Farm Tractor Ornament

• Even if her birthday falls in the summer, a farmer will appreciate a John Deere tractor ornament. The collectible ornament is green, just like her real John Deere tractor. It is approximately 2 3/4 inches long and 2 1/2 inches high. The most recent release of a John Deere tractor ornament was by Hallmark in 2010. Other ornaments were released in years past by both Hallmark and companies like American Greetings. If you know what year her tractor is, look for a matching vintage ornament.
  
  

Photograph of the Farm

• If possible, find an aerial photographer in your area. Ask if he has a photograph of the farm from the air. If he doesn't, inquire about having the photographer fly over and take a photograph for you. If this option is too expensive for your budget, take images from around the farm or hire a local photographer to take those shots and create a photo collage of the best images. For example, take a picture of the barn at sunrise, the fields of corn, the house, the farmer on her tractor and some of the animals around the farm. Take the photo or photos to your local framing store to have it matted and framed. Add a small plaque or writing to the matte with the name of the farm.
  
  

MP3 for Farmers

• Farmers tend to spend time in the cab of machinery or out in the field. If your farmer doesn't already own an MP3 player, purchase one and put her favorite music on it. Include thematic songs like "Big Green Tractor," "Thank God I'm a Country Boy," "International Harvester," "Down on the Farm" and "John Deere Green." If she already owns an MP3 player, burn a special CD with songs she might like.
  
  

Farming Classes

• As new techniques in farming emerge, there is always something to learn. Taking classes and going to conferences can be expensive for a struggling farmer. Consider buying him a course at the nearest university that offers agriculture classes. Alternatively, pay for him to attend a coming conference in your area, such as Alcorn State University's Small Farmer's Conference or the Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service Conference (see Resources).