Thistle Creek Farms

No snow days on our farm! Driving 75 feeder calves to the barn for health checks. #winterstorm, #farming, #winterfarming, #nosnowdays, #incredibleteam, #hardwork, #teamwork, #winterstormgail, #needsnowgoggles, #gopro, #feedercalves, #angus, #grassfedbeef, #snow, #bordercollie, #workingdog, #cattledrive, #buylocal, #herdcheck, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

As winter storm Gail began to settle into our area today, there was much work to be done. Our biggest task was driving feeder calves about a mile into the barn for health checks. Since a young herd can be tricky to maneuver, we had 11 people (whose ages ranged from 6 to 90 ) and 2 border collies help get the job done. Thank you to our incredibly tough team! #winterstorm, #farming, #75calves, #calves, #winterfarming, #nosnowdays, #incredibleteam, #hardwork, #teamwork, #winterstormgail, #needsnowgoggles, #feedercalves, #angus, #grassfedbeef, #snow, #cattledrive, #buylocal, #herdcheck, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Time to deck the halls... barn and mill??!! You bet! It wouldn’t be Christmas at Thistle Creek without some festive decorations! These wreaths are made locally from our friends at Leidigs Farm in Tyrone. Each four foot wreath is a lovely addition to our farm buildings. Happy decorating everyone! #christmasdecoratingadventures, #christmasdecorations, #christmasonthefarm, #notafraidofheights, #freshcutwreaths, #christmaswreaths, #lovelybarn, #barn, #oldmill, #gristmill, #jlg, #jlglift, #gettingreadyforchristmas, #supportlocalbusiness, #shoplocal, #christmaslights, #dorpersheep, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #pafarming, #thistlecreekfarms

Please help us in congratulating George Lake for his recognition in the grazing periodical, Graze! This print magazine is devoted to management-intensive rotational grazing and family-scale livestock farms. Every issue is packed with ideas from real grazing farmers and ranches who make their livings from the land (Graze Magazine). George was featured in the August/September issue. His article touched on practices from our farm including improved grasses, building soils, ca...ttle grouping, and making hay. If you are interested in learning about intensive rotational grazing check out www.grazeonline.com for more information. #grazemagazine, #graze, #grazingpractices, #grazing, #intensiverotationalgrazing, #rotationalgrazingmanagement, #grassfedbeef, #grassfed, #healthyeating, #eatclean, #supportsmallbusiness, #buylocal, #beef, #angus, #angusbeef, #anguscattle, #beeffarming, #eatbeef, #pasafarming, #pafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms See more

This month we have welcomed over 50 sweet faces to our dorper flock. Having lambs in the fall works well for our market. We have enjoyed every minute of this very successful lambing season!#lambingseason, #lambing, #lamb, #dorpersheep, #novemberlambs, #farming, #shepherdsofinstagram, #sheepfarmer, #lovelambs, #lambsofinstagram, #farmbabies, #pasafarming, #buylocal, #lamblove, #huntingdoncounty, #thistlecreekfarms

A foggy fall morning made for some cool photos! Which do you prefer, the black and whites or color? #foggymorning, #fog, #blackandwhitephotography, #coloredphotography, #taketheshot, #photographylovers, #fallfog, #lostinfog, #filters, #farmlife, #pafarming, #centralpa, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #grassfedbeef, #heifer, #barn, #barnyard, #farmroad, #autumn, #fall2020, #wanttobelikejvalent, #thistlecreekfarms

Beginning to make winter preparations? Don’t forget to stock up on TCF grass-fed beef! We are now taking orders for portions of beef (1/8, 1/4, 1/2, or whole) that will be ready at the beginning of 2021. We also have plenty of single cuts and ground beef on hand for all your favorite fall and winter recipes. (Christy’s chili is one of our favorite ways to use our ground beef. What’s yours?) We look forward to hearing from you. Call 814-632-8609 to order today! #stockupforwinter, #isyourfreezerfull, #grassfedbeef, #grassfedisbest, #eatclean, #shoplocal, #supportlocal, #friendafarmer, #localbeef, #beef, #pafarming, #centralpa, #grassfed, #eathealthy, #instapennsylvania, #huntingdoncountypa , #farmlife, #fallcomfortfood, #wintercomfortfood, #winterpreparations, #thistlecreekfarms

One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation evermore. -Oliver Wendell Holmes With respect, honor, and gratitude, we thank you! Happy Veteran’s Day to all members of our military! #veteransday, #veterans, #wesupportourmilitary, #militaryfamily, #respect, #honor, #gratitude, #thankaveteran, #thankyouforyourservice, #thankyouforyoursacrifice, #freedom, #livingthedreambecauseofyou, #americanflag, #loveamerica, #november11, #centralpa, #instaamerica, #farmfamily, #thistlecreekfarms

How a retired fighter pilot checks on the flock! #eyeinthesky, #dronefarming, #mavickpro, #dronephotography, #drone, #fallfun, #fallonthefarm, #takeabreakfromelectionnews, #pafarming, #farmlife, #flockcheck , #dorpersheep, #sheep, #fall, #fall2020, #barn, #autumncolors, #fallcolors, #moderndayshepherd, #pennsylvaniainthefall, #pennsylvaniaisbeautiful, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

An unbeatable autumn! #autumnbeauty #fall2020 #loveautumn, #fallcolors, #fallvibes, #fallleaves, #neededbreakfromreality, #dontyouagree, #pennsylvaniaisbeautiful, #pennsylvaniainthefall, #autumncolors, #autumn, #fallonthefarm, #bestplacetolive, #grassfedbeef, #pafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Bringing home bales of hay on this beautiful fall evening. Can’t beat the scenery or the machinery! #fendtvario714, #fendtvario, #lovefendt, #fendt, #fendtpower, #fendtfun, #fendttractor, #livingthedream, #powerfultractor, #germanengineering, #mowinghay, #feedingcattle, #drivingthedream, #hayseason, #haymaking, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #pafarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #gopro, #itsallaboutperspective, #farmvideo, #fendtvideo, #stephencandriveanything, #noahthecopilot

Excited to finish up hay season while demoing this Fendt 714 Vario. Truly, an amazing machine and fun experience! #fendtvario, #fendt, #fendtpower, #fendtfun, #fendttractor, #livingthedream, #germanengineering, #farmboysandtheirtoys, #27balesofhay, #mowinghay, #feedingcattle, #farmlifebestlife, #drivingthedream, #hayseason, #haymaking, #grassfedbeef, #farmlife, #farming, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #stephencandriveanything

It’s weaning time! We are very pleased with this good looking bunch of calves. #weaningcalves, #calves, #anguscalves, #weaning, #blackangus, #redangus, #cutecalves, #anguscharolais, #falljobs, #8monthsold, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #pafarming, #farmlife, #pasafarming, #thistlecreekfarms

Team Thistle Creek participated in the Tyrone Area Future Farmers of America (FFA) clay shoot this weekend. We are proud to sponsor this event each year. All proceeds benefit the local chapter of the FFA, located at the Tyrone Area School District. FFA is the premier youth organization preparing members for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. We commend our area youth for belonging to this important group. Thank you to Warriors Mark Wingshooting Lodge and Kennels and all the FFA students and staff for putting together a fun day of comradery and recreation! #ffa, #youthfarmers, #clayshooting, #warriorsmarkwingshooting, #futureoffarming, #sponsor, #tyronearea, #tyroneareahighschool, #tyroneproud, #thistlecreekfarms, #centralpa, #supportingouryouth, #futurefarmers, #tyroneareaffa,

Moving the mama herd back home before winter. #falljobs, #fall2020, #winterprep, #fallonthefarm, #autumn, #cattledrive, #angus, #murraygreybull, #greatfarmcrew, #farmcrew, #pafarming, #movingcattle, #calves, #cow, #moderndaycowboy, #fourwheelers, #pasafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

It was the perfect fall weekend to welcome the mama herd home. Before the winter months, we drive our cow calf pairs back to our main property. Having all the cattle close to our winter feed sources makes for easier feeding. This particular drive certainly is one of our favorites! As you can see, mother nature paints the landscape with beautiful pops of fall color. #fallonthefarm, #autumncolors, #fallcolors, #autumn, #welovefall, #cattledrive, #fallfoliage, #drivingthecowshome, #anguscattle, #angus, #murraygreybull, #calves, #mamacow, #cow, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #pafarming, #farmcrew, #pasafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

As the sun sets on summer, let us welcome autumn with open hearts and open minds. We look forward to peace the world needs. Cheers friends! Stay happy and healthy out there. #welcomingfall, #fall, #lastdayofsummer, #cheers, #firstdayoffall, #peace, #positivevibes, #changeisgood, #farmlife, #beautifulsunset, #sunset, #farmsunset, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #pafarming, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Stunning September weather this weekend! #loveseptember, #latesummer, #earlyfall, #fallisintheair, #awesomeweather, #crispweather, #pictureoftheday, #pictureperfect, #angus, #anguscattle, #blackangus, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #pafarming, #farmlife, #farmlifebestlife, #farmbeauty

Just a gal and her cow pals enjoying the last few days of summer. #summeronthefarm, #summerfun2020, #farmgirl, #angus, #anguscattle, #redangus, #blackangus, #playingwithcows, #farmlife, #pafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #summer, #farmkid, #farmfun, #lovecows

Moooove over everyone! I’m ready for my closeup! #cowcloseup, #portraitofalady, #lookinggood, #lookinggoodatthefarm, #lovearedhead, #whatcowsthink, #cows, #angus, #redangus, #blackangus, #anguscattle, #farmportraits, #farmlife, #cowselfie, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #huntingdoncountypa, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #pafarming, #thefarmersgirls, #cowsofinstagram

Finding summer’s beauty despite the dry weather. #summersbeauty, #summeronthefarm, #findbeautyineverything, #summertime, #findingthebeauty, #farmlife, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #huntingdoncountypa, #august, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #sunflower, #barn, #summerflowers, #zinnia, #browneyedsusan, #tomato, #farmgirlflowers, #farmgirl

A follow up (in pictures) of our last sheep drive. We had a unique mix of helpers including some friends, family, children, dogs, and the neighboring farmer’s cow. Driving the sheep two miles is no easy task. A big thank you to the all who made this move possible! #teamworkmakesthedreamwork, #sheepdrive, #dorpersheep, #sheep, #ewes, #lambs, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #pafarming, #pafarmer, #pasafarming, #movingtogreenerpastures, #greenpastures, #weloveoursheep @ Thistle Creek Farms, #bodercollies

Moving our ewes and lambs across the water and up the road. A two mile jaunt is totally worth it when the destination pasture is green, shaded, and along the stream. #summerjaunt, #youdontseethateveryday, #lifeofasheep, #sheep, #dorpersheep, #lambs, #togreenerpastures, #keepingitcool, #pafarming, #farming, #farmlife, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #huntingdoncountypa, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Behold the beauty of Rays Crazy Mix! This warm season favorite is loved by cows, farmers, and photographers alike. Ray’s Crazy Summer Mix has variety of stress-tolerant annuals including cowpea, sorghum sudangrass, pearl millet, radish, forage brassica, and, of course, gorgeous sunflowers. #rayscrazymix, #thistlecreekfarms

It’s been a summer of extremes in central Pennsylvania. We have had record high temps for long periods of time and record low rainfalls. You can see we are scarily dry here. Luckily, we had a good spring and our planted forages are getting us through this difficult time. We are still hoping for some rain to get our fall flush. #highsandlowsoffarming, #wherestherain, #drought, #bringontherain, #hotweather, #dryweather, #hopeforrain, #summer2020, #pafarming, #farmlife, #pasafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #huntingdoncountypa, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

It’s just a quick flight around the farm to do daily herd checks. = everything looks good! #futurepilot, #futurefarmer, #justlikepapa, #justlikedaddy, #redbaron, #flyinghigh, #morningherdcheck, #herdcheck, #anguscattle, #angus, #farmingfun, #farmlife, #farmlifebestlife, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #pafarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Our friendly barnyard babies- Delgado, Ferdinand, and Daisy! These cutie calves are loved and cared for by our youngest grandchildren. It has been a great summer job!#teachingresponsibility, #responsibility, #summerjob, #farmwork, #farmlife, #cowcuddles, #farmanimals, #anguscalves, #calves, #angus, #anguscattle, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #pafarming, #pafarmer, #centralpa, #ilovecalves, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

In July, we begin feeding our sorghum sudangrass, a hybrid-derived species of grass raised for forage. We like feeding this quick growing, warm season grass because it is a high energy sweet feed that is very palatable. In these pictures, we are cutting down strips of sorghum to feed the cattle. Why? When the sorghum is new it’s very tender. During the first feeding through the field, we cut the grass so the cows don’t pull up the entire plant while eating. Then, the sorghu...m grows back strong and we can feed one to two more times before fall. #sorghum, #sorghumsudangrass, #feedingcattle, #summeronthefarm, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #pafarming, #farming, #pasafarming, #masseyferguson, #claas, #claasmower, #agco, #angusbeef, #agriculture, #stripgrazing @ Thistle Creek Farms See more

Check out this incredible video put together by our Grandson, Noah. It’s a compilation of videos and pics from yesterday’s harvesting. An awesome and very artistic job! (We now refer to Noah as the GoPro Guru. ) #gopro, #goprofarming, #guru, #grandsonsarethebest, #farming, #pafarming, #claas, #johndeere, #masseyferguson, #harvesttime, #harvestingwheat, #balingstraw, #wheat, #thistlecreekfarms, #centralpa, #farmingvideos, #farmlife, #ilovefarming, #futurefarmer

Can you believe it’s already time to harvest wheat?! Today, we began cutting our wheat and baling the straw. A big THANK YOU goes out to Gary Long who gladly brings in his impressive combine harvester to help us harvest our wheat every year. It was a perfect setting and gorgeous day to be outside. #harvesting, #harvestingwheat, #happyharvest, #balingstraw, #baling, #beautifulweather, #summeronthefarm, #summerweather, #combineharvester, #johndeere, #claasbaler, #masseyferguson, #farming, #pafarming, #farmingpics, #buylocal, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Fulcomer Homestead

An evening herd check on the girls. #beautifulevening, #agriculture, #farmlife, #herdcheck, #eveningatthefarm, #anguscattle, #calves, #mamaherd, #summernights, #summertime, #summerevening, #summeronthefarm, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #pasafarming, #farmingpics, #pafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Gearing up for our 4th of July celebration! These delicious 8 ounce ground beef patties are new to our grass-fed meat selection and now available for customers to purchase. Call 814-632-8609 to order. Happy 4th of July and happy grilling! #summergrilling, #grassfedbeef, #4thofjuly, #beefpatty, #beefitswhatsfordinner, #lovegroundbeef, #healthycooking, #pasafarming, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #pafarming, #eatlocal, #cleanfood, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

A great (late spring) video of George and his dog Finn gathering the sheep. Proof that working dogs help make our farming practices easier. These two make quite an impressive team! #incrediblebordercollies, #teamwork, #mansbestfriend, #bordercollie, #farmdog, #farmlife, #dorpersheep, #herdingdog, #herdingsheep, #pafarming, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Happiness is a warm puppy. Charles Shultz #kidsanddogs, #farmdog, #bordercolliesarethebest, #puppylove, #bordercolliepuppy, #farmlife, #farmkids, #bordercollie, #papahasthebestdogs, #bestbuds, #puppylife, #huntingdoncountypa, #pafarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Had to share this awesome time lapse video taken with our grandson’s GoPro. He captured a very interesting perspective of sorting cattle in our working pens. #grandsonsarecool, #gopro, #goprofarmer, #itsallaboutperspective, #cleverphotography, #farmwork, #hardwork, #anguscattle, #bordercollie, #farming , #pafarming, #pasafarming, #sortingstick, #workingpens, #workingcattle, #sortingcattle, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncountypa, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Big. Bad. Beef. The bulls of TCF- Indiana Jones, Josey Wales, and Gypsy Smith. We are building fantastic genetic lines with these three boys! #everybodylovesabigguy, #bull, #blackangusbull, #compositebull, #murraygreybull, #udderlyirresistible, #handsomehunks, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #betterbeef, #eatclean, #pasafarming, #pafarming, #huntingdoncountypa, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Today we need to send a special shout-out to our friends at Way Fruit Farm. This lovely family farm is located on route 550 in Portmatilda, PA. Currently, Way Fruit Farm grows and sells apples, peaches, pears, plums, apricots, cherries, strawberries, blueberries, sweet corn and pumpkins on property. In their sales room they offer their homegrown produce, baked goods from their bakery, an eat-in deli, meats, milk, and so much more! If that all wasn’t awesome enough, one of ...the most inviting aspects of Way Fruit Farm is their huge support for LOCAL businesses! They buy and sell a wide selection of locally grown and made products. (And that’s where Thistle Creek Farms comes into play. ) We are so excited and very proud to now have Way Fruit Farm selling our grass-fed beef in their sales room. We commend this hard working farm family and applaud their support to all things local. If you ever get a chance to visit Centre County in PA, stop by Way Fruit Farm. It is truly a destination for local shopping and farm fun! For more information on Ways, check out their website at wayfruitfarm.com or connect on IG @wayfruitfarm. #wayfruitfarm, #supportsmallbusiness, #supportlocal, #shopsmall, #centrecountypa, #localbusiness, #fruitsforhealthylife, #fruitfarm, #veggiesforhealthylife, #destinationfarm, #farmfun, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncountypa, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Way Fruit Farm See more

Check out our beautiful spring grass flush! We are now grazing our new seeding of King’s Agriseed GreenFast grass mix. This high quality forage allows for nice marbling in our beef. The mix consists of festulolium, orchard grass, perennial rye grass, red clover, and alice clover. We also add five pounds of alfalfa per acre. We believe GreenFast is a perfect addition to our grass-fed farm. Our cows think the mix is simply moovelous! #greenfast, #kingsagriseeds, #supergreens, #eatclean, #eathealthy, #cowslovegreengrass, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #greenfastmix, #pafarming, #farming, #pasafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Video no. 2. - Our new Claas baler hard at work. Operated by our mechanical mastermind, Stephen Bourne. Looking forward to the rest of hay season!

Our new Claas baler hard at work. Operated by our mechanical mastermind, Stephen Bourne. Looking forward to the rest of hay season!

It’s official! Christmas came in May here at Thistle Creek Farms! On day two of hay making, our new Claas baler arrived. Thanks to the help from our friends at Longenecker’s Inc. of Williamsburg PA, we were able to put this amazing piece of equipment to work right away. So happy with the performance of our new purchase! Thank you Longeneckers! #claasbaler, #farmboysandtheirtoys, #claas, #farmequipment, #pafarming, #farmlife, #baling, #haymaking, #balinghay, #farming, #haymakingseason, #makinghay, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Hay days are here! First cutting of the season. Made and tubed 207 bales on day one. More to be made tomorrow. Thanks to all our hard working helpers! #haymaking, #haymakingseason, #hay, #baling, #claasbaler, #masseyferguson, #crimsonclover, #feedforthecows, #perfectdryingweather, #bringonthesun, #farmlife, #pafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Our crimson clover and rye is ready to be fed to our cattle. We really like using this particular crop because it has multiple benefits. In winter, it is used as a cover crop, helping to eliminate erosion and keeping nutrients in the soil. It also suppresses weed growth. In spring, crimson clover and rye is an extremely valuable, high protein feed source for our herd. It puts up to 80 units per acre of nitrogen back into the soil. Thus, nitrogen loss is fixed without using a...ny fertilizer! We have also found that this crop is a very beautiful and economical food source. Can’t get any better! #crimsonclover, #rye, #covercrop, #springcrop, #forages, #cowsloveclover, #kingsagra, #kingsagraseed, #roationalgrazing, #beautifulcovercrop, #pollinatorfriendly, #clover, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #angusbeef, #eatclean, #pafarming @ Thistle Creek Farms See more

Nope! Impossible! Not true! There is no way our bottle fed lambs are spoiled. #sunbathinglambs, #whoneedssunscreen, #bottlefedlamb, #dorperlambs, #lamblove, #sunbathing, #kidsdothefunniestthings, #farmlife, #pafarming, #springlambs, #happykids, #weloveourlamb, #happylambs, #lamb, #centralpa, #huntingdoncounty, #thistlecreekfarms

Happy Mother’s Day! Today we have to give special recognition to the matriarch of our family, Christy Lake. (Her very favorite people call her Nana !) Christy provides us all with constant love, support, and encouragement. She makes each of us feel valued and important. Her dedication to George and his dream of running a successful farm is the glue the holds our business together. Thank you, Christy, for all you do. It is an honor to call you Mom and Nana. You are truly a b...lessing to us all!! Here’s a little poem for all Mothers and Grandmothers everywhere. (And Nana Lake, your favorite people dedicate this to you! ) My Mother’s Garden My Mother kept a garden, A garden of the heart, She planted all the good things That gave my life it’s start. She turned me to the sunshine and encouraged me to dream, Fostering and nurturing The seeds of self esteem. And when the wind and rains came, She protected me enough- But not too much because she knew I’d need to stand up strong and tough. Her constant good example Always taught me right from wrong- Markers for my pathway That will last a lifetime long. I am my Mother’s garden, I am her legacy. And today I hope she feels the love Reflected back from me! -Author Unknown #mothersday2020, #mothersday, #nanaisthebest, #grandmother, #mothersdaypoem, #bestmom, #centralpa, #farmerswife, #farmmama, #farmnana, #countrygarden, #farmflowers, #pafarming, #pickingflowers, #unconditionallove, #lovemynana, #lovemymom, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms See more

First cattle drive of 2020! (continued) #therunningofthecows, #hoorayforspringgreens, #springcattledrive, #cattledrive, #anguscattle, #angusbeef, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #allnatural, #eatclean, #farming, #pafarming, #farmlife, #cow, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, ##sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

First cattle drive of 2020! #springcattledrive, #cattledrive, #anguscattle, #angusbeef, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #allnatural, #eatclean, #farming, #pafarming, #farmlife, #cow, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, ##sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

It’s calving season and many new babies have arrived! This set of twins was a pleasant surprise. We brought the trio into the barnyard for closer observation until calves are stronger. All other mother cows and calves are out in pasture doing well. #calvingseason, #beef, #cows, #springbabies, #angusbeef, #farmanimals, #pafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Think SPRING! Catching a glimpse of it every now and then. #bringonthewarmweather, #wheresthesunshine, #thereisbeautyeverywhere, #thinkspring, #springishere, #springbuds, #farminspring, #barn #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #pafarming, #farmlife @ Thistle Creek Farms

Did you know it takes an entire crew of people to have a sheep or cattle drive at our farm? Yesterday, we posted pics and a video of our latest sheep drive. Today, we want to recognize all the family, friends, and dogs who help make these big events possible. Thank you to all our helpers! Your dedication and hard work help make our farming business a success! #dedication, #successfulfarming, #hardworkingemployees, #helpfulfamilyandfriends, #farmlife, #farming, #ittakesavillage, #pafarming, #farmcrew, #bordercollie, #bordercolliesarethebest, #dorpersheep, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sheep, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Spring sheep drive! George and his border collie, Finn, gather the ewes and lambs to start the drive. #sheepdrive, #dorpersheep, #sheep, #lamb, #bordercollie, #bordercolliesareamazing, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #farming, #pafarming

Spring sheep drive! Moving to a new pasture about 2 miles away. #togreenerpastures, #springgreen, #springsheepdrive, #sheepdrive, #dorpersheep, #sheep, #lamb, #spring2020, #farming, #pafarming, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Sending bunny hugs and virtual love to all our friends! Happy Easter from Thistle Creek!! #bunnyhugs, #easter2020, #easterbunny, #adorableanimals, #sweetgranddaughter, #petbunny, #easteratthefarm, #farmgirl, #pafarming, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Woke to a blanket of snow covering the farm this morning. Interesting mix of winter white and spring green. Some PA farmers call this an onion snow. WHAT?! Here’s why: Originated by the Pennsylvania Dutch culture and language, onion snow refers to a snowfall that occurs after the spring onions have been planted and comes as they are sprouting. The more you know ... happy spring! #springsnow, #onionsnow, #crazyaprilweather, #bringonthewarmweather, #whathappenedtospring, #huntingdoncounty, #pafarming, #farmlife, #centralpa, #beautifulcountryside, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Did you know it takes a team of people to get our delicious grass-fed beef to you? Some important members of our team are the butchers at Rising Spring Meat Company (RSMC). RSMC is a small-scale USDA-inspected slaughter and processing facility located in Central Pennsylvania. They serve local farmers from our region and meat eaters anywhere, (as stated on the RSMC webpage). We are proud to be partnered with this incredible, local company! For more information on @risingspringmeatco check out their website at www.risingspringmeats.com. #risingspringmeatco, #supportlocal, #supportsmallbusiness, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #butcher, #butchersofinstagram, #pabutcher @ Rising Spring Meat Company

Who needs a pop of color and cheer? #hope, #springblooms, #bringonthewarmweather, #forsythia, #tulip, #springishere, #tocheermeup, #favoriteseason, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #farmerswife, #pafarm, #beautifulboquet @ Thistle Creek Farms

Something #adorable to make your day a little brighter... We take #homeschooling seriously at our farm. No CHILD or DOG shall go uneducated!! (And yes, our youngest animal lover is reading 101 Dalmatians in the first few pics!) #homeschoolideas, #teacherskid, #futureteacher, #welovereading, #puppylove, #bestpuppysitterever, #puppyschool, #bordercollie, #bordercolliepuppy, #bordercolliesarethebest, #readalouds, #fifthgenerationanimallover, #quarantinebuddy, #quarantine2020, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

You might be a farmer’s wife if.... your morning work out buddies are from the barnyard. #bottlefedlamb, #housecat, #workoutathome, #workoutbuddy, #farmerswife, #farmerlife, #farmlife, #huntingdoncounty, #dorperlamb, #centralpa, #concept2, #rowing, #concept2rowing, #thistlecreekfarms, #lambs @ Thistle Creek Farms

Looking for some great grass-fed beef for your next home cooked meal? During your isolation period, we’ve got you covered! We have plenty of cuts and ground beef for sale. Call 814-632-8609 or visit our website at www.thistlecreekfarms.com to order. #athomechef, #selfisolation, #isolationperiod, #stockingup, #eatclean, #weareallinthistogether, #grassfedburger, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #supportsmallbusiness, #pafarming @ Thistle Creek Farms

Some old fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.- Laura Ingalls Wilder. Get out there and enjoy nature everyone. Nothing better to soothe the soul. Happy first day of spring!! #firstdayofspring, #springishere, #soothingthesoul, #nature, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms, #getoutdoors, #wayfruitfarmpictherapy, #farmlife

Need a little green to help you feel less blue? Our crimson clover and rye fields are beginning to turn green and grow. Think we will be lucky enough to find a four leaf clover? Happy St. Patrick’s Day! #annualgrasses, #greenisgreat, #warmerweatheriscoming, #springiscoming, #springgreen, #stpatricksday, #crimsonclover, #ryegrass, #fourleafclover, #springtime, #pafarming, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Our early spring babies! Cheers to new beginnings! #adorableanimals, #spring, #springonthefarm, #lambingseason, #calvingseason, #springfarmbabies, #dorperlamb, #dorpersheep, #anguscalf, #heifercalf, #babyfarmanimals, #grassfedbeef, #buylocal, #huntingdoncounty, #beef, #sustainablefarming, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

Let us introduce the newest member of our farm work force, Moss! This adorable pup comes from the Fulcomer litter, sired by our own border collie, Mac. Moss is a smart, sweet, furry ball of fun. His instincts and working ability are excellent; and, he has been easy to train thus far. Moss really enjoys herding the guinea fowl, playing soccer with our grandkids, and tagging along with George in the Kubota. We are loving every moment with this little treasure! #happinessisawarmpuppy, #bordercolliepuppy, #bordercollie, #bordercolliesarethebest, #farmdog, #farmdoglife, #herdingdog, #puppypower, #mansbestfriend, #puppylove, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms

It’s never too early to do a little SPRING CLEANING??!!! (And the weather was perfect for it! ) Today, we spent a large portion of the afternoon cleaning out 25 eastern bluebird boxes. If you ever get a chance to visit us, you will find many of these boxes sprinkled along the edges of our pastures and stream. In preparation for our new spring tenants, we clean out old nests from the boxes in late February/early March. We enjoy watching and listening to the bluebirds through... the spring and summer months. At our farm, all creatures are welcome, no matter how big or small! For more information on the eastern bluebird and buying/making bluebirds boxes, check out the Pennsylvania Game Commission website at www.pgc.pa.gov//Wildli/EasternBluebirds/Pages/default.aspx #easternbluebird, #birdboxcleaning, #springcleaning, #farmtenants, #futureornithologist, #lovebluebirds, #farmlife, #springpreparations, #springiscoming, #pennsylvaniawildlife, #farmkids, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms @ Thistle Creek Farms See more

Fifth generation of Lake farm boys. Proof that farm life is the best life! #grandsonsarethebest, #farmboys, #farmhelper, #farmkids, #carharttkids, #carhartt, #5thgenerationfarmer, #farmlife, #farmlifebestlife, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa, #thistlecreekfarms

Female border collie puppies for sale! There are still two beautiful female pups that need a forever home. Mother of litter is from our friends at the Fulcomer Farm. Father of litter is our own border collie, Mac. Pictures of all dogs are included. If interested, please call Annie Fulcomer at 814-414-5247. #fulcomerhomestead, #thistlecreekfarms, #bordercollie, #bordercolliepuppy, #bordercolliepuppiesforsale, #workingdogs, #farmdog, #mansbestfriend, #huntingdoncounty, #centralpa @ Fulcomer Homestead

Ewe stole my ! Happy Valentine’s Day from Thistle Creek Farms! #farmvalentine, #sayitwithasheep, #love, #conversationhearts, #valentinesday, #sheep, #yorkshiredales, #swaledalesheep, #favoriteplace, #thistlecreekfarms @ Yorkshire Dales National Park England