A story of what Easter means to me

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April 14, 2022

Hello friend,

Being that it's Easter, the time of year that we remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (the spotless lamb of God)...

Can I share a little bit of what this means to me?

Jesus came to Earth and lived a sinless life and set an example of a humble servant. (How we should live.) Then he laid down his life by his own free will choosing to give up everything and forgive all of our sins and trespasses against God's holy law. Then he rose from the dead displaying God's mighty power over death and his power to give us a new life as we repent and turn our hearts towards him.

For me the journey has been a very slow and long one. I remember praying whenever I was seven or eight years old and asking the Lord in to my heart to change me. But I never told anyone because I wanted to see if there was a difference and nothing changed that I could tell. Throughout my teen years, I was very rebellious and sought to fulfill my passions and desires through many sinful things like lust & fantasies, work and financial success, criticism of others, and thinking I'm better than others (pride). But God got a hold of my heart whenever I was 18 or so and helped me start to see how much I needed him. I remember one night laying in bed and just telling him, "Here's my life -- I've tried all these things to try to find happiness and I'm just more miserable." I was baptized when I was 19 and had a time of victory over sin but shortly turned back to my old sinful ways and went deeper than I had went before.

Over the past 10 years, God has been working in mysterious ways giving me times of victory and letting me choose my own way so I can see how wicked and deceitful my own heart really is. But looking back, I know I see how he Has been extremely merciful to me not only spiritually, but in every area of life. I'm so thankful for the work he's doing to bring me into a closer walk and relationship with him each day as I spend time in his word (the Bible) and pray.

I would say for 8 years or so after I was baptized I struggled with knowing and believing that I was truly saved and his blood being shed on the cross was really enough. But I can truly say that through his great mercy He has brought so much peace. Even though life is very hard, by times I'm no longer so afraid of death or what lies in the future after death, because I know I am his chosen child, adopted into the family of God, and I can rest in his goodness to me!! I'm also learning to trust him for my sanctification (for the Lord to give me the character of Jesus) in his perfect timing. My job is to live out this Bible verse...

John 6:29 Jesus told them, “This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one he has sent.”

Even though I struggle to believe it some days, God is truly GOOD!!!

I want You my dear friend to learn to know God in a deeper way as well. I hope this story is an encouragement to you to press in and seek him with all your heart and experience the power of the resurrected Jesus!!!

Why the Bills family supports our farm

Andrew and Allison Bills were gracious enough to host members of our team in their beautiful home and tell us why they like and support The Maker's Meadow.

Health Benefits of Pasture-Raised Turkeys

When it comes to selecting the healthiest and most sustainable sources of poultry, pasture-raised turkeys offer numerous advantages over their industrially farmed counterparts. Not only do pasture-raised turkeys enjoy a better quality of life, but they also provide a wealth of health benefits for consumers. Let's explore how our turkeys at The Maker's Meadow differ from industrially raised birds and why they are worth considering for your next meal. Higher Nutrient Density One of the standout differences between pasture-raised and industrially farmed turkeys is the nutrient profile. Pasture-raised turkeys, allowed to roam freely and forage for natural foods like grasses, seeds, and insects, tend to have a more diverse diet. This varied diet translates to a healthier, more nutrient-dense meat. More Omega-3 & Less Omega-6: Studies have shown that pasture-raised turkeys contain higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids compared to turkeys raised in confined, grain-fed environments. Omega-3s are essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving brain function. Industrially raised turkeys often consume a diet rich in corn and soy, which can lead to an imbalance of omega-6 fatty acids. This imbalance is linked to higher inflammation in the body and can contribute to various health problems such as heart disease and arthritis. Pasture-raised turkeys, by contrast, have a healthier omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Higher Levels of Antioxidants and Vitamins: Free-ranging turkeys consume a more natural diet that results in higher levels of important antioxidants like vitamin E, which supports immune function and skin health, and beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A and supports vision and cellular growth. Lower in Harmful Additives Industrial turkey farming practices often include the use of antibiotics and growth promoters to boost production and prevent disease in overcrowded conditions. Over time, this practice has raised concerns about antibiotic resistance and its long-term effects on human health. No Antibiotic Residue: Pasture-raised turkeys are typically raised without antibiotics, allowing consumers to avoid unnecessary exposure to these drugs. This is particularly beneficial for those trying to reduce their intake of antibiotic-laden foods. No Hormones or Synthetic Additives: Pasture-raised birds generally aren’t given hormones or synthetic additives, making them a cleaner option compared to industrially raised turkeys. Improved Fat Profile and Leaner Meat Pasture-raised turkeys tend to be leaner due to their active lifestyles, foraging in fields and moving about naturally. This results in less fat compared to industrially raised turkeys, which are often kept in confined spaces and fed high-calorie, grain-based diets to promote rapid growth. Lean Protein Source: Pasture-raised turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for building muscle, maintaining metabolic health, and supporting various bodily functions. Healthier Fat Composition: The fat that pasture-raised turkeys do contain is generally healthier due to their active, natural lifestyle. Their fat is often richer in beneficial omega-3s and contains lower levels of unhealthy saturated fats, making pasture-raised turkey a better option for heart health. More Humane and Sustainable Practices Though the health benefits of pasture-raised turkeys are significant, it's also important to consider the ethical and environmental impacts. Pasture-raised turkeys typically live in environments where they have room to roam, access to fresh air, and a natural diet. This is a stark contrast to industrial farming, where turkeys are often confined to small spaces and raised in less humane conditions. No Factory Farming Practices: By supporting pasture-raised turkey farms, consumers can avoid supporting the industrial farming practices that contribute to environmental degradation, such as the overuse of pesticides, excessive water use, and pollution from concentrated animal feeding operations. Better Animal Welfare: Turkeys that are raised in pastures experience lower levels of stress and have healthier immune systems due to their more natural and humane living conditions. This often translates into healthier, less disease-prone birds that don’t require intensive antibiotic use. Enhanced Flavor & Freshness Beyond health and ethical considerations, pasture-raised turkeys also offer superior flavor. Because of their varied diet and natural lifestyle, the meat from pasture-raised turkeys is often described as richer, more complex, and with a better texture than that of industrially raised turkeys. This makes them a favorite among chefs and food enthusiasts alike. Pasture-raised turkeys are also typically fresher for consumers because they are often sourced from local or small-scale farms like ours, which prioritize quality over mass production. These turkeys are usually processed in smaller batches, ensuring they are delivered more quickly and with less time spent in storage or transport. The shorter supply chain means the bird's natural flavors and textures are fully preserved. This freshness translates into better taste and higher nutritional value, giving consumers a superior product compared to turkeys that undergo long shipping times and extended storage in industrial settings. Choosing Better for Your Health and the Planet While pasture-raised turkeys may come at a slightly higher price than industrially farmed options, the health benefits they provide—from better nutrient content to the absence of harmful additives—are well worth the investment. By choosing pasture-raised turkeys, you're not only supporting your own health but also promoting more sustainable farming practices that are better for the environment and animal welfare. The long-term benefits of going pasture-raised and buying from us here at The Maker's Meadow far outweigh the cost differential of your average store-bought turkey. So if you still need a Thanksgiving Turkey, click here to order one!

Environmental Benefits of Pasture-Raised Turkeys

What exactly makes pasture-raised turkeys more environmentally friendly?

A story of what Easter means to me

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