Self-taught farmers confidently raising chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. Our focus is on practices that are environmentally harmonious and respectful to our livestock. We appreciate the beauty around us, clean eating, fermenting, and responsibly utilizing the bounty of the land. If you like thinking for yourself, continuous learning, and connecting with the homesteader lifestyle, check us out.
With the arrival of below-freezing weather, we’ve put the bird feeders out. On one side, a mix of wild bird seed; on the other, a seed-studded suet cake. The birds have enthusiastically visited the feeders (one out front where we can see it from the breakfast nook) and out back, visible from the dining area. With a pair of binoculars, it makes for excellent viewing.
Continue reading “For The Birds: Cold Weather Considerations”
This was, for me, today’s reminder of resilience: overnight snow and frigid temperatures may have battered the dandelion, furling its tender petals, but I know I’ll see its cheery countenance once again. Further, I know many other blooms lie covered in snow, just waiting for the sun’s restorative touch. We may see Nature as – at times – shockingly harsh, but for natural creatures like plants and animals it simply is…and they don’t have a choice about rising to the challenge of survival. Resilience.
You’d never guess that this photo started out as a colorful capture of shadows on a sunny morning, right? Though the original photo was appealing, as I began to think about how it could be “flipped” into a scene of darkness, it became – at least to me – much more interesting. Who is really in that shadow? Me…or someone else? Does she just play along, humoring me, letting me think she does my bidding, while she watches silently? Does she go rogue when out of my line of sight – dancing, gesturing, laughing? Maybe I’ll catch her in the act one day.
It seemed like a safe place to rest: empty, clean, and well-built. She was weary from the search, having traveled so far in search of the right shelter. It was clear that, once, someone had loved this place; that family had been here, and children, snug in this abode. That had been long ago, though, and the place simply held the echo of memories. With the weather turning cold and wet, and she knew she needed to hunker down.
Continue reading “Short Read: Isabella’s First Flight”
May this be the start of more beauty, more ecological action, more human cooperation. Let’s show the best in us, and realize that we’re all part of a society comprised of different backgrounds, preferences, beliefs, and perspectives. America is for all Americans, and our strength is in our diversity…not just racial and ethnic diversity, but diversity of opinion, too. Peaceful dissent is lawful – and necessary. Let’s keep it that way!
We’re surrounded by the incredible beauty – arguably, mundane beauty – of wildflowers. Some belong to what we call “weeds” (undeservedly pejorative), but each has its charm, value, and/or use. While I truly do appreciate their aesthetic appeal, I also appreciate the range of wines that can be made from the edible flowers: some delicate, some bold, and all unique.
Continue reading “Winecraft: Working Wildflowers”