Meet Jackson - Our First Calf Born On The Farm

Jackson was born the early evening of October 11, 2020. I had been watching his mom, Rose, like a hawk for 2 weeks because I had no idea exactly when she was due. We did not actually know she was pregnant when she arrived on the farm. I ended up going out of town the weekend that Rose had Jackson, and I was a nervous wreck that I would miss the birth.

I got home around 2 O'clock that Sunday afternoon and went out to check on her. I noticed what I thought to be contractions. I was so excited! I set a timer on my watch for every 30 minutes. I was so surprised to see how quickly she progressed. By 5 O'clock I was starting to panic because Rose seemed like she was suffering and just so tired. I didn't want to leave her side, but I ran up to the house to text a friend and grab some maple syrup water and a few birthing supplies for her - I was literally gone for all of 5 minutes.

As I started running back with the supplies, my husband is shouting that she had the baby! I MISSED THE BIRTH! But, I was there as this tiny calf took his first breath, and his first steps, and I was able to see Rose instantly become a great mom. It was incredible! I did get to "see" the birth later (my husband recorded it) and honestly, I am somewhat glad I missed it. This being the first calving experience on our farm, I think I would have overreacted and not given the calf or Rose time to do what nature always intended for them to do.

I am so thankful that both Rose and Jackson are doing great and that I got to witness this miracle of life and watch him grow. There's so much to learn and experience on the farm and I look forward to seeing where it all takes me!