Grampa is really enjoying this summer. He says it is going very fast. He told me he even enjoys all the hoeing he’s been doing. He says he may not be making as much money as he used to, but at least it’s his money and he’s not working to make someone else rich anymore.
One objective of this blog is to let people know what is working for us and what isn’t. So here’s a “State of the Projects Report”
1.The garage sale
So far this year this has been a big disappointment. Between the wet, cold spring, the flooding and the gas prices we’ve not had near the business we’ve had in the past. I’m going to have to turn down donations for a while.
I met a lady the other night who runs a similar business up near Burlington. Guess what it is called? Aunt Sue’s! She says her business has been way down this year too.
2.Pastured raised eggs
We aren’t getting as much per dozen as we would like yet, but we have been able to move all the eggs we produce. We need to increase our production and are discussing ways to do that next year. We are also planning to get into breeding Welsummers next year. They are a rare breed of chicken that lays a very dark brown egg. They bring a pretty penny. We’ve seen hatching eggs go for $20 or more a dozen.
3.Sheep
The sheep are doing great. We’ve got to many for the amount of pasture we have, but Grampa wants to lamb them one more time before he downsizes. These sheep live up to all the things we’ve heard about them as far as heartiness and prolificness.
4.Cows
Unless we get more pasture, this is one project that’s not going to grow. The cow and the two bottle calves we currently have are doing fine though.
5.Egg noodles
It’s amazing, but people are really buying my noodles. Given the right equipment I could probably add to the value of every egg we produce by 500% or better. However, that would require me to spend all day every day rolling out noodles. I enjoy it, but not that much! Still, it’s a good use for the “B” grade eggs we get.
6.Natural and recycled crafts and craft supplies
So many ideas, so little time! My decorated eggs are selling well. I really want to work more on my recycled rugs and a few other ideas I have for old fabric, but I just can’t seem to find the time right now. Maybe this winter ...
7.Great Pyrenees dogs
Pinky is growing beautifully. She’s also become quite the guard dog. She’s busy all night patrolling. I absolutely love this breed! They are so gentle and easy to train.
8.Honey bees
We started out with 2 hives and now have 4, two of which now have honey supers on them. It’s not terribly common to get much honey in the first year, but I think we’ll have enough for us anyhow.
9.Avon
This is another “if I only had the time” project. I currently have 4 customers. It’s enough to keep me going with it.
10.Farm crops from the 10 acres we own with our son
Had a horrible time getting CPS to come spray the beans this year. We’ll make money on them but not like we should. Next year we are going to plant a large portion of it in sweet corn.
11.Garden produce
We NEED more garden space! Herbs are an especially hot item. We'll have corn, tomatoes and cucumbers next week. Everyone has been asking for these for weeks.
12. Affiliate marketing
No luck with this so far, but again, it’s not something I’ve worked at a whole lot either. If we make some money, fine, if not ... Hey, it can’t hurt can it?
13. Building low maintenance gardens
Absolutely no time for this project this year! Maybe next year.
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