Farm Life

The Eternal Love We Have For Our Children

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How much do our children mean to us?  As a mother, I think our children are at the top of our priority list.  They cannot be replaced, they make us proud, you love them unconditionally, you simply want them to be happy.  Nobody else will ever know the strength of love that we have for our children.  They are the only ones to know what our heart sounds like from the inside, imprinting on us immensely right from the start.

I have 2 wonderful sons, now in their early twenties, living their own unique lives independently.  They will probably not understand, until they have children of their own, how loved and meaningful they truly are to me.

In those early years, I think a lot of us do not comprehend the significance that we make in our parents lives.  It wasn’t until I become a mother, that I truly did appreciate and re-evaluate the extent of the relationship with my parents.  I think it is then, that I finely appreciated and formed a lasting friendship with my own mother.  To watch a grandmother display her love and affection to her new grandchildren, is the most beautiful and selfless act one could see.

My sons were fortunate to have been raised on a farm too, giving them the freedom and space to evolve.  Boys and mud, went hand in hand, nearly every day.  I remember when they were newborns, all I wanted to do was stare at their beautiful faces and tiny helpless hands.  The love was overflowing, but also burdened with new responsibilities.

When my boys were toddlers and dragged along to cattle sales or farm outings, they would take their bag of matchbox cars and plastic farm animals.  I was always amazed how they created their own fun and their personalities were coming through.  They would make car tracks in the dirt and have pretend cattle sales in the background.

As they got older, there was always the inconvenience that they lived too far from town and never got to do the things that their peers were doing.  But weekly sport involvement, weekend entertainment and other extra-curricular activities, ensured they were able to keep up with things the best way possible.

Then they mature and find their own paths in life.  It gives me a sense of contentment and pride.  My work is done.  But they still need reminding in life, how much they are loved by us and that we will support them always.  No matter how big they get, they will always be our babies in our hearts and our love will be eternal.

Our children need to understand that when we say “I love you”… this is not by habit… it is to remind them that they are the best thing that ever happened to us and they bring us so much joy.  Mothers think about their children every single day at all hours, even if they are not with her.

There is no right or wrong way to raise children whilst ever we love them and want them to grow into loving respectful people.  Doesn’t matter if we breast-feed or bottle-feed… a single parent or a couple… work full-time with childcare or a stay-at-home Mum… or even live in the city or country.  One way is not better than the other.  There is no competition needed.

Each family is unique and each child is unique and that is what makes our lives so interesting.  No family is perfect… we all have our own problems and find our own way to work through them.  As a parent, just do the best job you can with the knowledge and expertise that you have.  And enjoy the process of raising your beautiful children to adulthood.

Take care, Karen.

“A mother holds her children’s hands for a while,

but their hearts forever.”

~ Author Unknown

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National Agriculture Day Nurtured But Revelations Exposed

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Have you eaten today?  Are you wearing something comfortable?  Did you put on some perfume or cosmetics this morning?  Thank you to our farmers, they are working hard every day… so we can eat and don’t need to run around naked.  (Scary thought huh!)  Today we celebrate.

It is my purpose to help you understand the direct relationship between food and agriculture, and the importance of food and fibre in our culture.  What you will find surprising in my blog is the revelation that, the extra products manufactured from raw agricultural products… and we use these items every single day.  What are they?

Today is the day to formally acknowledge Agriculture and the significant contribution that Australian farming and the agricultural related industries are making to ensure our nation is food secure and satisfying our community needs.  Nutritious Australian grown food and produce assures us of high eating quality, safe and affordable foods.  Food safety standards are in place to regularly monitor farming businesses to ensure our food supply continues to be safe and suitable for eating.

Farmers are feeding a hungry world, caring for the environment and creating important jobs in rural communities.  Through technological advancements and innovation, farmers are becoming more sustainable in quality and quantity and able to feed more people.  Not only are we provided with quality and healthy food products, we are also able to wear clothing made by our Australian-produced superior fibres like wool and cotton.

Wool is the textile fibre produced most commonly from sheep and Australia is one of the largest wool producers, producing about 25% of the global wool clip.  Merino sheep produce the finest wool.  Wool is a natural fibre with unique breathable but insulating qualities.  Wool is used in a vast array of clothing, from underwear to luxury suits.  Wool is also produced from other animals such as cashmere and mohair from goats, and angora from rabbits.  Some wool is also used to manufacture carpets, bedding and quilts.

Cotton is both a food and fibre product and almost all parts of the cotton plant are used in some way.  We use less land to produce more cotton than any other nation and the most water-efficient cotton producer globally.  Cotton is a soft, absorbent, non-allergenic and a breathable natural fibre.  About 60% of the world’s cotton harvest is used to make clothing.  The rest is used in home furnishings and industrial products such as tents, fishnets, book-binding, paper for bank notes, bandages, cotton buds and x-rays.

Cottonseed is mainly used to make cottonseed oil, margarine and salad dressings.  But it also is used in the manufacture of soap, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, rubber, paint and candles.  Cottonseed is also used to make stock feed which has been used excessively in the current drought, making it more difficult to meet the demand.

The Cattle industry is the largest farming sector in Australian agriculture, accounting for approximately 55% of all farms.  Although Australia is a smaller producer of beef, we are the second largest exporter of beef in the world.  We produce both grass and grain-fed beef.  Beef quality is determined by the size of the beef cuts produced from an animal and the marbling of the beef.  Australian beef cattle farmers produce 2.1 million tonnes of beef and veal each year, which is safe and of high-quality due to our industry standards.

Not only do we get to enjoy mouth-watering steaks and a variety of delicious beef products, many other products are also made from the cattle industry.  This is why the beef industry is so important (even if you do not eat much beef) as the manufacturing of other products makes it a very versatile industry.  Examples of other products include medicines, dyes, inks, adhesives, plastics, pet food, plant food, photo film, wallpaper, plywood, air filters, brushes, felt, insulation, plaster, textiles, fertiliser, charcoal, tennis racquet strings, hormones, vitamins, cosmetics, chewing gum, detergents, deodorant, shaving cream, perfume, lotions, paints, lubricants, biodiesel, cement, chalk, fireworks, matches and shampoo.  So yes, everyone is using some of these products every single day, thank you to the beef cattle industry.

Farmers are producing many agricultural commodities each and every day… wheat, grains, dairy, wine, sugar, horticulture products, fruit, vegetables, fish, pork, chicken, sheep and lamb, the list seems endless.  In Australia, 385,000 hectares are dedicated to farming land to produce our primary agricultural products.  Agriculture does make our world a better place.

So next time you are warm in your woolen jacket or wearing your comfortable cotton panties… give the farmer a second thought!

Next time you bite into your hamburger… please acknowledge the many hours that farmers gave, to provide you with a flavoursome experience of a nourishing beef patty, sizzling onions, crisp lettuce, tasty tomato, all held together on a bun enticed by our wheat farmers.

Every time you chew and taste a tender steak with a glass of wine… recognise how lucky we are to enjoy delicious, nutritious and top-quality food in our country.

Tonight when you shower… remind yourself that our agricultural industry helped me to wash my hair, lather myself with soap and apply our anti-aging moisturiser.

And on New Year’s Eve or at the Show… enjoy those fireworks, with a sense of appreciation to our farmers.

Today, we celebrate how agriculture makes our nation a better place.

For more information about National Agriculture Day see https://www.agday.org.au/

Take care, Karen.

“Farmers don’t just work til the sun goes down,

They work til the job gets done.”

~ Author Unknown

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Memories in Grief bear the Miracle of Life

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

That feeling when your heart is ripped out, the numbness, the intense sorrow, privately grieving the loss of a loved one.  Too many beautiful people have been taken from this earth, taken from their loving families.  The pain is so real and never leaves, over time you just learn how to tuck it safely away.

Today, for 2 reasons, I am inspired to write about grief and loss but also about the miracle of birth.  A blessing that manifolds during times when one feels so broken-hearted.

I was so drawn into the pain and despair experienced by a fellow blogger Blessed Moments -n- Memories.  I can’t even imagine the pain and sorrow she would be experiencing with the loss of her son.  As a mother, I know that would be the absolute worst pain ever to have to bear.  My heart broke for this stranger, my empathy was overflowing.  What a brave and honest women, to be able to share her pain in this modern way, to help someone else or to help heal herself or to honour his memory.  This beautiful soul also announced of the miracle… she will soon celebrate the birth of her first grandchild.  Her words “As I continue to grieve for the loss of my son, I will witness a miracle” is simply stated and enormously heartfelt.

After reading and commenting on this ladies blog, I realised this was my topic for today, in memory of a dear family friend lost in a farming accident several years ago.  Today would have been his birthday.  A man who was so kind-hearted, helpful and the hardest worker I have ever known.  A man that was always there and a big part of my childhood, a dear friend of my parents.  I still remember those birthday cakes we used to make you and how you used to let us put little bows/ribbons in your hair when you needed a haircut (You were such a good sport!).  A man that never had a nasty word to say about anyone and was so selfless and thoughtful.  He is fondly remembered today and sadly missed by all his friends.

But his family, crushed by the sudden loss, a wife and 2 adult children pregnant with his grand-children.  Hearts broken as tragedy was thrown upon them, yet the strength that this family had, was incredible.  A husband, a father, and almost a grandfather… sadly gone.  The agony remains… but so do the memories.  Memories of good times, memories of a good man.  He is gone, but never forgotten.

His legacy now lives in his 2 beautiful daughters and his 4 grandchildren.  Never met but constantly and contently watching over them all from above.  These 4 little miracles brought into this world to give them all strength and courage to continue in life.  One by one, they arrive… a reminder that life goes on.  Two young ladies developing their new maternal roles, challenged, yet passionate mothers they are.  And a dedicated grandmother enjoying those children with laughter and delight, even in her husband’s absence.  I know he would be so proud of the loving family he now watches over… each and every one of them.

Surrounded by memories and a life to continue… acknowledged by this resilient family and my fellow blogger.  Strength is what you find when you have no other choice.  As mind, body and spirit are depleted… it is more important than ever to find the strength, courage and support to survive the turmoil.  Nobody can take those beautiful memories from you, so let them be the reason you will endure the pain.  And focus on the miracle of life and enjoy those little things with your loved ones.

Rest in Peace my friend.

Take care, Karen.

“You are BRAVER than you believe,

STRONGER than you seem,

SMARTER than you think,

and LOVED more than you’ll ever know”

~ A.A. Milne

(From the book Winnie the Pooh)

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Hardy Hereford Beef is the Boss

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Hereford cattle are renowned for their docility or quiet temperament.  But they will also give you excellent feed conversion, hardiness, good fertility traits, easy calving ability and outstanding growth.  These whiteface cattle provide high performance in the beef industry with excellent meat quality and marbling.  The new brand of “Hereford Boss” beef products, grass-fed and a result of consumer demand… lets us taste the difference.

Originating from Herefordshire in south-west England, the british breed of cattle were imported to Australia in 1826 and a year later to mainland Australia.  Further importations in the 1840’s is where it all began.

Hereford cattle are found across Australia in all extremes of environment due to their adaptability.  The hereford has the ability to perform well on a wide range of pastoral conditions, still retaining its good fertility, docility and a top-quality carcase.  The impact of drought on hereford cattle has proved their hardiness and fertility traits.

Their distinctive white face tends to dominate when crossed with all other breeds and was probably the feature, as the popularity of the breed was established.  Hereford and hereford cross weaners still seem to have the most efficient weight gain for age conversion.

Hereford beef has long been recognised for its superb eating qualities.  It is very exciting to have the new “Hereford Boss” brand, the most tender and flavoursome beef product produced in Australia and in the top 10% of all MSA graded beef.  “Hereford Boss” is uniquely grass-fed for life and the most natural beef product available.

The “Hereford Boss” program was developed in consultation with cattle producers, processors and most importantly the end users – consumers.  The program and grading gives consumers the confidence that the eating quality of the breed is consistent.  For more information on Hereford Boss and to taste the difference, click here.

Beef is good for you and it provides nutrients like zinc, iron, protein and B vitamins.  Plus half the fat found in beef is monounsaturated, the same healthy-heart fats found in avocadoes.  Just remember to save our beef industry and eat more beef!

Take care, Karen.

  “7 Days without beef makes one weak”

 ~ Author Unknown

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The Truth About Surviving a Farming Accident

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

MY TRUE STORY!  It was almost 4 years ago that our world came crashing down one sunny day.  Thankfully my husband did survive an on-farm ATV quad bike accident.  But a broken back resulted in him being laid up, leaving a 2000 acre property with livestock to manage.  It was with the support of our 2 sons that we managed through this ordeal.  We battled on, worked together, took on challenges and supported each other at a crucial time in all our lives.  It was at this time that I realised how lucky I was and how grateful I was to have a wonderful family.

Accidents happen ever so easily but unexpected.  As my husband travelled up a usual steep track to muster sheep, with a bit of extra weight of a new dog on the back and ever so quickly, the quad bike tipped.  A split decision to stay with the bike rather than bail out, was to save his new dog that was tied on the back.  Possibly in hindsight, not the best decision.  At some point he was thrown to the ground and watched in shock, dreading the outcome of his dog’s survival as the quad bike toppled over and over to the bottom of the gully.  He tried to walk, collapsing several times, but then he could see his dog sitting back on the seat of his bike waiting for his owner to join him again.  He felt relief for his companion, and crumpled to the ground once again.

Meanwhile, we are still mustering sheep for drenching and oblivious of the misfortune awaiting us all.  Somehow, without justification, he managed to mount his quad bike and slowly ride to the stockyards, then succumbed to the pain a final time.  I remember him being angry and frustrated that his “slight” injury was an inconvenience to the workload waiting for him at the stockyards.  He was outraged that I wanted to go to the house to call an ambulance.  His ill-temper instructed that he just needed to rest a bit then he will be fine.  I should have seen the sign… I only ever recall him becoming angry like this when he got kicked in the side of the head by a cow many years before and ended up with a concussion.  He has this notion to not waste the time of emergency services for a “little” injury.  Why is it that male farmers make the worst patients?

Everything then became a pandemonium, as 2 ambulances and 3 ambulance officers attended the scene and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service had been organised to transport him to Tamworth Hospital.  It felt like I was in a whirlwind of emotions… unable to comfort him, upset with myself for not being confident to take charge sooner, scared and worried about his future.  He was still talking about those “bloody” sheep that still needed drenching.

When confronted with the news that he had broken his back and the realisation that this is a very serious injury, his luck was substantiated with his survival.  Resulting in a back brace fitted, he was able to move about somewhat, but bed-ridden for 4 months allowing his spine to heal.  Only several days later he returned home, with strict instructions and an extensive care plan.  With me taking on the role as his live-in home-care nurse (without the sexy nurse costume!) and armed with his special hospital furniture aids, we tried to continue life as normal as possible.  Daily sponge baths became the norm and my life revolved around that “bloody” little bell ringing from the bedroom, alerting me it was time to “suit him up” with his back brace and get him up.  I take my hat off to all nurses, a job I would not have the patience for.  Four long months of dependency, monotony listening and trying to understand his frustrations, nearly drove me insane.

There were 2 great things that eventuated from my husband’s accident.  I was able to see the responsibility and support shown by our 2 sons.  Without their constant support, I don’t think we would have survived it all.

My eldest son, was surprisingly a pillar of emotional support.  He had been currently studying and working at the Defence Force, but was home on holidays at the time.  At 19 years of age, he just took charge and drove me to the hospital 3 ½ hours away and kept me grounded and focused.  We had no idea what was to come and how long we would need to be down there and my head was a complete mess.  To have his support those few days when I was at my weakest point with worry, was a god-send, giving me the strength to do what had to be done.

Simultaneously, back at the farm, my youngest son at only 17 years of age, took charge and drenched all of the sheep and carried on with the day’s tasks, worrying quietly about what might eventuate with his Dad.  Upon us all returning home, he stepped up and took on a managerial role with operating our farming business over the next 4 months.  He was still in his final year at high school and completing his HSC so it was a very crucial time for him.  Nevertheless he managed it all… a large property, livestock, machinery and still did very well in his HSC with great results and state-level agricultural and industrial technology commendations.  How on earth would I have managed it all without him?  He never ceases to amaze me, just how versatile and resilient he really is.

Ultimately we all survived this very stressful, frightening and tiresome time by relying on our strong family support.  I am ever so grateful to the angels watching over my husband that day ensuring his survival.  I knew it was far too early to take this great man from us.  He incredibly recovered, now walking with no limitations and his back is strong once again.  We also invested in a side-by-side farm vehicle for safety purposes which has also proved to be a more versatile on-farm vehicle.

The strength that our 2 sons gave us during this time, I am so thankful for.  We are so proud of the young men they have grown into and I am blessed to be able to share this “happy” outcome with you today.

Take care, Karen.

“Tough times never last, but tough people do.”

~ Robert H. Schuller

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Drought Support for Farmers is Valued

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At the end of the day… people won’t remember what you said or what you did… but people will remember how you made them feel.  They remember that you made them feel loved, safe, reassured, calm or hopeful.

The ongoing drought support from Australians have made farmers feel cared for, understood and valued.  It has given us the strength to battle on and reminded us of the importance of sustaining the agricultural industry.

Empathy is a fundamental aspect of humanity and the need for individuals to share their compassion has been seen on such a large scale this year.  The power of empathy is an action and ability to be compassionate and commit to relieving another’s suffering, also giving satisfaction to the provider to be able to make a difference.

Drought support has been vital and valued, whether it be monetary donations to charities, grocery items, emotional connections on Facebook or mental health support from charities and other organisations.  Farmers can’t thank the Australian community enough and portray the extent to which this is valued.  For every donated $1 value, the significance is multiplied to benefit the farmers by way of emotional support and affirmation to the industry.

Social media has provided a new platform for the emotional connection with complete strangers.  A platform that harnesses new friendships and still allows an understanding and connection never seen before.  The support provided to farmers is irreplaceable.  New friendships have been formed as farmers are emotionally connecting with empathetic strangers.

The power of this charitable support, through everyday Australians, has been enlightening for the agricultural industry and farmers in general.  To see the volume of people and businesses caring so much, proves the manifesto of the importance of empathy in action.  The capacity to show empathy is second nature and truly a wonderful gift in these tough times.

On behalf of all farmers, farming families and the agricultural industry, I want to thank each and every Australian person for their compassion and trust in us.

Take care, Karen.

“An industry that feeds you is an industry worth fighting for.”

~ Tierra Kessler

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Thank a Farmer Today!

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Today I want to acknowledge and thank all Australian farmers.  Thank you for the food you put on our tables.  Thank you for the clothes on our back.  Thank you to all those farmers who make this possible.

Farmers are feeding our families everyday, and now forced to take a second job off-farm to feed their own family.  Thank you to those endless hours that are worked and those brief moments they get to spend time with their children.

Agriculture is our nations largest employer, with 1.6 million jobs provided in the agricultural supply chain.  Australian farmers are producing enough food to feed 60 million people.  We are the 6th most food secure nation in the world, producing 93% of our daily domestic food supply.  This is an enormous feat too which makes me proud.

Thank you has been ever so evident this year… with the widespread onset of drought, everyday Australians in both city and country, caring about farmers and the future of the agricultural industry.  We have seen so many people donate so much of their hard-earned money.  We have seen grocery food items and toiletry items donated to support farmers and the wellbeing of their entire families.  We have telephone support from charities ensuring the mental heath of our farmers are protected and supported.  The compassion that has been shown is overwhelming emotionally and the connections with new people so pertinent.

Farming is a family business so it does take a sacrifice from all.  Thank you to those farming families that work the land, care for the animals and create jobs that feed and clothe us everyday.  A farmers job is never done and will always be needed.  So to all the farmers who work in acres, not in hours… we thank you!

Take care, Karen

“The farmer has to be an optimist or he wouldn’t still be a farmer.”

~ Will Rodgers

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Who am I?

/ Country Heart Spark / 1 Comment

Hi, my name is Karen and I am a little shy but friendly.  I am a first-time blogger and have been setting up my new blog on farming challenges and the inspiration within my journey in life.  Undecided and hesitant if I wanted to remain anonymous or be up front and reveal myself.  I stand by what I write and am sincere and honest… so here I am.

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I bit about me… I have strong family values and a strong work ethic. Reliability, honesty and self-motivation drives me. My life is devoted to my husband and our 2 adult sons. Their wellbeing is my number one priority. I value the importance of inner harmony and have a passion for personal growth and development.

I grew up on a small farm on the Mid North Coast and have owned properties in the New England and Central West regions before settling on a farm west of Tamworth. Involved with farming all my life, now in my 40’s and children all grown up, it is time for my own passion to be shared. The quiet peaceful lifestyle of farming is satisfying and the value of the hard work on-farm is significant.

Passion for the future of the agricultural industry is at the forefront of my mind and it is my intention to promote this and the connection to all communities nation-wide. I feel strongly that Australian’s care about our domestic food chain and sustaining the farming industry.

I am a member of the Country Women’s Association of NSW, the largest women’s organisation in Australia, and I support their aims to improve the lives of women and their families. Their vision resonates with me, in providing a forum for the voice of all women, encouraging the viability of rural communities and lobbying for change. Values of goodwill, friendship, support and understanding is important to me.

My real passion is personal growth and development, and an inner enthusiasm to inspire others through listening and sharing. By using my writing and this Blog, I intend to encourage others along their life journey as well.

For more information and to visit my website Country Heart Spark, please click here

If you would like to receive my blogs by email or contact me, please click here

To follow me on Facebook, please click here

I hope you enjoy the ride with me.

Take care, Karen

The Cute Factor

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It has been a long day.  Plenty of on-farm jobs today and stock work.  Sometimes we just need baby animals to remind us that not everything in this world is terrible, that things will get better for us, eventually.

On a downer… a lovely bull we had purchased has an injury and looks like he probably won’t get over it, probably nerve damage.  So if it is not the drought, it is something else to bring you down.  Just another kick in the guts.  And more money down the drain.

But on the flip side, I am able to find something to distract me and lift my spirits…I love newborn calves.  Our latest addition and the last calf to be born for this year.  The joy and hope, this little bull calf brings us today.  Why is it that the presence of baby animals have the ability to cheer us up?  Maybe it is the pure innocence, the curiosity or the cute factor.  Just look into their cute faces and feel the love.

Take care, Karen.

“EVERY DAY MAY NOT BE GOOD… BUT THERE IS SOMETHING GOOD IN EVERY DAY”

~ Alice Morse Earle

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Make a Difference Today

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Have you ever wondered why do certain people come into our lives?  I believe everything happens for a reason and we are meant to meet some people to make a difference not only in our world but the bigger community as well.  One person can lift your spirits and give you hope and bring a smile.

Some people have the ability to boost a person up so effortlessly, their confidence and hope of things to come.  I love people like this in my life and I also get self-satisfaction from being able to make someone else feel good momentarily.  Our words and actions may not make a big difference in this world, but it can mean the world to just that one person.  It can lift the spirits of that person, encourage them to take that step, give them confidence to have a go and feel proud of their efforts.

With the stress of farming at the moment, the extra workload of feeding stock and the financial pressure, the need to lift spirits is more prominent.  The support of the Australian people and through the charities, we have all witnessed the uplifting this generosity has endowed.  Thank you does not reflect the overall feeling and the intensity that this kindness bears upon farmers.  As a farmer had been donated 10 bales of hay or a load of tank water or a bag of groceries …the emotions within are erupting.  It may be considered a band-aid solution and it will not pay that farmers bills or feed their stock for long.  But more importantly, it shows that others do care about farmers, care about their wellbeing and care about the future of Australian produce.

It doesn’t matter what line of work we are in or what walk of life we are from, everyone needs a helping hand at some point in their life.  It might only be a smile we give a stranger at the grocery store or an acknowledgement of their existence… it can make a big difference.  Everyone is going through something… life is not perfect.  We just need to boost each other up, instead of tearing each other down.  It is a win/win situation for all.

If we can all just help one person feel a sense of satisfaction or wellbeing, it will not only improve their life but also have a domino effect.  Be the reason that someone smiles today.  Make a difference!

Take care, Karen

“Hope gives us courage to do those things that we don’t believe we are capable of”

~ Noelle Pikus-Pace

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