Mud, Music and Muscles on the Hazelnut Farm

Rain, rain… and now snow is predicted. Perfect timing, of course! After two solid days in the fields, I’ve been busy weeding garden beds ready for vegetables and cutting branches and suckers into neat little piles for firewood and compost. It’s honest, satisfying work — the kind where you fall into bed happily tired and slightly muddy.

Meanwhile, Jan and Nuri have continued aerating the hazelnut trees like seasoned pros. Jan, who has only been in Turkey for two weeks, is already confidently chatting away in Turkish. I, on the other hand, am still mastering “cay please” — and yes, I’m absolutely envious of his language-learning superpowers. With Turkish music playing in the background, the hours seem to disappear.

Sadly, Jan heads off to Antalya tonight. Nuri isn’t expecting more Workawayers for a while — apparently he’s mostly been getting requests from ladies, and the heavy-duty hazelnut work does require a fair bit of muscle. To his credit, he sends a video explaining the job, and all have politely withdrawn. I’m very grateful he said yes to me!

Now with just three days left before I leave on Friday — and wild weather on the way — I may be swapping muddy boots for a mop and bucket. From fields to floors… every adventure has its variety!