Dear Friends,
There are parts of farm life that are steady and predictable - chores at daylight. animals waiting at the gate, milk in the pail. And then there are the parts that remind us we are never fully in control.
Last Friday, we lost our Clora June - our family milk cow for the past 8 years and more recently, a supplier of milk and yogurt for many of you as well.
She was more than a milk cow to us. She was a part of our family's daily rhythm for 8 years. We got her as a baby - she lived in our backyard while we bottle fed her the best we could get - real milk from a local dairy. She was a heart cow, one that we will remember and talk about for a lifetime. Our boys have grown up right alongside her.
A good milk cow represents years of care, training, feed, vet investment, and consistency. Losing her has been both emotional and costly.
Many of you have reached out with condolences, gifts, and some have reached out asking how you could support us. We did not begin this intending to ask for anything, but we are deeply grateful for a community that cares.
In honor of Clora, named after my grandmother and affectionally called Clora June and Momma June at any given time, we have launched a limited fundraiser featuring the design "Faithful," drawn beneath the oak tree that reflects the roots and stewardship of this farm. Proceeds will go toward continuing our milk cow program and the future of dairy here at Earnest Roots Farm.
If you'd like to participate, you can view the fundraiser here:
Faithful - In Honor of Clora Custom Ink Fundraising
It will be open for 3 weeks and then you will receive your shirts after the fundraiser ends - around mid-March.
For those who have asked about supporting the farm directly, we have also made that option available HERE.
There is no expectation - just gratitude for always showing up and doing what you do regardless.
Whether you purchase a shirt or simply continue praying for our farm, we are thankful for you. This life is not without loss, but it is not without mercy either. His Compassions truly are new every morning. What a precious gift to be a farmer.
Thank you for being here. You have been an amazing part of our story for the years we've been here.