dontclipmywings Archives - Page 2 of 2 - A Country Girl's Heart -Beats that Matter

June 28, 2019June 29, 2019

The Cody Stampede

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Cody, Wyoming hosts a nightly local rodeo in the months of June, July and August. In the past, I wanted to haul horses out there for the summer just to get them seasoned or at least get them ready to hit the road. As of now I have not made use of this idea. On July 1-4 Cody’s arena hosts The Stampede, a PRCA sanctioned rodeo. While some locals may be entered, the entry fees are higher and the card holding members get first dibs. These contestants are not only running for larger purse payouts, but they are looking to add points for the year end championship title. They are also vying for a spot in the Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas. Before some of the events created their own association the PRCA was the highest level one could compete in rodeo events. Now there are the USTRA (team roping), PBR (bull riding), Barrel racing futurities and NBHA, IBRA and so on.

I have attended The Cody Stampede 3 times and yes, I have only ever been a spectator at this event. I do not really get into watching activities, that I would rather be a competitor in. My niece, (again) was the reason for my attendance. “Aunt Maria, I am so excited to the rodeo with you,” followed by a high little squeal. Yep, I will have fun going if for no other reason than to please this special young lady. My nieces have a way of motivating me to do things I otherwise might not do.

Last year my husband and I had only arrived in the area a few hours before the rodeo was scheduled to start. We were coming off a 2-day road trip, and I received several phone calls that afternoon wondering how close we were.

At last we arrived with the excited little lady to the rodeo grounds. Here is a look at the events we enjoyed.

Saddle Bronc Riding

These riders attempt to NOT hit the ground or touch the horse with their free hand for 8 seconds. Using a special ‘bronc’ saddle and halter. They are judged on how the horse bucks and how they ride it.

Bareback Bronc Riding

In this event the riders use a bareback rigging which is like a suitcase handle strapped to the back of the horse. The horse also wears a bronc halter with a thick rope attached.

A look at the bareback rigging. If I remember correctly this horse was called Maria.

Judges look for a few different details compared to the Saddle Bronc Riding, but the basic idea is similar. Riding the 2 different styles is not the same.

Calf Roping or Tie-down Roping

A horse rider gives a calf the head start, chases after it while swinging a rope. Then (if) when caught, the rider jumps off the horse, runs to the calf, flips it on its side and ties 3 of the legs. During this time the horse has been trained to keep the rope (that is attached to the saddle) tight so the cowboy can work. The tie then has to hold for 6 seconds. The winner is determined by the time the fastest time.

Steer Wrestling

A mounted rider chases a steer that again has a head start, leans off his horse to grab the horns and wrestle the steer to the ground. All this while they are running 30 plus miles per hour.

Halftime Show

The clowns provide entertainment throughout the rodeo in between events. But just before the intermission at this event they put on a special show. This was a new to me clown act.

Barrel Racing

Warm up time for the ladies almost always happens during the intermission. Intermission follows the Half time show and the barrel racing follows that. Three barrels are set up in triangle or also called a cloverleaf pattern. If you look a horses set of tracks after a clean run, it would look similar to the drawing of a cloverleaf. Here it is simple: the fastest time wins with all barrels still standing. Five or ten seconds are added to the time for each barrel knocked over. Also the horse must continue in a forward motion and correctly execute the pattern with the choice of going to either the left or right barrel first.

Team Roping

Two mounted cowboys chase a horned steer (or cow) which is given a head start. One rides slightly ahead for the purpose of roping the horns. The second rider hangs back a little and when the header (first rider) turns the steer, rides in and ropes the heels. The header pivots his horse and the heeler (second rider) slows his horse down. This action pulls the ropes taut. At this point the timer is stopped. The fastest times wins. There are penalties for only catching one hind leg instead of two or not giving the steer its head start (breaking the barrier).

Bull Riding

Almost always the last event in a rodeo and seemingly the most trilling. The announcer builds the excitement saying, “Are you ready for the buuulllll riding?” There have been serious injuries in the other events, but the bull riders have been known to say, “Its not if I get hurt, but when.” A rope tied around the circumference of the bull just behind the shoulders, a bit of rosin to help the hand stick and a flank strap in front of the back legs with a nod of the head, the chute opens. Let’s see who can stay on for 8 seconds. Of course, these cowboys get a score too, also based on how the bull bucks and how the rider rides. Two judges score up to 25 points for the bull and up to 25 points for the rider bringing the total possible points to 100. Highest score wins. There are ways to be disqualified such as touching the body of the bull with a free hand, not marking the bull out, and falling off before 8 seconds are over.

Yes, this was an exciting rodeo to watch. Certainly not your average rodeo compared to the ones I have competed in. Instead of the same old jokes, the clowns had new material to entertain or new to me. Want to see the Cody Stampede Rodeo? Visit their website.

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May 26, 2019July 9, 2019

Roots and Wings: Beats that Matter

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Often, I share what is happening on the farm, how I move forward in my homesteading journey or enjoy other parts of the country I have visited. In this post I get a bit more personal sharing about my unseen journey, of the heart….Beats that Matter.

I have always had an interest in animal husbandry and the biology of how a body functions both human and animal. There has long been a special place in my heart for the appearance of new life. The wonder of it all, the few moments that life hangs in the balance before arriving, the nurture of a new mom and the trust of a new born have repeatedly touched my heart in a special way. My first experiences go back to my childhood, observing, learning, and assisting with the birth of baby goats. In high school as a part of the farm lab in an Ag and Natural Resource class, I assisted a sow(pig). My journey with horses was only beginning and it has continued to this day.

I have consciously made the decision to step away from horses while pursuing different areas of my life. Music, the beginning of my homesteading journey, raising chickens, producing vegetables and fruit, and attending farmer’s markets along with this website have taken hours of my time, energy, and money. Yet, in the last 3 weeks, caring for equines, felines, and supporting those practicing veterinary medicine seemed to take up a much of my emotional and physical resources. Now, for certain, I do not regret any of it, but rather I have enjoyed the moments as they came. Anytime I have been involved in caring for animals both good and bad, tears and joy abound. These last few weeks have been no different. I have learned new information and put to use my previously acquired knowledge. One such way was in the joint effort of mare watch and foaling. I made an exception to my decision to step away from such activity while focusing on growing new ventures. Largely because, this was to help another human with her animal when she was not in a position physically to do so herself. You see, I have had to rely on others to help me with my animals when I did not feel good. Another time, I found myself alone, no help, with serious health struggles with a horse that needed around the clock care. I jumped at the chance to support another. I am not sure how many times I teared up, happy to be a part of helping. I felt the old adage, ‘It is better to give then to receive’. I will say no more, but rather share this 12-minute video of my wonderous moments.

These past two weeks allowed me to add to the portrait of who I am created to be. This journey called life unfolds much like the stroke of a painter’s brush bringing details of a picture into being as the Lord shows me who He created me to be. For that I am deeply thankful and growing confident in His leading while I grow roots in unseen soil. As the roots develop I am learning it is not about what field I work in, but rather, no matter where I am, I find much joy in encouraging others. Heartbeats that make a difference to those you are around. What are you doing while your heart beats?

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May 20, 2019May 26, 2019

A Guided Trail Ride

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My lovely niece expressed her strong desire to me in a phone call one day, “Aunt Maria, I want you to go with me on a trail ride when you are out here,” something to that effect, but if that was really going to happen or not was uncertain. That was the year her parents opened a discount grocery store. The excitement of my visit later that year was largely focused on helping as a cashier during the second week after opening. Her Mom, my sister, did managed to make time the day before I was scheduled to return to Indiana. In a previous blog post I shared about my experience enjoying the Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch for a few hours.

At last, the anticipated event was to take place. We walked a short distance to area out of sight from the front porch of the Lodge. Here there was a small cabin like structure with steps leading to the door and a small porch. A 2-hour trail ride was getting underway as well as our 1 hour guided ride. I was looking forward to enjoying a ride on a trained horse. I have rode green horses almost as much as finished horse, barrel raced often and a bit of team roping. Until that day I had never been riding in the mountains of Wyoming. For various reasons, this was to be one of only 2 times I sat the back of the horse in 2017. Consequently, the other time involved a different niece in a different county, but only the week prior. I wrote about that ride in a blog post titled Seasons. I felt a bit nervous, knowing my riding skills had suffered since experiencing a TBI. There are few others besides one of my nieces that would have even motivated me to ride that summer.

I did honestly feel unsure riding in unknown terrain, given my belief that my riding skills were lacking compared to past horseback ventures. For this reason, I decided to refrain from sharing that I knew anything of what I was doing. It felt quite odd to have a horse lead to me saddled, held while I mounted from the afore mentioned porch and led to stand behind the horse my niece sat on. I decided to simple enjoy the experience. In the past, if someone lead a horse, I was sitting on it was because the horse was misbehaving. Perhaps I should clarify misbehaving: a gelding that was refusing to enter an arena who reared and escaped the grip of the person leading him, proceeding into the area at a run with no response to attempted guidance of the reins. I strongly believed the horse I sat that day was in need of ground support. I was informed this horse liked to be lazy. Sounded good to me, better than one trying to dump me or run off.

I was not about to miss the opportunity to take pictures while I was riding. I snapped a couple while we waited for our guide, Aaron. I later had the pleasure of meeting his wife, who was working in the reception area of Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch. They own Hartley Welding back in their home state of Arkansas. Turns out, our guide has many talents as he also works as a farrier, a line of work operating anywhere a horse does.

At first, we rode on fairly flat ground (for being in the mountains) along a creek bed. While the trail was not steep, at times the bank down to the creek was. The smell of pine floated across the fresh mountain breezes. The peace I felt and beauty that surrounded us, simply can not be shared in these pictures.

We started up a steeper slope. As we rode, I listened to the voice of my niece chatting away. She was riding an old, as in 20 +, horse that was worth its weight in gold when it came to toting young children around.

Aaron, our guide, shared that at one point in the summer, a bear had been sighted right there near the trail we currently were on. My response? I ask if he was carrying a gun. As he turned to answer I seen a gun on his hip. I felt satisfied that there was protection provided and continued to enjoy the ride, while keeping my eye out for bears. The fact created a sense of adventure beyond riding in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Check out this video of pictures taken along the trail.

We had climbed higher than I realized. We came to a path wide enough for motor vehicles. It either went up or down.

I was a bit disappointed we were headed down. I would have been excited to continue riding higher, and knew the ride would soon be over.

Do you see the buildings nestled below? That is the general area we started the trail ride at and where we were returning to.

Arriving back at the Lodge, my niece gave me a big hug and said, ‘Thank you, Aunt Maria’. The ride was amazing, but her little hugs trumped it all.

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April 29, 2019May 22, 2019

Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch

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There are days my mind wonders to past days. As winter fades and the beauty of spring appears, amidst rainy days, I find myself craving a road trip. I might even be planning one depending on the year. Either way, along with my desire to travel my mind drifts to past trips and memories. I have been to a few areas enough that they are beginning to feel like my second home.

Nestled back on a mountainside only 3 miles from the east entrance of the Yellowstone National Park, Shoshone Guest Lodge welcomes anyone wanting to feel close to the rugged terraine and wildlife. One of my nieces who at the time did not own a horse, informed over the phone that when I came to visit we were going to go on a trail ride at this lodge. This was how I came to visit the lodge one Sunday afternoon in August of 2017.

The main building provided meals to guests and anyone else who made reservations. My favorite part was the porch. Several chairs gave a beautiful view of neighboring mountains and if you sat in the right spot you did not even see the road, only the campfire pit across the way and cabins that can be rented.

Always one to explore I soon went found my self inside checking out the interior. The dinning area and reception desk sat a level lower than the entertainment room.

Speaking of entertainment, my eye caught sight of a guitar and what was that? A fiddle! I had not been playing mine much for reasons I do not recall. I wonder if I would be allowed to play it? I was terribly rusty, but how fun would it be to play a fiddle on the porch of this log lodge in the mountains of Wyoming? Turns out my sister knew the lodge owners and the fiddle belonged to her.

After shooting a few pictures on the porch, we were informed it was time to ride. Read all about the ride we took in the blog post dedicated to that experience titled: A Guided Trail Ride.

Returning from the grand adventure, my niece had fulfilled her dream, I carried the beauty of my first mountain ride, and even my Dad seemed happy with the experience. On a mission now to meet the wife of our trail guide, I found her at the reception desk. I learned we shared a common like for music, specifically fiddle playing, and writing, specifically blogging. Instantly we found conversation abounded. My sister shared the beauty of mother hood with our new acquaintance as their daughters enjoyed playing together.

We had a grand time getting to know Lydia and learned that her and her husband had a couple businesses back home in their home state of Arkansas. I recall the joy I felt learning this lovely young lady enjoyed blogging. At the time I had just started this website and it was fun to encounter another blogger. Her blog is titled: Letters and Lyrics

The longing to play that fiddle was still flirtling around in the back of my mind. I had to ask. Yes, I was assured I was welcome to play the fiddle. A bit of tuning, and many minutes practicing, still rusty, I managed to play a tune rooted in my family history. “I see the Moon” The lyrics are posted to go with the video of my playing on the porch of Shoshone Guest Lodge.

I see the moon,  The moon sees me,
Down through the boughs of the old oak tree,
Please let the moon that shines on me,
Shine on the one I love.

Over the mountain, Over the sea,
That’s where my heart is longing to be
Please let the moon that shines on me,
Shine on the one I love.

We needed to leave before the camp fire that night for the next morning I was headed back to Indiana after being gone for over 4 weeks. I may return one day to embark on a longer adventure such as the pack trip that encompasses at least one night of sleeping under the stars.

Hanging out sharing the peace and beauty

Be sure to check out the Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch located near the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Find them on Facebook: Shoshone Lodge and Guest Ranch

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April 11, 2019April 11, 2019

Black Raspberries

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I remember as a child a long row or two of raspberries in my Grandpa’s garden. If I remember correctly, he had black and red raspberries. I recall how the row had T-posts at each end and along the strip every so often. In between there was string tided at two levels to support the shoots and keep them from falling over. I do not recall being a big fan of the fruit eat fresh, but I always enjoyed the black raspberry jelly made and canned by my Grandma. I remember eating that yummy jelly with butter on bread.

As I have slowed down the last couple years and given attention to what is happening on this 11 acres, I discovered black raspberries growing freely. I enjoyed a bowl of fresh fruit a few seasons. In the fall of 2017 my Dad helped me transplant 7-9 plants that were growing along the house. We may have removed half of what was growing there. The crazy thing to me is that I did not plant them. Actually that area had been more or less let go and the black raspberries had come up on their own. I had decided to plant my own little patch in the intended garden location. We dug up the sod, drove fence posts and planted the pruned black raspberries.

Do you want to learn how to prune your Black Raspberries? Get your FREE printable of How to Prune Black Raspberries today!

Fast forward to last summer, 2018. I had begun attending a local farmer’s market in Bremen, Indiana. Giving thought to what other items I had to sell at the market, I decided to begin picking the black raspberries growing on the property. I knew they seemed to thrive along the woods. I found two spots where the plants were abundant. One spot in particular produced the largest, sweetest berries. The few plants my Dad and I had transplanted a couple years past were only a drop in the bucket compared to all the plants available to pick from last summer.

I did in fact take some berries to market to sell. I spent a bit of time sharing the company of my parents as we picked one afternoon and enjoyed sending them home with the bounty. I even froze a few small containers of them to savor at a later date. They proved to be a delicious treat in the heat of August, pulling out whole frozen black raspberries to cool down on a hot, humid day. I stretched out eating of the last container of them well into January.

As you can see, over the last year black raspberries have made a delightful impression on me. I observed where the larges berries developed. I remembered hearing my grandfather speaking of pruning black raspberries. I researched information as to how exactly this pruning is to be conducted. I learned that pruning black raspberries takes place in March and April. As side note: Black Raspberries and Red Raspberries are pruned differently. Red Raspberries can produce 2 times a year based on how they are cared for. These past couple weeks I begin the process of pruning Black Raspberries here on CG Heartbeats Farm.

The plants located in various places around the property had been growing unattended for a few years. Even the ones I had transplanted received no pruning after transplant. The info I found on pruning raspberries seemed to assume the plants had been pruned previously or at least where for a younger stage in the plant’s life.

A black raspberry plant grows at its tips and grows ‘branches’ as these extend, they fall back down to the ground. They will grow roots where they hit the ground. A wonderful creation of continued life. I am conducting a bit of a trial to see how this works going forward.

Do you see the dead cane or stalk on the left?

In this picture the dead cane has been removed at the base.

I trimmed the canes and removed dead ones. A black raspberry cane lives only 2 years. I am experimenting as I said. I left the shoots that had fallen to the ground and grew roots. I am hoping these will form new plants to be transplanted this fall.

I am looking forward to picking black raspberries, having fresh fruit and taking their bounty to the farmers market. But I might be even more excited to eat frozen ones in the heat of summer. I was dreaming of eating delicious black raspberries, along with memories of days gone by, I pruned black raspberries.

Do you want to learn how to prune your Black Raspberries? Get your FREE printable of How to Prune Black Raspberries today!

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February 6, 2019February 6, 2019

New Farm Activities

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Winter Thoughts

January was full of ideas and planning the year, as I wrote about in Winter 2019. I also gave thought when the idea of this homesteading journey was just that an idea. I commented on a post on FB recently how a few years ago I was foaling out mares and now I am hatching eggs. Hatching eggs is far easier to do on my own. I do sometimes miss the excitement of foaling mares; the tender nickers between mare and foal and all the anticipation, for mares have a much larger window to deliver a foal, as in weeks. A chick on the other hand has a few days in which it may hatch.

As I look around my farm, I am continuing to give thought to the best places for various plants I intend to grow. It is easy to look at it as the land is currently being used and work around that, but I need to be looking at it from the ground and below ground. Where does the soil drain best? Where is the soil retaining water? I need to overlook the fact that trees are growing in certain areas. I did not plant them there and in some cases no one did. That area was not mowed at one time and trees came up on their own. Are random trees really the best use of this homestead? Perhaps not.

I also need to research specific plants to know what will grow best in certain soils. True, some I already know and for those I need to decide a variety.

Attending the farmer’s markets last summer and this winter has given me insight as to what I intend to plant specifically due to customer requests, my own observations and the advice of fellow vendors. I also found a community to interact and share ideas with.

A Look Back at January

The added work of dealing with frozen water and the extra chores to ensure the animals are cared for in the bitter cold has been the first daily priority. After that and sometimes while doing chores, my mind continues to toss ideas around. The last half of January came with bitter cold temperatures. In order to care for the animals I found myself in and out all day. It is a season that can sometimes be enjoyed for the slowdown. Recently I was reminded of the importance to enjoy the winter beauty, in spite of the challenges cold weather presents. I enjoy planning and soon will be ordering seeds for the coming growing season. In only a week or two I will be planting seeds indoors.

My time spent on homesteading activities is divided between planning, learning, caring for grape starts, incubating eggs, caring for chicks, preparing eggs to sell both eating and hatching, caring for animals, and working online. I like to take a few moments to sit and cuddle a cat or watch cute little chicks scamper around in the brooder. They grow up fast and in a week, they will not be as tiny.

New for 2019

As I mentioned, I have spent time over the last month tossing I ideas around in my head. Adding more than subtracting from my plans for the year. I started a farm journal this year to keep hatching notes and document other farm activities, extreme weather conditions and plans. The idea came to me when I learned that Thomas Jefferson kept such a journal that is available to read today. Now I am not Mr. Jefferson, but I may want to refer back to lessons I have learned. I do anticipate the notoriety he acquired, but certainly no one will read my notes(including myself) if I do not write them down. I have found it helps me to remember when I write an idea or fact down. It also gives me reference should I forget a detail. I share some of these pages from time to time on Instagram and Facebook.

Another, new for 2019 aspect of the homestead is a Facebook group I recently started to share in more detail specific ways to help people get started on a homestead lifestyle. From time to time I will offer free challenges in this group as a way to offer support to those who are not quite sure how to get started on a homestead goal. If this sounds like a benefit to you, consider joining the group titled Hatching Chicks, Ideas, and Homestead Practices. To easily access this group click on the graphic below.

I believe one of the biggest changes for this year is less tangible. It is the fact that I have a better picture of the direction CG Heartbeats is going. Attending farmer’s markets, played a large part by giving me a broad view of what might be possible. I learned from what I have seen others doing. Not that I will do things the way they do, but that found encouragement in what is working for them. Slowly digesting the book Ten Acres Enough provided a shift in my thinking. Learning a bit more about online business, including marketing online, has given me confidence. I have also learned to invest in myself, after all the one thing constant, no matter what I do, is my mind. For as long as I am alive on this earth, I intend to do my best to keep my mind with me.

I started hatching chicks earlier this year. The second hatch is in process as I am writing. I have a love of all farm animal babies and their birthing process. I know foaling out mares will always have my heart, but when my life choices take me a different direction, I seem to find a way to enjoy babies in any way I can.

CG Heartbeats Farm plans to attend additional markets during the week and look into a new Saturday Market. Currently the choice of which Saturday Market to attend is under consideration.

These are a few of the ideas implemented and others are still being organized. Likely this process will continue throughout the year. What new aspects of homesteading are you adding this year?

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January 7, 2019January 7, 2019

Winter 2019

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A new year has begun. I for one am excited for the blank slate a new year appears to provide. I have many ideas that have been floating around in my head for the last few years. Projects I have started, that I will build upon and a few new ideas for later in the year. I to take time to look back at what I did accomplish in 2018. I also took a not so pleasant look at the challenges and problems that arose, some still in need of resolution and answers. These are common approaches to a venture such as homesteading and many other walks of life. One benefits from taking time to reflect and evaluate progress and problems.

Now officially winter, the weather has stayed pleasant. By pleasant I mean often temps are above 32 during the day. A warm winter by northern Indiana standards. I plan to use this time of slow down to work on this website, plant seeds indoors, work in my house, hatch chicks and plan for the coming growing season outdoors.

Evaluating and planning chicken breeding pens for all breeds

Swedish Flower Hens currently are by far the most prolific of the three breeds. I am seeing excellent fertility in the eggs I am hatching. I have 2 breeding pairs, 5 breeding pens, and a trio of this breed. My breeding goals continue to be the same as posted. I have plans to add an additional line to include crested Swedish Flower Hen.

The Silver Gray Dorkings are fertile, but it does seem to drop off this time of year. I will continue to hatch as many as I can. I intend to add a line from another farm this year.

The Lemon Cuckoo Niederrheiners have proved to be the breed I am struggling with the most. I really like them, but need to figure out why the fertility has been low. I intend to add a line from another farm for this breed as well. I like the eggs they lay and the size of the roosters and hens.

Deciding on locations for garlic, garden space, and fruit bearing plants.

I am super excited to have connected with a neighbor who will be able to plow up ground, increasing garden space and breaking up sod in areas where fruit and garlic will be planted. I am going to be in need of a roto-tiller now with all of the added garden space. I planted around 150 bulbs of garlic this year. This all fit in approximately 100 sq. feet. I would like to plant 1/8^th of an acre this year if not more. I intend to plant all the Concord grape plants I can start indoors over the winter. Right now, I have around 25.

A few of the potted grape starts to be planted outdoors in the spring.

One of my goals includes growing blue berries, at least for my own enjoyment. I know the perfect location on this homestead for them to thrive, but right now that ground is a part of a pasture. Fencing changes need to happen in order to proceed. There are existing apple trees and a pear tree that I need to learn how to manage. The raspberry plants will need to be pruned in the spring. I am giving thought how to manage the raspberries in order to make picking a bit easier, without completely moving them. They do well where they are located. I would like to plant strawberry plants this year. I will be researching both what variety and best growing habitat before moving forward.

I intend to plant sweet potatoes in buckets again. I have a small container garden that will provide a place to plant some type of vegetable. I am working on the details of where the main vegetable garden will be located and how large (or small) it will be. I do not have a final list of vegetable to be planted. These decisions will be made in the coming weeks.

Adding additional farmers markets to this year’s schedule.

Last summer I got my feet wet when it comes to attending a farmer’s market. I am excited to build on that in 2019. I would like to include a display on a regular basis to share where the eggs are coming from. This will also raise awareness at a local level that I breed, raise, and sell 3 rare breeds of chickens, hatching eggs and chicks.

I plan to take many of the same items this year to the market I took last year. I want to plant specific items that may not have been in regular supply at the market last year. The list of what the farm will produce this year is a work in process. I immensely enjoy attending the farmer’s markets.

Planning this year’s web site goals.

I am super excited to be working on updating the pages that share info about the chickens I am raising. I am also excited to be finishing the course on hatching eggs in an incubator. My goal for a release date is the end of Jan or beginning of February. Yes, I am giving myself a bit of wiggle room. Beyond that I intend to continue to bring you a weekly blog post and perhaps two.

If you would like to join a wait list for this course please click on the following: Hatching Course.

I would love to hear what topics you would like to hear about. Leave a comment or send an email to share your ideas.

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December 31, 2018December 31, 2018

Shipshewana Ice Festival 2018

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This week has been one of celebration. Rejoicing the fact, I was released from the hospital, I thoroughly enjoyed Christmas Eve singing and listening to favorite Christmas songs. Christmas Day found me sharing a meal and conversation with family. I started my day celebrating the birth of Jesus as I fed and cared for the animals. I enjoy seeing the creators hand and character in the world around me outside on the farm.

The last stop before heading home might have been the best part of my day. Several members of my family paid a short visit to a nursing home to sing a few Christmas songs to my uncle who is living in a body damaged by multiple strokes. As we were leaving, I gave him a big wave, smile and said, “Merry Christmas”. From his wheelchair, he gave a big wave with his only working limb, his left arm. He suddenly had a glow about him, with a broad smile, he seemed to pick up his shoulders and say, “Merry Christmas”. To be honest, I am not sure if he actually said Merry Christmas or if I only sensed the spirit of his thoughts. For a few seconds, he was behaving as he always did, despite the limitations of his body. He looked like the uncle I remembered. Hands down, those moments were the most fulfilling part of my Christmas.

For the last couple years, I have wanted to attend the local Ice Festival in Shipshewana, Indiana. This year we made the one-hour drive to take in the sights. I invited my dad to meet us as a way to celebrate his birthday, which occurs between Christmas and the New Year. Shipshewana, named after a Potawatomi Indian chief, provides unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. I am rarely disappointed when I visit Shipshewana, Indiana.

A chili cook off was to be held in town and I was looking forward to sampling delightful flavors. I envisioned the wonder of ice carving artists brining their creations to life. Arriving in the early afternoon, I learned the chili cook off had ended. The supply had run out. We found several completed ice carvings out side the Wolf building where the cook off was held. I admit I felt a pinch of disappointment. We need a Plan B, I thought. The chili might be gone and carving over, but we are in Shipshewana and we can find a way to enjoy the afternoon.

One of my favorite places to hang out and shop is the Davis Mercantile. This 3-story building provides a wide variety of shops, along with a store that serves food and another that caters to the coffee lover (that would be me). My Dad met us in the basement of the mercantile. After breaking the news of my disappointment, we picked up a map showing the locations of stores and other places of interest in Shipshewana. I have been guilty of hitting the same places when in Ship and decided today was a good day to explore a few new ones. First, I wanted a hot drink if we were venturing out in the cold to the Wolf building again. This brisk walk allowed my Dad to view the ice sculptures on display.

A quick look at the ice sculptures on display outside the Wolf building in Shipshewana, Indiana.

Back to the Davis Mercantile to warm up. We hit a couple stores to do more looking than buying. I find myself inspired by the unique wares on display. I wanted to check out a store called Ole Tin Rooster. I raise chickens after all, certainly something in there would be of interest to me. In route, we observed large, 600-pound blocks of ice being unloaded and stacked in a strategic way. I felt overjoyed to learn that indeed the ice carving was still going on around town. Oh, my heart was happy! This particular work was to be a lego sleigh. Better yet it was to be finished for folks (like me) to sit on and take pictures. Indeed, my feelings of delight chased away the fact the temps were dropping and the sky was cloudy.

The Ole Tin Rooster provided a warm stop, full of country décor, combining old with new. We spent many minuets in the basement sections checking out the used books. Of course, there were other items that stood out to me like the old scales that used weights to decided the pounds and ounces of an item. A far cry from the ease of todays digital version. Right beside it an egg box made of tin. I am guessing that egg box is how they used to transport larger numbers of eggs. I estimate it would have held 150 eggs, or around that number.

I continued to feel inspired throughout the day. All around us, Christmas decorations, lights, and artistry in any form one could imagine.

Had to check out the progress on the lego sleigh ice sculpture before heading to the next store. It proved to be a wild goose chase, and I felt pretty cold by the time we found a warm place to step into.

Off to the Blue Gate we walked. I always enjoy the beauty of the Christmas lights outside the Blue Gate restaurant, the little creek and the fish!

In front of the main entrance, blocks of ice were being positioned for a guitar to be sculpted. Much to my disappointment that would not be carved until the next day.

But we enjoyed more shopping and pretty lights. We headed to a local joint south of town, the 5 and 20 to eat a hardy meal.

One more stop before heading home. I wanted my picture taken on the lego sleigh. The wet ice was slick to stand on and cold to sit on.

Watch an ice sleigh take form in Shipshewana, Indiana outside of the Davis Mercantile.

I did get my picture on the ice sculpture that I had been watching take form all afternoon. My heart was happy having spent a fun afternoon in Shipshewana, Indiana. Once again, my visit proved an entertaining one.

Do you have a local ice festival that you have attended? Share the location and thoughts in the comments below. I would enjoy hearing from you.

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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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December 8, 2018December 8, 2018

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

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Amid the hustle and bustle of December, the fun of sharing special times with friends and family, and the rush of preparing and attending events, I am going to take a moment in this week’s blog post to reflect back. Back to last July when we paid a visit to Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, and specifically the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Another moment to examine the importance of this season, and finally memories of a friend, in my opinion, gone too soon.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

We did not find this awe-inspiring spot in the park, (One of many, right?), until late afternoon. We choose to spend one day exploring Yellowstone National Park. After stopping at Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful, exploring the Old Faith Inn, the Gibbon River and Falls, and oh yes, on our way into the park I had fun climbing up a rocky mountain top along side a dirty, large snow drift which lingered into the month of July. You may read about this and other adventures from that day in various blog posts I have yet to write. Consider subscribing to the newsletter for updates from the farm, new blog post notifications and for offers I believe may be of interest to you.

We turned off of the the park road following signs to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. A sign read 3/8th mile hike to the bottom of the canyon. Sounded like something I wanted to challenge myself with. After all, its only 3/8 of a mile.

Looking down from the top of the 3/8th mile trail to the Yellowstone River.

Looking almost straight down, I could see a river raging and a paved trail with serious switchbacks. Oh, I was excited to begin the descent. I did note the views as I went down. I admit, I gave thought to the best ones where I intended to shoot some pictures on the way up. A good excuse to rest along my ascent for I knew going down, the upwards journey would indeed push my current physical limits.

Arriving at the bottom, I felt a bit small. Wyoming, in general, does that to me. Here, I felt it acutely. The river was rapid to say the least and the way the water fell down the falls left me a bit intimidated. Take a look in this video what it looked like to stand out over the falls and look down the canyon.

Beautiful colors, in the rock andwater captured my eye, but sheer magnitude exhibited by power of the water reminded me of the Creator and His might.

I did indeed feel exhilarated as I began the ‘only 3/8th mile’ climb back to the car. Do you hear a bit of sarcasm in my voice? The first and second switch back I challenged myself to get off the paved path by scrambling straight up, using rocks, and roots for foot and hand holds. The combination of high altitude and myself being less fit than in my past, I found after 2 I needed to resort to staying on the trail and slow down. Yes, I made use of those pretty views I mentioned earlier to rest, allow my heartbeat to slow a little and catch my breath. Did you know that when resting adrenal glands, it is important to not increase one’s heart beat too high? I was trying to be mindful of that, while the spunky spirit in me wanted to push myself. “Humm, now just what can I do?,” Summed up my thoughts “How far could I go without stopping?” Some part of me longed to go straight up the side as I had on the first 2 switchbacks at the bottom. As I was nearing the top I again stopped to soak in the beauty, the essence of the place and time, a unique to that moment feeling came over me. In my awareness of how my body was feeling, I found myself thinking of God, heaven, and a life after death on earth. I have heard others speak of a feeling close to heaven, but never experienced it. In that moment on the final stretch of the last switch back looking over the top of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone I felt as close to heaven as I have ever. Perhaps there is a better way to put words to what I was feeling, but for the present that is the best way I can describe it. I felt peace and a nearness to God, and His Son, the powerful, sovereign creator of the universe.

There is a one-way road that runs along the canyon. We left and found yet another trail to descend for an entirely different look at the lower falls. Instead of looking over, we could face it from downstream. The color contrast of the water and thecanyon walls, along with the depth and height, I attempted to capture to share with you. Here is another video to view looking straight down and across the canyon.

A high look out point provided a place to chat with other visitors to the park.

Another trail led down to a place to get a different look at the lower falls.

I badly wanted to make that hike too, but the daylight was fading fast. I was in need of nourishment from the last hike that had dropped my sugar levels like a rock.

I contented myself with a partial hike on this trail enjoying a mountain stream as I went. A rest stop on a cute little bridge provided an impromptu photo shoot by my husband.

Stacey Alexander

I believe it was the next morning that I received a phone call my friend Stacy had passed away sometime before our stop at the canyon. It may have been earlier that morning. No matter really, as I remembered the feeling I had experienced as I gazed across the top of the canyon. I marveled at the mystery that is the work of our Creator in us. I cried, hearing her daughters voice on the other end of the phone, knowing it only meant one thing.

I was reminded of the day I met Stacy. It was a cold snowy, day with high winds causing serious white outs and drive offs on the road that we lived on at the time. Stacy was returning from moving one of her sons and driving a high-profile moving van. She decided to park in our drive way until better weather or a plan to get home could be decided on. As I finished up my barn duties, I invited her and her little girl in for a hot drink to wait for the help she needed. A conversation and a couple hours later I had made a new acquaintance. I had also learned she worked as realtor. Fast forward about 6 months, my husband and I had decided we were going be purchasing a house. As I prayed about what realtor we should use, Stacy came to mind. I had not spoken with her since the day she needed a place to get out of the storm. To be honest, as life often gets busy, I had forgotten about her. That day as I prayed, she came to mind and I knew I had found a realtor to work with. We looked at properties for 6 months before closing on one. Stacy worked hard not only to help us find what we wanted, but also when we did, to make sure the process moved forward in a way we would not regret.

Stacy became a friend who I kept up with from time to time. On this day, her daughter was no longer a little girl, but still, seemed unfairly young to be calling me to tell me of her mother’s passing.

The Birth of Jesus – Fulfillment

Enjoy your family and friends this December as we gather to celebrate. Remember the ones who may be missing loved ones.

I have been going through a workbook titled God is Enough. This book takes an in depth look at the book of Colossians. This is one of many books ofthe New Testament that speaks of the mystery God revealed through his Son. As we hustle and bustle our way through the month of December I invite you to remember the birth of the One who completes God’s plan.

I found myself singing this song once again this week and realized how it sums up what I have been studying in Colossians. Take a listen to Justified singing Down from His Glory.

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