Faith Farm Foods

Meet the girls.

2011-12-30T10:52:00.000-08:00

Megan has black rings around her eyes and is due to calf in September.

Peaches is due in May was named by Tristan and is the sweetest of all the cows in the herd.

Sunflower has white rings around her eyes and is due in March.

Megan, Peaches and Flossie hanging out around a hay bale.

Flossie the Holstein above, Gertie the Guernsey to the left and Betsey the Jersey below are all due to calf the month of January.

Big Mama is the boss and the Queen as she suns herself.

Christmas @ Faith Farm

2011-12-29T09:58:00.001-08:00

Christmas @ Faith Farm always consists of the official cutting of the Christmas tree with Erin, Jessie, Tristan and Gabe from the back part of the farm. A few red ribbons, tinsel, a string of lights on a fresh cut cedar tree and a 5 gallon bucket for water puts it all together.

Erin's arrival completes our Christmas holiday with her cheerfulness, love for our family and her Hi octane energy playing with Tristan and Gabe. Starting early chopping down the Christmas tree, stacking the porch with firewood, building and painting the boys cardboard space shuttle. She is one special Auntie E to the boys as they follow her around from the time she arrives till the moment she rolls down the drive back to Jersey. This photo of her on top of the hay bale with outstretched arms makes you want to just hug her to pieces.

Gabriel almost always has a smile to brighten your day.

Tristan hugging his Mom, how precious. Thank you Lord for our children.

Merry Christmas from Faith Farm.

2011-12-16T03:07:00.000-08:00

Trying to keep this blog up is not so easy. I'll just give you all an
update as to our goings on. The New Year will bring 3 baby calves
in January. Flossie ,Betsy, Gertie will be ready to calf in the next weeks.
Big Momma,Megan,Sunflower and Peaches are supplying your milk.
At the end of January we will be milking 7 cows!!!!Need to spread the word
and sell more Herd Shares.
We will be at Byrd Market every Tuesday 3:00-5:45, beginning Jan 5th Thursdays to be at
TriCycle Gardens 4:00-6:00, and Saturdays, looking into the Great Big Green House .
We will not be participating in the winter market at Forest Hill.
Pauls job will to be to post pics of our Jerseys and Guernseys....Before the New Year?

How to build a hog shed with 16 young people.

2011-11-30T04:00:00.001-08:00

We had several of the students build 2 portable 5 x 8 hog shed during their stay @ the farm.

The two days of building we swung hammers for nailing the shed together as others
carried wood, a few measured boards for cutting and all encouraged each other on.

Two years ago we worked om chicken fencing and firewood collecting.

Last year 2 Chicken Tractors were built and this year they built 2 hog sheds and painted

the Egg Mobile and Turkey Tractor. When the students who worked on the year before's

project thay show pride in their work as they see it in use.

2011-11-20T11:09:00.000-08:00

This past weekend our daughter Erin invited 31 students and 5 leaders from Seneca High School in Tabernacle, NJ to our farm for a 3 1/2 day retreat. These young people are the cream of the crop,the DaVinci's with a brush, the Michael Angelo's with a hammer and nail.

Team building, befriending fellow students, encouraging each other, developing talent are only a few challenges undertaken.

Painting the Turkey Tractor and Egg Mobile was a site to see.
What got more paint, the building or the painter?

The happy milk cow, pink pig, baby chick, a Mama Turkey and her chicks all put a smile on our Turkey Tractor which will grace the farm for years to come as a reminder of the wonderful weekend with so many beautiful young people from Seneca High School of Tabernacle, NJ.

Learning to build trust among your peers is an awsome challenge for teenagers but we saw an incrediable group or young people push it to the limit. Falling off of hay bales into the waiting arms of several trusting souls is not an easy task.

The cows and sheep are not the only one's to enjoy the beautiful green grass.

Many of the students & their leaders tried their hand @ milking Big Mama and drinking her warm milk.

Drug Squad is the name of the group these young people belong to. Their purpose is to encourage fellow students to make the right choice's in life which will affect the rest their life.

The following is a quote from our daughter Erin's blog commenting on the event.

I will never retreat...

This weekend marked the sixth annual Drug Squad Retreat. Every year I have anxiety attempting to top the previous year's retreat. Part of me wonders how everything could fall into place as perfectly as it did a year prior. The funny thing is every year brings a new batch of kids, different experiences and an opportunity for some really great things to take place. Six years in and I feel beyond honored to have the opportunity to work, teach and learn from some pretty spectacular kids.

It's amazing what happens when we are removed from our every day obligations and the constant stimuli of the internet, texting and instant messaging. Step away from the crazy and step into the zen. Thirty one kids hopping on a bus from Jersey and spending 3 1/2 days on a farm removed from all reminders of their normal environment create the perfect platform for evoking change.

I spent a good amount of time conveying the importance of accepting people for who they are and attempting to put aside the impulse to judge and make preconceived notions based on surface. How often we are guilty of judging swiftly based upon external factors that are typically determined in a fairly short amount of time. We become judge and jury.

It's interesting how little we really know about those we surround ourselves with. How common it is for us to talk and how rare it is when one actually takes the time to listen. Pause. Silence. So much can come from accepting the fact that we do not know everything and we can learn from others, even if they're teenagers : ) It turns out that I have learned some of my greatest lessons in my own life working with teens.

I feel profoundly blessed to work with so many young people who have a desire to make an impact in their daily lives. Kids refusing to settle for just getting by in high school, but instead digging deep and having a vision for others. Out with the selfish and in with the goodness.

Going beyond ourselves requires taking the time to figure out how we work and what makes us tick. In order to be there for others we have to take time to take care of ourselves. How often we burn the candle at both ends or take on more than we can physically handle (I am guilty of this more often than I like to admit)? In order to be capable of being effective in the lives of others, on a long term basis, we have to place a little more emphasis on 'I' then we are accustomed to. Taking time to clear out the mind and recharge the heart is critical.

A whole lot of effort, time and emotion went into the weekend. After fifteen hours on a big yellow bus, a heap of time planning, chatting and processing and I can confidently say that it was all so very worth it. I have come to view the weekend as sacred, as a gift that I consider invaluable. My hope is that this annual tradition will stretch beyond a few days and will carry on into the hearts of these young people throughout the course of their lives. It is, after all, not meant to be contained among the thirty one, but for each of them to pass the baton and inspire their own challenges upon those they encounter for years to come.

May we all just keep on keeping' on.....

Amen to that our Erin, you make your parents proud.

2011-10-27T06:16:00.000-07:00

We haven't introduced our new Guernsey cow yet! Alas, meet Big Mama:

She is a real sweet heart and her milk is even sweeter. We are hoping to introduce homemade Guernsey butter very soon! Keep an eye out for added raw milk product offers from our kitchen. Until then, come out to our farm day event (NOVEMBER 13) and give hand milking Big Mama a try!

Turkey time.

2011-10-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and our beautiful Bourbon Red heritage turkey's are almost ready for your Thanksgiving feast.

Daniel, our neighbor Steve helped build a better turkey tractor for the birds to forage all day in the fields and roost @ night in safety. We first started with an old hay wagon.

We framed out a few walls and extend 2 feet on each side for
a 12 x 16 Turkey Tractor.

The overhead 2x4 braces also serve as a perch and a diagonal
roost will accommodate the low landers.

We're almost ready for the roof tarp for protection from the
sun and inclement weather.

The flock is foraging along the hog lot in and out of the woods.

Electric fencing does not phase the birds.
Check out the horizental wire fence.

They group together for safety but a few always strays off.

We do offer pork as an alternative or addition to your feast.

Meet Gertie the Guernsey milk cow.

2011-10-07T13:07:00.000-07:00

We just picked up Gertie our new 3/4 Guernsey / 1/4 Jersey milk cow. She immediately began searching the paddock she was in for her old buddies only to find a bunch of new wagging tails.

A Peek A Boo calf snuggles up to Gertie to say hello while Gertie tries out the new grass.

Gertie is a 2 year old bred 3/4 Guernsey 1/4 Jersey lovingly named after Brenda's Mom Gertrude. She will join Flossie and Betsy the other milk cows and next week Big Mama another Guernsey will join the dairy herd.

Rotational grazing for piglets.

2011-10-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

We are refining our rotational grazing practice to include piglets. The purchase of electrical netting for hogs allows us to place 20+ piglets in each paddock. We may reduce the size to 50 x 50 instead of 100 foot square. The last two weeks the piglets have been grazing on grass, rooting for grubs, worms and other foods. When the paddock is roughed up to where I want it, we will till to level then reseed grasses or plant turnips and peas

Premier PRS 100 Sola Energizer keeps these little guys in.

The border of the net gets mowed to keep grass from grounding out the fence but the piglets love to root up the soil up to the bottom strand of wire so adjustments must always be made.

Escape is not an option!

This bottom picture is one of our pig hotels where we feed and water the piglets. This building allows us to capture piglets for sale to on farm customers. The waterer is a plastic food grade barrel with a piglet height opening and a float valve for water level control.

The back of the pen is hardly touched which encourages smaller pens of 50 x 50 or more pigs. These net pens will be perfect for a sow and her piglets with a hut and hay bale.

Jessica and Gabe was attending to the broiler chickens as I was feeding the piglets.

Notice the green grass inside the hoop house and the manure trail behind it in the below photo.

The manure trail is furtilizer for the grass and the pigs follow up the trails to work it into the soil and fertilize as well.

Double Egg = One Sore Chicken

2011-09-18T14:15:00.000-07:00

Notice anything strange about this dozen?

I couldn't even close the box it was so big!

Turns out it was a double yolk!!!!

2011-09-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

ORGAN MEATS...

... are good for you! If your face sours or contorts at the idea of eating liver, kidney, sweetbreads, or heart I am here to remind you how healthful organ meats are and introduce ways of sneaking them into dishes you already eat daily without tasting a new kick of liver but still getting all the essential new vitamins and minerals.

Sally Fallon (author of Nourishing Traditions) on WHY ORGAN MEATS?

"Compared with muscle meats, organ meats are richer in just about every nutrient, including minerals like phosphorus, iron, copper, magnesium and iodine, and in B vitamins including B1, B2, B6, folic acid and especially vitamin B12. Organ meats provide high levels of the all-important fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, especially if the animals live outside in the sunlight and eat green grass. Organ meats are also rich in beneficial fatty acids such as arachidonic acid, EPA and DHA. Organ meats even contain vitamin C—liver is richer in vitamin C than apples or carrots!"

LIVER.

Faith Farm offers high quality beef liver sliced with surrounding filaments removed. A key step to taking out impurities is soaking the sliced organ in lemon juice for several hours prior to cooking. This will also give it a smoother texture. If you are feeling bold, the classic dish of liver served with sauted onions is a great. If you want to tip toe into eating liver, try grating a little into your rice as it cooks OR add it to your spaghetti meat sauce, lasagna, meatloaf, hamburgers... any ground meat dish will be a great disguise.

We also offer fresh chicken livers... available this TUESDAY at Byrd House! Here is a delicious recipe for chicken liver pate. Buy up the organ meats while we've got 'em!

Chicken Liver Pate

Serves 12 as starter

2 tablespoons butter

1 pound chicken or duck livers, or combination

1/2 pound mushrooms, washed, dried, and coarsely chopped

1 bunch green onions, chopped

2/3 cup dry white wine or vermouth

1 clove garlic, mashed

1/2 teaspoon dry mustard

1/4 teaspoon dried dill

1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 stick butter, softened

Melt butter in a heavy skillet. Add livers, onions and mushrooms and coook, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until the livers are browned. Add wine, garlic, mustard, lemon juice and herbs. Bring to a boil and cook, uncovered, until the liquid is gone. Allow to cool. Process in a food processor with softened butter. Season to taste! Place in a crock or mold and chill well. Serve with whole grain bread.

Hay Baling

2011-09-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! The last few days have been busy at the farm. Finally, I sit down to build a post. I want to start with the haybaling fiasco. Paul cut two fields on Wednesday to start baling winter hay for our cows and pigs. He had hoped to bale before the rain came but the weather was ahead of him and the tractor threw a kink- FLAT TIRE mid afternoon on Thursday. The constant story of a farm: fixing, fixing, fixing! Literally minutes after we got the baler hitched to the tractor and headed down the drive way the rain fell. Fortunately not all is lost. Today Paul tethered the rows of piled grass (now soggy) and will let them dry for a day before baling.

STEP ONE: Chose a dry, sunny day to cut your fields.

STEP TWO: Rake the grass into rows for the bailer to collect.

STEP THREE: Normally this step would be the baling but due to wet weather we introduce the tether machine. With its crazy forks, it scatters the rows of grass back out to breath and dry.

Betsey was curious as to why this machine was throwing all the good hay around.

Road block! Holstein lounging the afternoon away.

Flossie was unfased by the tractor...

Tomorrow the grass will get raked a second time and baled in the afternoon. Meanwhile, we have to process chickens, get ready for the market, make pies, feed the animals, clean eggs, milk the cows, load the freezers, and the list never ends! Whew, we are going to be exhausted Tuesday evening...

So, don't forget we will have FRESH CHICKENS TUESDAY! They go fast so it's always a good idea to email us ahead of time and we'll hold one for you.

HERD SHARES!!

2011-09-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Bonnie and I sat outside today after lots of pie making to have a tall glass of creamy raw milk! Bon bon lapped some up in a bowl.

If you have any questions about our RAW MILK HERD SHARES please email us (faithfarmfoods@yahoo.com) or call (434.298.7178) anytime. We are happy to announce that we are purchasing a healthy new Guernsey cow who is pregnant!! Come January there will be a Guernsey calf roaming around on wobbly new legs!

Stay tuned for updates on our potential Thursday drop off site. As we continue to grow, we can afford to make things more convenient on herd share holders.

Another event to keep on your radar: Faith Farm invites everyone out to visit the farm and meet our happy animals. There will be a giant pot luck and pig roasting! We are hoping to nail down the date very soon but it's predicted for the 1st weekend in November. More soon!

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Lime Pink Salt

I also nibbled on tasty chocolate treats from Chocolate Cravings, LLC. Kathy, the creater and baker behind Chocolate Cravings is our neighbor at the Byrd House Market every Tuesday. We love picking up her sweets for the ride home at night.

Yoghurt Pancakes

2011-09-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

This morning Brenda cooked up delicious yoghurt pancakes with freshly made yoghurt from our RAW milk. She topped the fluffy golden cakes off with a sweet honey peach sauce to match. Try the recipe out yourself. The yoghurt causes them to turn out much lighter and less stomach packing than the regular flour heavy recipe.

Yoghurt Pancakes

Yields 16 Pancakes

Ingredients:
2 cups all purpose flour
2 tsps. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 Tbsp. raw sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 cup plain raw milk yoghurt (or substitute pasturized whole milk yogurt)
1 cup raw milk (raw milk is preferred but not necessary)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 cup butter, melted

Directions:
In a large bowl sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

In a seperate bowl, combine yoghurt, milk and eggs. Stir in the butter. Pour the liquids into the dry ingredients. Mix just until dampened.

Pour 1/4 cup batter on a hot, buttered girddle for each pancake.

Cook until lightly golden on each side.

Yoghurt

Yields 1 quart

Ingredients:

1/4 – 1/2 cup good quality commercial whole milk plain yogurt, or yogurt from a previous batch
1 quart whole milk, can be pasteurized, but preferably non-homogenized
a candy thermometer

Preparation:

If you’re using raw milk please see alternative directions below…

The final product will be thinner than commercial yogurt, but is easy to make. Gently heat the milk to 180 degrees. Stir in the yogurt and place in a shallow glass, enamel or stainless steel container. Cover the container and place in a warm oven (about 150 degrees, or a gas oven with pilot light) overnight. In the morning, transfer to the refrigerator. Throughout the day you may want to drain some of the excess whey off the yogurt.

Using RAW milk:

Place the quart of milk in double boiler and heat to 110 degrees. Remove 2 tablespoons of the warm milk and add it to 1 tablespoon yogurt (commercial or from the previous batch). Stir well and pour into a quart sized wide-mouth mason jar. Add a further 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons yogurt to the jar and stir well. Add the rest of the warmed milk. Cover tightly and place in a dehydrator set at 95 degrees for 8-12 hours (in your turned off oven with the oven light on will also work or a well insulated bag or even a few scarves and hats wrapped around your jars!!). Transfer to the refrigerator.

The Kelly Boys

2011-09-03T12:16:00.000-07:00

Johnathan, Matthew, and Jeremiah are the oldest children in the Kelly family- a line up of nine kids ranging in age from just one year old up to 18! They are a very hard working, intelligent bunch working to help support their big family. At home they also raise both broiler chickens and laying hens so they know the routine well and help out our during chicken processing every other week. Thanks you, boys for helping us pack fresh yummy chickens for market!

Faith Farm featured in Virginia Living Magazine

2011-09-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

Circa Fall 2007
Check you this awesome article, Soul Food published in Virginia Living in 2007. Writers, photographers, and chefs came out to get to know the Lawler's story, meet all the animals, and cook up a delicious meal. It is a beautiful spread. You can also find some tasty recipes made with our pastured pork, grass-fed beef, and more.

2011-09-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

The herd was hungry and grazing this morning at 8 AM

One of the calves decided to pass through the fence this morning. So we had a photoshoot before sending him back over.

"Momma says I have big ears"

"Yum, yum, yum"

"Is this camera edible?"

Grass, grass, and more grass!

2011-09-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

More photographs of the two blind horses Faith Farm took in over three years ago. They came from Safe Haven Horse Rescue just 30 minutes down the road. Check out this article on The Farmville Herald about Karen's farm.

Spiders, snakes, bugs...

2011-09-01T13:17:00.000-07:00

You can always find interesting new critters and insects around the farm. Paul found this enormous spider in the outdoor shower a week ago, tossed him into the yard, and now he has found himself a new home outside the barn. Eeek! It is called a Black and Yellow Agriope. We read the females are larger than the males. The main body measues about 1 1/2'' so we are guessing this is a female.

Know your chickens...

2011-09-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

Learn about the different layer hens that bring yummy eggs to our markets.

Rhode Island Reds

Bard Rocks

Araucanas (These lay your blue eggs)

2011-09-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

We have four dogs runnin' around here: Rusty, Snow, Bella, and Bonnie.

Bonnie

My yellow lab who is adjusting to farm life very well. She is the only one of the pack that lets me take her photograph.

Snow

I had to sneak around the haybales to find Snow sunbathing and take a quick shot. Turned out he had gotten himself into a prickly situation. I helped him out by plucking off the burrs with gloves.

Rusty

Rusty is very shy too. He used to be a hunting dog and judging by his behavior we think his previous owners may have abused him. As a result he is afraid of guns and thinks my big camera is scary.

Miss Bella

The most difficult of all to photograph. She is very sweet and keeps the boys in line.

Get all your ducks in a row...

2011-08-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

Meet the lineup of pet ducks here on the farm.

Pie Samples at Byrd Market!

2011-08-29T13:24:00.001-07:00

Don't miss out on free samples of pie tomorrow at Byrd Market. I have been in the kitchen mastering a pie crust. Come taste for yourself! I will be taking orders for whole pies in advance and selling slices at market beginning next week.

2011-08-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

We had a gorgeous morning here in Green Bay. I found Flossie and Betsey enjoying some tall grass before taking them up to the barn for their morning milking.

The pumps on Flossie's utters

Delicious raw milk running through these tubes!

The other cows were lounging in the shade...

Storm Troubles

2011-08-28T19:45:00.000-07:00

Whew, Nutbush Ave has water and power running again! Last night was an adventure with generators, lamps, and flashlights but all is well here now. With new puddles to waddle in the ducks are happy campers. The cows are enjoying the yummy wet grass too. Between the milking cows, horses, and piglets all the pears and apples shaken off by the storm winds are gobbled up.

Check out the photos taken today during pig feeding! When the sows and piglets hear the four wheeler round the corner they come a runnin' for lunch time!

Paul riding around wearing the shirt his daughters gave him. Old Guys Rule!

Cow Photoshoot!

2011-08-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

Meet the milking gals Flossie (black and white Holstein) and Betsey (brown Jersey). They bring you delicious raw milk every week. Ask about joining the herd share program or meet us at the booth for a free sample of raw milk.

Look who found the kiddie pool... Ah, refreshing!

Freshly Picked...

2011-08-26T21:24:00.000-07:00

And heading your way, Richmond! Meet us at South of the James Market tomorrow for juicy apples and pears! We had to pick everything before the storm blows all the fruit away!

The two blind rescure horses were waiting below to catch some fallen treats

Growing Chicks

2011-08-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

Beautiful, Natural, Colorful Eggs

2011-08-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

Muddy Pig Paradise

2011-08-26T20:59:00.000-07:00

Jessica and Bonnie

2011-08-26T20:22:00.000-07:00

Hi folks! I want to introduce myself as the new extra hand here at Faith Farm. My name is Jessica Dodd and alongside me is my yellow lab Bonnie. I just got back from working as an international farm intern in Iceland for two months and recently graduated this Spring from VCU with my BFA in Sculpture+ Extended Media. My continued interest in learning the ropes of farming and applying it to my art has brought me now to Green Bay to join Brenda, Paul, and everyone around Faith Farm. I am excited to take the reins of the blog for sometime and begin daily posts. To kick it off, let me take you on a tour of my first two days. Meanwhile look forward to delicious weekly recipes, updates on new products at markets, special events, and more!

2011-08-20T13:09:00.001-07:00

Gabrael the apple picker is getting apple's ready for market.
He does eat as many as he picks.

2011-08-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Pop Pop helping Gabrael milk Flossie.

2011-08-08T13:45:00.001-07:00

Jessica milking Betsey the Jersey milk cow.

2011-08-08T13:42:00.001-07:00

A young Jersey calf says Hi.
This little guy is one of two
rescue calfs droped off @ the farm.

2011-08-08T13:40:00.001-07:00

Beef cows grazing on a beautiful day.

2010-11-22T16:23:00.000-08:00

Tis the Season for piglets.

2010-10-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

The end of summer has brought with it a full house of piglets of all sizes.

This MaMa hog always keeps her distance from me but isn't afraid to stare as I go by doing my farm stuff. She roams everywhere we don't want her to go but always comes back to the group.

This little guy has been munching on acorns, roots, grass, weeds and other pasture goodies.

We built three huts for the piglets which we place feed in to get up piglets as we need to check them or work on the males or sell piglets to on farm customers.

These pigs are grazing alongside our cattle who are in the next paddock. We're trying to build 25+ grazing paddocks on our 55 acres of grass.

This winter and early spring we will have 25+ acres of rye grass, clover, fescue and orchard grass to feed our livestock which we planted two weeks ago.

Faith Farm will be a forage paradise by this time next year.

Jessica Picking our "Early Pears"

2010-09-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

Erins wedding @ Faith Farm

2010-08-19T16:44:00.001-07:00

2010-08-19T16:43:00.001-07:00

2010-08-19T16:40:00.001-07:00

New Additions.....

2010-08-19T16:39:00.001-07:00

Pray for rain.

2010-07-12T19:14:00.001-07:00

I pray for the end of this season of draught we have been in LORD.
May we all receive your blessing of water from heaven to nurish your
land and people. Amen

The summer has been harsh for all of us this year. We here
@ Green Bay have not had any serious rain for a month.
Our fields which normally this time of season are lush green.
Today the cattle struggle to find fresh healthy grass.

The herd is moving from the shade of the wood lot to our final
grass paddock through a tricky path of electric rope, ribbon and
pigtail posts. As always the baby calf's stay far behind.

Our bull is last to follow the herd to our last 5 acre paddock of surviving grass. He is a beauty of a bull holding
his weight considering the circumstances.

Praise the LORD! I started to write this blog when the rain began to fall. Please let it be a good soaker.
May all who are in need of rain be blessed with a wonderful soaking rain.

Intensive grazing in action.

2010-06-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Spring is an active time of fast growth grass perfect for intensive grazing. Our 80+ head of cattle are moved to fresh grass for short stays then moved to another paddock of new grass. We rotate our cows over our 55+ acres of grass to dump tons of manure fertilizer free of charge. The fast movement then rest given to each paddock is critical to promoting new healthy growth. During the winter months we placed hay rolls only 50 feet apart in rows and steped down the entire length of the fields with daily round bales. This develops a liter base mixed with manure all stomped into the soil and exposing the soil to the sun which encourages explosive growth in spring.
The result is lush healthy broard leaf grass, clover and a sod bed loaded with worms, dung beatles and benificial micro
organisms.

Tea time on the porch with my honey.

2010-06-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Brenda and I cherish each morning on our porch drinking tea, having breakfast and taking in the life and beauty of early morning Faith Farm.

A red/blue neck Humming bird sips from a feeder then buzzes our heads as we watch in amazement this action for most of our stay.

These are the pretty feet you seldom see in this position. They are usually on the go. A most deserved rest.

The porch view is breathtaking @ times.

2010-05-30T12:13:00.000-07:00

WE MUST REMEMBER, FREEDOM IS NOT FREE!

Tristan salutes on behalf of Faith Farm those who have
given their lives for our freedom to live in these
great United States of America.
We salute the families who have made the ultimate
sacrafice. The loss of their loved one in time of war and peace.
We salute all disabled, injured and all veterans of our military,
National Guard, Coast Guard, law enforcement who have served
and still serve to protect us and our flag. May God bless America.

Spring time @ Faith Farm 2010 bursts with life and activity.

2010-05-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

Spring brings out busy bees from our 20 hives producing
your farm fresh local honey.

Snow our guard dog hiding in his dog house, stands guard over our
flock of broiler chickens keeping Mr Fox away.

We move our broiler chickens daily up the length of each
hoop house to clean grass. A strip of manure is left behind
which fertilizes the field for free. Sunshine, green healthy grass
equals delicious healthy chickens. The hoop house and guard dog
prevents predators from killing our birds.

Our laying hens forage in the grass & sunshine which
is the secret to producing healthy tasty eggs. The
egg mobile is moved every few days which helps
spread chicken manure over the fields.
The scratching of the chickens works the soil opening
bare ground to fertilizer and sunshine. Great stuff
for healthy grass.

We are Faith Farm.

2010-05-20T19:52:00.000-07:00

When folks arrive @ Faith Farm along Nutbush Road you first
see our Bible scripture sign. We share our faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ in Word, love, deed and healthy food.

We care for our animals their entire lives, our fields and customers
as God requires. Each animal is prayed over in thanksgiving, for a
blessing on the animal and for each customer to be blessed and
nurished as they partake.
We value the responsibility God has bestowed upon us as we
reveal the testamony of Jesus Christ in our lives.

Winter at Faith Farm

2010-05-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

What does one do for fun during
the severest winter in years on
Faith Farm? We play in the snow
silly, what else.
We feed hay to the cattle.

We feed hay to the hogs.

Feed the piglets in the Piglet Hotel.

The endess snow days and afterward
mud holes made a mess of the fields.
We will see a marvelous change in
spring as new growth comes alive,
turning mud into lush green grass.

2009-12-06T06:19:00.000-08:00

It's often hard to believe how quickly time goes by. As our markets wrap up and Christmas is just around the corner 2010 is within our reach. Wow. It was wonderful to have an opportunity to slow this down a bit with Thanksgiving. We are constantly in thanks for God's provisions, but this day is always particularly special because it brings it all together.

This was Gabe's first Thanksgiving and for Tristan it was old hat. He eagerly awaited a turkey that still was bigger than him: ) As we continue to expand our knowledge regarding the standard treatment of animals and the obscene amount of chemicals they are injected with having a holiday with our own bird brings a smile to our faces. There is a wonderful feeling in knowing where everything on the table has come from and that there is no reason to be skeptical about what's going in you. Good food, good people, Great God. Good stuff.

2009-11-21T10:25:00.000-08:00

We're still in recovery mode here on Faith Farm after hosting 26 kids and 5 adults from Seneca High School for 3 1/2 days last week. It's amazing how much energy 16 & 17 year olds have and how little sleep they need. Our oldest daughter, Erin, runs a peer prevention group at the high school she works at in New Jersey and each year she facilitates a retreat for those involved. This was our second year hosting this event.

The crux of her program is focused on being detached from the responsibilities and distractions of their every day lives and take time to examine how they are living their lives. It was impressive to watch first hand, these young people gain a sense of trust among one another and be willing to be challenged on many different levels. From group discussion, building chicken coops and the bonfire...everything had a purpose behind it.

The kids participating stayed in our house. Boys slept downstairs and girls were upstairs and in the mix was breakfast, lunch and dinner all family style. The kids spent hours playing with Tristan and Gabe along with helping out with some of the daily tasks on the farm. It was great to have so many willing and interested in helping with tasks that are routine to us, but very foreign to them.

Paul and I enjoy this opportunity to not only get a glimpse into the lives of these kids, get a first hand look at what Erin does, but also spend some great quality time together as a family. The weekend definitely puts a different spin on things, but even challenges us in how we are living.

Why our food tastes soooo good.

2009-10-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

Ear taging a cow in the squeeze shoot keeps me safe from an excited calf. Above
Erin and Tristan unpacking newly arrived chicks in our brood house.
FUN WITH HUGS.

Today my middle daughter Jessica and mother of my two wonderful grandsons and I took a load of hogs to our processer
just enjoying our time together. I rested, she drove. A wonderful blessing older childen are. We were talking about our food,
how much we enjoy consuming what we raise. Jessica just came out and asked, "Dad, why does our food taste soooo good?"
With out hesitation I told her that I pray over every animal we process. I ask the LORD to bless these animals HE intrusted to us,
to calm their spirits, thank HIM for giving them to us and bless everyone who consumes their meat for their good health and HIS
glory." Plain and simple.

In our line of work blood, sweat, tears, technalogy, trial and error
are major factors but the LORD has the last say.
Without GOD's loving hand in our work, all our efforts are in vain.
I praise HIM for each and everyone of our customers, asking HIM to bless you all ways.
Thank you for supporting us. We are here to serve and provide you with the best we can produce.

Tail end of summer

2009-09-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that summer is quickly winding down and soon shorts and afternoon barbeques will be replaced with long sleeve shirts and the turning of leaves. But for right now, it is still summer and the warmth of the sun still casts its translucent glow as day fades into dusk and the animals scurry with the buzz of the bees and rolling around in the emerald green grass of their pastures.

Summer, for us, is typically a whirlwind with markets, the animals and a whole host of other responsibilities that accompany the farm life. This summer wasn't any different, but for right now we strive to take in the beauty of our surroundings and never take it for granted. Tristan and Gabe have taught us the lesson of taking life by the moment, not by the year or next event on the calendar.

E-I-E-I-OOOOO

2009-08-23T05:57:00.000-07:00

The following was provided by our oldest daughter, Erin:
If you were to have asked me back in high school where life would lead, what line of work myself and my family would be in I may have guessed farming on the 128th attempt. Farming....so unconventional and in so many ways it embodies who my parents are. Since I was a kid my parents have broke the mold when it comes to taking life by the horns (no pun intended:) and refusing to settle in any way, shape or form.

The last two days on the farm I spent walking around and really trying to capture what they've created through the lens of a camera. In the height of summer the trees hang heavy with apples and pears, cattle graze from the plush green grass and pigs and chickens seem to find solace in one another's company. It really is amazing, but it is a level of beauty and serenity that has come through an incredible amount of work, time and ongoing efforts to maintain the needs of the animals and the land.

What I feel people have just recently began to realize the importance of knowing where their food comes from. Going to the markets with my mom has really opened my eyes. Beautiful flowers, fruits and veggies line tables. Fresh jams, cheeses and meats are loaded into vans in the early morning hours to reach the market by 7 am. It really is an amazing service to the Richmond community, but what I wonder is how many that frequent their local markets realize how demanding, back breaking and intense the work is to get the product to the point of sale? I watch my dad spend tireless hours with his animals caring, tending and ensuring that their standards are high. There is so much that goes into what finally arrives at the market and ultimately on the plates of those within the community. It has totally altered my view on food, farming and truly appreciating what it's all about.

Your local community farmers work hard, very hard. The big dudes at Tyson, Purdue and wherever else are pumping these crazy hormones into animals that really have no quality of life. I watch Tristan chasing chickens, the cows leaning against the fruit trees to knock down a few pears and think how beautiful all of it is. The problem is that the big companies are now pressuring those up in high places (nudge, nudge..wink,wink) to put strain on the local farmers. They are proposing a tax on small farmers and taxing each and every animal. If that were to go through the many local farmers in Virginia will inevitably go under. Unfortunately, that includes my parents.

The hope is for those concerned to contact their local government officials and to speak up. My parents and other farmers I've come in contact with over the past two years have really opened my eyes to what is involved in small community farming along with the dark side of big corporations. I'm not trying to get all postal on this issue, but too often we settle for complacency and at some point that's going to bite us in the bum.

Although I'm so not anywhere near a farmer (although I try like all get out while on 8996 Nutbush) I so love the beauty that accompanies good old Faith Farm. Tristan and I walked aimlessly around the night before I left taking pictures and just talking. As I was hurrying to take a pic of a few pigs under the tree he seemed to notice my frustration and leaned over to me, grabbed my hand and said, "E, no worries." All I could do was smile : )

Gabriel, blessings and new seasons

2009-04-16T17:20:00.000-07:00

With spring beginning to finally show signs of sticking around the pace on Faith Farm has also picked up. Trees are blossoming, animals are scurrying around and we have a new little farmer to the Faith Farm clan.

Gabriel Paul DeLaura was born March 28th to Jess & Daniel at a healthy 9 lbs & 5 oz. He is home with mom and dad with big brother, Tristan, making sure he is around to give plenty of kisses and hugs when needed. He is truly a joy to our hearts and we are profoundly thankful for his health and transition from hospital to home.

With the warmer weather and the pleasant sense of being able to finally get out of the house and enjoy the joys of spring has been wonderful. Tristan had a great time trying to track down a few pigs who sprung from their pens. We hope you enjoy this little clip. Have a great week!

A DAY OF FAITH

2009-02-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

Not quite a typical day on the farm. On Wednesday ,Christy (Thistletown Farms) and I headed out to North Carolina to bring our 3 Angus Cows and 3 hogs to the processor. We had a

pleasant, albeit long drive. Taking animals to the processor is one of our least favorite things to do. But its all part of the cycle. Paul & I always pray over our animals. We ask that God keep them calm and peaceful as well as thanking them for providing our food asking that all who partake will be blessed. It was a seemingly unevental trip.... We are always grateful

when the animals get off the trailer in a calm,gentle manner. And the folks that take care for them are kind and respect them. The angus gently walked off the trailer into their pen. We breathed a sigh of relief and then headed to the processors to drop off the hogs.

We were running late, so I called and asked that they leave the gate open for us. This was the first time that I was without Paul & I had a sense of what to do, but it was a little unsettling. Christy and I set up the trailer and let the pigs into their pen. They were just sitting in the corner of the trailer seeming to say, 'I'm comfortortable,

there is no way that I'm moving...' Sooooo, after praying for God's guidance I really thought I would have to take them back home. There is no way that I'm going to poke and prod them into compliance. Paul has a way with them and they listen. After about spending about ten minutes just talking to them, the three of them simply got up and strolled into their pen. Christy and I looked at one another and started to cry. I know, you had to be there to grasp the relief that we felt.

Our animals have a wonderful life during their time on Faith Farm and we want them to not be afraid at the end. Not sure if it's silly, but we felt that it was nothing short of a miracle that these hogs who are usually very stubborn just sort of marched into their pen. By this time it was after five with two hours to get home. We turned into a parking lot clipping the corner of a sign, not a good thing. Thankfully the trailer was empty, but the tire was wedged between the sign, not damaging it. If Chris went back or forward it would rip the sign out. We were exhausted, Paul was home and we were tired. I prayed asking God to send someone to help. We didn't want to call for a tow truck and the men that were around were pretty much worthless. Chris knew what needed to be done. So along comes this perky girl with a pick up asking, 'do you guys need help?' She jumps out, pulls out a chain, pops it on the trailer and gives it a gentle nudge. In a matter of seconds we were out of our situation and a sigh of relief came over both of us. Again, another answer to prayer. How much better life would be if we brought everything to God in prayer.

A little sun and no jacket goes a long way

2009-02-08T13:56:00.000-08:00

It's amazing what a little rise in temperatures can do for the spirits. Paul & I managed to take a brief break in the day's chores to just sit on the porch, bask in the sun's warmth and soak in that false sense of spring that we were quite content with. Strutting around without a jacket and the temptation to put on a pair of flip flops made everyone in the house and our animals a little lighter in spirit. The piglets were out in full force and our chickens seemed excited to not have any hint of frost on the grass.

The past two days have been truly a blessing and although the temps are expected to dip down again, we'll take what we can get. Tristan had a blast not being fully bundled up and able to run around helping his Pop out on the farm. We are excited for our oldest daughter, Erin, to spend next weekend with us. It's always a joy to have a full house and just be together. Good stuff.

The few, the strong... the farmer

2009-01-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

As January is beginning to fade into February it's hard to believe 2009 is in full swing. You turn on the television, radio and even in daily discussion the theme of economy and the road ahead has many in a flurry. Businesses are going bust and stability seems to have faded somewhere along the line. But the reality is, we are a resilient country and shall persevere as we have in times past; it's just going to take a little time.

We've walked many paths in our lives and I have to say farming has not only been educational, but insightful in more ways than we could have ever imagined. We believe strongly in our work and take pride in tending to the many small details that go into making our final product possible. It takes time, patience and a whole lot of faith.
In our hearts we want to be able to serve our customers for years to come. But what we've realized more than ever these past few weeks, is that we need you in order for that to be a reality. Sometimes convenience or weather can take precedent over doing what we're accustomed. But we're going full steam ahead and hope that you too will join us. Have a blessed week.

Chill in the air

2009-01-18T11:19:00.000-08:00

The recent tumbling of temps has made tending to the farm all the more interesting. With frozen ground and blistering cold you have to get creative in keeping warm while tending to the animals. Stock in Swiss Miss Hot Chocolate may rise due to residents of Faith Farm as well as thermals being out in full swing. Our hope is within the week or two that there is a break in the cold and the digits rise, even if only slightly.

There is nothing we can do to prevent the cold, but one of the most important things is to be able to have fun and enjoy the daily grind no matter what the circumstance. Paul tends to the pigs and Tristan will quickly yell, "push me Pop, push me." The pigs will just have to wait an extra ten minutes for the food until Tristan and Pop have a few laughs on the tire swing. Keeping the priorities in check are important.

Here's a pic of Jess & Chrissy out at the market a few weekends ago when the sun was out and the jackets were left in the car. What a day it was! Even in the cold and chill, we're at the market : ) We hope to see you there. Have a blessed week.

A view from the porch

2009-01-11T09:40:00.001-08:00

Its funny how sometimes the ordinary can be so out of the ordinary for so many. Our daughter Erin brought that to our attention during her visit. As we walk the farm each day sometimes a little more reflective than others there is so much truly out of the norm. Paul pushing Tristan on the tire swing, feeding our cows their daily bales of hay with the tractor and scurrying turkeys and chickens that just seem to be everywhere.

It's amazing how only a few years ago we sat on our porch watching the sun setting over the sound and now our view is of chickens, cows and the daily visiting humming birds. Pretty neat. In our life time we've had a number of different views from our front porch making life the farthest from predictable or boring. Right now, watching the view from the front porch isn't all that bad; and that's a good thing.

Lovely weekend

2009-01-04T14:58:00.000-08:00

This weekend brought a very welcomed break from winters expected chill. With the change in temperature it seemed to bring out a flood of customers and our fields were littered with grazing animals basking in the suns warmth. We've had many new piglets born over the past month and they scampered through the fields, rolling in hay and snuggling with their mamas. What a little change in temps can do : )

The weather made for an ideal market for both our Lynchburg & Richmond customers. Erin & Jess headed to the 17th st. Market & Brenda made her way to Lynchburg. There were vendors with crates of fresh vegetables, fruits and breads bringing great smells and brilliant colors. It was a pleasure to see so many faces out and anxious to stock up on their meats, honey & jams. The sun and warmth made the day even more enjoyable & Tristan even had a few playmates to hang out with. What more could you ask for?

Tis the Season

2008-12-28T06:52:00.001-08:00

One would think with winter approaching life here on Faith Farm would slow a bit. Over the past few weeks it seems to have become all the more demanding and with the arrival of Christmas we gladly welcomed a little down time. Erin, our daughter from New Jersey, and Tristan went out for the 2nd year and tracked down a tree from one of the far pastures and brought back a rather impressive Christmas tree. Tristan had a blast lugging the tree back on the four wheeler (with his auntie for supervision, of course).

It was so nice having the family together for Christmas and celebrating the birth of our Savior without distractions. It was a delight to not only be together, but we got to enjoy our

very own Heritage raised Turkey. Tristan had his knife and fork out even before the table was set. Although we're a little biased, the truth is there is really nothing like knowing where your food is coming from. It's a good feeling and it doesn't hurt that it tastes so very good. : )

This time of year is cold and often times funky. Even though spring is not in the air we ask you to remember to support your local farmers. Business and our animals still needs to keep rolling even in the midst of a little chill and clouds. We need you to keep Faith Farm a reality and around for many more winter, spring, summer and falls to come. To our loyal customers, thank you. Have a blessed New

Years!

WE'VE ADDED TO OUR FOLD.........

2008-11-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

We found 30 new born piglets

wandering out of the woods this

morning following their Mama's

to the feed bunk. They are a mix

of Tamworth/Duroc, Hampshire/

Duroc and straight Duroc pigs.

We let them nest in the woods

with their Mama's for a hardier animal. They are bred for this

type of environment which allows for less grain supplement

and encourages wood lot foraging on acorns, roots and other

yummy natural stuff. The result is in the taste of the meat

and nutrient value.

Seneca Drug Squad

2008-11-16T09:13:00.000-08:00

This weekend we opened our farm and home to 21 junior and high school students from Tabernacle, NJ. Random? Not really. Our daughter, Erin, is an addiction's counselor at the high school located in South Jersey. One of her roles is running a prevention program. Drug Squad, the only one in the nation, is designed to challenge students in how they are living their own lives, if they're making an impact within both school and community and conveying these powerful messages about substance free living to their peers. They are, in a matter of words, role models to the other 1,400 students that walk the halls of their high school each day.

These 21 kids spent 7 weeks training on social issues and substance abuse trends pertaining specifically to their school and community. From there they participate in an annual retreat and this year they headed to Faith Farm. On 95 acres they were allowed to sort of hit the pause button in their own lives and just be kids and learn about themselves and their peers. One of the issues addressed was methods of communication. Erin was able to use communication via shifting the chickens roaming grounds. Twenty one kids working together with mind and physical strength to not only lend a hand, but gain a sense of accomplishment and realize there is power in numbers when communication is effective.

It was really awesome seeing these young people discussing how they personally felt compelled to make an impact within their school and take on the responsibility of being held accountable for their own actions and the manner in which they live their own life. So often we hear of the negatives associated with teens, but this weekend totally blew those stereotypes out of the water. What a wonderful experience that these kids had and will now take the lessons learned here back home to their own community. Life is short, but if lived with open arms and heart it can be a beautiful journey.

Turkey's for Thanksgiving.

2008-11-12T16:09:00.000-08:00

Almost time to prepare your Thanksgiving turkey.

These birds are beautiful & ready to go. We have about

30 now @ the right weight with another 7 or so by

Christmas, so if you miss out now you may still get one

next month. This is the turkey most like those the

Pilgrims ate for the first Thanksgiving. They are a

rare breed, take 7 months to grow to finish and famous

for their great flavor.

To everything there is a season...

2008-11-09T07:57:00.000-08:00

Brenda, Paul and Julie,serving our customers

@ the South of the James Farmers Market in

Forest Hill Park yesterday.

The weather was beautiful .

Thank you , Julie and Tina (our customer volunteers) for your help and all our customers for your support.

Remember we will be delivering all winter long to South of The James on Saturday and Byrd House Market on Tuesdays.

Ask Brenda or Jess for details......

Talk about being right in the action. Yesterday another calf was born bringing us to 41 calves born this year. Wow! Paul, Tristan and Erin hopped on the tractor and made their way to one of our back fields where a cow was in the final stages of labor. The mama was a little leary of our presence, but after a few minutes of silence she seemed as much at ease with things as she could, considering the circumstances. Erin was able to get up pretty close and capture the birth of the calf as well as the moments after where the herd gathers around to help clean the calf and gain its smell. The tiny calf was surrounded by not only its herd, but a half a dozen curious piglets and chipper chickens. It was a pretty impressive welcoming committee.

With our herd beginning to burst at the seams it keeps us plenty busy. But let us not forget about the other few hundred animals that walk the pastures of Faith Farm. The past few days have been truly gorgeous and it seems our animals, big and small, are soaking in the warm sun and pleasant breeze as long as they are able. Good stuff.

2008-11-03T15:16:00.000-08:00

With Jess & Tristan up in Jersey visiting Erin in New Jersey the farm is a little quieter, but we definitely miss our little farmer in training. We added a few pictures of him as 'Super Farmer' for Halloween. His John Deere cape, mask & overalls were the talk of the town as he joined over 400 kids at Seneca High School (where Erin works) for an evening of safe trick or

treating. He definitely won't be forgetting that experience any time soon.

Jess, Erin & Tristan have been enjoying spending time together. From Halloween, to taking in a high school football game, eating pizza constantly (its a Jersey thing) and playing the guitar to Tristan's 'oh baby cow..." it has been anything but boring. They will be returning to life on the farm Thursday morning. Tristan keeps asking about his baby cow, how his Pop is doing and making constant farm animal sounds in the grocery store and out on the playground. That boy is farmer through and through!

Field Trip

2008-10-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday morning a group of students from Randolph College located in Lynchburg made a special trip to Faith Farm. One of the objectives of their visit was to gain perspective into the process of how to integrate locally grown produce into their campus cafeteria and food vendors. Those in attendance realized the value of eating foods from local farms that provide foods that are pesticide and hormone free. Their task was in how to make this a reality on their own campus. They are in the initial stages of having this transition from talk to a reality of plates on campus being filled with fresh, locally grown and raised fruits, vegetables and meats. What an awesome concept and how it would revolutionize our campuses if this became implemented on a national level!

We're always excited when others have the same vision in supporting local farmers as well as valuing organic, farm fresh produce and meats. It was a wonderful experience hosting these young people who will be returning to their campus and will hopefully pass on this knowledge to friends and family. Always remember, knowledge is power! Have a great week.

Holy Cow....part 2

2008-10-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a clip of our little Farmer in training. He is feeding our baby calf, whose mama had abandoned her. We got back from the market yesterday, ( Saturday), and as dad and I were unloading the truck , Tristan runs out of the house screaming, " mama the baby calf is starving! We need to go feed her!" He keeps us laughing and smiling... ~

Holy Cow!

2008-10-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

One of our two week old calves has turned out to be a tad higher maintenance than our other newborns. We've found out he enjoys spending time hanging out near the chickens, enjoys a little high jump practice over certain fences and loves being coddled by Tristan. The rest of the herd doesn't seem to be bothered by any of his finicky ways, at least not yet. And it has been a joy watching Tristan take his new chores so seriously and with such excitement.

Feedings for our little guy are throughout the day and the milk has to be at a certain temperature. Otherwise, the calf will refuse to take from the bottle. It is also important to make sure he is getting out and about with his fellow herd. For the most part, that hasn't been an issue. Tristan is always very excited to help out, carry the bottle (which is pretty heavy when full) and take time to ask how our little cow's day is going and if the milk is yummy. We've yet to hear him answer, but we'll let you know if that changes!

Pamplona at Faith Farm

2008-10-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

With our many new additions to our herd there is a greater demand for grass. Obviously, more cows = more grass. So with that comes the tedious task of rotating pastures. Leave it to Paul and Jess to do the herding & Erin and Tristan to provide video footage with a few memorable commentaries. I have to say in all our years of Jersey, North Carolina & now Virginia... farm life is truly the most unpredictable. From herding cattle, chasing renegade piglets and keeping up with the eggs our chickens turn out .... it is never a dull moment. And maybe that's why we love it so much!

The weather couldn't be more perfect. In the mornings we try to start the day off having a cup of tea and oatmeal on the porch. As the cool of fall transitions in, there are still traces of summer lingering around. We have humming bird feeders on both sides of the porch. There is nothing like tea, oatmeal and the flickering of wings from our neighborly humming birds. They are amazing to watch in action. So, another day and savoring of the beautiful weather and the blessings we have before us.

2008-10-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

It's a boy!

2008-10-06T03:39:00.000-07:00

I know you were on the edge of your seat thinking, I'm so happy there is a new male calf among the Faith Farm Herd! We love our new additions. Our little calf, who has yet to receive a name didn't take to his mama so requires bottle feeding by hand. Not an easy task. The milk temperature has to be just right and at specific times of the day to ensure that he's receiving the appropriate nutrients for growth. Milk does a body good!

Tristan and Paul head out to the overhang where the calf has been spending part of its days and have some male bonding time feeding our newest arrival. The bottle itself is bigger than Tristan's head, but boy does he get a kick out of being part of this. He uses all of his strength to lift the bottle to the calf's mouth and say, "time to eat baby cow" with a big grin across his face.

The calf is taking well to the bottle feeding and the weather has been perfect for its adjustment to its new surroundings.

**There were some technical difficulties down loading a clip of our little calf. As soon as we get all the glitches out, we'll have it up & running** Thanks!

Fall is in the air

2008-09-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that only a few short weeks ago the grass was brown, the sun was hot and the days seemed to last just a little bit longer. We have a few beautiful fruit trees this year & as summer came to a close so did the abundance of apples & pears. We learned very quickly how much our cows loved fruit. They managed to figure out how to shake the tree and then go to town on a buffet of apples and pears. That didn't last long as Paul hopped on the tractor & Erin, Jess & Tristan became quickly skilled in fruit picking. We're a family of many trades!

But we're excited to have a few batches of apple and pear butter coming your way soon! Erin & Tristan picked the very last apple on our tree just last weekend. We all took a big bite as a way of savoring the season's end. It was a wonderful summer!

As fall slowly creeps forward there is still plenty of work to be had on the farm. Tristan had a blast celebrating his 3rd Birthday (there is a shot with him, pop & his GG below), but was soon back to work collecting eggs and keeping an eye on Jess & Paul as they transported a few heads of cattle from one field to another. Always keeping busy, but we are grateful for the rain and the cool days we've had recently.

Green Acres

2008-09-22T16:34:00.000-07:00

The recent surge in rain has transformed our once crunchy fields into a blanket of brilliant shades of green. We have some seriously happy cows! Paul was assisted by Erin (our oldest daughter visiting from Jersey) and Tristan in his little four wheel drive jeep moving our 95 cows to the back fields. Our recent addition to the herd has a renegade streak hopping the fence and joining the chickens and having some large patches of grass all to himself.

Tristan turns 3 tomorrow! It is wonderful watching our little guy grow up before our eyes and truly be a part of the Faith Farm experience. From helping his Pop on the tractor feeding the cows, sticking those tiny hands in to retrieve freshly laid eggs and doing little tasks at the market he's learning early what family is really about. A three year old who so often chides, "Pop, we're working" or "let's get eggs!" is quite an amazing thing. What a wonderful place for our little dude to grow up.

Even with a touch of fall in the air, Saturday's market had a great turn out. It's encouraging seeing so many in the community supporting their local farmers.

Here we go!

2008-09-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

We have finally been connected to the world wide web officially entering the blog-o-sphere. For those of you who have been a part of our customer 'family,' this is our way of providing you with a first hand view into our farm, what we do and the true beauty of the 95 acres of land so aptly named, 'Faith Farm.' Paul, Jess, Tristan & I invite you to join us for a little taste of our own piece of paradise and to gain insight into our every day life on the farm. Our intention is to use this as a type of journal and means of communicating with the many of you out there who believe in what we're doing and now you can see the in's and outs of what we do. Please don't hesitate to ask questions (post your comments or email us), share your experiences with us & check in to read the inevitable stories (and there are many : ) that go along the life on the farm.

I've included a short video of some new arrivals on the farm. The first two pictures are of our new addition of baby chicks and a calf hanging out with her mama at the baby pool cooling off from the summer's heat. The video is of Erin, Jess & Tristan getting our new batch of baby chicks acclimated to the farm. What fun!