Setbacks and Silver Linings
- Debra Flaming
- Oct 29
- 2 min read
Tuesday, October 29 — Dion has been working hard to get the digger going—and today was no exception. By 7 a.m., he was already on the road to the machine shop, hauling the repaired gear in hopes of sorting out a few lingering issues. Half the day was gone before he finally got it installed and was ready to test it out.
When Steve and Cathy arrived, the four of us headed to the west field with renewed optimism. At first, everything ran smoothly… until the conveyor chain began skipping, revealing yet another broken gear that refused to pull its weight. For a moment, we stood there scratching our heads. What to do now?
After a quick huddle and some creative thinking, we decided to simplify—ditch the conveyor belt altogether and keep just the digging portion of the machine. Honestly, that belt was rough on the tuber clumps anyway. Once we removed the links and detached the PTO shaft, the tractor chugged back into action. And wouldn’t you know it? The new setup worked beautifully!
By afternoon’s end, we had dug and stored one and a half rows of tuber clumps—each crate a quiet victory. Only four rows remain, and with the teens joining us tomorrow, we’ll soon have the rest tucked safely away for their long winter nap.
We wrapped up early today, grateful for a little extra time at home. Tonight, our son and his wife are coming for dinner—chicken and gravy, mashed potatoes, and cornbread for dessert. Best of all, we’ll get to hold our brand-new granddaughter and hear how life has been unfolding for them.
This evening, I feel a peace that’s been missing in recent weeks. Maybe it’s because the digging finally went right—or maybe it’s something deeper. Around here, plans often shift and tools break, but giving up isn’t an option. Each setback teaches us something new, if we’re willing to see it that way.
The Word of God asks, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6:27). The truth is, we’re not meant to control every outcome. God sees the end from the beginning, and He promises never to leave us or forsake us. Even when the gears grind and the plans change, He’s working all things for good.
Sometimes, the broken conveyor leads to a better harvest.
Still Diggin,
Debra Flaming
