I woke up the other morning wondering why in the world my arms were hurting so much. Then I realized that in addition to beginning the Couch 2 5 K program with my sister, I was also completing a 15 step farm workout. Snow and ice has made everything more of a … [Read more...]
Getting It All Done: Farm Chores–Winter
After taking an extended break from the Getting It All Done series, I thought I'd add a new post. Farm chores are essential here at Grouse Creek. Here is how we get them done...Our Winter Farm Chores:Feed Sheep HayFeed Cows HayFeed Calves HayFeed Chickens ScrapsFeed … [Read more...]
Switching a Dexter to Once a Day Milking
I first heard about once a day milking when we were searching for milk cows. I did a lot of research on the subject, and learned a lot. But I was scared. So we got Epi, and after she calved, I began milking twice a day. And then Owen had some major medical … [Read more...]
My Milk Parlor: Adaptations for a Smaller Cow
Not too many homesteaders who dream of having a family cow will be blessed with a beautiful milk parlor. Back in the late 70s and early 80s, my parents ran a commercial dairy. Then they found out that my dad was allergic to cow dander and hay, and shut it down. … [Read more...]
Milking Two Cows–My Morning Routine
This morning, I hand milked both of our milk cows for the first time. I still need to work the kinks out of my routine, but this is how it went this morning...5:00 am: My alarm went off for the first time. Grabbed Simon and started nursing so he would sleep through my … [Read more...]