Happy New Year!

Thanks to the loving support of our family, near and far, 2023 was a year of growth for LAAN Limousin. In the short time we have owned this ranch, we have created a herd of 16 head of Lim-Flex cattle, and counting. We have introduced chickens, ducks, turkeys, bee hives, pigs, and a barn cat. We have transformed the pastures into premium grazing areas and developed a robust kitchen garden. To say the least, the past five years have been busy for our little family of novice ranch hands. And, 2023 might have been our busiest. Here are some highlights.

Five Calves Born

In the Spring and Fall calving seasons, LAAN-owned cows welcomed five calves: Lil’ Lou, Lucius, Lavish, Limitless, and a Long-Lim (Long Horn Limousin mix) yet to be named. We welcomed Lil’ Lou with much fanfare, as she was the first heifer born to the LAAN herd. Each birth after her was just as exciting as we saw our herd double in size in one year! Each calving season brings us new lessons to learn and grow from. The more we learn, the faster we become better at caring for these marvelous animals that we have come to love.

Four Cattle Purchases

Though increasing the herd through births is cheaper, we cannot grow without purchasing and introducing new genetics. This year, we bought one pregnant cow, two heifers, and one bull. Jukebox has ascended to the rank of herd sire, but with his dam in our herd we needed unique genetics for cleanup. Purchased just before we kicked off the fall breeding program, MINO 051K is running with five of our cows with his progeny expected to join the herd in September 2024.

Nine Piglets

Compared to the pork you buy at the grocery store, the pork you raise at home is a million percent better. We have been purchasing feeder pigs since we bought the ranch in 2018, with a goal to eventually breed and raise our own. 2023 was the year we achieved this goal with our first litter of piglets born in November. As we prepare to wean this first round and get our sow ready for her next pregnancy, we are looking forward to having pork for sale for many years to come.

Two Bee Hives

When I set out on my beekeeping journey, I learned that an apiary should consist of at least two hives. That way you have something to compare each hive to while also increasing your honey output. We didn’t get honey this year, as anything the bees stored is needed to help them survive the winter. Next year should be a strong year for both honey as well as a strong-producing garden. We have learned a lot this year from the bees, the drought, and each other. Beekeeping has become my favorite hobby on the farm – well, next to naming the calves, of course!

One Cat

Murphy joined the ranch in the late Spring. An orphan kitten found just before we mowed the lawn. Once she stopped hissing whenever we came near her, she quickly found her way into our hearts. Having barn cats is essential for any ranch, as they help keep the mice at bay. It’s been a while since cats were safe on our ranch, but it is wonderful to have Murphy – and maybe a few others in the coming year.

2024 will bring more growth to the ranch as we patiently await the birth of seven calves, a new litter of piglets, and potentially more ducklings. This year has been the result of many years of hard work, hard lessons, and hard-fought wins.

We are thankful for the love and support we receive from all over the world. We couldn’t do what we do without your kind words, cards in the mail, and comments on Facebook. Here’s to all of you! We send warm wishes for a bright and prosperous New Year. May it bring you closer to your goals and fill your life with love and happiness.