Fallbrook California USA Long Term Housesit & Petsit

Sit Dates Jul-31-24 - Sep-23-24 Sitter alexnguyen53, Member Since May-15-24

Where should I start? What an amazing 7 weeks experience at Nina’s farmhouse. I simply lucked out getting this house sitting experience. I had taken care of dogs and cats before, but I never had any exposure taking care of farm animals. Normally Nina requires some experience, but she took a leap and faith and entrusted me. I was open minded, I was curious, I was willing to learn, I was willing to take instructions, I was willing to own up to my mistakes (trust me, mistakes will happen), and was willing to be all in. It paid off. I felt like I went through 7 weeks of farming academy and came out of it with a more sense of grounded confidence, a more empathic view towards all animals and a more appreciation of the rhythm and slow living lifestyle of a farmer.

It was a breath of fresh air to be away from city life. Nina’s place has all the nostalgic vibes of a farmhouse in the old west but has all the modern amenities  such as hi-speed internet, AC, fire stick with Netflix, Amazon, Peacock, making you feel right at home. Nina is a great communicator and is there to help you out whenever you need. Communication is key between a house sitter and host, and that was not an issue at all. Nina even asked her lovely neighbor Debbie to help me out if I ever needed it. Ran out of hay for the donkeys one time and the supplies store was not open during Labor Day! You are not a real farmer until you go buck a bale of hay!

The main attraction is the wonderful animals that coexist and co-live with each other in such harmony. Never in my life I would have thought I would take care and find so much joy living with 2 donkeys, a sheep, a goat, 2 geese, 3 chickens, a 300 pounds Vietnamese pot-bellied pig (George Clooney had one for 2 years and he said it was his most rewarding relationship), a giant tortoise , the most adorable chubby cat that lets you rub his belly and sleeps with you, and three of the most kind, well behaved and loving dogs anyone could ask for..

Taking care of Airbnb guests as a Co-Host  was another crash course at Nina’s academy. You get to be a part of people’s journeys and escape from the city. Overall, I achieved a tremendous amount of growth as a human. It allowed me to open up my heart more with animals, strangers and the surrounding environment. The ocean is a short drive down the 76 if you want a little break from farm life.

Take the leap of faith and take on his gig with an open mind and an open heart. It will be one of the most rewarding life experiences you will have!