Finding my Voice in Rural Ruminations

I recently started writing on a WhatsApp Channel, Rural Ruminations with Madhumeni Manyama https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb66bVwJZg4CF9IINy1a. It’s been such a rewarding experience sharing insights about rural life as farmers and Agricultural Business Advisors for the government.

I’ve always wanted to write something agro-related but struggled to find the inspiration. I remember attempting to publish a book with a good friend, but it flopped because I couldn’t contribute tangible input. Now, I feel these rural ruminations might just lead me to a book.

I’m more of a creative writer than an academic, so anything requiring deep research and citations gives me a tough time. But I’ve finally found my happy space! Each story I share on this channel brings me immense satisfaction. It’s also made me realize how much farm life nourishes my soul—this is the kind of life I’ve always dreamt of.

Dear God, musikana arikufara! 💃🏾

Proud to be a part of the agricultural sector!!!

Step by Step: Turning Footprints into Fresh Produce!

Yhoo! Today, I clocked in a whopping 24,564 steps! 😂 It’s a bit of a joke among us Agricultural Extension Officers—calling ourselves foot soldiers. I truly love my job, but today made me pause and think: is this really what I signed up for? My feet are practically on fire! 😩

I don’t mind the walk; it’s all part of my fitness goals. But doubling my target steps? That’s a whole new level of concern!

Despite the burning soles, I had a fantastic day connecting with my farmers. Seeing their excitement about this year’s bountiful harvest—kune maguta! And the best part? I scored some amazing goodies: fresh mealies, crisp cucumbers, juicy guavas, and both fresh and dried okra.

Overall, it’s been a beautiful day! But hey, it’s human nature to dwell on the negatives. So let’s flip the script and focus on the abundance. Grateful for such a fruitful day! 🌟🌽🥒

Today, My Mireya Turns One!

Yippee! The joys of motherhood finally embraced me at the age of 42. It was a time I never thought I would experience, especially after miscarrying a decade ago. This child is truly a miracle. Doctors had ruled out the chances of my husband and me conceiving, and there was even a time we consulted a sangoma, who confirmed our fears. Eventually, we decided to wait on the Lord, realizing we had done all we could as human beings.

Last year, around mid-year, I received the most exciting news of my life: I was pregnant. This wonderful revelation came as I was saving for surgery to address the fibroids that had troubled me for much of my life.

The journey wasn’t easy; I battled hypertension, and the fibroids threatened my baby’s growth. But Mireya held on, and on February 2nd, she arrived safely.

Today marks her first full year of life, and I’m beaming with pride! Mireya, meaning “miracle” in Spanish, is a constant reminder of God’s perfect timing. This little soul has brought immense joy to my life, and I’m grateful for every moment.

Happy 1st birthday, my Mireya!