What Betty is Doing Now July 2026
Summer Is Busy
Summer on the farm is full of endless to dos. Lambs, chickens, gardens, trees, and pastures all seem to be growing at once, which means there's always something that needs attention. Unfortunately, every time I ride around the farm, I spot another project waiting for me. I'm learning that sometimes it's okay to simply enjoy the ride.
Freedom has been helping me with that. Lately, when he wants to choose the trail instead of me, I've been letting him. One recent ride took us down to the river. It was peaceful, beautiful, and a good reminder to slow down once in a while.
Most days are spent rotating sheep through fresh pasture, moving fences and shade shelters, clearing weeds from the electric fence, tending the garden, feeding animals, and tackling whatever new project has appeared. It's a lot of work, but it's also deeply rewarding. Lately, many of my meals have come almost entirely from the farm, and there's something satisfying about that.
Bella in Training
Bella is making great progress with her trainer. She has started under saddle, and I'm hopeful she'll become the dependable trail horse I've always wanted. Several of my horses have been talented but a little too spooky to truly relax on the trail. Bella is still young and has a lot to learn, but she has a willing attitude and seems to pick things up quickly.
Biscuit
I recently had quite a scare with Biscuit, my 22 year old mare that I've raised since she was a foal. One evening she came in from pasture walking sideways and struggling to stay on her feet. The outlook didn't seem very encouraging at first.
Thankfully, she's improved far more than I expected. She's still recovering, but if all continues to go well, she'll soon be back out in pasture. Time will tell, but I'm grateful she's doing as well as she is.
Soil Research
I've also been spending time with researchers studying the soil, roots, fungi, and native prairie on the farm.
That's the quick update for now. I'll share more when life slows down a bit.
Contact Me
If you're interested in working together or have any questions, feel free to contact me via email or LinkedIn!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bettybrennan/
Biscuit
Biscuit with her back leg out and not standing steady.
Soil Research
This is simulating a one inch rain fall event. In the pasture it took 18 minutes to absorb the water. In my 20+ year old Bluestem prairie patch it took less than a minute. Roots in the soil for years makes a big difference in healthy soil.
Shepherd
Feeding cookies to a few of my flock and praising my livestock guardian dog, Osage.
My Trusty Mule
A friend took a photo after giving him a tour of the farm.
My Niece
It's always a nice visit when Nicki comes to the farm. She's learning how to be a good shepherd by giving cookies.