Embracing the Dairy Life: Teun and Jennifer's Inspiring Journey

In a recent, insightful interview, Teun and Jennifer, pivotal figures on the Boelen family dairy farm, shared their extraordinary journey of adaptation, passion, and community involvement. Their story vividly illustrates the dynamic and fulfilling life they lead on the farm, highlighting their personal and professional growth as well as their deep-rooted connection to the community.

A New Chapter in a New Land

Teun’s journey began with his family's move to the United States. Reflecting on this challenging transition, Teun shares, “I thought we got out at 12 and was waiting by the door. School here in the United States typically gets out at 3:00pm. They got me a translator and she helped me until eighth grade. I then went to college and studied technology.”

Teun’s educational and professional path was marked by diverse experiences. After attending college for a year and a half, he worked for a company specializing in agricultural equipment. This role ultimately led him back to the family farm, where his passion for agriculture blossomed. He met his wife in college. "We met online in December 2017, and it just worked out," Teun recalls about meeting Jennifer. Jennifer says, "We were together for 4 to 5 months before I finally stepped foot on the farm."



Jennifer’s Rural Roots and New Discoveries

Jennifer’s background provided a different perspective. "My parents lived out in the country. From time to time my dad had a few cow calf pairs to make some extra money," she explains. Despite this rural connection, Jennifer had no direct farming experience. "I remember telling Teun that I thought a dairy farm was just a small operation. I was really impressed with the scope when I first visited."

Graduating from Wartburg College in May 2021, Jennifer now teaches at Longfellow Elementary in Belle Plaine. Her new life on the farm has enriched her teaching approach. "I knew hardly anything about a dairy farm before meeting Teun. It's important to educate and promote this way of life. Sometimes, I'll show videos of the farm during science class to blend those experiences."

Active Community Engagement

Teun and Jennifer have embraced their roles on the farm and actively engage with their community. Jennifer plays a key role in promoting the farm’s annual dairy drive-through event, which has become a local favorite. "Katherine, Teun’s sister-in-law, creates the handouts for stores and gas stations. I help distribute them. During the drive-through, we offer cookies, milk, and even soft-serve ice cream."

The event, which involves numerous volunteers, is a community highlight. "We have high school kids moving gates and greeting cars. It's a lot of fun and a great way to connect with the community," Jennifer says.

Teun’s responsibilities on the farm include maintaining equipment and ensuring the cows' well-being. "I'm always busy with something, whether it's fixing equipment or preparing for the next season," he shares.



A Vision for the Future

Teun and Jennifer are deeply committed to the farm's future. Their vision includes developing the farm into a multi-generational operation. They were recently honored with a nomination for the Good Farm Neighbor Award. "My dream is to see this farm reach century farm status. That would be amazing," Jennifer notes.

Their dedication to farming and community reflects their shared values and aspirations. Teun and Jennifer’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience, hard work, and community spirit that define their way of life on the dairy farm.