Farmsteading Part I: The Dairy
Whispering Pines Farmstead (aka Owen Farmstead)
In the old days, it was not unusual to have a family cow for milk, butter, and cheese. Today we have more scientific knowledge and advantages over our predecessors, mainly electricity. Michelle Owen graciously shares her experiences with their family cow, Maggie Moo. In the banner photo, Primrose (left) is the daughter of Maggie Moo (right). Please watch our short video below.
We will revisit the farmstead three more times this year!
Summer: Gardening & Chickens
Fall: Soaps & Crafts
Winter: Winterizing & Preparation for the Next Year
Maggie Moo and Maverick (bull calf who became a steer)
Cattle Terms
Cattle are members of the Bovine family, which also includes bison, oxen, water and African buffalo, elands, 4-horned antelope, and more.
When born, female cattle are called heifers.
When born, male cattle are called bulls.
When “fixed” (unable to reproduce), bulls are called steers.
When heifers give birth to a calf, they are then called cows. Only a cow gives milk and she must have a calf every year to keep producing milk.
Just born — on Valentine’s Day.
Valentino, bull calf
My Testimonial
I am fortunate to be a Whispering Pines Farmstead customer. The A2A2 milk from Maggie Moo is amazing. I feel so much better when I drink a glass every morning and I even notice I lose some weight! The butter is delicious in mashed potatoes or just toast and the buttermilk is great in cornbread, pancakes, or waffles. If you can find a reputable small dairy farm near you that allows cows to graze in the pasture, especially if the cows are A2A2, give fresh milk a try.