Maker's Long Acres

We are right in the middle of Holy week and I am not sure I would be me if I didn't again post this reflection. Maybe you've already read it and need a refresher, or maybe you're new. But either way, here it is, just some more rambling thoughts from Ole Ma... So many verses this time of year, Easter and all. And growing up going to church faithfully and then into my adult life I've heard a lot of Easter sermons. Different views, different takes. Many different speakers sharing the word of God, following where led, shepherding their people.  There's something though- a point of view, maybe it's called, that I have yet to have heard. I dunno why. Maybe it is my critter loving self that has it so poignant. Maybe it's because I'm just a weirdo and look at things different than most. At any rate...  "Mark 11:2 ... saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ev...

Struggling with Hollandaise sauce? Or feeling hesitant to give it a shot? With all this beef around and the chickens laying eggs again, this old Ma has been tinkering in the kitchen. And let me tell you, I've come up with a great way to whip up a Hollandaise sauce that's sure to leave your family begging for more. Now, let's be real here, making Hollandaise sauce can be a bit intimidating. It's one of those things that can often go wrong – it curdles, it breaks, it just refuses to cooperate. But fear not, my friends, this recipe is pretty foolproof.  The two things you will need to know -cold pan, and stir until you feel like your arm migh0t fall off! Creamy, velvety Hollandaise sauce drizzled over a perfectly cooked steak, or anything else you can imagine- it's delightful, and with this recipe I'm hand you're going to be your family's mealtime hero!  Roll up your sleeves, dust off that saucepan, and get cooking!  No Fail Hollandaise Sauce Re...

Embracing Gratitude: 10 Tips for Mindful Living We're reminded of the importance of reflection, gratitude, and mindfulness as we embrace the beauty of spring and the promise of new beginnings. With Easter just around the corner, it's a perfect time to slow down, appreciate the blessings around us, and cultivate a heart full of thankfulness. Here are 10 simple tips to help us practice mindful gratitude this week: 1. Start Each Day with Thanks: Take a moment each morning to reflect on something you're grateful for. It could be the warmth of the sun, the chirping of birds, or the love of family and friends. 2. Savor Each Bite:  When enjoying meals, let's pause to appreciate the flavors and nourishment our food provides. Let's remember the hard work that goes into growing and preparing each ingredient. 3. Connect with Nature: Spend time outdoors, whether it's taking a walk through the fields or simply sitting in the garden. Let's soak in the beauty o...

Welcome... Thank you for being a part of our journey and for allowing us to be a part of yours. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to delighting you with more special experiences in the future. Until next time, take care and enjoy the flavors of the season! Hope Springs Eternal...  As the buds of spring unfurl and life bursts forth on the farm, I can't help but marvel at the beauty of new beginnings. Our farm journeyed through a winter marked by unexpected challenges and moments of grief. Yet, amidst the shadows...   Full article here.  Beefy Savings... For a limited time, enjoy a $5 discount when you spend $50 or more on select cuts. Hurry, this offer is only valid until next Wednesday. And, it's only available at the Farm Stand. Stock up on premium beef and savor the savings! Egg-celent ... This is a fantastic recipe you won't want to miss. Diving into the world of Pad Kra Pao, this flavorful Thai dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Transl...

  Thai Basil & Beef Stir Fry This is a fantastic recipe you won't want to miss. Diving into the world of Pad Kra Pao, this flavorful Thai dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Translating to "basil stir-fry," this meal is perfect for busy families, offering a hassle-free cooking experience. Simply set it and forget it until it's time to fry up that glorious egg! So, let's get cooking and discover the deliciousness of Pad Kra Pao together. Here's how you can whip up this delectable dish in your slow cooker: Ingredients: - 1 lb. thinly sliced beef - 1 red onion, thinly sliced - 2 cups sliced sweet peppers - 1 package of broccoli - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes - 1 tsp. ginger powder - 1 tsp. sugar - 1-2 cups of beef stock  - 4 tbsp. basil paste (or a handful or two of fresh basil) Instructions: 1. In your slow cooker, combine the sliced beef, red onion, sweet peppers, broccoli, minced garlic, soy sauce, c...

Springtime Wellness: 10 Tips for Healthy Living On-the-Go As spring blooms with its flurry of activities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes paramount. However, with some foresight and mindful choices, you can thrive amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. Here are ten tips tailored for spring, blending locally sourced foods and the ease of slow cooker meals: 1. Plan Strategically : Begin your week by mapping out meals and snacks. This proactive approach not only saves time but also ensures nourishing choices throughout your busy schedule. 2. Embrace Local Bounty : Explore the vibrancy of spring at farmer's markets or nearby farms. Stock up on freshly harvested produce, teeming with flavor and essential nutrients. Supporting local growers fosters community wellness and sustainability. 3. Pack Smart Snacks : Prepare portable snacks like fresh fruit, veggie sticks with hummus, or our latest offering—homemade granola, crafted with wholesome ingredients. These snacks fuel your...

  As the buds of spring unfurl and life bursts forth on the farm, I can't help but marvel at the beauty of new beginnings. Our farm journeyed through a winter marked by unexpected challenges and moments of grief. Yet, amidst the shadows, the arrival of the sweetest litter of piglets from mama, Ginger, each with their own endearing snouts, and a delicate baby goat with captivating blue eyes, from mama, Rotti Rotten, fills our hearts with renewed hope and joy. These little miracles remind us of the promise of renewal and the unstoppable cycle of life that Easter represents. In Ecclesiastes 3:1, we're reminded that 'For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.' Indeed, spring heralds a season of new beginnings, growth, and renewal, even amidst the echoes of past trials. As we navigate the joys and sorrows of farm life, the parallels between our experiences and scripture become even more poignant. The tender care of Rotti Rotten for her sweet ...

Welcome ... ....Herd It readers! In this week's edition, we embrace the spirit of St. Patrick's Day with festive offerings and engaging classes, we also reflect on recent events, including the poignant loss we mentioned last week and some hopefully soon arrivals. Dive into this edition for heartfelt updates, great offers, and more. Echoes of Resilience...  Farming is undeniably hard—agonizingly so. Yet, amidst the toil and sweat, there's a sweetness, a goodness that blossoms, nurtured by tender care and steadfast faith. Most of you have probably heard of Ginger, our smaller Homestead Hog and many of you have likely even met her. She's more than just a sow; she's a symbol, one of hope and new beginnings. This week more than ever a...  Full article here.  On The Horizon Get ready because we've got something exciting headed your way: Our beef is back in stock at the Farm Stand on Saturday! We're giving our Herd members the VIP treatment by letting them in on th...

Ready to take charge of your family's food future? Discover practical tips and empowering strategies in our comprehensive guide to food self-sufficiency.  Tips for Taking Control of Your Family's Food Supply In today's rapidly changing world, many families are seeking ways to take more control over their food supply, moving away from traditional grocery stores and embracing alternative methods of sourcing food. Here are some tips to help you embark on this journey towards greater food self-sufficiency: 1. Explore Local Markets : Visit farmers' markets, co-ops, and local producers to source fresh, seasonal produce directly from growers in your area. 2. Buy Directly from Farmers : Connect with local farmers through farm stands, farm visits, or online platforms to purchase produce, meat, dairy, and other products directly from the source. 3. Start a Food Cooperative: Collaborate with neighbors or community members to establish a food cooperative where you coll...

Echoes of Resilience…. Farming is undeniably hard—agonizingly so. Yet, amidst the toil and sweat, there's a sweetness, a goodness that blossoms in the soil, nurtured by tender care and steadfast faith. Most of you have probably heard of  Ginger, our smaller Homestead Hog and many of you have likely even met her. She's more than just a sow; she's a symbol of hope and new beginnings. This week, more than ever, new beginnings that we so very much need!  Many of you may recall the Easter two years ago, a day etched in memory for its fear and triumph. Ginger, heavy with piglets, struggled in labor, and our hearts clenched with worry. Our big adult hands unable to assist, not a veterinarian to be found early on a holiday weekend, it was left to FarmHer Raye to deliver the struggling piglet saving him, his siblings, and of course precious Ginger. Through hours of struggle and fervent prayers, by God's grace, a precious life emerged. Many of you have watched as litt...

  You Herd It Here ... Welcome to this week's edition of  Herd It, our Maker's Long Acres newsletter is bursting with excitement! We've got something special just for you – the chance to pre-order Ole Pa's "almost legendary'' extremely limited Bourbon Pecan pies before they go live on our website. And of course, you won't want to miss Old Ma's ramblings. So grab a cup of cocoa, settle in,  and join us as we dive into this weeks newsletter!  We Have Your Solution...  Feeling frazzled and needing a great quick dinner option? Introducing our Meal in Minutes Bundle, crafted just for our subscribers! Enjoy 1 pound of Makers Long Acres ground beef, Tasty Traditions noodles by Selle Valley Creamery, and a complimentary Quick Mix cheddar biscuit pack—all in one amazing deal! Order the Meal in Minutes bundle here! Ole Ma's Ramblings...  As we approach International Women's Day March 8, a day of celebrating the remarkable women who have shaped our...

As we approach International Women's Day March 8, a day of celebrating the remarkable women who have shaped our lives, this Ole Ma finds herself drawn to the quiet strength and influence of women before me both those I've known and some whom I've only read about.  It's not lost on me , this profound impact women have on shaping our world. Reflecting on my Grammie, with her apron-clad figure and ever present smile, embodied the spirit of kindness and generosity. Her farm was more than just a piece of land; it was a sanctuary where visitors were welcomed with open arms and endless servings of deliciousness. It was through her actions that I learned the importance of hospitality and the power of spreading joy through the simple life. And then, a stroke of serendipitous destiny, her birthday falling on March 8,  International Women's  Day, there's my mom- a woman of resilience and unwavering determination that is unequivocally unmatched. Her journey, mar...