Category Archives: Farm Life 101

“No, I got it,” I said to my husband the first time we went horseback riding together.  Though I’d never saddled a horse before, I’d seen it done a few times.  You toss the blanket and saddle over their back … Continue reading →

A newborn calf is one of the cutest animals I have ever seen.  With big curly lashes, pink noses, and velvety fur so soft, I wish I could hug on them all day.  But you have to be careful when you’re around … Continue reading →

For those with weak stomachs, today’s post might be difficult.  Branding calves is one of the most fascinating and yet disgusting processes, I have ever witnessed.  The smell of burnt flesh, the rising smoke, the calf bawling in pain, so … Continue reading →

On a farm, the feline population, just like the cows, fluctuates constantly and dramatically.  From having nearly…let’s say thirty, to maybe only four left after a few months.  No, No, it’s not because the ranchers are raising and eating the … Continue reading →

At a western-themed party, the hay bale is a popular decoration you might find.  Yet, I won’t sit or even touch one with my bare hands anymore.  And it’s not because of allergies.  When the swather cuts the alfalfa (hay) … Continue reading →

During the Christmas holiday season, I have to smile when I hear people complain about having to work on Christmas Eve or even Christmas Day.  Ranchers never get a holiday.  They don’t even get a weekend off.  Day-in-day-out there are … Continue reading →

  For those of you out there who consider yourself beef-connoisseurs, there’s something you need to know before you order that overpriced “Black Angus” steak.  It might not be Angus at all.  A few years back an idea caught hold, … Continue reading →

Ah, the horse twitch, (the tool you see pictured here).  It’s a wooden handle, and the loop you see is typically made of chain.  “How do you use it?” You ask.  The loop is placed around the upper lip of … Continue reading →

Did you know all cows, female and male, can have horns?  It is a common misconception made by many that only bulls (males) have horns.  I’ve even heard a news anchor on a national show make this mistake after a … Continue reading →