04/28/2026
Spring is officially alive at Knotty Reelz Farm. Hard to believe this is our 6th year running at this level. Still a hobby farm… but with a hardcore following that grows every season.
One thing I’ve learned since moving from the Niagara Falls area to the Finger Lakes: winters can be brutal, but spring here can be downright violent & unpredictable.
Last Friday, I picked up 3,500 lbs of feed to prepare for 10 pigs & 150 Cornish Cross meat chickens arriving. The day went smooth as could be. One reason I’m proud to keep my prices the same for the last 5 years is because I work hard to buy smart & support local.
I buy from a local supplier who brokers local feed. Years ago, I asked if they’d fill my own storage bins instead of charging me for tote bags which I unload by hand for hours. They said yes. That decision saves me money, saves labor & helps me keep costs down for everyone.
Then… the next day came.
Pouring rain. Mud everywhere. I still needed straw bales for the pigs to stay warm, since they’re only 6–8 weeks old & love to burrow down into the straw at night. I got my truck stuck trying to reach the barn, had to back out, unload by hand & carry everything through the rain & mud.
I still had to pick up the pigs!!!
I had a plan to set up a small trailer to my 4-wheeler, but after picking up the pigs I called an audible asking my neighbors Monica & Freddy for backup. Without hesitation they showed up in the rain with their side-by-side. Freddy & I unloaded the pig crates one at a time & got everyone settled in.
That’s small-town living. That’s community. People showing up when it matters.
The pigs hit their new pen like kids at recess. Running, jumping & acting like they owned the place within minutes. Three days later they’re thriving and SIDENOTE: 9 out of 10 pigs are already sold!
Today starts the next mission: Prepping the brooder shed for 150 chicks arriving soon before they can be moved to pasture.
Every season brings new challenges. Every year teaches something new. You adapt, you work, you keep moving.
Here’s to a strong start, rough weather, muddy boots & another season at the farm. It truly takes a village.
*** DM me if you are interested in placing an order for chicken or pork! 😉
