We’re not the only ones expecting around here!

Our goal with Bear Vale (in addition to producing our own food source) is to provide our local area with grass-fed, organic Angus beef. In time, perhaps we can find distribution partners. To obtain this goal, our herd needs to grow. We began with a “starter kit”—5 cow/calf pairs. With some additions, births, and an unfortunate loss, we have 15 cattle, 9 of which are cows or heifers, that could potentially help us add to our herd. This summer we implemented a tried and true breeding program: we rented a bull. He was a cutie! Just a yearling himself, he wasn’t very big compared to our mature cows. I teased Cody that we might need to get him a step stool. But in fairness, we did not want a large bull with yearling heifers. For the two months he was with us, I affectionately named him “Spud.”

Well today was the day to learn Spud’s potency!  The vet confirmed we have 7 expecting cows! Which is fabulous! While two shy of perfect, it’s not really…. you see… Claire is younger than the other heifers, and I supposed I secretly hoped that she would not be bred as she is my baby. And Charlotte is a twin. Scientifically the odds of a heifer calf who is a twin of a bull calf conceiving is extremely low. The vet confirmed during the exam that there is no way for Charlotte to give us a calf. 

Bummer. But the exciting news is we have a near perfect breeding success rate and can look forward to welcoming 7 calves this summer. 

The other good news, is I am due before the cows! :)) Cody thinks the reverse would be better, but I think it’s good that I will have my little one and be on leave from work as we are busy with calving season. 

2015 will be a great year, full of life, love, and excitement. Cheers!