The drought really kept us hopping with trying to make sure all the animals had water and grass. We are VERY thankful that just about the time we were running out of grass, the rains came. This brought the grass back to life and we are still using these pastures. We still have one field to turn the cattle into before we have to start feeding hay.
My parents celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary this August! What an inspiration to all of us. We had a reception for them in their retirement community. We had many of their friends come up to us and tell us how special it was to see them walking in the halls holding hands. This made us proud that they are working on staying happy. That also gives a great model for the rest of us to try and form our relationships in a similar matter. We are so Blessed and thankful that we still have both of them in our lives.
We are also preparing for calving season. Getting the barn stalls ready and double and triple checking equipment and supplies that we might possibly need at a moment's notice. Last year for calving season, I bought baby monitors with a long range. I would place one outside of the stall where I had a cow that I thought was going to calve and keep the receiver with me in the house. This saved me countless trips to the barn that were unnecessary! You would be surprised how much you can tell just by the noises that you hear. It was an excellent use of $60. At least I really thought so on those cold nights that I did not have to bundle up and head to the barn as many times!
Next year's show heifers have been ties up for one weekend to start halter breaking them. Steers have been selected for show season.
We kept two bulls this year and they have both been halter broke. Another bull was purchased and he will be halter broke in the near future.
Alan, our youngest, has began his senior year of high school and all of the fun things that go along with that excciting and frightening year. He has made us very proud and I am sure this year will be no exception.
I have been reading many other blogs and trying to get ideas. I have gotten a few, but the ones that I enjoy the most are the ones that talk about the family and how they are doing things on the farm. I feel that this is a way to get the story out there and help the public feel connected to the family and their activities. So. I will continue to share stories about what is occurring on the farm and in the family.
Until next time, remember.......Beef, It's What's for Dinner!
