Culver Farmers Market Archives - A Country Girl's Heart -Beats that Matter

April 25, 2020April 25, 2020

5 Reasons to Shop Local Farmers Markets

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I recently learned of a story telling how a great uncle hauled cucumbers into a local town about 7 to 10 miles from the homestead. Here sat large wooden barrels where cucumbers soaked to be hauled off on the train as pickles.

A picture of the place my great uncle hauled pickles. I wonder if my Grandpa did too.

It must have taken an entire day to drive with horses pulling a wagon loaded with cucumbers almost 10 miles, unload the cucumbers and drive home. Imagine the time involved in hand picking all those cucumbers before somebody in the family needed to spend an entire day hauling a load to town. Yet, in those days it was worth it? Our American society needs were different during that time.

I heard my great uncle had the following to say about hauling pickles:

“He said his Dad was one best pickle sorter and the pickle factory knew it. They always had him unloaded ahead rest of the wagons they knew he always had the best sorted pickle.”

These ‘days gone by’ marked the beginning of the industrialized and global market we know today. While some changes are good, others sadden me. Why does a farmer today need money from the government to survive when he or she produces one of the most important commodities for human life: food?

In our current crisis why does a farmer find themselves reliant on a global economy for income when neighbors need to eat? These same neighbors purchase food that may or may not have even been produced in our own country.

Why Local Farmer’s Markets Today

CG Heartbeats Farm table at a 2019 Market

Here is where I see a huge value in a local farmers market, not only do you support families in the community where you live, you are also able to gain first hand knowledge of practices used to produce the food you eat.

I am not sure how you think about this, but I hate it when I read ingredients on a package to realize there are several that I do not know what they are or why I want to put that inside of myself.

Does it take longer to cook your own food? Maybe, but not always. It is rather, a mind set shift. I would like to use garlic as an example. Until I began raising my own garlic, I always used the dry stuff that came in a shake out container.

Fresh Garlic vs. Dried Store Garlic Powder

Easy to open the cupboard and dump. But not much more work to use real garlic once you have a process in place. Mine looks like this:

Granted this does involve a few additional steps. Key in this process is a good garlic press. I have tried a few different ones. I highly recommend a quality hand garlic press to help the process go smoothly. The whole process takes me less than 5 minutes.

We just decided that it takes about 5 minuets or less to use real garlic, so what is the motivation behind adding a few more minuets to cooking a meal?

Health Benefits and Flavor

Health benefits first prompted me to start growing my own garlic. I found that it grows well here at CG Heartbeats Farm and most varieties grow rather large.

Order Garlic

Grown with no chemicals at CG Heartbeats Farm

Excited to offer shipped garlic.
Now order and pay for online.
Garlic ships in September and October
Limited to the lower 48 states in the US.

**Click Here** or on **above picture** to order / pre-order garlic. 2020 garlic crop ships in September or October.

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Using fresh food enhances flavor dramatically. This applies anytime a person uses a fresh food, even home processed (frozen, canned, or dried) over some similar product processed in _______ (Who knows? Fill in the blank.)

These days I find it most unfortunate the difficulty of knowing truly where food came from. A label may only read a location in the United States where a package was distributed from. I feel a disappointed at the lack of disclosure on several different factors of many food options today.
~ M. Graber

5 Reasons for Shopping Local Farmers Market

Here are my top reasons for choosing to shop at local farmers market. We can all utilize our local markets as often as possible.

What reasons would you add to what I listed above? Leave a comment sharing why you find local farmers markets important.

Shop Online at Local Farmers Market

Relevant to our current call to social distance, a new way to shop at local farmers markets has emerged. Online shopping with local pick up. One market in Culver, Indiana uses a web company called Local Line. CG Heartbeats Farm now offers online ordering as a part of Culver Farmers Market. Check it out if you are in or near Marshall County Indiana as this site is for local sales ONLY! https://www.localline.ca/cg-heartbeats-farm

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August 23, 2019August 23, 2019

Homestead Diary ~ Week 3

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Week 3 of August proved a challenge in regard to my health. I look back as I prepared this post and I see progress, good memories and much to be grateful for. But to be honest in those moments when I lacked energy, I felt discouraged. Week 1 and Week 2 of August felt considerably more productive.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

I have not felt good today. I have laid low aside from a bit of laundry and working online. I chased away all those nagging thoughts of projects and work I want to complete outside for I know I need to rest today. By rest that means I do as little as possible when it comes to strenuous physical activity. The fact that I need these days at this stage in my life contributed to the fact I started this web site and working online as a part of what I do. I make use of these days to write and work online. Certainly not a wasted day by no means.

I ordered Perfect Fit, a CD by Patrick McAvinue. I am certain to enjoy it. The anticipation of its arrival chased away my blue attitude brought on by my lack of energy today.

Friday, August 16, 2019

I fought a fogy head most of the day. Aside from chores, and a trip to the bank (which was actually 2 trips) I fumbled through the day. A bit of online work seemed to be the best I could do.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

I had after much debate decided to attend one of my annual family reunions. In doing so I missed out attending the Culver Farmer’s Market. To my dismay, I arrived at my destination after 1 and a half hours travel, to learn the event is indeed scheduled for next Saturday. I admit to feeling angry for about 5 or 10 minutes. A question arose with in me, “Did I want to be a person who could not handle a change in the plan of the day?” The answer left me no alternative but to change my thought process. How could I enjoy this day going forward?

I saved seeds from the largest tomato after eating a part of it at my parents on Saturday.

I completely gave my anger away ASAP. Let it go! After eating a portion of one of the heirloom tomatoes I had brought with me, my Dad and I were off to visit one of his cousins. His wife needed input from me for a wall hanging made of my younger sisters 4-H tee shirts. After a friendly visit, at my Dad’s suggestion, I enjoyed a look at a collection of around 100 model John Deere tractors. Impressive!

A meal out with my Mom in the town I went to High School in, found me thinking about the changes in my life in the last 27 years. Good changes for the most part. A bit more chatting at my parents, an hour + drive home, chores, and I sat down to listen to music via my phone.

Oh, I almost forgot, my cousin gifted me with 8 books (I really like books) and had left them at my parents for me to pick up. I checked the mail when I arrived home and found 2 books that were gifts, as well. Speaking of arriving home, I noticed my purse was no where to be found.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

I rested and started a new book from my cousin titled Wild Grows the Heather in Devon. I expected it to be a fast read, but in fact it is not. The subjects and questions the characters discuss give the feel of a theology book rather than a feel-good story. A bit of mystery surrounds the characters of a turn of the 19 century English family and the old great house.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Ah Mondays tend to be my day of the week I get the most done. Not today! I splurged on a trip into town for coffee and a sandwich. My head felt foggy. I hate feeling this way!!!! I decided not to dwell on that fact. After feeding the animals and working on small online projects I connected with my mom to plan the best way to get my purse back. We decided to meet in Goshen and included a visit with one of my aunts. We met for coffee and laughs at Burger King. Did you know they give seniors FREE coffee?

Before I left, I checked the mail and to my surprise I found a package containing the Patrick McAvinue CD I had ordered last Thursday. That arrived quickly! Want your own copy? Click here. Track # 11 made me want to get up and dance, thus it is my favorite of the 12. Along with the credits for each song you will find the inspiration behind its creation and/or why it made the cut. I thought that added a personal touch unseen in my experience.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Awaking, I determined to make this a productive day. I went through my morning routine, checking and picking tomatoes before feeding chickens. The hot humid air found me grumbling to myself concerning the conditions. After lunch I washed eggs, and prepped for the market in Culver. Everything pointed to rainy evening and with a broken canopy I choose to stay home.

Checking the rain gage, I seen only 1 and ½ inches. I expected a higher amount based my perception of rainfall since last Wednesday. Truly that translated into 1 inch since I left the ½ inch in the gage.

Reading in the book I started Sunday, I realized I did not have a clue what ‘Heather’ looks like. I did a quick google search and learned it has potential health benefits, it is a flowering shrub, and I find it pretty. I hope to add it to CG Heartbeats Farm in the future.

To be honest, I chased off thoughts of frustration for not showing up at the market realizing the rain had dissapaited by 5 pm there was not rain in Culver. I went to work on my computer determined not to waste my time.

I recently set up an account one Me We, a newer social media platform said to be friendly to animal sales. Tonight, I created groups for the 3 breeds of chickens I raise here: Swedish Flower Hens, Silver Gray Dorking, (Dorking Chickens) and Lemon Cuckoo Niederrheiner. Are you on Me We? If so, be sure to look me up. (Maria Graber)

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

All of my activities prepared me to be on time to the Bremen Farmer’s Market and not be too exhausted when I arrived. As much as I love the markets, I often find myself tired when they are over. I have been writing out a list with times on it to help me stay focused and plan my day. I was inspired by the quick glance I was given at the mastermind meet up at Crystal Paine’s houses. While not utilizing every single day, I sure find the practice a benefit. I look back at the last 3 and ½ weeks since returning. I see how much I accomplished compared to July. I am thankful to be a part of Your Blogging University and the mastermind.

I am writing this diary post on Thursday, remembering yesterdays events. I drove to Midwest to pick up Non-GMO chicken feed and Safe Guard for Rosie. Rosie, a 24 year old mare, could tell countless stories on me of all the fun memories. Perhaps another day and blog post(s). Working to Keep a healthy weight on her includes a pelleted feed and extra hay, teeth maintenance and time out to eat grass. Despite these efforts, she continues to struggle. She likes to trot and be pushy. I take that to mean she likes living.

With the feed unloaded, and Rosie dewormed, I set to cleaning up garlic for the Bremen Farmer’s Market. I cut a few flowers for decorating the table. Cisco and Clinch, in the yard near my car, decided the flowers were food. ‘Not my bouquets, boys!!!’

The small market crowd provided a few customers. The heirloom tomatoes were a hit. I am partial to them, myself, this year.

Arriving home, I found myself busy moving the SFH broody to a tank. I hoped for the best. I was trying a new time of day to move a broody hen. Last event of the chores before going in. Check back next week to see if she stayed on the only 2 of 10 eggs that had a viable chick in them.

Once inside, I went through lockdown procedures for the 7 Lemon Cuckoo Niederrheiner/Swedish Flower Hen cross eggs. A bit of disappointment shot thru me. A couple of the eggs looked like the air cell was too big, indicating I needed to start the lockdown earlier. Nothing to be changed on this hatch, but a note to self for next time. Again, I decided to hope for the best. Look for updates on Facebook and Instagram or look for next week’s diary post.

This post contains affiliate links. What does that mean to you?  Certain links when clicked on and a purchase is made will pay me a portion of the price with out any additional cost to you.

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August 19, 2019August 23, 2019

Culver Farmer’s Market

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Warm, summer months, fondly reminds of time spent in, on, or at a body of water, be it lake, river or stream. What a better way to shop in the summer, than at Culver’s Farmers Market located on Lake Maxinckuckee in the lovely town of Culver, Indiana. One fact I like about Culver is the small town feeling and the locally owned business that line the street across from the lake shore. A public beach and boat launch provide opportunity to enjoy the water in a way that suits you best. Here every Saturday morning from 9 am to 1 pm and Tuesdays from 5 pm to 7 pm.you will find local farmers and artitisans displaying their wares and produce. Not only does this add to the old time feel of the town, but it provides the opportunity to purchase locally produced food and art. The health benefits of locally produced food last longer than the delicious taste in ones mouth all while supporting a local family and business. CG Heartbeats Farm is happy to be a vendor for the summer of 2019. I can tell you first hand the breezes of the lake have already proved better than any air conditioner I have encountered, but then I do prefer fresh air over air conditioning. In this post, we are going to meet the hard-working folks that bring their unique products to the Culver Farmer’s Market.

Market Days

Tuesdays from 5 pm to 7 pm

Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm

The Shook Shack

Do you enjoy baked goods such as homemade bread, cookies, pies, and cheesecake? Stop by the pink tent to find a local delicious favorite treat and visit with Tara.

Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Shook-Shack

Flower Hill Farm

Rebecca brings a variety of in season fresh locally and organically produced fruits and veggies, along with fresh flowers. You may also purchase her local produce at their farm stand open on Tuesdays from 9 am to 12 pm and Fridays from 4-7 PM located at 2366 700 E, Akron, Indiana 46910

Find Flower Hill Farm on FB: https://www.facebook.com/FlowerHillFarmm/

CG Heartbeats Farm

Do you like local fresh farm eggs? Chickens from CG Heartbeats are fed Non- GMO feed. Maria enjoys painting birdhouses. You will often see her painting at the market. She also brings fresh garlic, tomatoes, onions, and other seasonal items. New for 2019 she is bringing Glass Gem popcorn and Jacob Cattle Beans (a pretty soup bean). CG Heartbeats Farm focuses on raising heirloom plants working toward increased sustainability.

Find CG Heartbeats Farm on FB at www.facebook.com/countrygirlheartbeatsfarm

IG at www.instagram.com/countrygirlheartbeatsfarm

website: www.dontclipmywings.com

Jim and Peggy Metz

Are you looking for a custom corn hole game? Be sure to check out the variety of options, or chat with Jim about a custom-made game. If you just want to spend time enjoying the market, they always have a set out for all to enjoy. Grab a few friend or family members and play a quick game at the market. One of many ways to enjoy Culver Farmer’s Market. Along with other craft items, you will also find Yardzaee, a yard game that is a spin-off of Yatzee.

Jan Peyser Jewelry

Jan sells earrings, necklaces and other jewelry.

Check out her complete inventory at her Etsy shop: www.etsy.com/shop/janpeyserjewelry

Amor Farm

Are you looking for locally raised grass-fed beef and local raised pork? You will find it at the Amor Farm vendor tent. A family farm located near Culver and made up of 3 generations. Eldon and Sandra Sr. their sons Eldon Jr. (wife Sandy Jr.) and Paul (wife Andi) and grandson Wyatt started coming to the Culver Market 4 years ago as Wyatt had extra produce left from his 4-H projects. As of a year and a half ago, they bring meat and jerky from grass feed beef.

Two Acre Farm

You can not miss the creative birdhouses hanging and sitting at the canopy of Two Acre Farm. They offer other uniquely crafted items.

Check out their FB page to see pictures. https://www.facebook.com/TwoAcreFarm/

Hole in the Woods Farm

A ten-year vendor of Culver Farmer’s Market, Chad is in charge of managing not only Hole in Woods Farm, but also running the market. His wife, Xenia, creates beautiful jewelry in part from repurposed items and pressed flowers. You can find her booth under the pavilion alongside their locally produced fruits and vegetables. Sometimes they may even have a goose egg or two. Their Culver, Indiana farm is Certified Naturally Grown.

Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hole.in.the.woods.farm/

Website: https://shop.holeinthewoodsfarm.com/

Ma and Pa Craw

Michelle brings locally raised honey, farm fresh eggs and other handmade items. She makes cute, uniquely shaped treatments for cast iron. I vouch for their effectiveness as I have used them myself. Here you will also find hand made creations by Mary.

Find them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mapacrawhoney/

Matt’s Frames

Specializing in sales of historical images from Culver, Marshall County and the surrounding region, they use creativity and imagination to make stunning framed artwork for area images and found objects including local postcards. All are carefully UV protected before final assembly. Need artwork or pictures framed be sure to find Matt set up near the railroad station. To reach him outside of the market, call: 574-842-8864

Barb’s Place

Barb brings unique jams to the Culver Farmer’s Market along with homemade dog treats, and peanut butter brittle.

Culver Creations

Find uniquely painted furniture in a variety of options. Ask for custom options.

Debra Imhoff

Check out the homemade baked good at Debra’s table under the pavillian.

Lisa Goble

Lisa makes hanging towels, aprons (including child sizes), and various sizes of hot pads. Get you kitchen up to date with her matching sets. If you don’t see what you are looking for, be sure to ask her for a custom set.

Maxinkuckee Corn

Find many flavors of popcorn at the market. It is a must have like cotton candy at the county fair. This way you can snack while you shop.

Zen Farm

This is your one stop shop for all soap needs, shower and bath too!

Union Church of the Brethern

Find pretty, woven rag rugs. Long before repurposing was popular this was a way to put older material to good use, such as cloths belonging to a loved one passed away. Today, they are still a pretty way to decorate a home.

110 Blackberry Farm

Check out the delicious healthy blackberries that are lower in sugar, higher in vitamins and minerals. Yum, the blackberries are so good!!!! Brian brings other fruits to the market for purchase as they are seasonally available. I thoroughly enjoyed strawberries earlier this summer.

Click on 110 Blackberry for their Facebook page.

Blooms on 800

Julie creates beautiful arrangement with succulents, air plants and fresh cut flowers. She continues to expand her inventory with new creative ideas. This summer she can be found at the Tuesday Culver Market from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Connect with Julie on Facebook at her page Blooms on 800.

Taco Truck

A favorite of the Tuesday markets, Las Palmas provides authentic Mexican cuisine. Check out their menu below:

Non Profit Groups at the Market

Friends of the Library

This group brings older books to sell and gives the profits to the local library. Look for them set up on a picnic table. Pictured below are a few of my finds.

Lions Club

Freida, faithfully attends the market to sell nuts and brooms for the Culver Lions Club. She has proven to be an inspiration to me. At this past winter market, I found my table next to hers some weeks. During these times, I found myself challenged in listening to her stories.

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August 15, 2019August 16, 2019

Homestead Diary ~ Week 2

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Picking up from where I left off last week. If you recall, I had been up late to catch Prince Charming. He is a sweetheart, but such a sneaky boy!

Thursday, August 8, 2019

I woke up at 3:30 am. I felt horrible and knew a low sugar level was the cause. I grabbed candy I keep near the bed and ate 4 to 5 pieces several times until I felt my body begin to no longer feel like I was going to pass out. Next time I was coherently awake was 10 am. My head hurt. But nothing like when I had a Traumatic Brain Injury. That headache hurt on a whole different level. Now I have to stop and pay attention to notice a head ache. I ached. A combination of a short night and bad sugar low told me I would have a slow day today. After caring for animals, I headed into town to work online. I noticed Sage had stayed in her dog house each time I had looked her way and when I checked on her she lifted her head. Sage, a blue healer and terrier mix, at 18 years old would not be with me much longer. I prepared for taking her in the following day to end her suffering.

Friday, August 9, 2019

The dreaded chore awaited me the following morning. I took her water and she drank. As the day progressed, I processed if this was the best thing to do. I struggle with these decisions. Once done they cannot be undone. I value human life and that of animals as well. I took care to spend time praying for others, my decision and praising God throughout the morning. I have been nose to the grindstone, but this morning I sat and watched inspirational messages and teachings from the Bible. I gathered emotional strength. Making sure all the chickens had water I had 2 tasks at hand: picking up chicken and horse feed, which for some reason I do not enjoy, and the final decision about Sage. I noticed it looked like she had vomited. To give you her history, she has had a mass under her belly for 4 years and up until 2 days ago has had normal body functions, eating and drinking. When I seen she had vomited I knew it was time. Making the appointment I teared up a little. In less than an hour she was no longer suffering. I drove her home and I took off to pick up chicken feed.

I write this and still will be unloading chicken feed and doing PM chores. I know Brian will be helping me say the final good byes to Sage this evening. I want to share a bit about her as she brought much joy and laughter to my life. The first time I met her she barked at me when I left as if to tell me, don’t leave me here. I suppose the telling of Sage will be another blog post in the future cause as I think about my memories of her, I see 1000 words in my mind. She was about as bossy as a dog could be, and had a mind of her own. I was right there by her petting her head and talking to her. It was about as peaceful as it could be.

I believe the Lord has shown me that I have created a habit of avoiding or ignoring painful or uncomfortable situations. Today I faced it head on, even if I took 6 hours to prepare.

It wouldn’t hurt as bad if I did not love as deeply.

Saturday, August 10, 2019

Off to Culver Farmer’s Market where I sold eggs and garlic. Here I had several wonderful conversations with friends and market patrons. At the close of market, I hurried on to have a late lunch with family. I felt wore out emotionally. I grieved noticing how Sage did not bark at me. I heard her bossy bark in my head. Prince Charming escaped Saturday evening again as I headed out to do late chores. I had been resting reading, Betty Zane, a good part of the evening. I decided to sit out on the porch and read waiting for Prince Charming to show himself and be caught. At first, I felt frustrated and angry, a product of my grieving process, but as I sat out in the night air, my heart began to feel peaceful. I enjoyed the story about Betty a frontier girl living along the Ohio river. Her settlement was the first in the area. The story, written in the 1920’s and based on diary entries from the 1700’s of her brothers. Zane Grey, a descendant of the Zane family authored the story surrounding her historic act. As I understand in the town of Wheeling, West Virginia there stands a monument commemorating the siege of Fort Henry September 1782. This book was one of several that I picked up at the Culver Farmer’s Market. Reading stories of heroes who settled our country revives the pioneer/homestead spirit in me.

Sunday, August 11, 2019

A longed-for day of rest, which is what I did, while caring for the animals of course. A late evening visit at friends, where I took a quick picture of a couple of the pullets, she has from CG Heartbeats Farm stock. After catching up I watched her husband ride one of her horses tracking the hot heels. Hot heels are a training/practice tool for rope horses. They are usually pulled by a 4-wheeler and imitate a roping steer. Monday morning as I write this, I again feel a longing to ride. My work awaits to be completed first.

Monday, August 12, 2019

A hot, humid day with rain in the forecast, but it was after noon, evening and overnight until we happily received 3/4ths of an inch of rain. I feel deeply thankful for the rain. I felt super excited to find a Silver-Gray Dorking hen (with a red tag) sitting on the eggs this morning. To this point, I am always excited for a broody hen. They make my life easier as I have shared.

I moved chicks and grow-outs that are living in tanks outside in cages and began the process of cleaning the tanks. I first drag to the manure pile and dump, next drag to the side of the chicken barn where I spray out with the hose. This part of the process looks different each time. It varies how long I soak the tanks, if I use apple cider vinegar to clean, or if I scrub them with a brush. When they are clean, I drag them near-by, tip on their side, leaving them until they dry. If I don’t want to use them right away, I store them tipped upside down. I drag them back into the barn when I use them. On occasion I will have someone help me carry them which is much easier. Usually as I am solo, I drag them. These are plastic 100-gallon stock tanks and not terribly heavy. My cell phone was on the verge of complete shutdown due is age of 6 to 8 years. At times the screen would go white and I could see nothing. The evening was spent shopping for a new phone. I did finally against by wishes, end up with a smart phone. This is my first. I suppose it will have its benefits, but I like a phone to be a phone…

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Caring for animals, prepping for the evening market, and working on a blog post took up most of my day.

I thoroughly enjoyed Culver Market chatting with other vendors and friends. I gathered the remaining information I needed to complete the upcoming blog post on this market. Look for it to post on the coming Monday.

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

This day has been an almost repeat of yesterday in the fact that I cared for animals, worked on a blog post and prepared for market. Feeling tired, I tried to stay focused on only what I needed to do. Do you have days like that? As drove into Bremen, I was watching the sky (and the radar). It sure looked like we were going to get hit with rain. I opted to wait to set until it past. The rain took its sweet time and it was almost 5 pm before I set up my table. People started trickling in. Tonight was FREE cupcake night for school students. I am certain all were given away. A cooler air settled in for the night. Upon arriving home, I seen we had been given ½ inch of rain. I feel blessed to have 1 ¼ inch of rain this week. The ground has been getting pretty dry and now I will be relieved of the duty of watering garden and pots. I had just settled into bed when I heard the chickens carrying on. NOW WHAT?!? I felt tired!!!! Dressed and armed out I went to see what was going on…. OH, the pen that has been eating their eggs, had laid an egg and had started to eat it. To tell the truth, I felt relieved, a bit happy and my rather irritated attitude left. I felt like laughing. I could to back to bed and sleep with no worries of a predator tonight.

A quick word to chickens eating eggs: based on my observations, this act lasts for a season and then seems to resolve itself. I am not fond of it, but I have yet to have a hen that does not stop such behavior on her own over time.

Wow, this ends the 2^nd week of August. Did you read the first week? Thank you for sharing in this journey via my diary entries.

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August 8, 2019August 15, 2019

Homestead Diary ~ Week 1

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Although I have been around animals my entire life, I feel like a newbie many times in this homesteading journey. New lessons with new species, raising animals in a new way, new goals aside from living an equestrian lifestyle, learning what it means to have an online business are all changes I have chosen for this season of my life. Thus, getting real about what a month of the journey really looks like feels scary and vulnerable. Here goes as I diving in head first.

Thursday, August 1, 2019

Yes! I love a new month and a new morning! AM chores completed I headed into town to work online. I was excited for the work I wanted to do on the hatching course. I ended up with a bad low sugar level. I ate and waited until it was safe for me to drive. During this time, I focused the best I could on the online work I wanted to get done. Once home, I took a long nap, before heading out for evening chores. I hate these disruptions to my day, but I am learning to be thankful for all the good. It seems a lesson that, while I can see progress, is a mental battle I continue to fight.

Friday, August 2, 2019

I awoke feeling terrible. As I lay in bed I thought, “I am do not have to do much today. I am staying right here! Oh wait! I have a meeting planned to send pullets to a new home. I need to stay consistent with my social media posts. I need a box or two for the pullets to travel in. I need to go to town.” I groaned inwardly. Slowly, I began my day. When the above mentioned was completed and chores attended to. I rested the remainder of the day. On this day I felt blessed and thankful that while I needed to attend to certain items of business, I could rest with out feeling any quilt. Rest I did.

Saturday, August 3, 2019

Normally, I attend the Culver Farmer’s Market, but I still not feeling good, choose to stay home. To be completely honest, I want to share I also felt a bit overwhelmed with what I have not been getting done around here and online. I squash thoughts tempting me to waste energy wishing I felt better. I know the best thing for me today is rest. After the daily quiet time of writing what I am thankful for and reading a chapter in a book by Kathy Lee Gifford titled, The Rock, The Road, and the Rabbi, with a cup of coffee, I headed outside to feed the horses, cats and share an IG story and post. My first stop was checking if the Swedish Flower Hen of Pair # 2 was indeed broody. YES! She was. I decided since I was moving slow anyway to put out the broody hen and her chicks, the 5- 4/5-week old chicks and the 4 from pen #7. I began the work of watering and feeding chicken pens. In the mix I watered the potted cherry tomato plants and some of the sweet potatoes. At some point I added 7 eggs to the 4 or 5 the broody hen had already laid. I have been saving her eggs and leaving a few in with her, hoping she would go broody a second time this year. Feeling so blessed that she did, especially given the fact the coons had eaten her chicks.

Brian and I grabbed a bite to eat and then I was back outside feeding chickens. This process stretched on into the afternoon. I say I was moving slow….I started this at 10 am and it was now 4 pm. I spent an hour working on a blog post I am putting together. Then back outside to find Kit Kat was shadowing me and meowing intensely. ‘Now what does she want,’ I wondered. I looked closer at her, feeling under her belly. I now suspected she was close to having kittens. She likes to show me where she is having her kittens. I spent the next several minutes with her coming and going in the underbrush next to the house. Yes, this is one of those areas that need work here. Anyway, she settled down in a corner. I will keep checking on her this evening, but I am certain she is having kittens. I tamed her when she was feral and it took me 8 weeks to even touch her. Unfortunately, I did not get her fixed and now our cat population has taken off. Several cats have been fixed here and she is one of the next ones on the list. It feels like slow progress. But it is progress. I gathered eggs which I do through out the day. Relationships with animals bring joy to my heart and to be honest at times pain. I wrote a bit more and headed back outside until dark. Chores consisted of bringing in the chicks and grow outs I had put in cages outside earlier in the day, feeding horses, and watering the garden near the chickens. I finally transplanted the cherry tomato plants where one of the garlic gardens had been near the house.

3 sister garden plot, behind is the heritage tomato plants
out of site are the yellow and white onions and carrots

I found myself remembering the joying of riding bareback on a horse at a walk. For the first time in years I longed to ride. One of my goals for this year was to start riding again. I do not believe I have been on a horse since 2017, 2 years ago. That year I only rode two times, once in WY at Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch and another time in Alberta, Canada. I determined I would ride Navajo Bo. If I get into the reasons why I could write an entire post telling the story of each horse I was not riding. I found Bo’s bridle. Oh dear, that was a mess. I decided to put a halter together with reins that had snaps on them. That is how I learned to ride a horse, bareback with a halter and 2 lead ropes snapped to the halter. Yep, why not start over the same way. If you want to read more about the time, I spent with Bo last night, check out her FB page where I posted a bit about it.

When I went to feed the dogs, I called softly to Kit Kat and shortly she appeared with a messy rear end. Yep, she had birthed kittens. Her belly still felt hard in one spot. Perhaps she wasn’t quite done. I gave her food and water. She hung out with me for a while before returning to her babies. I heard them fussing a couple times. I felt good, peaceful and happy with the enjoyment of my day.

Sunday, August 4, 2019

One of my goals in the last few years is to make Sunday a day of rest. It does not always look quite the same. I did not do much other then care for animals, write, and hang out at home. The broody hen was still on her eggs.

Monday, August 5, 2019

The temps were forecasted to be in the high 80’s. In the mornings after my quiet time or devotions, I started making a schedule for my day. On Mondays this takes a bit longer as I also brain dump of what I want to get done for the week. AM chores include feeding chickens, gathering eggs, horses, cats and dogs, checking gardens and potted plants. I found a few beans (Jacob Cattle Beans) ready to harvest. This morning I took a look at the wild grapes and even ate a few that looked sort of ripe. I hope the tart taste diminishes as they ripen more. If not, I will still eat them, and I am going to be looking for a way to use them. I dove into a daydream imagining where I would keep a cow. I think I forgot to mention I have been in conversation concerning a Jersey cow, bred to a mini Jersey. While I feel drawn to Scottish Highlands and American Milking Devon, at this time the Jersey/Mini Jersey seems like a better fit for the immediate time frame. In all it doesn’t sound like all that takes much time, but 3 hours flew by. The afternoon was spent working on the computer. Brian decided to address the slow water flow and needed my help so after starting house chores, I helped him. One or two more tasks before I was done for the might.

I cleaned the music variety of garlic I want to sell and kept back what I will plant for next years crop and my own use. Not only do I use for cooking, I also put cloves in the chicken water from time to time to boost their immune system. PM chores took close to an hour. It is 10 PM as I write this and I will be going back out to finish up a few things. I felt refreshed today after a day of rest.

Tuesday, August 6, 2019

I desperately needed to work on laundry. First thing I did was get a load started. AM chores went faster today and I found time to wash a quart sized water container for Cisco. When I first brought them home, I had given him a little plastic container and I found myself filling repeatedly through out the day. I felt good knowing this 5 min act would be saving me time in the coming weeks. A lunch time I continued to work on laundry. I usually enjoy laundry, but I have found a way to look forward to it. I pile up a few loads that are ready to be folded then listen to one or two podcasts while I fold. The times flies by fast, I have learned something new and the laundry is folded and put away. I spent 20 min writing out the content for a video I want to add to the course I am working on. Out to wash eggs and load the car for the Culver’s Farmer’s Market. I had this, last minute, idea to stop a local Dollar store on the way. I wanted to get brown paper bags and blank stickers to write on and stick on the bags when I sold garlic. I found regular plain brown lunch bags and shipping labels. I was hoping for a fancier bag and a cute cut to the stickers, but I spent $2.14 on them, so who am I to be picky. Down the road I intend to pay to have printed stickers with the info I want to share. I did the math sitting at the market later in the evening: I cut one shipping label in 4 strips for the egg carton labels. 18 labels cost $1 so each label cost around .05 cents. Divided by 4 (4 strips) that is around 1 cent per shipping label. The quote I currently have for pre-printed egg labels is around 34 cents a label. Of course, they would look much prettier. For now, I will use these, but future goals include pre-printed labels. As for the garlic bags, I will continue to use the shipping labels, but as I sat here writing I remembered I have several sets of ‘fancy’ cut scissors in my craft box. Now that would make for some fancier looking labels. I intend to get them out for today market in Bremen, Indiana.

Leaving the dollar store, I began feeling anxious. At first, I chalked it up to worrying about being late to market, but no amount of self-talk made it go away. I realized my sugar levels must be dropping. I started eating the snack foods I had purchased at the Dollar store. I took a different route since I had gone into town on my way. In my path ahead I seen a traffic backed up for a train. Oh, not now! As I sat there waiting on a train that was NOT moving, eating cause my sugar, I am not sure how much time had gone by. I looked at my phone to check the time and to my dismay it was after 5 pm. I wanted to go home and be done for the night! Instead I text a couple different friends that were at the market to get directions how to get around the train. I did eventually get to the market. I want to give a big shout out to my friend Julie and Blooms on 800. She helped me get unloaded and set up. The market proved slow and my sales were $0. But I decided to look at it from the perspective that, as I sat there, I worked on my egg labels and spent time with my friend. I enjoyed the cool breezes coming off of Lake Maxinkuckee. We chatted as I helped her load her van. Driving home, I fought off negative thoughts of my evening. Even this morning I needed to chase them away. I made progress yesterday even if no sales. Julie shared helpful ideas how to give my market table a new look. It is August and I have been sporting the spring look. I am overdue for a change. Chores went well and all the animals looked good, giving a good feeling. I was tired, but looking forward to feeling rested in the morning.

Wednesday, August 7, 2019

Bremen Farmer’s Market takes place from 4 pm to 7 pm on Wednesdays. I spent around 4 hours going through my morning routine: devotional and quiet time, am chores, and checking the plants. Next off to town looking for what I needed to change the display at the markets. I admit I found pleasure in shopping at a local dollar store. Ideas of what the table could look like as I browsed through items. The final look came together when I arrived at the market. I picked flowers, and grabbed garlic that was still drying, cleaned a coffee cup tree that I have not been using. Off to the Bremen Farmer’s Market and another evening of visiting with patrons and friends. The small crowd produced a few sales for me. Check out the slide show of the new display below.

At home I unloaded the car, rested 20 minutes before heading out to complete PM chores. Unfortunately, Prince Charming (the cat) snuck out the door and it was well past midnight before I located him to bring him in. He seemed to think he was on a grand adventure. I was reminded of how the Jesus shared the parable of the shepherd who would leave the fold and go look for the one lost sheep. I thought, ‘I know how overjoyed I will feel when I have Prince Charming safe in my arms and back in the house. Imagine how overjoyed the Lord is when a lost soul returns to Him. No greater love…..’

This completes the first 7 days of August. Did any parts of my last week stand out to you? Send me an email telling me about it. Send your email to maria@dontclipmywings.com or click here

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December 14, 2018June 21, 2019

Indoor Market #2: Culver

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On November 17, 2018 I attended my first indoor Farmer’s Market in Bremen, Indiana. I am looking forward to the possibility of a February Bremen Indoor Market in 2019 with a Valentine theme. I decided with eggs to sell and crafts to make I would try a second indoor market. I had seen on Facebook and Instagram that the town of Culver was hosting an indoor Famer’s Market twice a month through April 2019. Further investigation revealed that temporary vendors were accepted as space allowed.

Finding the vendor information and application links on the Culver Farmer’s Market Facebook page, I applied. A few days later I learned I was indeed welcome to attend the following Saturday.

The weather proved miserable by the time I arrived and was unloading the car. Wind driven rain, and temperatures in the 30’s had me shivering. The atmosphere inside was however was warm and friendly to this newcomer. I enjoyed the view overlooking Lake Maxinkackee. A fog hovered over the choppy, wind driven waves of the lake and I felt cozy inside the Beach Lodge. Happy with my display, I settled into painting on a couple different bird houses. I found painting at the Bremen Indoor Market gave authenticity to the finished birdhouses on display. If not for anyone else, certainly for my own satisfaction.

I made a short video to allow you to look at the variety of options to shop for at the Culver Indoor Market. So please be sure to click on the video and enjoy a close up view of many of the items available.

Watch a short video showing vendor wares at the Culver Indoor Market in Culver, Indiana

Each market varies a bit with vendors attendance and I did not get a picture of every available item. If you are local to northern Indiana and southern Michigan, be sure to check out the Culver Indoor Market this Saturday December 15, 2018. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the first and third Saturday’s now through April. The Market is free to visit and enjoy live music while you shop.

Location: Beach Lodge, Culver Town Park, 819 E Lake Shore Drive, Culver, IN 46511

Time: 9 am to 1 pm

Leave a comment sharing your favorite item from the video.

In Summary

I am happy to have attended this market and look forward to providing farm fresh, NON -GMO eggs, crafts and other items at future markets. I met locals, some who embrace similar values, and will enjoy getting to know how they homestead in their own unique way.

What did I buy?

Local grass fed hamburger and ginger snap cookies.

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