Unravelling the history of the Ranch has been an ongoing discovery of stories, some completely grounded in fact and others can only be called fictitious. Every story has a place and forms part of the complete picture of the intimacy of families working and living together over many years. The family farm is certainly not for the faint of heart.
One of the stories I would like to uncover is who initially farmed the original "Ferme Fleur de Lys" homestead. My great grandparent's lived in the house that was built by an unknown farmer as well as used some of the orignal outbuildings. Although the house was uninsulated it was quite substantial for it's time demonstrating a commitment to the little farm that was there. During my recent trip to Switzerland I questioned Gus about the history of this piece of the farm and he could not recall any information about the orignal homesteaders.
Gus had no information about the people that lived and farmed on the original homestead. I find it sad to have lost this piece of farm history. I don't want our story to be lost which is one of the reasons I am writing this blog. It is an accomplishment to successfully farm on a multi-generational ranch and we did this for years. The complexity of the relationships as well as the added stressors of a business is incredibly challenging and requires a multitude of skills and patience. This story will be told with all the love and compassion for each other that it deserves. We will not be anonymous.
Dear Anonymous, faceless accuser.
I have a name.
Caroline Miege.
Behind that family, going back to other lands, will hold my hand.
When the day comes friends too will gather by my marked grave.
Without a name there is no identity, an apparition.
I would not want to let that go, and speak with no face.
It is in the voice, the many lovely movements of sound,
truth speaking through eyes, skin,
or the hand creating words, images,
laying claim to my thoughts, with courage.
I am not afraid to be my name,
with all the beauty and fragility of spirit.
Grounded in home and heart.
I love all that I am.
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