From corporate lawyer to passionate farm volunteer, Meme has discovered her “happy place” at Hidden Villa. “I just knew I wanted to be around animals and outdoors,” Meme recalls of her journey to Hidden Villa, which began with a casual lunch conversation with a friend. After sending an inquiry that same day, she became part of the Hidden Villa family.

Meme’s mornings start with feeding the animals, each with their own distinct personalities. “When you open the door for the sheep, they start bleating because they know you’re there. They’re just so excited,” she shares. “I’ve learned that we take life so seriously,” Meme reflects. “The animals are in their purest form—they just want to eat and be happy. It puts things in perspective.” Her afternoons sometimes include watching visitors’ delight in the sights and sounds of the farm. “It is a joy to see families observe the animals, particularly the piglets that ‘start eating my boots’ while children squeal with excitement”. Beyond animal care, Meme works in the CSA fields on Wednesdays and has formed meaningful connections with fellow volunteers. “It’s people I would never have met in my former life,” she says about the friendships she’s developed while sharing meals after working together. The contrast with her previous corporate life is striking. Now, she amuses friends with stories about animal politics: “Daisy is picking on Eva again” or “Tallulah knocked Emily down.” Her passion for Hidden Villa rivals her devotion to the Warriors basketball team—”it’s just pure joy.”

Meme appreciates Hidden Villa’s enduring educational mission. “With all the craziness going on in the world, we need places like this. We need kids to realize what the world is supposed to be like.”

“I just feel so lucky,” she says. “You’re in the now when you’re here.”