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.
The forecasted storms have rolled in. We got a brief drenching yesterday afternoon, it definitely rained overnight, and the rain ramped up again this morning. Walking out in the downpour to shut the chicken coop door reminded me why rain is so important, in ways we take for granted.
It’s an oppressively humid day – the kind of day that makes the air, heavy and wet, a presence. It feels like something is building out there, and based on the forecast, it is: thunderstorms. Frankly, it will be a relief if the skies open up and the moisture rains down because it will lower temperatures, cleanse everything in its path, and soak the dry earth. Come on, rain…we’re all waiting.
I’m spellbound by a tall Silver Maple tree that seems to keep watch over our property. This morning, the dawn sky was all soft colors, the shadowy tree standing steadfast against the pink and lavender backdrop…an arboreal guardian.
At times I wonder about the future of small-scale farming: with large farming operations buying up small farms and effectively putting smaller farmers out to pasture, why would someone voluntarily choose what is, at best, a hardscrabble lifestyle? It’s certainly not for the prestige, the ease, or the security (or the healthcare coverage)…but now that I’ve been a full-time farmer, I better understand why certain individuals still choose to farm.
Continue reading “Musings: Farming As Both Struggle And Inspiration”
I delight in repurposing glass food jars. And I’ve amassed quite a collection, offering just the right sized jar for every need. With the change in global demand for recyclables, reusing and repurposing glass is more important than ever.
Are you exasperated with the ubiquitousness of plastic, too? We’re inundated by it, and it’s an undeniable environmental problem…and yet, companies continue to needlessly wrap goods in plastic – sometimes multiple layers – until it feels like there’s no escape from excessive plastic use. I’m particularly appalled by a recent order I received from Vitacost, especially in light of what the shipping box said.