Every piece of land has a story, and our old coal-built lane carries generations of memories—along with its fair share of stubborn coal bits. My granddaddy built that lane back when he worked at the coal mine. Crushed coal was cheaper than rock, so that’s what he hauled home to pave the path. It connectedContinue reading “Farm Table Talk: The Slow Return of the Grass”
Author Archives: Traci Houston
Why Farm-to-Table Matters: Educating Customers on Food Origins
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget where our food actually comes from. With the convenience of grocery stores and online food delivery, most consumers are disconnected from the process of growing, raising, and harvesting the food that ends up on their plates. This disconnection, however, comes with hidden costs—both for our health andContinue reading “Why Farm-to-Table Matters: Educating Customers on Food Origins”
Farm Table Talk: Modern Cars Make Me Miss My S-10
Ah, the good old days of cars you could actually work on yourself. I’m not talking about my old Jeep—that thing was a nightmare. Multiple trips to the mechanic, countless headaches, and let’s not forget that “epic” six-month saga of trying to get a motor that actually worked. It took three tries (thanks for nothing,Continue reading “Farm Table Talk: Modern Cars Make Me Miss My S-10”
Sustainable Living: How Canning Reduces Food Waste
Canning is not only a practical method for preserving food, but it’s also an excellent way to contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. By reducing food waste and decreasing reliance on commercially packaged goods, canning can play a significant role in promoting environmental sustainability. Let’s explore the environmental benefits of canning and how it helpsContinue reading “Sustainable Living: How Canning Reduces Food Waste”
Farm Table Talk: Back to School and Beyond—Farming Meets Business Savvy
Life on the farm rarely slows down, but sometimes, you need to step back and adjust. For me, that step was taking off half a semester to acclimate to having a newborn on the farm again. Between midnight feedings for the baby and early morning chores with the animals, it was a necessary pause beforeContinue reading “Farm Table Talk: Back to School and Beyond—Farming Meets Business Savvy”
Farm Table Talk: A Spoonful of Lard Makes the Cookies Better
There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking from scratch. It’s not just about the taste (though let’s be real, nothing beats homemade), but the entire process—choosing wholesome ingredients, getting your hands dirty, and creating something with love that fills your home with irresistible smells. This past week, I went all-in on scratch cooking, diving into someContinue reading “Farm Table Talk: A Spoonful of Lard Makes the Cookies Better”
Empowering the Next Generation: USDA FSA Youth Loans for Aspiring Farmers
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers Youth Loans specifically designed for young people between the ages of 10 and 20 who want to finance income-producing, agriculture-related projects. These loans are a fantastic opportunity for young entrepreneurs to get a head start in the agricultural industry by providing them with the capital they need toContinue reading “Empowering the Next Generation: USDA FSA Youth Loans for Aspiring Farmers”
Farm Table Talk: The Wheelbarrow Diaries—Slow Progress, Big Impact
Sometimes on the farm, it’s the slow, steady work that makes all the difference. I’ve spent the past week with a wheelbarrow, moving wood chips one painstaking load at a time. No tractor this time—it’s just me, the wheelbarrow, and the endless rhythm of shoveling, lifting, walking, and dumping. And let me tell you, theseContinue reading “Farm Table Talk: The Wheelbarrow Diaries—Slow Progress, Big Impact”
DIY Gift Ideas: Canning for Holidays and Special Occasions
Canned goods make wonderful, heartfelt gifts that showcase your culinary skills and personal touch. Whether you’re celebrating holidays, birthdays, or other special occasions, these thoughtful, homemade gifts are sure to delight your friends and family. Here are some creative ideas for using canned goods as gifts: 1. Jam and Jelly Gift Sets Idea: Create aContinue reading “DIY Gift Ideas: Canning for Holidays and Special Occasions”
Farm Table Talk: Rags to Riches—The Tale of Our Rescue Hens
Last week, a small flock of hens arrived at the farm, and let me tell you, they were a sight. Missing feathers all over, underweight, and looking a little rough around the edges—but they were laying eggs like crazy. These poor girls were clearly survivors, and we knew right away they needed some extra love.Continue reading “Farm Table Talk: Rags to Riches—The Tale of Our Rescue Hens”
