There are moments on the farm that feel like the whole world pauses, and the day Bessie had her calf was one of them. Having a new life come into the world is always humbling, but when it’s your own cow, on your own land, it’s something even more special.
Welcoming the Calf
Bessie delivered safely, totally surprising us this past Friday morning with a new bull calf! Both mama and baby are doing great. He’s a handsome little guy, already trying out his legs and making us laugh with his wobbly confidence. While we haven’t settled on a name just yet, he’s already found a place in our hearts.
Back to the Milk
Because Bessie is a dairy cow, she produces way, way more milk than her calf could ever drink on his own at his young age. After we make sure he’s got a full belly, we milk her out (not completely of course) to relieve the pressure in her udder. It’s just another part of caring for Bessie and keeping her udder healthy. The little guy tends to nurse only from her front quarters, so it’s up to us to milk the back two.
If we didn’t help milk her, she could become engorged, uncomfortable, and even risk mastitis. Our milking machine helps with this, making sure she’s equally milked out and comfortable while also giving us that steady flow of milk our family is so grateful for. From the 1st few milkings, we make sure to save some of that “liquid gold”, her colostrum. We save and freeze it so we’ll have it on hand for any future baby animals who might need it in an emergency.
Looking Ahead
With milk flowing again, our family is already dreaming about butter, cheese, yogurt, and yes, even ice cream. Having so much fresh milk on hand feels like such a blessing, and it connects our daily lives in the kitchen directly back to the barn.
This calf may grow into a steer who will one day fill our freezer, but right now, he’s a reminder of new beginnings and the ongoing cycle of farm life. And Bessie? She’s proving once again what a steady, wonderful mama she is.
Moments like this are the heartbeat of the farm, messy, beautiful, and full of purpose. From Bessie’s patient mothering to the promise of fresh milk in our kitchen, this season feels like a reminder that the hard work is always worth it.
Thanks for stopping by to share this milestone with us. Until next time, may your days be full of fresh air, warm mugs, and little reminders that life is good, right where you are.
