Spring 2014

June 18, 2014

Where does the time go?

Wow I started this entry a month ago today and am just getting back to my computer to finish it.

Spring is nearly over and we waited for the final frost to start getting our summer vegetables in the ground.  the potatoes (Blues, Reds, purples) are planted on the hillside above the blueberries and below the red Raspberries this year, as we regularly rotate our crops. 

Last years Garlic patch has most of our cold weather plants- cabbage, brussel sprouts, brocolli, and Onions.

The Sweet potatoes and pumpkins are going above the Bee Hives where we had peppers, basil and others last year.

The Open House April 28 was a huge success with 70-80 VISITORS coming by in a FOUR-HOUR window.  Scott was able to show off his woodshed and outdoor WOODBURNER, WHICH heats our new buildings.   A few folks did hike to the pond and back.  Most enjoyed the barn with the lambs and new calves. 

We now have nine bull calves, Holsteins and Jerseys from local Dairy’s that work with Snowville Creamery.  Four just finished their daily formula, the other five are already in the pasture and doing well.  We sent our last two bulls from last year to the butcher this week.  So our beef will be limited again in a few MONTHS…SO purchase it early!

We had an Eighth lamb the evening of April 28, after everyone left.  Miss Cecilia, the runt lamb that we hand fed last year because her mother did not have enough milk gave birth in the evening.  Because she really was not mothered she had no idea what to do. 

I found the lamb the next morning in the barnyard all cleaned and looking for its mom, following the dogs around. Jasper and Jade, the Pyrenees had taken care of the newborn and she was literally sucking on their long hair looking for milk. Once I assessed the situation and called in Celeste Taylor again and she helped me to connect Mom and Baby.  Cecelia was put on a halter in the barn and the baby quickly learned to Suckle when Mom is standing still and eating.  After a few Days the Mom realized the baby was hers, and the relief to have her milk suckled regularly and both Lamb (Miss April) and Cecilia are in the field with the rest of the flock.

Our beehives were checked a few weeks ago by the local state inspector.  The bees survived the winter but swarmed and left.  Then Robber bees came through and actually stole the honey. I have no bees and no honey. I have so much to learn about Bee keeping. I feel like this is my weakest link on the farm, though I have lots to learn in all area.

Gratefully all of our perenials survived- Blueberries, Raspberries, Asparagus and horseradish-the winter was tough, but they are tougher.  The fruit trees seem to be in good shape with a few apples and pears, but no peaches this year. So we are so glad to get the winter over and on with life. We have already harvested the cherries, a couple pies, a couple batches of Jam, and some in the freezer and extras going to workers and friends who dared to climb the tree and or ladder! 

Hope everyone is having a great summer and enjoying this warm weather while we have it. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Athens Farmers Market Saturday

9-12noon.   We will be starting to go to the Wednesday market soon, and will be at the Thursday Evening Market starting in July. 

Thanks again to everyone that came to the open House. 

Judy