If you're a regular at the Heritage Square Farmers Market in Taylor, you might have spotted a new addition to our team. With the recent expansion to include the Domain Farmers Market in our schedule, we needed to reach to the bench and call in a pinch-hitter. Thankfully, Jordan, our eldest son, has stepped up to the plate. Before moving to Copperas Cove, Jordan and his family lived here at the ranch and had lent a hand at a few farmers markets in the past, so we were very happy when he agreed to help as we expanded into the Austin market. So if you see Jordan at our table in Taylor don’t be shy – he’s part of the family.
Speaking of new additions, we’ve recently had two new baby calves born here at the ranch. These are first time mothers and though they’re quite young, they had no issues delivering healthy vibrant calves. The delivery of a first calf by a heifer always carries risks. The most significant concern is the potential for complications during childbirth, which can lead to catastrophic outcomes. If the calf gets stuck in the birth canal you can lose both the calf and the mother. But even if the delivery goes well, there is still the risk that the mother will reject the calf.
Birth can be a traumatic experience for a heifer, and it's not uncommon for them to associate this trauma with the newborn calf, leading them to abandon the calf. We’ve had this happen a few times here at the ranch. It’s not a fun experience, but both times we’ve been successful keeping the calf alive and eventually getting the mother to accept and nurse the calf. This typically involves bottle feeding the calf for a few days until it builds up enough strength and coordination. After the trauma subsides a bit, you can restrain the cow in a squeeze chute and present the calf to the teat and he’ll take it too. It will take the new mother a few days to warm up to the idea, but so far, we’ve been able to get them adjusted in just a few days. It’s a challenging week, but it beats having to bottle feed three times a day for months on end.
We're very fortunate to have these new (and in the case of Jordan - not so new) additions to Amber Oaks. There may be a few bumps in the road ahead, but life is full of adventure and we're excited about the opportunities the future holds.
Celebrate the season with our selection of special cuts, perfect for gracing your holiday table. Indulge in the rich flavors of our Whole Beef Tenderloin, savor the classic taste of Smoked Ham, or enjoy the succulence of a Rack of Lamb.
But hurry – these festive favorites are available in limited quantities and exclusively through pre-order. Reserve your special cut today and ensure a centerpiece-worthy feast that your guests will reminisce about long into the New Year!
