spring, I decided to slowly cultivate vegetable patches in the courtyard. Every weekend, when I have time to visit the countryside, I clear weeds and prepare the soil, becoming a “holiday farmer.” In spring, I planted a series of herbs and eight different varieties of tomatoes. Now, they are flourishing and laden with fruit. Seeing the vitality of nature fills me with energy and vigor. Recently, I prepared another small patch for various lettuces, one for scallions and basil, two eggplants, and one chili pepper. On the back lawn, I planted four different varieties of pumpkins and strung wire on the wall so that two grapevines could climb.
Checking on the plants and watering them morning and evening has become part of my vacation ritual. In the evenings, I take walks in the fields to unwind. Sometimes I walk around the entire small village. Late at night, sitting under the starry moon with close friends, drinking tea, watching stars, and chatting, I feel a sense of peace, living harmoniously in this world, enjoying the beauty of life.