We’re BACK!

It’s been forever. So much has happened in the past three months that has prevented me from writing. First, it’s the end of the school year. I teach special needs and this time of year is pretty paperwork heavy for me. This year is particularly busy because over half of my caseload is graduating. Which means more paperwork and more meetings than normal.

On top of that, we moved the WHOLE farm. ALL OF IT. I cannot believe we did it. We knew that our long term goal was to one day own more land, but that goal became a reality much sooner than we had originally anticipated. Everything happened so quickly and it demanded all of our attention.

My husband got a zillow notification of a property that was on sale a few months back. It was a nice looking house on about 10 acres. We knew we wanted to build but decided to look at this house on a whim. It’s not often than we instantly fall in love with a home, but we did upon looking at this house.

The stars were definitely lined up for us because we hit the ground running as soon as we made the offer. Before we knew it we were packing up the entire house we were living in and getting it ready to be shown to be sold.

Moving a whole farm is far from easy. I enjoyed 0% of the whole moving process. Our animals shared the same feelings with me. On the day we had to move the animals, I rode a donkey.

It wasn’t an experience I would brag about. It provided much comedic relief and thankfully didn’t end in harm to anyone. We had both donkeys in the trailer. The younger one decided she didn’t want to be on the railer anymore and was able to leave before we could shut the trailer. I was thinking, since she’s my buddy and all, that if I stood in her path and redirected her she would comply. I also knew that plan might not work. It didn’t work.

Merida, our younger donkey, trotted up to me. I tried to kind of nudge her back, but she somehow got her head under my armpit and lifted. That’s when a trot turned into a gallop. Next thing I know, I’m further up on this donkey. I had to lift my leg to get off of her. I was riding her backwards and didn’t realize she was about to turn. As she turned, we both kind of–fell. I fell on my back and as she started to lean down towards me I was able to push her back up to her feet with my hands to make sure she didn’t actually fall on me.

We looked at each other after I stood up. I swear the look on her face said And we will never speak of this. To anyone. Ever. But it was too late. My husband was dying from laughter. And you know what she did later? Simply walked on the trailer by herself.

We got all the animals moved on Cinco de Mayo. Hours after the move, Lyris had her first kidding. She brought two baby boys into the world and she couldn’t have been more terrified. She just didn’t know what to do with them. Three days in a pen with her babies and me encouraging her to nurse and now she’s an attentive mother. Her boys are gorgeous and I’m hoping to sell them for breeding as they’re just simply stunning.

The property itself is breath-taking. I will be posting more about the property next week. Now that we’ve moved and mostly settled I’m hoping to be writing a bit more routinely again. I don’t have my camera unpacked yet, so you’ll have to settle for my pictures off my phone.

Looking forward to writing about our crazy adventures on the farm again. Thank you everyone who waited so patiently for us to return. Have a great week!

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New Toy on the Farm

Botany & Wildcrafting Course by Herbal Academy

We’re getting ready to expand our farm! We began to design and plot out a new location on our property to build a greenhouse and expand pasture for our animals. We realized that we need to move a pond, take down some large trees, build a pad, and construct 250′ of road and place a parking lot. Our current BX25 would not be up to the task. We found ourselves faced with two difficult choices: rent a larger piece of equipment during our expansion or replace our small, but reliable Kubota BX25 TLB.

We began where we always do: calculating project costs. After many weeks of projections, we found that renting would be wasteful; so, we decided to upgrade. We found ourselves asking: What do we get? What do we need? How much will we grow? The search was on. After having a Kubota there was no question that we wanted another Kubota. There are so many models. We looked at the B series, L-series, and the B26 TLB Series. The research was completed after combing through all the specifications. The Keyboard Warrior was done. We progressed to the next step: obtaining trade in values on our current BX25 and purchase price of the required equipment. We sent out several requests to separate dealers and–to our delight–most responded promptly. The dealership that sold us our original BX25 was even among the many who responded to our request. The quotes were all in, the purchase price and trade in values were all comparable between dealers; however, there was one individual that stood out: Roy at Futch’s Power Depot. His sincerity on the phone was unmatched. One statement that was made created quite an impression; Futch’s Power Depot stated that they will earn our business if we give him the chance, no matter what. Roy was confident that their service, price, and staff were the best. Roy worked with me over a two-day period to finish the paperwork, complete the financing, and get the tractor built. Roy constantly communicated with me until delivery day. Roy and staff personally delivered our tractor and the trailer we ended up buying as part of a package. They also picked up the trade which made it easy for us to begin our projects.

The test: the new Kubota l-Series has power, speed, and performance. I performed a few minor tasks and one thing became apparent: the loader had an issue. I was initially uneasy with a million thoughts running through my head. I wondered to myself, Is this the beginning of a nightmare? I prepped myself and called Roy to let him know the issue. Roy was more than accommodating and scheduled pick up. Roy went out of his way to ease my mind and make sure I was at ease and not upset. I told Roy that I do not judge a business by a single issue that arises. It happens. I reserve judgement for how the issue is dealt with. A few days went by with Roy consistently communicating with me and asked that I come to the service shop to go over options with them. I traveled to the Futch’s and met Lonnie and Steve. Both were understanding and just wanted me to be able use the new equipment. They were straightforward and honest and by the time I left the dealership I knew that the issue would be resolved one way or another. Futch’s delivered a loner to use until we get this issue figured out. Lonnie and Steve communicated with me regularly and within a few days the issue was resolved, with the tractor back on the farm so that we can continue our work.

Now, there are no issues left. Now it’s time for us to get to work on our expansion this year. Our experience with Futch’s Power Depot was–by far–one of the easiest and best that we have had with a major purchase. Harman Farms highly recommends visiting Futch’s Power Depot and talking with Roy for your future purchases. Roy was correct from the beginning that he would earn our business and he also earned our respect. We will definitely be purchasing from them in the future. Follow our blog to stay updated. We’re also on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. Come check us out. Affiliate Disclosure

Saying Goodbye

It was a very rough week at home. Back in November, I wrote about taking the kids to see their great-grandmother, who was terminally ill. She passed away January 27.

My parents kept our children while my husband and I traveled to Pennsylvania to say our goodbyes. It’s never easy to lose a loved one. We find solace in that she passed peacefully.

In comfort of her manner of passing, we found ourselves reminded of how cruel the world truly can be. We arrived to that wintry land of Pennsylvania, finding the warmth and comfort of family as we sat in Granny’s apartment, looking through photographs. We took a short break to sign necessary paperwork and get the obituary going as well as find potential lunch. During our brief absence, we were informed via phone that the locks on Granny’s apartment were going to be changed. Our off-site-to-do-list was quickly put on hold as we rushed back to truly see what was going on.

The information proved to be correct. Heartless management was indeed arranging for a lock change within minutes. Granny passed 22 hours or so prior to this moment. Due to the absence of a doctor, there would be no death certificate until Wednesday. Management never called the family to even confirm her death before locking the family out.

What I found interesting about this whole scenario is before Granny passed, management was made aware of family staying with her. Management had no issues with this and stated it was fine.

So, we were taken by surprise when management began changing the locks and calling us thieves in front of other residents of the complex. Thieves. We were looking through pictures. Two women (management team) knew who we were. They knew what we were doing. Now they were accusing us of stealing and trespassing.

Long story short, the police were called and we came to a compromise at 2:30 pm: we were to be done with whatever we wanted to do by 4. The management team did later admit that most families, once locked out, didn’t pursue entrance further.

This doesn’t come as shocking. It’s a sad stereotype that most of the elderly living in these low socioeconomic apartments either didn’t have family, or had family that wasn’t very attached or involved. Granny had nothing of value. But she held onto things like pictures, Christmas cards, report cards, and old letters. These were items we did not want to be carelessly discarded by someone who didn’t know Granny and obviously didn’t care much for her.

We received no condolences. No one from the apartment complex sent flowers. I told them to remember my smiling face when karma bit them in the ass, amongst other things that shall not be repeated here. Let’s just say, the cops did inform the management team that you can’t press charges for vulgar language.

This all happened the Monday we arrived. I had been up since 4 AM Sunday, with occasional naps in the car. We didn’t get to bed until 11 Monday night.

Tuesday January 29, was the day of services. Granny didn’t want a funeral and originally didn’t want a viewing before cremation. She did change her mind about the viewing. Plenty of tears were shed. A feeling of great loss had enthralled everyone. But I think what will be remembered the most, is the dinner afterwards. We enjoyed a couple of goodbye shots (others enjoyed more than that) and bar food. I devoured several buffalo wings. My husband indulged in a giant ham hoagie. Other family members critiqued poorly made slippery nipples. The entire night was filled with laughter, dirty jokes, and warmth. The waiting staff handled our disgrace with grace. All granny had wanted was a party in the end.

Granny was loved and appreciated by many. I, along with the rest of my family, will miss her greatly. I loved sitting with her and listening to her stories. My children adored her. I am glad we got to spend as much time with her as we did.

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The Herbal Academy – New Courses

Hello!

Perhaps you, like myself, have been on a mission to incorporate a more natural approach to your family’s wellness. You’ve revamped your homemade meals with fresh, healthy ingredients, researched holistic ways to approach common ailments, and tried using essential oils and herbs in your own health routine!

Sound familiar?

I know it can be challenging to begin this holistic voyage! How do you start? Who do you trust?

If you have a desire to move from the unknown to the confident, I have great news for you today!

The Herbal Academy just announced the release of their brand new foundational herbal programs today including, get this, new printed versions complete with textbooks, topic specific companion booklets, and compiled recipe and monograph books!

There is truly nothing like these printed programs available that I know of!

The revised herbal programs boast of the very latest research available and feature expanded lessons, fresh videos, hundreds of recipes, new multimedia resources, and experiential exercises that will take your learning off your computer and into your kitchen!

I must say, these programs look downright irresistible!

introductory herbal course by herbal academy – certificate copy

Early-bird registration is NOW OPEN with two enrollment bonuses including $25 off your tuition and a $70 herbal goodie bag with a print package purchase!

Explore the new programs here: affiliate link

The many new features of the newly revised Introductory Herbal Course, Intermediate Herbal Course, and Herbalist Path Packages include:

● New lessons and expanded lessons
● Brand new compiled Recipe and Monograph Books for each program
● Dedicated and beautifully presented Materia Medica charts for each body system throughout the courses
● Hundreds of Expanded Herbal Monographs
● Fresh downloadable booklets highlighted in each course
● Dozens of new videos added throughout course units
● All new media and learning charts
● New experiential exercises
● The revised courses include the very latest research, presented in a clear, easy-to- digest way!
● You’ll also notice dozens of new educators in the courses, including herbalist-adored Guido Masé!
● Longer installment plan options offering more manageable monthly payments!

Why the Herbal Academy?

The Herbal Academy is one of the key players and global leaders in creating a bridge from once-forgotten and sometimes misunderstood ancient herbal practices to the burgeoning community of people who are now seeking an alternative for supporting wellness. Their student body of over 40,000 speaks to that!

In fact, they were one of the very first schools to offer robust, innovative herbalism programs online and to a global classroom. They have an impressive lineup of education options including an extensive collection of herbalist training programs from a basic beginners course to an advanced clinical track to a number of topic-specific short courses. Their herbal courses are presented by professional clinical and folk herbalists and medical professionals offering well- rounded curriculum representing all walks of life. This community-centered spirit of teaching is the reason why I love them so much!

the herbal academy intermediate herbal course - apothecary copy

So when the Herbal Academy shares that they have released revised and expanded versions of their most popular herbal programs, it is truly something to get excited about!

I encourage you to take a peek at these new herbal course offerings – even if you are unsure about taking this next step! The presentation of these fresh new course pages is definitely worth the look!

There is no better time than now to reclaim these traditions to support your own wellness with the power of herbs.

LIMITED TIME SIGN ON BONUS!

Registration during the early bird enrollment period runs through February 20th. Sign up now while enrollment is on sale and receive your $70 goodie bag with a print package upgrade!

Stop by the Herbal Academy’s website to view their beautiful spread of fresh programs offered now in both print and online!

SIGN UP : affiliate link

Follow our blog to stay updated. We’re also on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. Come check us out.

Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you, if you click the links and make a purchase.

The Herbal Academy 2019

Hello!

The Herbal Academy has done it again!

You may have heard about the school’s registration freeze which has been in effect since early January. Well, exciting news! They lifted the freeze with the announcement of their completely revised Introductory Herbal Course, Intermediate Herbal Course, and Herbalist Path Packages!

The new programs aren’t open just yet, but early bird registration is now available with some very special deals.

I must say, these programs look amazing!

View the courses here: affiliate link

If you have any interest in living life more fully, naturally, and sufficiently by creating all natural homemade products and recipes, or using herbs for your continued wellbeing you must have heard about the Herbal Academy by now! They are global leaders in herbal education, educating over 40,000 students to date with their Herbal Programs, Fundamental Courses, and journals and now, ahem, textbooks – yup, you heard that right, read on!

The Herbal Academy was one of the very first schools to offer robust, innovative herbalism programs online and to a global classroom. Their herbal courses are curated by an impressive staff of professional clinical and folk herbalists as well as medical professionals offering well-rounded curriculum representing all walks of life. It’s a beautiful thing!

This community-centered spirit of teaching is the reason why I love them so much! When you study at the Herbal Academy, you won’t just learn from one teacher. You’ll learn from the very best in the field.

So when the Herbal Academy shares that they have released revised and expanded versions of their most popular herbal programs, it is truly something to get excited about!

Both the Introductory and Intermediate Herbal Courses have been expanded, and now offered as second editions! Here are the many new features of the courses:

introductory herbal course texbooks by herbal academy copy

● New lessons and expanded lessons
● Brand new compiled Recipe and Monograph Books for each program
● Dedicated and beautifully presented Materia Medica charts for each body system throughout the courses
● Hundreds of Expanded Herbal Monographs
● Fresh downloadable booklets highlighted in each course
● Dozens of new videos added throughout course units
● All new media and learning charts
● New experiential exercises
● The revised courses include the very latest research, presented in a clear, easy-to- digest way!
● You’ll also notice dozens of new educators in the courses, including herbalist-adored Guido Masé!
● Longer installment plan options offering more manageable monthly payments!

herbal academy herbalism textbooks copy 2

If these amazing new features didn’t pique your interest, listen to this: these programs are now offered as gorgeous textbooks in print packages! I now understand why they needed to halt the flood of registers for a short time – wow!

These print packages are a true work of art, a reflection of the Herbal Academy’s reputation for being global leaders in the herbal arts and sciences. They have paid very close attention to detail and aesthetics for these textbooks, helping us to see and feel the beauty.

Register during their pre-registration period for $25 off enrollment PLUS a $70 goodie bag with a print package upgrade!

– $25 off registration – prices as marked. Plus, with any printed course order, you will
receive a bonus $70 Herbal Academy goodie bag – including our 25 set Recipe Cards,
Herbal Academy Crest Decal, 4 Botanical Bookmark Set, 72 Apothecary labels, and a
reusable Academy muslin storage bag! ($2.92 without bag)

The Herbal Academy is one of the key players in creating a bridge from once-forgotten and sometimes misunderstood ancient herbal practices to the burgeoning community of people who are now seeking complementary and holistic ways to support wellness.

They have reached over 40,000 students with their herbal education and they continue to expand and grow and they do it in grand fashion I must admit!

There is no better time than today! Reclaim these traditions and strengthen your own wellness with the power of herbs. The Herbal Academy has your back, and, well, every other part of your anatomy!

Stop by the Herbal Academy’s website to view their beautiful spread of fresh programs offered now in both printed textbooks, and online! Affiliate Link

Follow our blog to stay updated. We’re also on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. Come check us out.

Disclosure: Some of the links are affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you, if you click the links and make a purchase.