Messing Around With Machinery

Chill'n In The Field...

2010-11-12T12:46:00.001-08:00

A day in the field Baby D style, gotta love it! Since everyone around the farmstead is eager to get the crops out, in a prompt precise manor we really don't get to visit with any of the FB's very much any more. That is unless we hunt them down in the fields. However when you have a 1 year old son who trots around the house all day saying "Daddy", "Tractor","Shark Shoes" (he really does say SS, afterall he knows once he has his SS on then he can go outside and play with the big boys) you really do not have a say in the matter anymore. You must find the FB's.

Baby D thoroughly enjoys riding on the tractors, combines, semi trucks and well, basically anything that has the potential to move at a rapid pace. He is a boy with a passion for riding on any large motorized piece of machinery.

Have a Magnificant Day,

Farming Fabulously

Harvest Is Upon Us..

2010-11-12T12:44:00.001-08:00

The FB's started harvesting corn last week, so Grandma SMS, Baby D and I decided to go pay them a visit in the field.

Well, actually we just had to deliver them lunch so we didn't get to stay and ride.

So Baby D settled for just hanging out with his feline friend Pooh.

That is until Grandpa BDW came along and took Baby D to see all of the big farm equipment.

Now look closely, how many different pieces of equipment can you see in each picture?

Have a fantastic day,

Farming Fabulously

Pond Dam or Dam Pond?

2010-11-12T12:42:00.001-08:00

Have you ever tried to drain a pond?

Well last week the Farm Boys were feeling frisky, so they decided to give it a try.

Now they have done this once or twice or was it twelve times before, so they kind of knew what they were doing.

However, this was my first encounter with the rapid waters.

And well, Baby D he was just along for the ride.

However, I would not recommend wearing flip flops to an endeavor such as this.

This fine young lady on the other hand was fully prepared, wearing her mud boots she was eager to catch some fish.

Sincerely,

Farming Fabulously

It Does Exist

2010-11-12T12:41:00.001-08:00

Yesterday evening Baby D and I were leisurely roaming the countryside, when out of now where our youngster begins pointing and squawking at a patch of corn. Now as you all know, I am a wealth of horticultural expertise, so with all of my brilliance, I peer down at my infant and say "Yes honey, that's corn".

However, Baby D was reluctant to go any farther on our voyage until I inspected this certain crop of corn. Well upon further examination, I found what appeared to be a cultivation abnormality. To my bewilderment, there was non-typical produce growing amongst us.

Needless to say, I am oozing excessive self-esteem towards our tiny tot. The way he perceived this situation, and made himself aware of his vast surroundings by the understanding that has been gained through experience or study is quite baffling to ones mind.

Sincerely,

Farming Fabulously

I Know That I Promised You Tractors And Sweaty Men...

2010-09-26T12:23:00.001-07:00

But one out of two really isn't bad. So today we are focusing on all of the farm equipment that has been running none stop around the farmstead.

The Farm Boy's have been busting their booty's trying to get all of the crops planted. HH even planted through the night, can you believe that?

This year there was only a small window of planting opportunity considering the massive downpours that occurred on a daily basis.

Alas, we made it through this planting season. Hallelujah! All of the seeds are in the ground.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Individually Placing Seed Corn Into The Ground....

2010-09-26T12:18:00.001-07:00

If you would have to drop each piece of corn into the ground by hand it would take approximately 103 hours per acre.

Thanks to alittle thing called "Technology" and "Massive Machines", farmers are now able to plant 1 acre of corn in two minutes.

Our ancestors would roll over in their graves, attempting to comprehend today's advancements in farming.

These pictures were taken last week, BMW (Before Monsoon Weather) hit central Missouri. Yet today, the sun is supposed to peak through from the sky and transform the water soaked land back to its normal existence. Baby D and I are eager to begin our outdoor excursions again, so this warm weather is long overdue.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Farming Wrap UP!

2010-05-09T07:41:00.001-07:00

If you recall, I chatted earlier last week about all of those old pictures I have laying around that desperately need to be posted. Well these are some of those photos!

They were taken near the end of our harvest season. At this point the FB's (Farm Boy's), could see the light at the end of the tunnel. And considering it was such a wet fall again, we considered ourselves extremely fortunate that we were able to get all of the commodities out of fields.

This was however during our "Crunch Time" of the season, when the FB's were working round the clock. Putting in 23 hour days, allowing themselves only only a brief one hour cat nap daily.

Oh the joys of the farming world! Baby D has so much to look forward too!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: Brunch recipes to be posted soon!

Hard Core Harvesting!

2010-01-09T07:09:00.001-08:00

Baby D and I were MIA from the farming scene for 5 days last week. So when we returned home, the first thing we did was visit daddy in the field. The FB's (Farm Boy's) were so excited to me, I mean Baby D (mommy is now invisible, which I am ok with, considering I have refused to put on makeup since we left the hospital 3.5 weeks ago), that as soon as we pulled into the field, we were bombarded by massive farm equipment! Everyone wanted to see how much Baby D has grown!

Each day with Baby D seizes to amaze me! He has really began to develop his own personality, and priceless facial expressions! Baby D has turned into quite a little man! I know I am going to blink and he will be walking and saying "Daddy and Farming Fabulously" before we know it.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Bust'n A Move With BIL's New Toy!

2009-12-04T05:19:00.000-08:00

Well I'm still here solo, no little munchkin yet! I can't even give you a fantastic story of a false labor. Nothing, Nada, Zero, I stood on my feet canning peaches (will post canning recipe later) all weekend and bounced around on our gator hoping for some sort of miraculous sign from the heavens that our baby was ready to come!

We had a doctor's appointment yesterday, where they revealed to us that once again our Lil Farmer is not quite ready to start his harvest season this year. However, they did disclaim to us that we are making some downward advancement, and mommy is now dilated to a ONE. I believe our midwife said it best "Mrs. FF, we are seeing some progress, you are now dilated to a slight One!" Really, who says that? Slight one? Lie to sister! I wouldn't know the difference anyway, tell momma she's at least a gaping Two! So the moral of our story is, that our first born child is still not ready to come yet.Infact, his momma is here to tell you first hand that he is playing now, more then ever.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: Any advice that you could give a almost 40 plus week pregnant mommy to help quicken the "Pregnancy Process" would be greatly appreciated. Wives Tales, Situations that have worked for you, a certain weather condition, constellation alignment, anything to give me a glimmer that the end is near.

Spraying For Yields!

2009-08-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

Every year it is my job to hop into the one seater and spray the fields for fungicides!

Normally I can squeeze into this aerodynamic machine without any problems!

However this year, my son has decided that greatly enjoys high calorie, high fat, high carbohydrates, high deliciousness ice cream.

Since he is my first born child, this momma would do anything to please her young infant. This includes eating gallons of cool, creamy, luscious, ice cream.

Yet you must always consider the repercussions of your actions, the "Cause and Effect Theory", if you will. What goes into the lips, always, always, always, goes onto the hips!

But when it is your job to fly the plane that has a strict weight capacity, and you happen now exceed that limit. Certain things can happen!

The aerodynamic plane becomes vertical challenged!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: The nursery is getting very close to completion, I will be posting pictures very soon!

Off Season Projects....

2009-07-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

There are two times of the year when the farmstead goes into overdrive, "Planting Season" and "Harvest Season". During that time, the FB's (Farm Boy's) focus solely on putting tiny seeds into the ground and taking crops out of the ground. But it is that precious time in the middle when the hardcore farmstead odds/ends get done. It is now that middle time.

Welcome to our odds/ends Projecte Numbre Uno, our as I like to refer to it as Project Number 1.

HH was diligently working on putting up a brand spanking new cattle lot. This will be an area where the FB's will "work" the farmstead bovine.

If HH was a cartoon super hero, we would call him *insert creepy deep voice* Wondrous Welder!

Wondrous Welder has the masculine ability to cut through a rigided steel fence post with one swipe of his wrist. My heart be still!

This is the house that is located on that property. Isn't it a beauty? President Harry S. Truman was raised just 60 miles from there. And it just so happens to be the house that BDW (Big Daddy Wayne) called home for many years. I love it!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Farm Boy & The Young Lasse......

2009-06-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

It was a radiantly beautiful spring day in S.E. corner of Saline County. One of those days that just seemed like everything would go your way, an absolutely perfect day! HH was diligently plowing up the fields, getting ready to plant some much anticipated corn crop, and becoming well educated by the Johnny Dare Morning Show when... When he noticed a little girl wondering around a near by pasture. "Now that is peculiar" he thought pondering to himself.

Just then this fearless Young Lasse began meandering towards his catastrophic tractor.

The child was unafraid, she strutted right up to his green and yellow machine and declared "Pardon me sir, would you mind giving me a short little ride around the field?". HH gladly obliged her inquiry, simply stating "Load up little lady"!

The Farm Boy and the Young Lasse had an exquisite time gallivanting around the fields in the tractor. The Lasse enlightened the FB about her worldly travels, mystical feline friends and a devotional love towards all JD equipment. This FB was so impressed by her vast knowledge of things good and holy, they became instant BFF's!

Before their departure, both made a pack by solemnly pinkie swearing, that the Farm Boy will meet up with the Young Lasse every spring and fall to ride around in the tractor for the next 87 years.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Show-Me Some Green And Yellow Baby!

2009-06-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

Ah pure farming bliss has arrived! The clouded heavens have parted ways for almost a week now, letting the exuberant sunshine peak through.

This has given the FB's (Farm Boy's) ample time to finally get some ground covered. They have been able to successfully plant since Sunday! Yes, that is 6 consecutive days of planting corn this year. The affiliates at Guinness Book have already contacted me to start drawing up this years "World Record" papers.

Have a Lovely Day,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: Week 26 Belly Shot to appear this weekend!

Muscular, Rugged, Able-bodied, Robust, And Vigorous

2009-06-10T14:25:00.001-07:00

Do you notice anything odd in this picture? No not the fact that I am not driving the tractor! Although that is a tad far fetched from the norm. However, I found it exceptionally rare that there were lush green Deciduous Trees vastly growing everywhere in this bottom ground. Yet you have one sole Birch Tree protruding directly towards the heavens.

I soon discovered that this tree was the lone ranger of sorts. Not caring what all the other trees looked or even swayed like. It was brawny and bold, and posed proudly for the camera. Just look at the spread on that thing! The circumference was of astronomical proportion.

Ta Ta for now my elusive Birch Tree. Till we met again this fall!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Fire Up Your Engines!

2009-06-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

The fields are partially dry, Tie-Rods are greased up, Shovels have been replaced, Tire Pressure has been checked, All of my stilettos are now in proper storage, and the fuel has been added to all large farm based equipment! We are ready to start planting some crops again! This has been a late spring planting season for the farmstead this year. Mother nature has decided to dump gallons of H20 on our 100 acres repeatedly. How rude, I know.

Yet, I can't help but ponder? Could this infact be a blessing in disguise? You see we are going to be expecting the arrival of our precious infant the end of August. Normally that would be just about the time for Fall Harvest to begin. BUT this year, we are behind schedule, thanks to Mother Nature, we shouldn't be able to get into the field until after our due date. Could this be a Divine plan? I would like to think so!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Waterloo, Home Of The Deere......

2009-05-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

Here are some more random pictures of the John Deere Tractor Factory at Waterloo, Iowa. Put on your hard hat, obey all of the safety precautions, and get ready for the Green Tour!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

HH Is Visiting His "Happy Place".....

2009-05-12T11:36:00.002-07:00

Since my hormones have been extremely inconsistent here lately, HH decided that he needed visit his "Happy Place"! This just so happens to be 5.5 hours north, in land of the windmills.

He was thrilled to see all of the Green and Yellow Machinery that was arranged along the assembly lines. Happy as a Lark, he was!

Can you tell which part of the tractor this belongs too?

Yes I know, I really can't tell either. I begin to get dizzy after so many Green and Yellow streaks splattered everywhere.

They definitely get props for cleanliness!

HH really did a wonderful job taking pictures for me. I have many more to show you, but that will be for another post.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: Tomorrow I will be revealing a picture that I have hesitated to post for quite sometime. I think I have finally mustered up enough courage to post a, a, a, a, well, you will have to wait and see. Oh the agony!

Sensational High!

2009-05-12T11:36:00.001-07:00

Now ladies, you know how you would never hesitate to lend one of your darling BFF's a lovely pair of your stiletto's or perhaps a decadent evening clutch, all for the sake of fabulocity!

The fact that you would go out of your way to make a friend look and feel their absolute best gives you a warm tingly feeling inside.

It was all because those tiger striped heels paired wonderfully with that alligator skinned purse, that really made your friend lite up the room when she entered!

Which in turn makes you act just as gitty in your barn jeans, mud boots, and half torn tee-shirt. Yet you don't care, you just contributed to the immaculate sensational high that your buddy is currently experiencing.

When sheer bliss is ultimately reached, your expectations have been successfully met! However, I really can't see how a track-hoe could make you climax to the same level that impeccable style could reach?

Yet each to their own! HH definitely enjoyed moving this piece of machinery down the road to park it safely at the farmstead. So basically he experienced approximately 7 and a quarter minutes of pure exuberance.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Program Note: FF could see how the sun roof would be an impressive feature that would make it some what exhilarating to cruse around in. And I am sure that Baby Boy will love to ride with Daddy when he gets older.

Speaking of Baby Boy is 20 weeks along already! He is definitely growing like lambs quarter, FF just keeps expanding about every 2.8 days.

Frolicking In The Fields!

2009-04-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Do you know what NH3 stands for on the periodic table of numerous elements? I will give you a hint, it is a stinky gas like substance that you shouldn't put in direct connect of any palomino pony. It is a rank smelling phenomena that can only be handled by the professionals. Not drug dealer professionals only farmer professionals, don't be confused.

That's right ladies and gents, we are talking about Anhydrous Ammonia. Look closely at the white tanks, they are filled with NH3. This "organic matter" gets shot into the ground by the big blue Anhydrous Applicator, placing billions of nutrients throughout the soil. Thus helping the crops grow big and strong for next seasons harvest.

The putting on of NH3 is a very important piece of the puzzle, when it comes to our farming lifestyle. For those of you who have been following my daily jaunts for quite sometime, you have began to see a pattern develop in our farming community (that everyone runs green equipment, good guess silly readers). You have seen that we are keepers of the land, we do whatever it takes to enhance our yearly crops. NH3 is one of those special stepping stones that the farmstead takes in order to benefit the land for the next generation.

Speaking of "Next Generation", we find out on Monday what little farmer we will be having...

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Holy Heat!

2009-03-11T13:22:00.001-07:00

When you live in the country, you just never know what types of things that you will come across. For instance, I was out on one of my daily jaunts and found this arsonist attempting to ignite a brush pile. Innocent, perhaps. But I decided to investigate this "man of fire's" skillful tactics. These were my observations:

As you can see, the flames are beginning to escalate.

The scorch is now illuminating the Southwest portion of Saline County!

I sense a glimpse of disappointment from the arsonist, you see, the blaze has taken a turn for the worst! The fire is starting to smother itself out.

I believe it's time to call it day. Man, it's hard playing with fire!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

What On Earth Is This Bloody Contraption?

2009-02-25T13:25:00.001-08:00

No, this is not a alien space craft sent to earth to capture all of the neon squire population. Infact, this is a John Deere 4730 Self-Propelled Sprayer, I think. This machine has a 800 gallon tank capacity, a 100 ft. of boom width, is GreenStar™ Ready, has a cab air quality system, SprayStar™ on-board diagnostics, 245 hp turbocharged PowerTech Plus™ 6.8 L TIER III diesel engine, and has the ability to grab objects weighing up to 3 tons, with its massive arm span (don't make it, or the man operating the machine disgruntled, bad things may happen). This is one bad **s machine!

Can you see the astronomical size of this beast?

Passed this point a raping voice is required
____________________________________________

Ya, I'm a working farmer.
How do you do?
I got a little farmstead rep n tale for you.
I'm so excited, it's my favorite time of year.
I love to spray the ground,
whacking weeds that are near.
But don't clap your hands,
to the stompin of the feet,
because Yahey's like me,
he can't keep a steady beat.
no, m mm,

Did you ya see the big ol sprayer?
Did you ya see the big ol sprayer?
Did you ya see the big ol sprayer?
The sprayer that's kill'n weeds?

Oh Yeah, I went there...

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Sorting Cattle At Our "Dude Ranch"?

2008-12-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

It was a brisk December morning at our "Dude Ranch". The cattle were bellering, the horses were saddled, and the camera lady was on point.

Before we transported the cattle from point A to point B, certain issues had to be addressed. These issues are subject too, and yet could change at any given moment; certain fences needed to be properly adjusted and we all were given a specific place of origin in which to guard against all straggling cattle. Once the FB's (Farm Boy's) saddled up their dashing steeds, they were off to begin the sorting process. We waited in anticipation as we seen the cattle near.

Since the moon, stars and the galaxies were all aligned accordingly, the transportation of cattle went relatively smoothly.

Yet you must keep in mind, that although the FB's enjoy gallivanting with the horses, they unfortunately do not get to ride as often as they would like. So this was a relatively novice experience for them. This is the aftermath of the cattle expedition. Who do you think received the better end of the deal HH or Copper?

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Check out BDW (Big Daddy Wayne) cruz'n in his pimp cattle ride.

It's All About The NH3, Baby!

2008-12-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

The FB's (Farm Boy's) have been bust'n there booty's, trying to get the anhydrous put into the field before the ground freezes. Now this is quit a tremendous task, considering we only have 8 FG&B's (Farm Gals & Boys) that are helping around the farmstead right now. BDW (Big Daddy Wayne) and J.B. are moving tanks around aimlessly, HH and BIL are zooming around in the tractors forcing NH3 into the ground, Woody runs himself ragged, SMS (Sugar Momma Sherry) keeps the team grooving in the proper direction, SIL makes sure all of farmstead documents are in check, and I offer luscious treats and ludicrous embellishments of the farmstead life. What a impeccable balancing act that we all enforce.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Word On The Street Is, That It's Time To Blow Some NH3 Into The Ground.

2008-12-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

Yep, that's right, I'm not play'n. Since the harvesting of the crops has officially been accomplished successfully, it is now time to prepare for next years yields. Which consists of the spreading of NH3 or anhydrous ammonia (I watch the Science Channel and am aware of all the periodic table lingo).

If you look really close, you can see the big white tanks the tractors are pulling. Floating around inside of the tank is NH3, from the tank the anhydrous travels through a web like pattern of tubes until it finally gets propelled into the dirt. Ty and Sassy (the cute doggies) have been kind enough to model next to the aftermath of NH3 that has just been shot into the ground.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Local Farmer Friend

2008-12-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

Since it is nearing the end of November and there is beginning to get a piercing chill in the air, that is quite pungent. I have a tendency to "subconsciously" prepare for our hibernation months to come. Thus, attempting to stay in the comfort of our toasty humble-abode as much as possible (except for an occasional Starbucks run, of coarse). So when I received these pic's from a local farmer friend of ours, I was ecstatic! He must know that I suffer from arctic, bitter, frigid, numbing, polar weather phobia. Hence, not wanting me to trigger any physiological repercussions, from the 0 degree weather. He went above and beyond, sending us pictures of their harvest operation. Giving my alluring two readers, something besides recipes to enjoy. Thank you kind sir, for sharing your marvelous pictures with the farmstead.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Random Harvest Recap.

2008-11-28T06:56:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to take a moment and look back at 2008 harvest at the family farm

Trying To Finish Up With Harvest!

2008-11-24T10:05:00.001-08:00

Since this has been such an abnormal year for the farmstead, it has been a real challenge attempting to harvest all of the crops in a timely manner. But it is now time to toot our horns, sound the trumpets, and release the geese to fly south, our 294 acres are harvested! That's right you heard it here first. I give you full permission to go fling into a victorious cart wheel; it is time for celebration my friends!

Although there is still so much more to do before winter gets here, we can at least take a deep breath and begin to look forward to traveling to the tundra. Yes, that's right! The tundra, north country, my Norwegian kinfolk, the land of snow and ice. BRRRRRRR. I get cold just thinking about it. I realize that most people migrate south for the winter (I am still trying to mold HH's brain into this concept), but we load up the snowmobiles and face winter head on. The farmstead just gets gitty once we reach the north country every year. So let the countdown begin boys.....

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Moving Up North!

2008-11-24T10:03:00.001-08:00

We have farms that are spread out in various sections throughout the NW portion of the county township that we live in. So when it comes time to move all of the equipment to a different farm field, it is quite an escapade. We have to gather all of the family, neighbors, and even forth cousins once removed to help us transport all of the machinery. Now this gets interesting at times considering that the combines are the same width as the road (unless they decide to use the flutter button).

This particular evening we were moving up north, each of us had our own designated jobs. The ladies of the farmstead had the esteemed privilege of pulling the header wagon with the beans heads. The intense pressure that we are under not to take out any mailboxes or light polls is extremely rigorous. But BDW (Big Daddy Wayne) has complete faith in the ladies of the farmstead.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

I Have Lost All Feeling In My Legs!

2008-11-21T07:07:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, BDW (Big Daddy Wayne) was cutting beans next to the grain bins. So I had an ingenious idea to climb to the top of the bins and look down onto the combine to take a picture. I wanted a different camera angle to show you all, instead of the "straight on shot" that I am used to. So I trudged up the the side of the bins in my overalls, with Ty (my precious little pup) worried sick at the bottom, awaiting anxiously for my return. Now it is a good thing that I am not afraid of heights because, I could have swore that I could have seen the Hermanoff vineyards in the horizon (which is approximately 508.5 Km away). It was an absolutely gorgeous site, with the leaves changing to all of the beautiful harvest shades. However, I am paying dearly for that little venture today. I am currently walking around the farmstead like it was the first time I have ever rode a horse. Bow legged and all. Ouch. But it was so worth it.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

News Flash: Breach In Security At The Farmstead.

2008-11-18T07:17:00.001-08:00

The farmstead is on lock down! As you all know, we keep high surveillance around each and every farm that we are responsible for. There is always at least one armed guard (when I say armed, I mean packing a machete) that is assigned to each of the family farm fields. Each guard has had to endure countless hours of brutal training, before they are fully prepared to even guard the family dogs, let alone be sufficient enough to defend a family farm field. For precautionary measures really. You never know when a suspicious punk may be lurking, trying to steal a corn stalk or two from the fields. But someone, has beaten the system. Someone has out witted the exceptional expertise within our security. Someone has gone above and beyond the mental capacity of our men. Someone that has to have the strength of a grizzle bear to over power any of our top notch troops.

You see, there has been a paparazzi among us. These pictures were sent to the farmstead, with a ransom request of 500 yens. Now this was serious matter, how did this paparazzi find where we were combining? This had to be a person of great intelligence, because we always keep our farm movements on the DL.

So I decided to do some investigative work (I watch CSI), and found out this was all a false alarm. It was just a friend of ours Slammer-K, that was kind enough to e-mail some pic's of the FB's (Farm Boy's) in action. Thank you Slammer-K!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

What Is BDW Up To?

2008-11-13T07:06:00.000-08:00

As you all know BDW stands for Big Daddy Wayne. He is the master mind behind the family farm operation. BDW is the man with the plan, he makes all of those really difficult decisions, that no one else wants to. Decisions such as: Should we move to the Hemmerspock farm? Should we sell those beans today? Should we put up a new grain bin by the old Indian battle site? Should I pick up Calamari or maybe some comforting Fettuccine with Artichokes and Beans for the FB's (Farm Boy's) for lunch today? Should I pack up the fam and go to our favorite little Caribbean condo? Such consequential decisions wouldn't you say?

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Round & Round They Go, Where They Stop Nobody Will Know.

2008-11-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

Well what can I say? My mind is literally going in twenty million, zillion different directions. For the last couple of days I have been studying the new 2009 Farm Bill. For those of you that do not know what the Farm Bill is, it is a voluminous amount of pages that goes over every aspect of farming that is broken down into abbreviations (such as DCP, CDP, CRP, LIP, RMPR, the list is never ending), and instills strick laws that must be followed, yet changes approximately every two hours. Now this can be tricky at times to brake down and try to obey. But when you have the mind of a quick thinking, witty, farmers wife things like amendments come naturally to you. Well other things come naturally to you too, like riding a bike with no hands, attempting to give yourself a pedicure while your 9 months and 19 days pregnant. Yep, thats how those daring farmers wives minds work.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Coming up soon, RODEO recap!

Check Out This Behind!

2008-11-05T09:32:00.000-08:00

I wanted to show you exactly how large this piece of equipment really is. Do you see how the width of this beast takes up the whole road. It can be intimidating when it is coming directly towards you! "Squish you like a bug" intimidating. But then I remember who is operating this gentle, green, giant of a machine, HH. And if he were to meet a car coming down the road, all he would have to do is hit the Emergency Flutter Button. Now when ignited, this allows the combine to propel into the air like a enormous flapping wasp. Basically leaping over any on coming traffic (I do not know who invented this feature on the combine, but it was truly genius). And that my friends, is one way that farmers keep the back roads safe for all motorist.

Keeping you Fascinatingly Informed,
Farming Fabulously

Heads or Tails?

2008-11-05T09:31:00.001-08:00

"Alright FB's, I am going to flip this quarter; Heads we pack up the equipment and head north to the Svensson Farm or Tails we call it a day, pick up the ladies and go into town for this evenings hoe down." Spoken like a true leader BDW.

Sincererly,
Farming Fabulously

Can You Hear Me Now?

2008-11-04T13:03:00.001-08:00

It really does amaze me how HH can multi-task so well! He operates a 90 ton combine, while talking into the CB, then switches to the Walkie-Talkie, next chatting on the telephone (were I am sure that he is ordering me some surprise orchids), then he flips a wheelie with the combine and goes about his business. The man is truly amazing, I am one lucky women! But seriously, he is a multi-tasking machine.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Ah, Auger....

2008-11-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

What on earth is going on in this picture? Is corn just falling from the sky? Or maybe there is a enormous giant named Herman that is emptying his pockets that are filled with corn? Or this could just be a combine auger that is unloading on to a grain cart?

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Wait, Stop, Come Back, I Want A Ride, Please!

2008-10-29T13:37:00.000-07:00

HH was combining the the countryside the other day, when low and behold, there were these two precious little girls following the combine. These are some John Deere loving girls, let me tell you. I know this first hand because, one of my closest friends used to baby sit for them. If the oldest little girl was exceptionally good that day then they would drive laps around the John Deere dealership, to look at all the tractors and combines. That was her reward, and she loved it. So this was an extra special day to see this combine in her back yard. As you can see both little girls were absolutely thrilled by HH's presence.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Fabulously Photo!

2008-10-28T07:27:00.001-07:00

My oh my, the FB's have been covering some ground the past few days. I have had to fuel up my mo-ped at least 11 times now, just trying to keep up. But I did get some pretty neat pic's of all them working their little booties off in the field. The combine that is heading directly towards me is driven by HH, and the combine that is heading in the opposite direction is being driven by BDW (Big Daddy Wayne). When they are on a mission, look out!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Woody's Big Debut!

2008-10-28T07:25:00.001-07:00

Meet Woody! He is a man of many talents! Woody is our "go to" man in the field. If we need him to operate a tractor that pulls the grain cart, he's there, if we need him to maneuver the semi-truck, he's so there, if we need if to run into town to pick up some Krispy Kremes, he wouldn't even hesitate being there. Woody's the man! Now on this particular day, he was driving the semi-truck. Now this is a very intensive position, I'm talking an incredibly high paced gig people. The semi-drivers park their empty truck in the field, jump out of it, then sprint into a fully loaded semi that is filled with corn or beans. They dash towards the nearest grain bin to unload their precious cargo. And then back to their finally destination field. Keeping in mind that they have to be extremely precise on which gravel road they meander down. Because ingoing semi's come in on a certain road and outgoing semi's need to depart on an exterior road. When one Ying's and the other Yang's, kapesh! Woody has mastered every aspect of the farming criteria and we thoroughly appreciate everything he does.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Meet Cowboy Rob!

2008-10-21T06:27:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be appropriate if you all met the harvest team. So for the next few day's I will be trying to introduce all of them individually. First up to bat is Cowboy Rob, his duty of choice is to drive the tractor that pulls the grain cart. Now, Cowboy Rob resides in Alabama, but comes to Family Farm every year for harvest. He sure does enjoy pulling the grain cart and what the plus is that he is marvelous at it. A real speed racer, if you will. He can transport the grain from the combine to the semi-trucks, a mile away, in 93 seconds flat (He currently is holding the farm record). Cowboy Rob has been a huge asset to our team, and we hope that he will continue to come help the farmstead for years to come.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Oh my, does Cowboy Rob have someone riding with him? That is a person of interst, I wonder who that could be. Hmmmm? I need to ponder on that.

Greasing Up The Grain Cart

2008-10-17T07:54:00.001-07:00

Before the FB's can get into the field each day, they must inspect every square inch of each piece of machinery. They each whip out their fine tooth combs and get nasty examining all of the parts on the machine. Now this is a very time consuming process that sometimes last for hours on end. But the FB's are dedicated rising at 3:00 each morning to get the job done!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Combine's Are Meandering Around In A Maze Of Corn?

2008-10-17T07:52:00.001-07:00

Corn, Stalks, Corn, More Stalks, More Corn; It's everywhere! Since this years harvest is so late, the FB's (Farm Boy's) have had to kick it into double, triple, even quadruple over time. Trying to get all of the crops cut, dried, and put into their proper resting place in the grain bins, where it will stay until BDW (Big Daddy Wayne, formally known as FIL) gives the FB's the a-ok to move it out. Time out, I am getting ahead of myself. But back to the narrative at hand. The focus now is CUTTING THAT CORN! It's time to hustle, put those game face's on.

*Ring* *Ring* Please excuse my rudeness, but I have to cut it short, HH just called and I have to move the diesel tank.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Seafood recipe will be posted soon...Stay tuned...

Time For A Game Plan..

2008-10-14T08:51:00.001-07:00

Each morning before the FB's (Farm Boy's) venture into the the field, they gather around this imaginary circle and discuss there plan of attack to harvest the corn. Now during these intense little "pow-wows" they will be brain storming through many different strategical methods, seeking out only the most efficient approach. This of coarse is unbeknownst to the common eye of the average person passing by. So when you are wondering around the vast countryside at approximately dawn, right before the fog is ready to lift and happen to come upon a cluster of trucks, gathered around like a sphere. You can give out a slight chuckle and tip your cup of Joe towards those business men in overalls. For you now know that the friendly farmers are contemplating what there strategy of the day is going to be.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Beautiful Harvest Morning!

2008-10-08T08:07:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful harvest morning. The combines had been torqued, greased, and lubed up ready to roll. All of the FB's (Farm Boy's) were gallivanting around anxiously ready to CUT SOME CORN, BABY. Enthusiasm was felt throughout County/State/All of America. I know all of you farmers out there can definitely relate to this! When your in the field, it's like you are in the zone (like Brett Farve throwing you a winning touch down pass zone), it's a passion that is indescribable to most. But once you witness the intensity of a desire to harvest the land, it really is remarkable!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

FIL's New Baby.....

2008-10-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

It was a astronmical day at the farm! FIL's new baby arrived early this A.M. The trumpets sounded, the butterflies were released, and I was suitably dressed in my gown and bonnet. The crew has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new John Deere 9530 tractor for past years, months, days, even hours. This has been a highly anticipated moment for the farm.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Semi-Trucks Are Ready And Roaring to Go..

2008-10-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

The trucks were lined up eager to be filled with corn and ready to transport it to the closest destination grain bin. You could hear the engines roar with an adrenaline like force. My heart goes an extra piter, pat just thinking about the rapid pace that the FB's (Farm Boy's) endure every year when harvest rolls around. If I only had a pair of pom poms and a charming little cheer leading ensemble, I would so do an encouraging routine. In fact it would go something like this "Fire up the combines, roar up the trucks, it's time for harvest, so lets get fired up!". Excuse me for acting a little goofy, I just can't help it sometimes.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Much Anticipated Harvest Has Finally Begun!

2008-09-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

What an adrenalin rush was felt throughout the farmstead. There was numerous hoots, hollers, yipes, and yeahs; wonderful shouts of excitement because WE ARE FINALLY IN THE FIELD harvesting corn. I have been waiting 1 month, 19 days and 11 hours and 23 minutes to say that. Golly that felt exhilarating! Any who, the FB's (Farm Boy's) are back to their no holds bar routines. AKA no play and all work! These guys sure are on a mission, they have over 100 acres to cover before the first snow. So we all need to get our booty's in gear to get this years crop out of the field on time.

The picture above is a combine and a tractor "dumping on the go" (this is when both machines are continually moving and the combine is dumping corn into the grain cart). I am driving the tractor pulling the grain cart and HH is maneuvering the combine. *Chuckle* *Cackle* *Snort* *Giggle* Excuse me, sorry for that little on screen outburst. Actually Cowboy Rob is behind the wheel of the tractor pulling the grain cart. Cowboy Rob comes to the farmstead every fall to help us harvest all of the crops. He is one of the best motorists around, very skilled! And apparently HH thinks he can drive the tractor better then me. Which I really don't mind, I would rather go and get a pedicure any, and I really do think that HH understands that. Maybe?

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Guys Taking a Timeout.

2008-09-23T05:38:00.001-07:00

Everyone needs a break every once and awhile. These guys are taking alittle timeout, some R & R, a must needed leisure time if you will.

Hauling to the Ethanol Plant

2008-09-17T06:45:00.000-07:00

So ladies and gents grab your JD ball cap, pink work boots, Ray Band sun glasses; and lets take a road trip, shall we? Trafton put the semi-truck in 19th gear and we speed off toward the northern portion of the county. Well kind of! We were Ethanol Plant bound. Go Ethanol!

We are ginormous supporters of everything Ethanol. Hence the fact that one day hopefully in the next 24 days I will get my "Lets Talk Ethanol" page up and running. I am really not a procrastinator! But time really has gotten away from me this year and the fact that Trafton is going to be chatting about Ethanol, not me. Why, you ask? Well, I will be too busy in the kitchen experimenting with recipes to chat about Ethanol. Besides he knows more about Ethanol then I do. ( I know nothing, just that I have to use it!) Trafton talks fact, were as I talk fiction! I thought it best to hear his perception of Ethanol. Stay tuned.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Trafton's in Full Welding Mode

2008-09-09T07:41:00.001-07:00

The grain bins are now up, but there is still so much to do before they are running properly. Trafton is working on welding a return spout! Looks a little tricky doesn't it? When ever you are laying cockeyed on the ground, with a scalding hot rod in your hands, with sparks flying out from every different direction, I get a bit nervous. I made sure to emphasize the importance of not burning yourself to Trafton. You see, he is getting ready to celebrate his birthday this weekend and I will have the camera posed and ready; So Mr. Trafton no cuts, scraps, gashes, Allowed! However, if I was a bet'n women, my money would probably go towards the accidentally self inflicted pain.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

How Electrifying!

2008-09-04T07:42:00.000-07:00

The grain bin is now up! So what's left to do? Get the internal juices flowing! So that means we need to call upon; the man with the electrical plan, in other words Uncle Mike. He has that "spark" touch to get the grain bin up and running. But it is like anything else on the farmstead, a group effort.

Look at all those wires, there everywhere. But I am sure that Uncle Mike has everything under control, he's not scared! After all he is only dealing with 1.2 gigabila bit of electricity. DANG. But the task at hand needs to be complete, and Uncle Mike is willing to do the death defying work to get it done. Well not really death defying, per say; The electricity is off while they all work, its all good. Safety first after all; because basically I don't handle injuries well.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

In The Beginning

2008-09-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

Since the grain bin is now up and running, I thought I would post some early pic's when the bin was just a glimer in Trafton's mind; before it rose 13,243 feet in the air. The finished product will be revealed soon..So I suggust that all of you toss all of your old, pint sized screens in the recycling bin (or give it away to a pennieless college student who would give it a good home), cause inorder for you to really comprehend this mammoth sized hunk of metal you will need to purchase a wide screen for your computer. Hey, this will be a good excuse to go and buy something new for yourself, come on splurge. We all must play our part to stimulate the economy, it's only ethical.

Sincerly,
Farming Fabulously

It's A Bird, Wait NO; It's a Plane, Wait NO; It's FIL

2008-09-02T06:14:00.001-07:00

I was meandering aimlessly around the country side this afternoon and came across FIL leaping wildly across the grain bins. Hurdling along the down spouts were even no obstacle for this ambitious young youth. The fact that FIL was over 13,287 feet in the air didn't even seem to phase him.
All of a sudden it hit me like a freight train! FIL was quite anxious to finish up construction of the new grain bin. Someone needed to watch over those bin workers, keep them in line, ensure that they stay focused for their job at hand, and FIL was just the man for the job.

I will be posting the pic's of the completion of the new grain bin soon.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Back to the Bins

2008-08-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Since Trafton and I decided to go vacationing last weekend, we really missed out on all of the excitement around the farmstead. The grain bins really took me by surprise. It was relatively tiny when we left, now its freak'n enormous! And it's still not done yet, I can't even imagine how big the finished product is going to be. But what I do know however, is that if I were to climb to very top of this new grain bin, I am sure I would be able to see all of my family in Wisconsin. Shoot, I could probably even see the birds nest in Beijing...Really...

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Durning The Early A.M. Hours

2008-08-21T08:01:00.001-07:00

It was another one of those early A.M. mornings when Trafton was up at the crack of dawn getting ready to haul a load of corn. Or was it beans? I really was not functioning that well, it was too early in the A.M. If you look closely, you can see the dust rising up from the trailer. What a sight, you have a tendency to take advantage of moments like these. I mean this A.M. all was still, expect, the roaring of the grain bins. You can hear the massive power behind the machine. You do not hear city sounds like; the traffic zooming by you, the sounds of horns honking at each other, not even the occasional paper boy yelling at the corner. Nope all we were hearing this A.M. was the rumble of the bins.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

FIL's On A Mission!

2008-08-15T05:35:00.001-07:00

I caught Fil on a mission! I don't really know what the mission is persay, but I know that he is on a mission! The way he was scooting with his tractor, he has to be on a mission of some sort! I wonder if he was mowing road banks? Or maybe HH got the four wheeler stuck and he has to be pulled out? Or maybe he is going to check on the horses? What ever he is doing, hopefully he will complete his mission and it will be a success. Best of luck Fil. Best of Luck.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

The Grain Bins Are Growing

2008-08-14T10:30:00.001-07:00

Well, the grain bin remodeling project has officially begun! These are some pretty nifty snap shots that HH took yesterday. Poor Trafton after, I begged and pleaded and began to sob alittle, he finally climbed up the 105 foot ladder and took these pictures. These guys were hard at work, but this crew loved to gab while they worked. They are a comical bunch.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Mowing The Road Banks

2008-08-12T10:05:00.001-07:00

It's one thing to make sure that your crops are looking up to par, meaning no weeds (that is why Bert sprays) in the field. But it is completely another to actually go above and beyond to make the grass around the field look nice. By mowing the road banks, I think it only emphasises the crop in the field. By manicuring the grass, the corn looks taller, sturdier, buffer (?), and the beans look fuller, stronger and darn right beautiful.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Bonding By The Bins

2008-08-12T10:04:00.001-07:00

As you all know, my grandmother and my father came to visit last weekend. And even though the temperature was 109 degrees, the guys were still outside working on something ( I really do think that they are addicted to work, they love to stay busy). Anyway, pictured here is my dad and Trafton (aka HH), chill'n, watching the corn beginning dumped onto the trailer. Being at the homestead, my father was completely out of his realm. He is a tried and true city dude. So observing all of the bins, sheds and what really blew his mind, the gigantic machinery! This was a huge eye opening experience for him, that he thoroughly enjoyed.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Caught Bert Spraying!

2008-08-08T05:49:00.000-07:00

I wondering around the wilderness and low and behold there was someone spraying in the field, it was Bert! I slammed on the brakes of the Dodge, backed into the field and snapped a picture of Bert hard at work spraying. Is the sprayer a massive machine or what? I can walk under this machine and not even have to duck my head. I know, I know, I am only a whopping 5'4 inches tall, but seriously, it makes me feel very tiny when ever I'm near the sprayer. Thank goodness, gracious that I am not in charge of spraying, Bert can handle it like a champ. Me, not so much!

I will be posting a recipe this afternoon that was given to me from my dear friend Markie. Stay tuned! And thanks for sharing Markie, I love to get tried and true family recipes.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Laying Cement For The Bins

2008-08-07T05:32:00.001-07:00

This morning the boys were laying cement for the new bin. Doesn't that look like a dirty job? Trafton woke me up before chickens should be clucking in the early A.M., too take this picture.

Don't get too hot today guys. Be sure to drink lots of fluids, you must stay fully hydrated in this 109 degree weather.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Handsome Honey Is Just A Cruz'n

2008-08-04T06:16:00.002-07:00

Within the next couple of months, the guys are planning on building a massive grain bin. Which I am very ecstatic about, because I love taking pictures of these shining beauties. Trafton has been attempting (with the rain, it has became difficult), to flatten out a large enough area in order to begin building. Wouldnt that be horrible if the bin was crocked? I would have to stop taking pictures of the grain bins, there would be nothing worse then a leaning tower of pisa looking bin. But I know HH would never let that happen.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Welding On The Bin's.

2008-08-04T06:16:00.001-07:00

My HH is a master welder! Look at how nice of a job he did welding this metal together. Trafton loves, *heart*, loves working with metal. Although he would never admit it, he just shrugs and says "it's all right". But he is in the shop all time, so he can't fool me. Silly boy.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Tomorrow

2008-07-22T07:32:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow will be a day of chatting! So prepare yourself, sleep well tonight, even take long naps today. Take all of your B-vitamins tomorrow so you will be wide a wake and ready to read all of our creative, sometimes even mischievous situations that we have encountered over the weekend. So go, right now, take a siesta and relax, we have a big day tomorrow.

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Cleaning Out The Bin...Yucky...

2008-07-22T07:32:00.001-07:00

BIL In The Sprayer.

2008-07-22T07:31:00.000-07:00

Hauling A Load Of Beans..

2008-07-22T07:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we are loading up the SUV and are hit'n the road...I will be posting some farm pictures for the next few days till I get Internet signal again. I hope you are all having a fabulous summer.

Sincerely,

Farming Fabulously

No Internet, what will I do?

How The Heck Do You Hook Up A Head?

2008-07-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

Have any of you ever seen how you attach a bean head or corn head to a combine? Before I started dating my HH, I just assumed that the combine was one big unit. And I will admit, I had absolutely no clue that there was even "heads" that fit onto the combine, let alone different kinds. So the first time I seen the combine without its "head" attached, I was freak'n out. I assumed someone had did some major damage to this massive piece of equipment. Dude seriously, that is going to be an expensive piece to fix. But HH was there to explain to me, that everything was going to OK. The combine was made to have interchangeable heads. He was always so patient with his non-farm equipment girl.

Sincerly,

Farming Fabulously

You Asked, Now I Shall Deliver.

2008-07-11T05:38:00.001-07:00

During our last poll, I asked what all of you would rather see more of on my blog; Farm Equipment, Our Critters, Farm Family Photo's, or Cuisine. To my surprise, there was an over whelming response to Family Photo's ( I had my fingers, legs, even toes crossed hoping that it was going to be cuisine, darn the luck.).

So here is the game plan, I will lay out my black underamor attire, mesh cap, sneakers, and black army paint for my cheeks. Prepare myself for operation "Sneak up on the farming family, take some funky snap shots and then run like hell" hopefully I will not to pass out from the 109 degree weather. Well friends, I hope to have some dazzling pictures in the upcoming weeks. Stay tuned.

Have A Lovely Day,

Farming Fabulously

Opps!

2008-07-10T07:19:00.000-07:00

We had alittle Opps-A-Daisy yesterday at the farm. I was away on business, so I did not witness it. Unfortunately, I did not get the as soon as it happened shot. But these will have to do.

The story is as follows: It was a lovely summertime day, the birds were chirping, the fish were jumping around in the pond, the horses were sunning themselves, Ty had just killed a raccoon that was attempting to get into FIL's sweet corn patch, the day was almost too perfect...At approximately 11:45 AM it happened...HH had just went inside the homestead to fix all of the farm hands lunch (HH is a man of many talents), retrieved his handy 3ft pan (he has to make alot of pork burgers, these boys work hard, they need to eat to keep their energy up), he lit the gas stove, then POW, BANG, BAM; HH thought he blew up the house, Wrong. Once he regained consciousness he jetted to the back door then POW, BANG, BAM; HH hit the floor, (I think he thought that the terrorist's were bombing the family farm and they were after all of their crops?) then jumped up and attempted to exit the back door. It was stuck, he was a prisoner trapped in his own home. He heard yelling outside, then sprinted to the front door, (thank goodness it was open) darted to the side of the house (still alittle stunned) looked over to find......a large truck had ran into the side of the house. Opps. Apparently the truck did not want to stay in the parked position and blotted towards the corner of our home. Bad Truck. The nerve. Who knew a truck had a mind of its own. We put a band aid tarp over its wound, pick up all of the bricks, and thanked the good lord above the no one was between the house and the truck that decided to go on a rampage.

Sincerly,

Farming Fabulously

More pic's of the rebuilding process coming in the following days to come.

Another Issue At The Farm

2008-07-10T07:18:00.000-07:00

Well we had a bit of an issue at the farm today....Not as bad as what had happened afew years ago...As you can see...But still we had an issue...Will post tomorrow...Oh, don't worry; No one was hurt..After the twister we had that demolished all of the buildings and the house, everything else that happens seems pretty minimal.

Got Wheat?

2008-07-08T11:12:00.000-07:00

Well, it's time to cut wheat. Pictured is HH running the combine. It really is baffling how long a human being is physically capable of sitting in a machine. These boys can combine around the clock. But they are men, who for some reason, beyond their control, do not gain weight. Me on the other hand, would sit in the combine eat carrots and celery all day and would probably pack on an extra 13 pounds. How unfair. I guess that's why the men are in the combine and not us ladies.

FIL's A Raking Machine!

2008-07-07T05:43:00.001-07:00

Meet FIL. He is currently engaging on one of the toughest jobs a farmer must endure, raking hay. Now this is tough in my opinion only because of the fact that you must try to over come nature. Let me explain, he must render extreme heat on a tractor with no cab. No cab on the tractor means no air conditioning, I'll repeat that, it is 180 degrees outside, and poor FIL has no A/C. And to make the conditions even more treacherous, he must battle the enormous, pesky horse flies. Now we had horse flies in Wisconsin but nothing like this. I believe that the state of mighty mo has conspired against its people, to be driven loco by these horse fly creatures.

Poor FIL will push on! Because he knows this winter we must have hay to feed all of the critters. Let me tell what, he will do just about anything for the well being of his critters.

Be careful out there FIL!

Sincerely,
Farming Fabulously

Baling Hay

2008-07-02T05:35:00.000-07:00

Does this look like fun or what? HH is on a mission to get all of this hay out of the field, do you think he will get it done? His is a pretty determined fella when he puts his mind to something. Lets cross our fingers and wait and see.

The Bean Planter & The Corn Planter, Can You Tell The Difference?

2008-06-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

I finally can tell the difference. I will explain to you how I can tell these too planters apart. Well, the corn planter has numerous, yellow, little containers running along both sides of the planters back end. How do I remember that this is a corn planter well,,,,(Ok this is kinda kookie, but...),,,,When you think of a corn cob, it has tons of kernel's running up and down as seen below.

Hence, the Corn Planter looks like corn on the cob. Use your imagination...

If you have made it this far that means that you can either relate to my madness or think that I am completely insane. Either way, you must remember I did not grow up around tractors, combines, planters ect... So I am constantly learning and will continue to make up crazy little ways for myself to remember what the name of each machine is.

Continually Learning,

Farming Fabulously

Stay tuned for an education on the bean planter..Which from my point of view could become some what interesting.

The Beans Are In The Field

2008-06-27T05:38:00.001-07:00

Look at BIL go! He's just a cruz'n! He's going left, no, now he's going right, no, now he's gone. WHEW, sure is a good thing I am on the gator! He may be on a larger piece of equipment but the little gator can still try to keep up; I have to take an action packed photo. Look at the dust fly! And yes, if your wondering Ty and I are also covered in dust. She was my accomplice in crime helper today. We were undercover, incognito if you will. Well, mission complete. Success.

Exhausted,
Farming Fabulously

Covering Some Ground......

2008-06-24T06:44:00.001-07:00

Mark this down on your calenders we know have been able to run for 4 days in a row..Golly, I thought this would never happen this year...But summer is finally starting to peak through, hopefully putting an end to the rain for awhile.

Pictured above is the HH running the Salford and ______ running the field cultivator..They started out in the field right next to each other, then slowly started fading away in different directions as they followed each terrace precisely. Who is running the field cultivator? I am too far away to accurately see. Who is this masked man? Wait come back, who are you?

Can anyone guess who is running this field cultivator? If you don't know any of the our family farmers names than.,.,.. Make one up, use your imagination, what's a good "farmer's name"?

Back in the Field!!!

2008-06-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

That's right you read that correctly, WE ARE BACK IN THE FIELD! After what seemed to be decades of waiting out the rain, the good lord above has finally granted Saline County a break in the rain. We are up and rolling, look out!

The above picture is of HH in the field with his Salford, making little beds for all the mini beans to lay in. It's a tough job, but someone has to bring home the bacon. And I believe, for the most part, although he would probably never admit it, but he really does enjoy what he is doing. HH will continue to be involved with the family farming operation for years to come. So for years to come I will continue my roll as Farming Fabulously.

Have Lovely Day!

All The Pretty Corn

2008-06-17T05:38:00.001-07:00

Back in the day when I lived in the lovely state of Wisconsin, we used to judge how well the corn was doing to be by the old saying: "If the corn was knee high by the 4th of July, that the corn was going to be perfect come harvest". Well as you can see, it is June 15th and this corn patch has well exceeded knee high. But this just isn't any corn patch,.,.this is sweet corn! Juicy, succulent sweet corn. I yern for this vege of perfection every fall. You all have seen many of my recipe postings and I use a variety of various ingredients to spice up my dishes. But not when you prepare amazing sweet corn, it simply delicious solo (nothing added). It's making my mouth water just thinking about! Yummy!

Look What The Sprayer Did!

2008-06-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry this has nothing to do with Sassy (the dog), she just wanted to pose for the camera. In an earlier post we chatted about BIL and the sprayer. Well this is the after-math, the destruction of all bad weeds! Yes that's right, the sprayer has successfully demolished all the bad weeds. I found the discoloration in the weeds to be quite unique.

It really is amazing how you broaden your horizons once you become married. I would have never paid attention to weeds before! Or combines or tractors or even want to know what a Salford actually does. I was infatuated with horses, clothes, rodeo, living life care free, traveling all the time: Now I enjoy staying at home, TAKING PICTURES OF EVERYDAY FARMING, huh stuff ( for lack of a better word). And I love it!!!! I can't help but remember leaving Wisconsin for the last time, coming to the Mighty Missouri for the first time. Knowing that I was on my own, for the first time: Having free reign, and looking for that cowboy that would steal my heart and we would ride into the sunset together. I am a strong believer in the fact that, everything happens for a reason (although, sometimes I question that reason). I still have my sunset, and I still ride off into the sunset, but instead of a horse, I am now riding a bright green combine...Now that is what I consider to be romantic.

You will have to excuse me, I was supposed to be talking about weeds and sprayers. I get a tad bit scattered at times. Oh well it's Friday, Oh the 13th at that. What a perfect excuse to act scattered.

Have a great day and be careful out there, (its Friday 13, 2008),
Farming Fabulously

Priceless

2008-06-12T05:44:00.001-07:00

The Salford

2008-06-12T05:43:00.002-07:00

How did he get in there? Or more importantly how will he get out of there? I told him to turn around and pose for the camera, however I was denied. But that doesn't stop me, no STINKEN machine will come between me and my man. Ok, that was wrong on so many levels. Forget I said that.

This machine is called the Salford, it is a vertical tillage tool. You would work the ground with this machine, before you would plant your soybeans. The Salford makes a tiddy little bean "like" bed for planting, this way the beans become nestled into the ground properly. Now let me ask you this? Do I sound smart or what? I really had absolutely no idea what this big hunk of metal was, let alone what it was used for. There I said it; now I feel better, YOU KNOW THE TRUTH. I actually had to call HH and ask, (I know how petty of me). Oh well, we can all learn together.

2008-06-12T05:43:00.001-07:00

Beautiful Rainbow

2008-06-11T05:42:00.001-07:00

I promised myself that I would only post one blog a day, well I am about to brake my own rule. I snapped this pic last night, we had a light rain and low and behold; a perfect rainbow over the farm bins. It was absolutely beautiful. This picture does the rainbow no justice. If would have climbed on top of the roof of our house, then up our fantasy chimney, I would have been able to capture the perfect picture. Instead I just stood back as far as I could and clicked. But trust me it was beautiful!

Back in Black

2008-06-10T06:00:00.001-07:00

All the trucks got a bath today, look at them glisten in the over cast sun. Hum, looks like rain again in the horizon. Does that surprise anyone? Anyway, I thought it would be a neat picture if I would line up all trucks, considering on this particular day there was such a variety of black trucks on the farm. Then I started thinking, I wonder if we would race what black truck would win? Then I giggled because I knew that mine would. Well at least I would hope my truck would be triumphant. With this line up of trucks, which truck would you want to see win the blue ribbon?

Can you say, Galvanized Steel?

2008-06-06T09:09:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Everyone, It's FRIDAY.....And OK, you caught me these pic's were taken earlier this spring (on a day when it wasn't raining, gosh I really miss those days), when the farm was moving bins around and fixing bins that were hit by the devastating twister. This particular picture was taken before the excitement began with the bins transformation. The large bin on the right hand side was way-laid by the roof of the house (dang tornado's), so it needed alittle makeover (bet you never would have thought that you would ever see, the words tornado, bins, and makeover all in the same sentence, I know I have a gift, or at least that is what I tell myself).

Directly behind the second bin, on the right hand side, there is a smaller bin that was moved to the left hand side, to be with the fellow bins that are his size (frankly he/the bins just wasn't blending in well with mighty bins, I think? Yeah right, that really doesn't make any sense, forget I mentioned that). AND back to the subject at hand; The little bin was successfully moved, and the concrete slab has been resurrected from the earth (which if anyone is in need of some busted up concrete, I can hook you up). Point being, the next step in the transition is pouring the concrete for the new, mighty bin. Will keep you posted with the progress as it unfolds..

TGIF,

Farming Fabulously

2008-06-06T09:08:00.004-07:00

Becareful up there HH!! OH, Hey, By the way could you possibly look over your shoulder and tell me how the weather is in Katmandoo, India? Just wondering?

2008-06-06T09:08:00.003-07:00

2008-06-06T09:08:00.001-07:00

2008-06-06T09:04:00.001-07:00

2008-06-06T09:01:00.001-07:00

Spray, Spray, Spray

2008-06-06T09:00:00.001-07:00

Just imagine having this massive machine coming at you, at a speed that feels like moch something miles per hour. I normally would not put myself in a dangerous situation such as this but, I really wanted to show all of you a live, in motion shot (Do you see what I do for my loyal, bloggers). This time of year the family farm busts out what you see here, DUN-DUN, the sprayer. BIL is in charge of running this enormous piece of equipment. Although it looks rather deformed, this machine can cover some ground and gets rid of all those pesky weeds, that you should not see in any field. It serves it purpose well. You go BIL, you kill those weeds!

Yours Truely,
Farming Fabulously

The calm, after the storm...

2008-06-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

">

Last Saturday afternoon, we were pummeled by 100% chance of NO RAIN in the forecast. OK, worded that alittle funky. Let me explain. There was no chance of rain in the forecast on Saturday, the sun was supposed to be shining, I was supposed to be relaxing, sunning myself, enjoying the fact that I could get all dressed up in my new sundress and bonnet, (become a real girly, girl) and bask in all the glory of a Saturday afternoon with ladies, casually vineyard hopping.

Well it didn't quite happen as planned. We ended receiving up to 4 inches in places. In a time span of aprox..1.5 hours, now that's what you call a HARD CORE DOWNPOUR, (I would take a picture of all the gorgeous flowers that I planted this spring that were demolished, but its just so darn depressing for me to consistently look at, please excuse me while I shed a tear.) AND, back to the subject at hand, sorry. We were trapped like prisnors in our own homes. Only 1 of the 53 gravel roads going to our house, could be traveled on. The wind was howling, the branches were wiping against each other, and my poor Ty baby was worried that the torondo of 2 years ago was about ready to resurface. Thankfully the twister decided to spare our area for the time being. This picture was taken the following morning after the storm.

Tractors that need to be in the field...

2008-06-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

WOW, I think I am getting the hang of this whole blogging thing. How neat. This picture was taken this spring, by my husband. Since its been so stinken wet around here, they really haven't been getting any use out of them. But they sure do look pretty. He is very proud of the farms tractors, they are always spot less, (well unless of coarse there working in the field, but thats a given). I can only wish that one day he would keep the inside of the house half this clean, until then I guess that's my job, oh well.