The Internet is back...

Yeah, we had no Internet access for almost a week. So here are some pics to celebrate the return of connectivity.

In some undisclosed and disorganized carrier cable closet TJ is showing TCP and UDP packets some love. There could be some MPLS packets in there too.

Processing of 200 chickens. TJ managed raising them with Blaise's help. He also managed all inputs, costs, marketing and sales. Surplus restaurant sinks are great for this, pictured is one with three basins.

Chickens prepped for leaving pasture. These don't automatically put themselves into cages, you have to chase them around the movable pens first.

Material for making 80 Warré bee hive boxes. Caleb wasn't sure if he wanted to be in the picture or not.

This is an unruly calf that TJ affectionately named "Calfly," he had to manage her after she was eight months old and had never been handled. When animals are young they need a lot of human interaction so they become easier to manage when older.  I had to control her on two occasions by grabbing her horns and putting my weight on her head.  She started to wear me out (we had to move her ~200 feet twice) and I realized that if she was determined she could have overtaken me. (For my young nephews who view this blog; yes, cows can stick their tongue up their noses. Bring this picture up next time your parents have guests over for dinner.)

Trins posing with an unusual name for a road located in "booger" county.

A "friendly" transmission failure. Ford owner's manuals should include replacement intervals for transmissions and engines. Three out of four Fords we've owned have had a trans or engine or both replaced just before 100k miles. Our Toyota van isn't shown any love, it has 224k miles and has only had the starter and alternator replaced (and maybe some plugs).  Toyotas are also self-healing. Third gear wouldn't work so I simply skipped it for many months and it started working again.

Re-installing a hydraulic motor.  You have to be resilient and determined to recover.  Starting a farm may look easy but it's not.  This is the most difficult endeavor our family has experienced.  I've been frustrated beyond words more than a few times.  When the transmission failed it happened on a day that started out great. The truck was loaded and the boys and I were ready for work when 400 feet later at around 25-30 mph the wheels locked abruptly and jerked us to a stop. Blaise asked "what was that" (as if I decided to instantly put the truck in reverse) and I couldn't provide a coherent answer.

A solar oven designed by a very smart friend.  The angles used optimize the intensity of the sun's rays on the box at the center.  Thick glass helps to contain heat and the black paint absorbs as much of the sun's energy as possible.  I still need to talk Tonya into putting a chicken in it.  (John, I'm ready to test your flux capacitor as soon as it's done).