02/18/2026
The last few days on the acreage have been so happy.
After nine long days of worry, frustration, hope, and a whole lot of prayer, Franny was finally back on the farm Saturday. I sat on the catwalk most of the day just watching her, somewhat in disbelief that she’s finally back where she belongs. Just a few days prior, that felt almost unattainable. As I reflect on this unexpected journey, I am beyond grateful to have her right where she is. Her arrival has been long anticipated.
Josh and I are reminded just how new we still are at all of this. There’s nothing like a runaway calf to humble you. I’ve gained a whole new appreciation for my dad’s knowledge and my mom’s ability to move her herd with nothing more than patience (and a little grain).
So many people walked this journey right alongside us — praying, checking in, offering help, losing sleep, celebrating the small wins. We are incredibly grateful for every message, every call, and every person who stepped in to help. In a world that can feel heavy at times, the kindness we saw these last few weeks is such a testament to our small-town community and the wonderful people in it.
Believe me when I say I had a plan for how Franny’s arrival was supposed to look — and this wasn’t it. Turns out, it had a different plan for us. We tried to solve things day by day. But these past few weeks gently remind us that not everything is in our hands. Sometimes things unfold in their own time, and all we can do is trust the bigger picture, stay thankful, and keep showing up.
We’re taking things nice and slow from here, leaning into a little more patience and a little less control. This journey has reminded us that not everything can be rushed or perfectly planned — sometimes you have to let things unfold the way they’re meant to. I am so excited to get to work with Franny and can’t wait to see what she becomes and what she adds to our program, in her own time and in the way it’s supposed to happen.
Franny is getting used to her new home and meeting all the fun animals that come along with it. We’re okay admiring her from a distance for now and look forward to earning her trust. I can’t wait for the day I can walk in, give her some good scratches, and officially be pals.
In the words of Norah, “She’s just so beautiful!” 🤍
