Spring Awakens at Goodman's Greenbriar Farm: Embracing New Life and Looking Forward to Healthy Harvests

Things are really starting to come alive at Goodman's Greenbriar Farm here in Charlestown, IN. The buds are in bloom...and things are just "waking up". It's such a promising site to behold. But, just when I thought we were sailing into sunshine and warm temps-BAM! Another week of being slammed with rain. Depressing, right? We've all had our share of one of the most hard and challenging winters recorded around here; and I'm sure everyone in the Midwest is just waiting for a period of steady, nice weather. But with these challenges, I have to remind myself of all the good that the rain brings. Yes, around here it has been a bit scary because of the flooding, and hopefully this weeks weather predictions of rain won't bring more of it. But the rain also brings life and growth. Unlike the dry climate in Southern Idaho (where we lived most of our lives), where water was always a challenge, here we have an abundance. And that's good-right? Things are in bloom now; my orchard (2-3 years old) trees are growing and budding out; my berry patch has been pruned and weeded (Blackberries are very strong; Raspberries and Blueberries also), and even my Grapevines are blooming forth leaves. Spring is finally here, and all that comes with it!

Mark and I both work full-time demanding jobs, plus we both run our other small businesses, so time is always limited. We both take care of our aging Mom's also. So the free time we do have is mostly on Saturday and Sundays, and fitting so many projects into those two days can be overwhelming at times. Lately we've been working on getting the fencing up around the house, which is a huge job! Thankfully, our neighbor Grayson helps Mark on Saturdays, which is a big help. We also purchased a water fountain for our porch, picked out the gravel for the backyard, the firepit, patio furniture, et. But, if you are somewhat like me, I always think that more can be done and I pile up a list of "to do's" in my head every weekend, and inevitably, we always come up short on time. So, I have found that if we just get a few major tasks or goals accomplished around the farm, then it's a win. I just have to move those tasks that did not get done to the following week. MIT (Most Important Task) first! Check! Get those tasks done first-complete the other ones later. This way, you won't get overwhelmed!

In other farm news; we got Marks shop built-and are just waiting for the electrical inspection. We also started stage one of the new cattle barn...we've hired the contractor and have applied for the permits. That will be started in the coming months. We're moving the cattle to higher grounds, as the corral where they currently reside has a major problem (I won't go into that right now-but we've addressed the issue...which is a ground issue not caused by us or the cows, but something not in our control).

Eggs sales are robust. I'm getting quite a few regular weekly orders; and the baby chicks I got from Mt. Healthy in Ohio are flourishing! They're doing so well and should start laying in another month or so. I did lose several hens to a Fox...who continues to lurk around. All the neighbors have seen him/her...but it seems to attack when I'm in my office working. So, I've been keeping the girls "cooped up". I hate that...but until I can figure out what to do, I've got to keep them safe. It got four hens in just one day! It broke my heart.

Our Irish Dexter beef sales are also taking off! We've sold three steers so far this year, and still have eight to be sold. We've started really focusing on our herd's DNA and what we want to see genetically in our blood line, and we're getting rid of a lot of our old gals. The beef however, is fantastic. Irish Dexter Beef is about 90% lean beef; is higher in Omega's, and is naturally raised and grass-fed. So if you are looking for uber-healthy protein, look no further! We can get you covered!

I'm so very excited to know there is sunshine ahead. The birds sing and bring a sound of happiness; the animals are springing forth new life; wildflowers and weeds are in bloom and there is so much to look forward to.

Happy Spring, You'all!