I just came in from a job that was a bit slobbery and messy—but also very sweet: bottle-feeding our first calf of 2025. One of our Brown Swiss cows, Peggy, calved over the weekend, so we’ll have more milk to share soon!
She had a little heifer calf—mousey gray like her mama and already a fan of chin scratches. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a bottle calf – you can bet this little one is going to get plenty of attention from the kids & I.
Did you know June is National Dairy Month? Back when I served as dairy princess, we spent this month handing out ice cream at local banks or tossing cheese sticks at parades. I’ve always loved dairy so having a full month to celebrate it is pretty cool.
There’s an old saying I once heard: “When you have a cow, you have it all.” Historically, owning even one cow meant food security, economic stability, and daily nourishment.
In the book Old Fence Rails by the Minnesota Historical Society (give it a read!), I was fascinated to learn how early settlers in our state went to great lengths to bring—and keep—a family milk cow.
In 1800s America, a milk cow was often the first thing homesteaders purchased. And for good reason! A cow gives:
- Milk for drinking, cooking, cheese, yogurt, and more
- Cream for butter, ice cream, and luxurious treats
- Manure to fertilize gardens and fields
- Calves to grow the herd or trade/sell
- Meat (eventually)
- Daily rhythm and security
It’s still true today—cows are incredible creatures, and I’m so happy they play a vital role on our farm.
I’m actually giving a talk on Keeping a Family Milk Cow this Thursday, June 26 from 6–8 pm. It’s hosted by the Sustainable Farming Association, and it sounds like we have a good-sized group coming!
My daughter Marion got a kick out of it: “Wait… people are coming to watch you do a chore? Milk a cow?” Yep. I am, haha! And it is my favorite chore around here.
The event is free, and you’re of course invited. Details here: Managing a Family Milk Cow – SFA-MN Event Info
Wishing you a peaceful start to the week,
Leah
Great Heritage Farm
greatheritagefarm.com
