Hey there! I’m Paula, the heart and soul behind KowHorseFarm. For the past 13 years, I’ve been diving headfirst into the world of farming, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the adventure. You’re probably wondering why, right? Well, frugal farming is more than just a niche—it’s my way of life.
I didn’t grow up on a farm, but something about working with the land captivated me. The idea of creating a self-sustaining farm without breaking the bank was my calling. My husband and I have been married for 40 years, and having his support has been absolutely invaluable on this wild ride.
By day, I’m a dedicated cytotechnologist, peering through a microscope to help diagnose diseases—a career that demands precision and focus. By evening and weekend, I’m out in the field, tending to my farm with the hope of one day doing it full-time. It’s an inspiring challenge, balancing these two worlds, but my passion for farming keeps me going.
Family means everything to me, and it plays a huge role in my farming journey. With each of our five senior horses, chickens, and countless cats and dogs, I’ve found a way to blend family life with farming. The values and hard-work ethic shared with my loved ones continue to inspire my efforts every day.
Now, you’re probably wondering, how does someone juggle all this? And more importantly, what have I learned throughout these years? Let’s move on to the next section where I’ll walk you through some of the frugal farming techniques that work—and what doesn’t. Trust me, there are plenty of lessons and stories to share!
Exploring Frugal Farming Methods: What Works and What Doesn’t
Welcome back! Now that you know a bit about the genesis of KowHorseFarm and my life, let’s dig into some of the methods that have defined my frugal farming philosophy over the years.
I’ve found that being unconventional is key when it comes to frugal farming. One of my favorite techniques is what I call ‘multitasking animals.’ Each of our five senior horses has a job besides just being beautiful pasture ornaments. They help enriching the soil with their manure, and, of course, providing companionship—a true double treat, if you ask me.
I’ve learned to doctor my animals and have successfully nursed some from the brink of death. Some I have heartbreakingly lost. I have helped in birthing kid goats, bottle fed newborns, de-bloated goats, and have made the wrenching decision to have the vet end suffering. Farming is not for the faint hearted.
My goats, they are quite the characters! They keep the grass managed but also serve as escape artists, constantly testing the fences. Keeping them secure but free-spirited has been a lesson in ingenuity.
My farm life wouldn’t be complete without my dogs, cats, chickens, and many more lovely creatures. They each play a role in pest control, companionship, and, honestly, sometimes chaos. But that chaos teaches me resilience and perseverance—traits that are priceless in both farming and life.
In the bustling life that I lead, sustainability married with frugality isn’t just a method but a lifestyle choice that I’ve deeply embraced. Now, if you’re wondering what I do when I’m not farming, you’ll definitely want to explore the next section. We’ll dive into my other pursuits, passions, and the future goals for KowHorseFarm. Come along!
Life Beyond the Farm: Interests That Keep Me Fulfilled
If you’ve followed along this far, you know that farming and cytotechnology aren’t my only passions. While balancing these two worlds seems like a lot, it’s my other interests that keep me grounded and fulfilled.
Outside the farm, I immerse myself in the word of God that lets me recharge. God has truly blessed me with my seven children and this small 6 acre farm.
Engaging with my community is another significant facet of my life. I enjoy connecting with fellow frugal farmers and enthusiasts. It’s rewarding to share knowledge, whether it’s advice, resources, or just a comforting word of encouragement. There’s a tightknit community vibe that truly resonates with me.
Of course, aspirations never stop—I’m steadily working toward transitioning into full-time farming. One of my future goals is to expand KowHorseFarm and offer workshops to inspire others through my frugal farming experiences.
In encouraging others to delve into frugal farming, I hope to foster a sense of empowerment and sustainability. With every story, a bit of insight, and a whole lot of heart, KowHorseFarm isn’t just about the land and the animals; it’s about the passion that drives it all—all the while, staying true to a life of frugality.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this little peek into my life and aspirations. Whether you’re a fellow farmer, an animal lover, or simply someone curious about frugal living, there’s always a place for you at KowHorseFarm. Together, we can celebrate the lessons, joys, and adventures of sustainable farming!