How to catch a swarm of bees is maybe not something you wonder about. But, when you see a swarm, and know the potential they have, it is a shame to let them go! You could add to your collection of backyard bees! The bee cluster that you see in the photo above was one we found swarming. This is not the first hive that we have had swarming in or around the vineyard. Back in 2010, before we had … [Read more...] about How to Catch a Swarm of Bees
Family Life
Decks the Jersey Bull is Almost 3 Months Old!
It is hard to believe that Decks our Jersey bull calf is almost 3 months old! He was born before Christmas and is named after the Christmas carol, "Deck the Halls". After leaving him with Beatrice for a couple of days to nurse, we separated them. Decks is now in a pen beside the chickens and ducks. The little Jersey bull will be moved out with the big cows as soon as he grows a bit taller. We use … [Read more...] about Decks the Jersey Bull is Almost 3 Months Old!
Cows Love Watermelon and Pumpkin!
Did you know that cows love watermelon and pumpkin? Ours sure do! And, we love FREE food for them! It is rare that we have a watermelon from the garden go bad. In fact, I'm not sure we have ever had one rot! Once we have eaten the red, the cows get the rind and love it. But, boy, do they love the red! Not too far away from us is a watermelon and pumpkin packing plant owned by a local farmer. He … [Read more...] about Cows Love Watermelon and Pumpkin!
Maybelle, the New Calf is Born!
After days of watching and waiting, it is finally over! Our new calf has arrived! Margie, our family milk cow calved on Thursday night. We have known that it was close for over a week and well, you know the saying, "a watched pot never boils?" It is true of cows too! Margie took her own sweet time but what a relief to wake up Friday morning and see the adorable little calf following her in the … [Read more...] about Maybelle, the New Calf is Born!
Ducks for the Farm
What's not to love about ducks and ducklings? The ducklings are so cute with their wide little beaks, their squeaky voices and of course, their little waddle! I have wanted ducks for quite awhile because they are so cute! I think my fascination with ducks was fed when I read the book by Eliot Coleman, Four Season Gardening, which really inspired me to plant a winter garden in the greenhouse. In … [Read more...] about Ducks for the Farm
Home Butchering – Homegrown Grass-fed Beef
Warning: This post contains pictures of the actual butchering process - they are real life and may be considered by some to be too gruesome - don't say I didn't warn you! One day that is easy to put off is butchering day. It always seems like such a monumental task - and it is! But, like anything, practice makes perfect - the more we do it the better and easier it gets! Last Wednesday was the … [Read more...] about Home Butchering – Homegrown Grass-fed Beef