Who are we? We are Dexter Cattle lovers, just like you. Dexters weren't the first breed of cattle here at Shamrock Acres, but they are the ones that we decided to keep. At one point in time during the 90s, we ran two herds of cattle: Dexters and commercial cattle. It got to a point where we had to choose which would stay. The commercial cows were flighty, hard on our fences, and cost more to feed so they drew the short straw and the Dexters were the ones to stay.
So since 1987, we have had this wonderful breed. I didn't come into the world until 1990. That would declare me a lifer. I've been around these cows my whole life, and I wouldn't trade them for anything.
When I was in 4H, I never really had the time to dedicate to the herd as I was busy with my own steer, lambs, hogs, and dairy goats. However, when I aged out of 4H I had this thing called free time. Weird. I then decided to take it upon myself to do the work, put in the time, get beat up, kicked and smashed into walls and gates... but I wouldn't trade it for the world. Halter breaking is tough. Tough on the person, the equipment, and the cattle... but its so worth it.
We now are able to give people the option when selling calves if they would like them halter broken. Not that they would be crazy to begin with but its a major selling point.
A little about me~
I am Emily. I am the daughter of Pat and Linda Mitchell. My dad is currently the ADCA director for Region 10 which covers Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. I am so very lucky to have had the opportunity to grow up in the ADCA. My dad has been heavily involved in the association for as long as I can remember. Its been a blessing. Its given me the ability to learn from some of the most established people and herds in the USA.
I am a farm girl through and through. I love my boots, jeans, and sparkle belts. Stock shows are some of my favorite vacations. I am a 2013 graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science. Along the way... way back in highs school... I met my now husband Matt and we were married in 2013. We are currently enduring the house buying process as well as trying to tackle our student loans. He is a first year resident in family medicine in Grand Rapids, MI. Its an exciting time in our life. He isn't a farm boy, but he's the best help I could ask for. Willing to do the dirty jobs even though it isn't his favorite. I've been very blessed.
When I am not with the cattle, I manage a 500 sow farrowing herd in Hamilton, MI. I never would have guessed that would be my job but I love it. I am also a livestock 4H leader here in Ottawa County as well as the 4H Meat Judging Coach for Ottawa County. Even though I am out of 4H, it still more than keeps me busy! I also have the privilege to serve on the ADCA Youth Committee as well as keep this website as up to date as possible
So there you have it. Dexter Cattle run through my veins... my happy place is with them in the pasture. Thank goodness my new house is only 10 minutes from home.
I am not 100% sure the direction this blog is going to go, but I hope you stick around to find out. I hope to go into depth about how and why we do things here at Shamrock Acres.
Until next time.
