Our biggest blessing this year was definitely THREE new grandsons!!!
We also consider it a blessing that we could travel for both pleasure and service. In February we traveled to Mexico for a week of service at Children’s Haven International. March found us venturing to PA for a couple’s retreat with friends and a visit with Diane’s parents at their cabin. A road trip to Colorado in April for a baby shower was our final adventure before spring farm work began. After harvest Diane was able to visit Caleb and his family in Colorado for a few days.
On the farm we were blessed with the opportunity to open an organic bakery, serve many new customers with our meat business and farm store, and launch into certified organic crop production.
Family Update
Caleb & Beca were in the middle of moving to a larger apartment when David Owen made his appearance on May 17. Caleb continues in customer service with United Airlines at the Denver airport. Beca now works as a nanny which allows her to bring David to work with her.
Luke & Brittany welcomed their third child on 11/22/22. Jace Daniel joins Lane (4) and Ella Grace (2). Luke stays busy working at Fischer Farms and running an excavation business with Josiah. Brittany decided to resign from teaching in May and now enjoys being a stay-at-home mom.
Josiah & Logan renovated and moved into the house on the Hesterberg “home farm” just before Alan Matthew was born on April 17th. John Luke (3) is a great big brother. Josiah farms and works in the excavation business with Luke while Logan heads up HR at Gifford State Bank.
Seth has several “irons in the fire.” He does occasional small construction jobs, breeds Goldendoodle dogs, and helps us on the farm. His excitement and commitment to organic farming has made him an invaluable asset as we continue the farm’s transition to organic production.
Elizabeth works part-time on the farm as our herdsman, brooder manager, assistant baker, and wherever else she’s needed. Late in the summer, she did a short dairy internship in PA. This experience encouraged her to pursue her long standing dream of opening a raw milk dairy. Flowered Cow Dairy LLC should be in operation by early 2023.
Dan & I always look forward to spending time with our grandchildren (and their parents). Working alongside two of our children here on the farm has been an exciting season for us as well.
Looking Ahead
As we look back over 2022, we are overwhelmed by the abundant blessings God has poured into our lives. We are thankful for each of our dear customers who have helped to make our farm and business successful!
At the beginning of this new year, we are excited about the new ventures we have planned for our business. We invite you to come along for the ride. There is NEVER a dull moment around here!