Join us as we recount a small-town Independence Day filled with community parades, reconnecting with old friends, and sharing a feast of slow-roasted pork shoulder and chorizo. From kids' games to a dazzling fireworks finale, this day was a beautiful reminder of the spirit of freedom and the joy of togetherness. Happy Independence Day from our farm to your family.
Follow a farm kid's day while living through summer vacation on the farm.
Farming in Michigan comes with its share of challenges, especially in the Spring when weather conditions can change rapidly. We navigate these conditions by using our land resourcefully to sustain our livestock year-round. This story highlights our process of managing cover crops and preparing for the planting season, ensuring that our pigs, chickens, and 100% grass-fed cattle receive the best possible nutrition.
The sun shines as the morning dew bathes the blades of grass, some just barely making their way through the soil, while others stand tall after a nice long rest. After thanking the good Lord for this beautiful day, I put on my favorite oversized sweatshirt and smoothly lined rain boots and holler, “kids, let’s go! It’s time for a walk.” I hear their feet leap off the floor, return with a stomp, without pause or hesitation; they recognize the eagerness to feel and see the season. Adventures begin as the swinging door slams behind the youngest who has no time to lose. We trek down the sandy lane leading to fields of glory. The chickens’ and cattle’s noses touch the ground as they walk the green grass, while a mamma sow nurses its young under shelter. Day old piglets grunt, and we breathe in the air surrounding fresh straw and new life. The kids yell, “see you later!” and beg to take a ride to the woods. My husband, lifts a child to his chest while straddling the four-wheeler, and I corral the remaining toward the side-by-side, all while the littlest pats my thigh asking three times in a row, “can we go on a bye-bye side ride?!” My husband and I discuss the best route, building anticipation for the journey, and we ride. Once the vehicles park, we walk off the beaten path; I watch eyes follow the tree where it meets the earth, to where it touches the sky. We listen to the birds calling our name, and wonder. Treasures are found, bright small flowers and small muted mushrooms. I watch our kids swing on heavy branches, while chatting about nothing at all. Our time in the woods ends with a fast ride, wind blowing all our troubles away. Near home, we play in the sand box and on the court. A competitive game of one on one is enjoyed while young spectators shout rules that don’t make sense. We play until our stomachs grumble. My husband and I craft a dinner that feels, smells, and tastes exactly like Spring - smoky barbeque chicken, smashed cream cheese tators, and crispy morel mushrooms. The day is settled with a piping hot cup of tea, steeped from freshly picked treasures of the land, while again I thank my Savior for all our blessings. Spring is here on the farm, and we are present.
Have you noticed some of your favorite poultry items are temporarily out of stock, like boneless skinless chicken breasts, whole chickens, and ground chicken? Here's why: In Southwest Michigan, we raise our chickens on pasture from April through October, aligning with our region's climate. When we run out of chicken in the winter that means we must wait until the warmer months to replenish our freezers. But don't worry, boneless skinless breasts and ground chicken will be back in stock by the end of May!
The Meat Shed means a lot to us, it’s a present picture of where we started, capturing our humble beginnings. A dream, a farm, and a small shed; helping us feed our neighbors, trusting one another, and building connections one day at a time.
Join us on the farm as we embark on spring projects aimed at improving the lives of our feathered friends! From upgrading our chicken brooder to plans for mobile hoop houses, follow our journey with exclusive video updates. Stay connected with the story behind the food that nourishes us all.
During the colder months, we make preparations for Spring projects on the farm. This year we will be expanding our acres of woodlands and pastures for our animals. With mild winters, the animal's impact on the ground is heavier without a good freeze. We need to give our animals more room to roam to allow more time for the rest of their current access. As the woods and pastures rest, the soil works its magic regenerating new life to welcome more activity and natural fertilization in the future.
