Maker's Long Acres

Berry Bliss: 10 Tips for Foraging Wild Berries In our family, we absolutely adore the wild berries that grace our surroundings. From vibrant huckleberries to succulent blackberries, these gems are more than just a treat—they're a staple of our family's flavor. We love transforming these delicious berries into a variety of homemade goodies, from tangy jams and syrups to delightful desserts. Our annual berry picking adventures are a cherished tradition, and we're excited to share our tips with you. Whether you're a seasoned forager or just starting out, these pointers will help you make the most of your berry-picking experiences. Foraging Fundamentals: Understand the basics of berry foraging, including identifying common berries and recognizing look-alikes. Knowing what you’re after and being able to distinguish between edible and non-edible varieties is crucial. Seasonal Timing : Berries ripen at different times depending on the season. Research when your pr...

It's been so quiet around here lately. The once busy and bustling farm stand, alive with the sounds of friends stopping by and customers chatting, now feels like Sagle's best-kept secret. Day after day, it just sits there collecting dust, a far cry from the lively hub it used to be. The emptiness can be disheartening. There was a time when the farm stand was the heart of our little humble ramshackle farm, a place where people came and went, sharing stories and laughter. Now, the silence is almost deafening. It feels like we're all alone out here, our efforts unseen and our wares unbought. Perhaps though, in this stillness, there is a blessing. With fewer interruptions, and days spent making products for restocking I've found more time to spend in the bunny barn. Watching those fluffy ones hop and scamper brings such a smile to my heart. Their simple happiness, their complete contentment is contagious, a defense against the weariness that is also trying to oc...

Salvaged Supplies: 10 Great Ways to Repurpose Items Repurposing items is a way of life here on the farm. Everything around us tells a story of creativity and resourcefulness, from the old barn doors now serving as tabletops to the worn-out tractor parts transformed into garden art. We find great joy in taking care of items that might otherwise be discarded and giving them new life and purpose. Not only does repurposing reduce waste, but it also brings a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. Seeing how something can be used in a completely new way is a testament to ingenuity and a love for our surroundings. Whether it's turning old jars into planters or crafting furniture from reclaimed wood, the possibilities are endless, and the rewards are plentiful. Refashion Regular Items: Think creatively about everyday items and how they can serve new purposes. For example, an old ladder can be turned into a unique bookshelf. Evaluate Before Discarding: Consider the potential...

Rambling Thoughts from Old Ma This week, as we dive into another big project, my mind keeps drifting back to a memory from six years ago, when we were in the throes of building our barn. Back then, emotions ran high, and the excitement of seeing our dream take shape was tempered by the sting of an unexpected theft. We had pooled our resources to buy the materials we needed, only to face a setback that seemed almost insurmountable. Yet, through that struggle, we experienced something profoundly humbling and faith-affirming. We prayed, often with more earnestness than we knew we had in us, and then we waited. And day by day, God’s provision came in ways we could never have planned or imagined. A stranger offered roofing that was headed to the dump, friends provided trees that became rafters, and another friend had a window that fit perfectly. The blessings came, one after another, filling the gaps we couldn’t have filled ourselves. Ironically, just a month ago, we faced anoth...

Welcome to The Herd! This week, we're celebrating generations and exploring how you can be part of the legacy we're building here at the farm. We've also got some special offers you won't want to miss. Join us as we dive into this week's newsletter and discover all the exciting details!  Ole Ma's Rambling...  Life has a funny way of bringing things back around, doesn’t it? This past week, here on the farm, we've been reminded of the beautiful blend of past and present. We recently had the joy of welcoming Ole Pa’s mom and her lovely husband David to our humble, little, ramshackle farm. It’s been eleven long years since we last saw her, and having her here felt like a long-lost piece of our hearts had finally come home. There’s something profoundly...  Read More Ramblings Here !  Porktastic Opportunity... Hey, did you hear the news? We're once again offering our whole and half shares on pork! These future shares will help us remain operational, and they...

Blueberry Cobbler Summer is in full swing, and the berry bushes are bursting with fresh fruit. Whether it's blueberries or huckleberries, there's nothing quite like picking berries on a warm day and turning them into something delicious. To celebrate the season, here’s a simple and delightful berry cobbler recipe that’s sure to be a hit. Plus, our Quick Mix Baking Mix, which you can find on sale this week at the Farm Stand, makes it even easier! Ingredients : 6 tablespoons butter, melted 1 1/4 cups Quick Mix Baking Mix 1/2 cup sugar 2/3 cup milk 3 cups fresh blueberries 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg Steps : 1. Heat oven to 350°F. Pour melted butter into an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together Quick Mix Baking Mix, sugar, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg; pour over melted butter. 3. Sprinkle blueberries evenly over the batter. Bake for 42 to 47 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm. Enjoy the taste of summer with ...

Life has a funny way of bringing things back around, doesn’t it? This past week, here on the farm, we've been reminded of the beautiful blend of past and present.  We recently had the joy of welcoming Ole Pa’s mom and her lovely husband David to our humble, little, ramshackle farm. It’s been eleven long years since we last saw her, and having her here felt like a long-lost piece of our hearts had finally come home. There’s something profoundly moving about sharing the place you’ve built with those who mean the most to you. Family is the backbone of our lives. It’s the shared laughter, the quiet conversations, and the simple joy of being together that fills our days with meaning. Having Ole Pa’s mom here reminded me of the deep connections that tie us all together, no matter how much time has passed. As we walked through the farm, showing her the animals and what we've built here, we both felt a deep sense of gratitude and humility. This farm isn’t just about the lan...

Creating Connections: 10 Tips For Fostering Cross-Generational Relationships Wow, what a week it's been! FarmHer Raye was finally able to meet her grandmother face-to-face for the very first time, and watching this deep connection that had spanned miles and nearly a decade was truly something special. It reminded us of the importance of these generational connections. The very roots of our farm also speak to these generational links; the farm once belonged to Ole Ma's dear friend, who was 92 years old when he passed away. There's so much wisdom we can glean from that. Building connections across generations isn't just about passing down traditions and stories; it's about fostering a vibrant exchange of wisdom and energy. Older generations can find renewed vitality and inspiration from the enthusiasm and fresh perspectives of younger family members. Likewise, younger generations benefit greatly from the guidance and life experiences of their elders. These...

A Win Win... In light of the theft at the farm stand, we are regrouping and gathering ourselves in an effort to continue being your farmers. We've decided to offer future shares on bulk (whole or half) pork. While we don't have exact timing yet, and it could be awhile, securing one for your family now would greatly support us in keeping our family and our farm operational. It's a win win!   Get Yours Here! 

Welcome to The Herd! Are you ready for an exciting edition of this week's newsletter!?! We've got some deliciously easy dinner recipes lined up, perfect for those busy summer evenings. Plus, there's a special offer you won't want to miss—a great way to support us and enjoy some farm-fresh goodness! Read on for all the details and make sure to stop by and see what's in store and take advantage of the special savings below!  --- Ole Ma's Rambling...  This week has been a stark reminder of the fragility of what we’ve built. The theft has shaken us to our core, and the echo of what once was seems to linger in every corner of the farm. But even in this quiet, I believe there is a purpose. Perhaps it’s a time for reflection, for drawing closer to one another and to the Maker who sustains us.  Read Ole Ma's Ramblings Here!  A Win Win... In light of the theft at the farm stand, we are regrouping and gathering ourselves in an effort to continue being your farmers. We...

Rambling Thoughts from Old Ma This Old Ma’s heart is heavy this week. We opened the farm stand, hoping to see the familiar faces that once filled our days with warmth and connection. But the steady stream of visitors we once enjoyed has dwindled to a trickle. Only a handful of you stopped by, and the silence has been deafening. It used to be a near-constant coming and going, a vibrant hum of activity that made the farm feel alive and full of purpose. Now, each quiet hour feels like a reminder of everything we’ve lost. The recent theft has crumbled us, not just financially but in spirit. Watching everything we worked so hard for slowly fall away is a heartache I never imagined we’d face. In times like these, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by sadness. The farm, once a place of joy and community, now seems like a shadow of its former self. The empty pathways and stillness speak volumes, and the weight of uncertainty hangs heavy over us. Yet, even in this season, I find myse...

Forge Friendships: 10 Tips for Fostering Connections and Building Bonds In the wake of recent challenges at our farm stand, where we faced a heartbreaking theft, the importance of community and connections shines brighter than ever. Despite the setbacks, we are reminded of the strength found in our bonds with neighbors, friends, and supporters who rally around us in times of need. Together, we weather adversity and emerge stronger, united by a shared commitment to resilience and kindness. As we reflect on these experiences, we reaffirm our dedication to fostering connections and building meaningful relationships within our community. Just as each seed planted on our farm requires nurturing, so too do our relationships flourish when cultivated with care and intention. Shared Moments: Cherish shared experiences and create opportunities for meaningful conversations over a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea from our farm stand. Reach Out: Take the initiative to reach out to ot...

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some hearty, flavorful burgers. This recipe combines the best of both worlds with a mix of ground beef and pork sausage, creating a juicy and delicious patty that's sure to be a hit at any gathering. Topped with a creamy blue cheese sauce, these burgers are elevated to a whole new level of indulgence, making them a memorable addition to your cookout menu. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual family dinner, these beef and pork sausage burgers with blue cheese sauce are guaranteed to impress. The robust flavors of the meat pair perfectly with the tangy, rich sauce, offering a delightful combination that's both satisfying and gourmet. Gather your friends and family, light up the grill, and enjoy these mouthwatering burgers that are sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces. Beef and Pork Sausage Burgers with Blue Cheese Sauce Recipe Ingredients for the Burgers: - 1 lb ground beef - 1 lb ...

As we gear up to celebrate the Fourth of July, it's the perfect time to enjoy the joys of outdoor grilling. Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or a small barbecue with friends, ensuring that your grilling practices are safe is crucial. To help you keep the festivities both fun and secure, here are some essential tips for safe grilling that will ensure everyone has a wonderful and worry-free time. From keeping your grill clean to handling food properly, these tips will guide you in creating delicious meals while prioritizing safety. Let's fire up the grill and enjoy a fantastic holiday filled with great food and even better company. Maintain Your Grill: Clean your grill thoroughly before each use to remove grease and food residue that can cause flare-ups. Safe Placement: Position your grill at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railings, and overhanging branches. Always grill in a well-ventilated area. Check for Leaks : Inspect gas grills for le...

Hey everyone! It’s Hannah, your friendly neighborhood butcher, here with another edition of "Behind the Butcher Block." Today, I want to share some insights as we gear up for the busy season of farmers markets and local fairs. As we dive into these bustling community events, one topic that's crucial for us all to understand is USDA inspection for meat processing. It may not be the most glamorous topic, but it’s incredibly important for ensuring the integrity, knowledge, and commitment of farmers and sellers. Any meat sold retail (by the pound, package or piece) requires that it be processed in a USDA facility.  Why? Because, when meat is processed under USDA inspection, it means it’s been handled according to strict standards (really strict) to ensure it's safe to eat. This includes having a USDA inspector on site at all times, (sometimes even a state Veterinarian) and loads of rigorous checks throughout the process. They are checking for humane handling o...