My Forty Friends

Recently Joel and Daniel decided it was time for me to put into practice some of the things I have been learning.  So they have given me the responsibility of 40 head of cattle.  I am really excited about this new job! 

We are grazing the herd on a two-day rotation pattern on some rental property down the road.  Every two days I go over and move the herd into their new section of pasture. Then I take up the portable fence that is no longer in use from their old section and I set it up for the next move, ahead of the herd.  I also move their water tank when necessary and make sure the mineral box stays full.  

It has been a learning experience to calculate the new sections of pasture.  I am giving the herd about an acre for two days.  One day I made their section a little too small,  oops!  They were hungry and ready to move when I pulled up at chore time.  It is kind of like having your dinner two hours late.....not a happy camper!  Thankfully they forgave me and started chomping on the fresh "salad bar" as soon as they got to it.

Enjoy life, and don't let the weeds get in your way!

Staying On!

I find it hard to believe that it has been one year since I came to Polyface. Everything has gone so fast! It seems like just yesterday that I rolled into a farm full of animals and new faces. Now, everyone here feels like family and I am attentive to the creatures that have been put under my care. I have learned a lot and have been very thankful to have the opportunity to work at Polyface.

As the year progressed I had a growing desire to stay involved after my apprenticeship was over, but I wasn't sure how it would work out. I knew that the Lord would direct me as I put my trust in Him and I was excited to see how he would open doors.

About two months ago Daniel Salatin shared his desire to have me stay on as full time staff, functioning as  apprentice manager. To say the least, I was pretty excited as we continued to discuss the possibilities. After some time thinking and praying about it and talking with family, I had peace this was an open door God wanted me to walk through. So I will be staying in Swoope for another year!

My responsibilities will fluctuate as the seasons change, but I will mainly be assisting Daniel with the day to day logistics of the farm and the other rental properties. I will also work closely with next year's summer interns.

I look forward to what I will be learning with this new opportunity. I am very thankful for the  family and friends that pray for and support me. A special thanks to my Polyface family for your encouragement, support and patience over this past year.  It means a lot to me! 

Hope everyone has had a great summer and are looking forward to a bountiful and beautiful fall!