Maker's Long Acres

As I sit here, I'm still aglow from the weekend. It wasn't just Mother's Day; it was Hannah's 23rd birthday. For 23 years now, she and I have fished on this celebratory weekend. It started when she was just a few days old, and now here we are, with her all grown up and coming home to fish with old Ma. And of course, in between casts, that had me thinking and reflecting on how traditions are so often formed when we don't even realize it. Sometimes it's just the simple things, and pretty soon, those moments become memories. It's kind of like when the pigs give birth; we used to rush down there, and one by one, the kids would arrive with snacks and drinks, no matter the day, time, or weather. Here they come, one by one, gathering up to watch those babies be born. Pretty soon, it just became tradition that when a pig is in labor, we gather at the barn as a family and share this special moment together. I'm not sure exactly when it became a tradit

Cultivating Traditions: 10 Tips for Making Memories and Nurturing Tradition In a fast-paced world filled with constant change, there's something deeply grounding about embracing traditional cultivating practices and creating cherished memories with loved ones. Whether it's tending to a family garden, cooking a beloved family recipe, or participating in time-honored rituals, these traditions not only connect us to our roots but also provide a sense of continuity and comfort. Here are 10 tips for making memories and nurturing tradition in your own life. 1. Family Gardening : Start a family garden and involve everyone in the process, from planting seeds to harvesting produce. Gardening not only teaches valuable skills like patience and responsibility but also provides an opportunity for quality time spent outdoors and a deeper connection to nature. 2. Cooking Together: Cook a cherished family recipe with loved ones, passing down culinary traditions from generation to g

This week, Kyle's sharing a recipe straight from his Grandma Johnson's kitchen. For him, it's not just about the food—it's about honoring tradition. See, in Kyle's family, recipes aren't just about what's on the plate; they're about passing down stories and memories. Whenever Kyle tastes rhubarb, he's transported back to those cozy family gatherings and summer picnics where laughter filled the air and Grandma Johnson's cooking stole the show. Rhubarb isn't just a flavor for Kyle; it's a reminder of the love and warmth that comes with keeping traditions alive. And it's not just about pie; it's the rich tapestry of family history and connection. You'll notice this recipe embodies tradition, with ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. It's a glimpse into the past, where simple, wholesome dishes were the heart of family gatherings. From the use of oleo, an old-fashioned term for margarine, to n

Welcome to The Herd! Happy Wednesday, herd members! This week's newsletter is filled with springs goodness. Join us as we explore Ag-ucation, cute companions, culinary delights, and entertaining essentials. Get ready to embark on a journey of knowledge, charm, flavor, and fun! Ramblings From Ole Ma...   In the heart of our farm, amidst the rustling leaves and the soft hum of life, we've been blessed with the presence of families eager to explore the wonders of agriculture. These tours have become moments of pure magic, where we've had the privilege of meeting families from all walks of life and sharing in the wide-eyed wonder of their children. One encounter, in particular, touched our hearts deeply. A young girl, not quite three ,her face alight with joy...  Read Ole Ma's Ramblings...  Season"s  Splendor...  As the days grow longer and the air fills with the sweet scent of blossoms, spring invites us to pause, breathe, and embrace the beauty of the world around us