Nightly routine...

FFF Photo a Day - Day 230

At this time of year, putting away the harvest is a nightly routine... 

Canning, dehydrating, or freezing are all methods we use to extend our harvest into the winter months. 

Tonight its canning tomato sauce...

What are you doing to put away summer goodies for the winter?

Farming is routine... or is it?

Weekly CSA boxes ready to go once again!

FFF Photo a Day - Day 217

Farming is the best of both worlds... 

Farming is routine. Those that thrive on structure and routines would enjoy the daily chores of gathering eggs, watering and feeding animals, regular weeding and watering of crops, seasonal (predictable) activities that become familiar, comfortable friends that mark the passing of time...

Yet...

Farming is variety. No two days are totally the same. Each day a new sight, challenge, or task lies ahead of you. The cow jumps the fence, the cucumbers have mildew on the leaves, the latest storm brought hail, or perhaps its time to expand the greenhouse. Those that need the freshness of 'new' do well in farming. 

Something for everyone... (except perhaps those looking for a 9-5 job)! 

Cow-lick!

FFF Photo a Day - Day 131

After we milk the goats each night, we have a routine (they would suggest a necessity) to visit with the goats and cattle in the barn. We must come armed with treats or we quickly are told of everyone's displeasure by way of a cacophony of bellowing and bleating from all.

Gaston's favorite treat is a pre-made horse treat made from apples. He sucks them off your hand with a exuberance that leaves you needing a towel and wanting a shower. 

Rhythms and routines

FFF Photo a Day - Day 25

Raising animals and growing your own food keeps you in touch with the rhythms of the day, seasons and year. 

You eat seasonally, sleep and wake according to the sun and your day is punctuated with soothing routines such as gathering eggs, milking and feeding and watering animals.  

It is this strong connection or grounded-ness that I love deeply about how and where we are blessed to live.