Good morning, Reader.

I need to start off with a quick note from my heart: last week was the first Monday I’ve missed in over a year of writing these weekly farm emails. I’m sorry to those of you who opened your inbox looking for it! It was a full and unexpected week here, but in a good way (more on that below). And thank you to everyone who reached out or noticed. It means more than you know.

And speaking of gratitude: every single one of our ground beef bundles sold out. Thank you. Because of your support, we were able to clear the freezer space we desperately needed after one of our large chest freezers burned out right as we had multiple steers heading to the butcher. Your purchases helped me bridge a stressful moment with so much encouragement.

This fall has been a season of big transitions and even bigger connections, and I’m grateful to have you along for the ride.

I’m excited to share that I’ve stepped into a new role as the Event & Communications Director for the Minnesota Grazing Lands Conservation Association. In this position, I’ve already met so many incredible people across Minnesota — from NRCS staff to Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, the Audubon Society, and passionate farmers from every corner of the state.

And let me tell you: I am blown away by the efforts happening faithfully all across our state to protect and expand our precious pasture lands. Minnesota’s cattle farmers are doing extraordinary work that often goes unseen. They’re improving soil, restoring wildlife habitat, building stronger rural communities — all while feeding their families and others.

When you support farms like ours, you’re part of that story. Your choice to buy local beef genuinely shapes the landscape.

One of my dreams even came true this fall: Eastern Bluebirds visited our pastures and rested on our fence lines. It made me burst with energy and joy seeing them I sprinted back to the house to share with Benjamin & the kids. Those beautiful birds were a reminder that good stewardship does not go unnoticed by the natural world.

On the home front, our little farm store now has electricity after months of waiting! I’m hoping to move a fridge out there this week, which should make milk pickups much more flexible as we head into the holidays. Another small step toward making this farm more welcoming and convenient for you.

This year has taught me how important it is not to try to do everything alone.
We grow stronger through connection — through leaning on each other, learning from each other, and sharing the journey.

A verse that’s been on my heart:
​“Two are better than one… for if either of them falls, one can help the other up.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
I feel that deeply these days.

And before I sign off, a little reminder: Beef CSA signups for 2025 will open in December.​
Keep an eye out if you’d like early access — we’re only able to offer a small handful of CSA shares each year.

Thank you, as always, for supporting this farm, this land, and this work.
I’m grateful for you.

With Love,

Leah
Great Heritage Farm