‘Round the Farm

That time of year again. Setting up rotational grazing paddocks. Couldn’t have asked for a better day!

One mama leading all the babies to new pastures. She’s the best!

Who doesn’t love a good back rub!

Last week, I ended up in the ER.

I thought it was my heart. Chest tight. Heart racing. Trouble catching my breath.

With a history of arrhythmia, I didn’t want to risk it—so I went in.

A few hours, an EKG, bloodwork, and some time staring at ceiling tiles later…

It turns out it wasn’t my heart. It was a panic attack.

That honestly surprised (and scared) me.

I’ve had one before—years ago—and at the time, I thought that was a heart attack too.

But this time felt different. Stronger. More real. I was sure something was seriously wrong. That this wasn’t just stress or overwork or anxiety sneaking up on me—it felt like something deeper.

But nope. Panic attack.

I almost didn’t share this. I’m not big on oversharing unless there’s something useful in it.

But the more I thought about it, the more I realized how many of us are carrying a lot—responsibilities, stress, worry—all while trying to keep life running smoothly on the outside.

We show up. Farm chores get done. We answer emails. We feed the animals. We make sure there’s dinner on the table. We check on customers and try to keep everything moving forward.

And most of the time, we do it quietly—without anyone knowing how much we’re holding.

Then, boom. The body throws the brakes on.

That was me last week. Sitting in a hospital room being reminded that I’m not a machine.

It’s a good reminder for all of us. Because while farming has its visible parts—green pastures, happy animals, fresh eggs, and good food—it also has its behind-the-scenes. The hard days. The early mornings. The stress no one sees.

Which brings me to Easter.

Whether you celebrate it through faith, family, or just with a chocolate bunny, it’s hard to miss the theme: renewal.

Fresh starts. New life. Second chances.

This week, after I caught my breath (literally), I stepped outside and saw it all around the farm.

Grass returning. Trees budding. New chicks coming soon. And that little whisper we all get this time of year—

“Maybe it’s going to be okay.”

That hospital visit wasn’t just a health scare. It was a reminder to slow down. To breathe.

To check in on what’s happening beneath the surface before the body decides to check in for you.

So if you’ve been running full speed lately—if you’re carrying more than folks realize—you’re not alone.

Give yourself some grace. Step outside. Let the sun hit your face.

And let this season be a reminder: It’s okay to pause. It’s okay to start fresh.

We’re all in this together,
Jason

Thanks for following us and allowing us to serve you. If you have questions, give us a shout! Have a wonderful week (Breath!) and Happy Easter!

With our appreciation,

Jason, Lexi, & Family

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How To Get That Pastured Goodness!

Want to pick some Longbottom Farm beef, pork, poultry, eggs, and coffee as well as other locally produced goodies. These are the places to do it.

Farm Pick-Up – Order online and pick up your order at our newly constructed barn. Place your order online, then once you receive the “Your Order is Ready for Pick-up” email (24 – 72 hours), pick-up anytime between 8am – 8pm SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! Your Order will be placed in our outdoor freezers / fridge for pick-up at your convenience and labeled with your name. Easy-peasy!

Locally Delivery – We offer local home delivery to the Scottsville / Charlottesville / Palmyra areas (availability is determined by zip code at checkout). We deliver every Thursday for orders over $50 ($6 delivery charge) and FREE DELIVERY for orders over $99. Simply Order online and we’ll take care of the rest!