By: Kailey Mentink
2 chicken breasts
2 garlic cloves
4 cups homemade chicken broth
1 cup corn
1/2 cup onion
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. paprika
1 cup salsa
2 cups black beans
Optional: Chips, sour cream, and a dash of chipotle chili powder
Directions:
As the growing season comes to an end, we use this time to observe and reflect upon what worked well and what needs to be improved or changed next season on the farm. Over the last few years, after learning about permaculture, we have made a lot of observations and discovered a lot of wisdom and knowledge through this process. As Alena wrote in her Permaculture article, “Permaculture is working with nature instead of against it. It is also making thoughtful observations before putting useless labor into a project. Instead of thinking that things need to be done a certain way, permaculture is remaining open to new ideas.”
Over fifteen years ago, we bought our first laying hens. We were told by several well-meaning people that our chicks would die and suffer a terrible illness if we didn’t give them medications in their feed. Without hesitation Cory and I both agreed that the reason we were going to the work of raising chickens was to avoid medications and toxic feed. We were convinced that good quality feed, sunshine, green grass to forage on, and clean living conditions would produce healthy chickens. We took a risk and we are so glad we did. From our observations our chickens have thrived in these conditions and the flavorful eggs with dark yellow yolks speak for themselves. We have lost numerous chickens to predators over the years and a few here and there to unknown causes, but we will continue to strive to decrease these losses, and continue to improve our practices.
More recently, a new batch of piglets had scours. We were not aware of this until two very knowledgeable men walked in to see our new piglets one day at different times. They could both smell the trouble. We were told that our piglets would be dead by the next day if we didn’t medicate. My husband and I both knew that medication was not an option. We prayed and did a little research but didn’t find much for natural treatments. We decided to cut back on mom’s feed and give her extra apple cider vinegar in her water and extra kelp in her feed. The next day the piglets were alive and they quickly recovered. The farmers were so excited they decided Continue reading “Farm Happenings in September, 2018”
This is our favorite time of year. The windows have been thrown open, the sound of chopping, blending, boiling, and the whirring of the dehydrator are frequent sounds in the house. The smell of spices, apples, and fresh baked bread permeate the kitchen. The cooler nights remind us that we have limited time to bring in the harvest before the first unknown frost. As I bustle about trying to accomplish all of the work to be done I’m mindful and thankful for all the technology that makes the work easier and more efficient. My great-great grandparents would have been beyond grateful for such extravagances. Continue reading “Farm Happenings in August 2018”
The one word the Lord has put on my heart this month is simplicity. We are living in an amazing time of opportunity, work, entertainment, and serving. I have learned the hard way how important it is to guard my time and pray about all opportunities (even good things) because I can only do so many things well. Through this hardship, I have learned that by focusing on the important things I have been called to do, it allows me to better accomplish them.
We have also been reminded this month that to get the best results in a situation it often takes hard work, diligence, perseverance, and sacrifice to accomplish. Regenerative farming is a great example of this. Rather than quickly treating a symptom in an animal or plant we are looking to find the root cause of a problem. This takes extra time and research, but usually ends with a stronger, healthier animal or plant.
Details: Pick up at the farm is always free. We are working toward shipping out meat. We offer free delivery if we will be in your area or we may be able to work out a delivery for a fee. Contact us for more information.
The month of June here on the farm has been a little unusual. We experienced extreme heat at the beginning of June along with more than a week of cooler temperatures and heavy rain. We were barely keeping up with all the work, but the rain allowed us to catch up on some much needed deep cleaning, bookwork, and weeding. Some of my brocolli plants got confused and thought it was time to seed out, but a few look like they may produce something. We were blessed with an abundance of strawberries and enjoyed strawberry ice cream, yogurt smoothies, and strawberries as a topping for toast and soaked oatmeal. Abigail (the baby) thought the oatmeal with strawberries was “Mmm.” The kids have had some opportunities to earn money through their businesses as well as ours. It’s such a blessing to be working together helping each other out. As I think back at all we were able to accomplish this month I know it was the Lord working through us.
Animal News
This spring we are growing and raising more food than ever before. Quality, clean food, raised beyond organic standards has changed our lives so much that it has become an obsession of which we have had to repent of at times. We love the vibrant, energetic way we feel, increased performance and endurance, and the flavor of our own food. It’s a great feeling to be providing even more food to our customers as well!
Life on the farm continues to be bustling and filled with a variety of learning, chores, cooking, projects, growing, weeding, and fun this month. We are seeing great improvements in our pastures (although we have a ways to go!), the plants and trees are growing well, and we all delight in this time of year as we are able to get outside more frequently. We are moving animals daily on our paddocks, harvesting food and medicine, planting more seeds and plants, and always have a project in progress. Many people ask us if we are preparing for something by growing all this food. Honestly, we grow our own food because we have very high standards and we want to know how our food is being produced. We also don’t store food out of fear, but because we believe that we are being good stewards of our abundance. I must confess that the more history we read, the more our eyes are open to the fact that it is a very wise practice to have some food stored up for a reasonable amount of time, but we are trusting that God will provide all of our needs. We also believe the Lord gives and He takes away, so nothing is truly ours. Continue reading “Farm Happenings May in 2018”
Homemade Season Salt
Most seasoning salts contain MSG a known neurotoxin (toxic to the nervous system), irradiated spices, and other harmful preservatives. The key to this recipe is purchasing good quality, organic spices. We relish the savings and flavor of Azure Standard’s spices. We added Rosemary since it has been shown to break up the potentially cancer causing compounds that can form when meat is cooked (especially grilled meats). We love this season salt for steaks (esoecially pork chops), hamburgers, and potatoes. In the past we purchased Redmonds Organic Seasoning Salt which is a great option for convenience. Redmond’s product does not contain Rosemary. Continue reading “Homemade Season Salt”
Almost overnight work on the farm went from a relaxed, busy pace to a brisk hustle. Along with the routine work, the birth of our calf added the chore of milking twice a day. We feel blessed to have good quality dairy again and yellow butter (even though our cow is not on pasture yet). We have also been planting trees, seeds, and plants, along with the continued projects on our house. At the end of the day we are ready for a good night sleep. We are also thankful to own land to grow good quality, clean food for ourselves and others.
April started more like winter than spring on the farm with a light dusting of snow and frigid temperatures. Many of the days in April were below the average temperature. We delayed planting our early crops like potatoes, broccoli, and cabbage until the later part of the month. With all the work indoors, I barely noticed the weather. Usually at the end of February I feel as though I can’t wait until spring, but this year has felt different. I have enjoyed the time inside as we anticipate a very busy growing season. As the busyness starts, we are thankful we have dedicated so much time to planning, organizing, and preparing. Despite our own plans, I know there will be struggles and hardships along the way. It’s always easier to look back and see why we have to endure them as they teach us patience, compassion for others, humility, and perseverance.
