June Farm Update (with announcement)
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Hi Friends, I have an announcement at the bottom, but first up: I have received a few emails wondering if my farm has been impacted by the flooding here in TX. The answer is no. We are several hours north of the floodzone. Please remain in prayer for the families who are facing loss and devastation this month. Until 2017 I lived in the exact area that is being affected. There was a 100-year flood in 2015 and I witnessed firsthand the speed and power with which these flood waters rise. It is hard to explain and nearly impossible to plan for. This month I decided to clip/mow my pastures. Over the past couple of years we hit June and July and pasture growth outpaced the flock's ability to graze through it. As a result, forage just wasn't as palatable or nutritious over summer. So far I am pleased with the decision to mow. We have had plenty of rain, so pasture has recovered quickly. The sheep are in great condition with the better forage quality. And yes, we did intend to bale it but the rain cut the process short. June used to be one of the most difficult months for me in terms of farming: the heat and managing/sorting/working lambs in it was overwhelming. However in 2023 I moved my entire lambing season back by 1 month (from March/April to Feb/March). This enabled me to finish all of the major lamb work for the year in May (and before the onset of scorching TX summer). I am so grateful to not be working lambs in June and July anymore. 😅 With a slower pace in June, I was able to invest in something I have had in mind for a while: launching YouTube Kids Channel. As a child, summer reading programs were my absolute favorite. The Shepherdess Book Club is a channel that features wholesome read-alouds and craft-projects for children ages 0-9 yrs. To support the channel you can purchase the Shepherdess Summer Camp Kit, which includes a hard-copy of each book and supplies to complete the various craft projects! I hope the new content provides a respite as you and your little ones finish out your summer break!
Until next time, -the Shepherdess "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:6-7 |
Harmony Farms
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