Dealing with the Unexpected:

This calving season caught me off guard, and I wasn’t as prepared as I should have been. We’ve had a lot of toast, cereal, and takeaway meals, and I deeply regret not prepping more.

The unpredictability of farm life can be overwhelming, but there are ways to make it more manageable.

Meal Prepping:

The number one thing that gets me during the busy season is food. Kids get hungry, and if I don’t have meals ready, everything turns to chaos.

Pre-plan and freeze meals on quieter days. Focus on easy, family-favorite recipes like spaghetti, tacos, and burgers.

My main advice: Your future self will thank you for the prep work you do now. Trust me!

Grab-and-Go Snacks:

Keep your pantry stocked with easy snacks for the kids, like muffins, scones, and chocolate cake. When everyone was sick, we ran out of snacks, and I had to go shopping when I felt like death—don’t be me!

Home-baked goodies are always a hit, and having them ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver.

Streamlining Farm and Home Tasks:

Daily checklists have been a game changer for me. I’m a checklist girl, and having a simple list of tasks helps me stay focused and ensures nothing falls through the cracks.

Simplify your cleaning routine during busy times. Focus on tidiness rather than perfection—now is not the time for deep cleaning or decluttering.

Pre-Packing for Busy Days:

When my husband is out making silage or hay, I assemble a busy bag with everything he might need for the day. It saves time and prevents those “Can you bring me coffee?” calls.

Set up a command center in your home for keys, phone chargers, school bags—anything you’re constantly searching for. It’s all about keeping things organized and easy to find.

Routine Maintenance Checks:

Before the busy season hits, do maintenance checks on all farm equipment. Make sure everything is in working order to avoid breakdowns during critical times.

We’ve learned the hard way that rushing through these checks can lead to bigger problems down the road.