Spring 2025 Newsletter

Like most of you, the past few weeks here have been nothing but calm and relaxing. When I think of “Spring” I think of birds chirping, frogs singing and green grass and blue skies. While it would seem we are working towards all that, these storms have reminded us that mother nature does what she wants, when she wants. Regardless, I hope this update finds everyone well!

Being cooped up the past few weeks due to the weather and a few rounds of nasty sickness we had a chance to slow down a bit and research some new ideas for products and projects. You may have noticed a new product line working its way into the world under the “Greenwood Naturals” name. You might be thinking what does vanilla extract have to do with bacon and burger? When we started the farm, we did it for a few simple reasons, to eat “better” and learn how to be self-sufficient. That journey has loosely followed the path of what is now trending under #homesteading. Through trial and error, we have found things that we do well (raising yummy pork) and things we know how to do in a pinch but don’t enjoy (starting seeds) and things that we try, love and want to share with others (vanilla extract). We want to share with you what we enjoy and what we use in our family, be it a unique skin care product we tried and love or something we made to doctor up our Christmas cookie recipe.

 Last fall we purchased some Hereford and Angus cows to start our herd. While the Angus have gone to butcher to kick off our 2025 market season, the Herefords are still hanging out and growing. One we hope to be pregnant so we can start our own breeding program. The other three will be available for purchase in July.

Our pigs have weathered the winter and spring well. We hope we have enough to keep the coolers full for this upcoming market. Last year we sold out of 15 pigs worth!! This year we hope to do the same, if not more! Regardless, we’ve got it covered!

Meat birds are in the planning process still. Last year, to be completely honest, was a train-wreck, I’ll admit that. We learned from our mistakes, changed our approach and will have a limited number available after butchering! We will not be taking pre-orders this year but we do have a list going if you are interested and wish to be contacted when they are available.

This year we will have a larger market display and several new products (think skin care, candles, and last but not least, BEEF!!!) as well as our trusty dandelion salve! We are so excited to be back at the Ortonville Farmers Market this year and see everyone again. Until then, take care, stay dry and we will see you soon!