Life in Full Bloom: Welcoming Spring and New Life to Our Farm

Hello Friends,

It has been quite some time since I’ve reached out, so I hope this finds you and your loved ones happy and thriving as we move into the warmer months. Watching leaves turn green and the grass in the pasture grow tall and lush always fills me with joy after the long Canadian winters. Spring marks the beginning of new life in the northern hemisphere as animals and plants respond to the longer, warmer days.

Welcoming Baby Valerie

New life is a regular occurrence here at Flock, Stock & Barrel farm. Since we began our farming journey in 2022, we have watched a lot of animal babies arrive and breathe their first breath, most recently a new crop of lambs. It is always amazing to witness the introduction of a little creature into the world—the first moment it stands up, the way the mother protects and nurtures as it develops. As amazing as these first-hand experiences have been, none of them really prepared me for the birth of our daughter Valerie back in January. The anticipation, the worry, the joy, the love, and the exhaustion are quite the cocktail emotionally, not to mention the logistical challenges in adapting our busy schedules to care for and nurture an infant.

Spring on the Farm

With summer just around the corner, there are little baby lambs frolicking in our fields, our garden has been planted, and phase 2 of my fencing project is well underway. Mentally, I have new life as well. I have renewed energy for my farm projects and feel I am better able to manage the responsibilities that come with being a father, husband, and farmer who also works a 9-5 job. Our little Valerie is healthy and is such a joy in our lives.

Farming Challenges and Family Support

Farming while working a full-time job is challenging. Bringing a baby into the mix adds a new layer of complexity, to say the least. A few weeks after my daughter was born, I had a moment where my ambitious plans for the upcoming spring season met the reality of the responsibilities that come with being a new dad. Thank God for family.

Our parents have been such a great support for us as we navigate this new journey. The occasional prepared meal or time spent watching the little one allows us to spend some quality time together or make progress on our projects here at the farm. It isn’t always roses, but Julia and I are growing together as well. It is such a blessing to have a loving partner and teammate. Somehow, we are adapting, and things continue to progress well.

Looking Ahead

In a fast-paced world, with all the distractions, chaos, and problems, it is easy to forget the good things all around us. Relationships with those we love and care about are what give life meaning. There is so much to be grateful for. I look forward to sharing more updates along our journey to grow the most nutritious, healthy, ethical food and raise a family that contributes to a healthy, prosperous community.

We love hearing from you! Feel free to reach out on social media or email to ask any questions about our farm life or share your experiences.