Mulberry Lane Farm

Sheep Shears by Andis

2012-02-15T18:10:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year...spring is just around the corner. The bellies of our nannie goats and ewe sheep are getting bigger and bigger as they draw closer to kidding and lambing. (giving birth) That means we need to start planning to shear our sheep soon. Farmer Pat is tickled pink about trying out his brand new Andis Sheep Shear. We have had the privilege of acquiring the heavy duty Model LGS.

Note: It is best to do the shearing before the mother ewe lambs, but not to close to lambing as to risk the stress of the "wool cut" causing premature labor. That is why plans are in the making to get the job done right.

Although the shears themselves are made in Switzerland ("Shearing Capital of the World" From Wikipedia), the Andis Corporation is based right here in WI! (Racine County)

Before we use the shears we wanted to share how similar the sheep shear is to the shears used by professional barbers and stylist. (Although theirs is on a much smaller scale.)

This shears is heavy! Perhaps that's why they call it heavy-duty. Good thing Farmer Pat has muscles. :)

But, in all seriousness, sheep shears have to be of good quality to do a clean accurate job. Have you seen the wool on an unshorn ewe or ram?

On Wednesday, March 21st, watch WGBA NBC26 at 6:50 AM to see a short sheep shearing demo on Bonnie's Barnyard. Don't worry if you don't get Green Bay stations in your area or you're not an early riser. I'll be sure to post a link to the program here. Stay tuned...

mulberry lane farm, petting farm, petting zoo, guided tours, fun for all ages, family fun, sheep shearing, andis corporation

A Wedding at Mulberry Lane Farm

2012-01-26T19:46:00.000-06:00

Oh My! Grab a kleenex before sitting down to enjoy this awesome video of a couple deeply in love captured by a very talented team of professionals at Kim Thiel Photography. Must admit, the backdrop certainly enhances this masterpiece.

Weddings at Mulberry Lane Farm are something new. Being a children's petting farm first and foremost, hosting weddings wasn't something really on our radar. However, after watching the video of one of the weddings held at the farm (10/1/11), I now understand why couples who do want something "out of the box" fall in love with the farm for a unique setting.

Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ort for allowing us the pleasure of hosting your special day. And to the team of professionals at Kim Thiel Photography...thank you for capturing this blessed event. Godspeed.

Click on link to watch video:
http://www.kimthielphotography.com/blog/weddings/a-mulberry-lane-wedding-film-christina-jerry/

wedding venues, farm wedding venue, farm wedding, petting farm, petting zoo, Mulberry Lane Farm, Mulberry Lane Petting Farm, farm tours

Shetland Ewe Stops By the Morning Show on TV26

2012-01-25T17:10:00.000-06:00

Today's segment of Bonnie's Barnyard brings Lightening to the studio. Baaaahhh...

Click on link to watch.

Bonnie's Barnyard on TV 26

Wisconsin winters can be harsh. One farm animal we envy is the sheep. They have a thick wool coat that is perfect for staying dry & warm in any climate.

Lightening is a Shetland ewe (female). Male sheep are called rams.
Shetlands are small and slow-growing. It can take two to three years to reach their adult weight.
Rams usually weigh approximately 105 lbs and ewes about 85 lbs. Lambs (baby sheep) are born weighing around 5 lbs.
Shetlands live 10 to 12 years. According to the Guiness Book of World Records, the oldest sheep lived to be 23.
The breed is noted for its very fine, soft wool and the high quality of its meat.
Wool is one of the best insulating fibers known to man. It is moisture wicking.
Their wool repels water, but humidity is absorbed. That's why sheep do well in both winter and summer.
Sheep have excellent peripheral vision and can see behind themselves without turning their heads.

Mulberry Lane Farm, sheep, goats, petting farm, petting zoo, family fun, children play area, free souvenir

Up, Up & Away.

2012-01-22T14:50:00.000-06:00

In the dead of winter it warms the soul to view the farm on warmer days. This aerial was taken this past October.

petting zoo, petting farm, family fun, kids activities, animals, mulberry lane farm

"Bonnie's Barnyard" on TV26 Green Bay

2011-12-21T11:20:00.002-06:00

Tips Before Gifting a Pet

There's nothing more precious than the look on your child's face when they open that special gift at Christmas!

Farmer Bonnie shared some things to keep in mind this morning while visiting the TV26 studio with her Barnyard friends, LadyBug, Sis and her kitten.

click on link to see video

Tips Before Gifting a Pet on Bonnie's Barnyard

This is a lifetime commitment.

- "Guinness Book of World Records" reports that the world's oldest cat lived to be 38.

- Depending on size & breed, dogs on average live 12 years.

How old are your children? Are they old enough to understand the handling & care of their new pet?
If gifting Grandparents or an elderly person consider an adult cat or dog that is already trained. A small lap dog or a gentle cuddly lap cat is ideal.
Since puppies & kittens are very active consider an adult dog or cat for the elderly person on your list. They still bring the same joy & companionship but will be easier for them to care for.
Dogs take time. Puppies take more time. Are you gone from home most of the day?

- Although cats love being with their master, cats are more adaptable to being left alone.

How big is your home and how big is your yard?

- Keep this in mind when deciding on a larger breed of dog.

Consider your finances.

- There are vet bills for shots, worming, neutering or spaying, registration & licensing, food, cat litter, toys, kennels, etc...they all add up.

If you rent or live in a condo be sure to check your lease and/or condo association rules. Are pets allowed?
Be a responsible pet owner. Be sure to have your new pet spayed or neutered!

petting farm, mulberry lane farm, mulberry lane petting farm, petting zoo, family fun, Christmas gift ideas, Sherwood WI

Weddings at Mulberry Lane Farm

2011-12-14T07:57:00.001-06:00

We were honored to be the photo shoot location for the 2012 Wedding Magazine - Green Bay. Special thanks to Allison Kline of Sash&Bow (www.sashandbow.com) for her assistance in organizing the event.

To see the full issue visit
http://www.theweddingmagazine.net/green_bay

Here are the pics you'll find in the magazine taken at Mulberry Lane Farm. Now, sit back, enjoy & picture yourself on your special day in these photos...

If you are looking for a wedding venue that's unique, truly country, & unlike any other, then Mulberry Lane Farm may be just for you. Call or email for available 2012 dates. 920-989-3130 or mulberrylanefarm@yahoo.com

wedding, country wedding, mulberry lane petting farm, farm tours, farm wedding

Christmas Gift They'll LOVE!

2011-12-02T15:55:00.001-06:00

Know a child who LOVES animals!  Tired of seeing them play with their new Christmas toys for a day, two at best and then tossed in the closet for the rest of the year?  

Give a gift that keeps on giving.  An annual pass to visit Mulberry Lane Farm.  $25.00 per person. Unlimited visits.

Mulberry Lane Farm, petting farm, petting zoo, pony rides, hayride, kittens, goats, sheep, fun for the whole family, Christmas gift ideas, Mulberry Lane Petting Farm

Talking Turkey

2011-11-16T08:29:00.000-06:00

We are "talking turkey" on Bonnie's Barnyard. Pegged as the least intellegient farm animal, I think the turkey got a bum rap. They are acutally very fasinating!

Also had some discussion on the difference between a turken and a turkey. Check it out...

http://www.nbc26.com/news/local/133952763.html

turkey, turken, petting farm, petting zoo, milk a cow, pony rides, hay ride, farm tours

A Precious Gift

2011-11-06T17:18:00.000-06:00

On Saturday November 5th Farmer Cindy, our farm manager, hosted an annual year-end party. We had a lot to celebrate this year as we broke a few attendance records and launched some new "annual" events too. It wasn't without some trails, at times having to tour in some undesirable conditions, and even hitting some bumps in the road along the way, but we did it. We ALL did it. It was certainly a lesson in "team work."

As we reminisced of our year I often found myself laughing so hard I had tears! We have an amazing group of people. And all of them had a story to share. But they shared more than stories. They shared their gratitude and respect for Farmer Pat and I when they gifted us the most unusual yet most touching gift. I guess you'd have to know Pat and I to understand how much the gift meant.

Let me explain...if you've followed our blog throughout the year, or had the pleasure of visiting Mulberry Lane Farm in person, you've learned that Otis, the farm's 900+ lb boar has become sort of a farm mascot. And a new addition to the farm is our loving, yet naughty (she is a puppy remember!), LadyBug. Both are dearly loved by Pat and I both. Odd combination I know.

Anyhow, early this year LadyBug began to loose her "baby" teeth. One happened to fall out as Farmer Pat was playing with her and he felt terrible that he caused her to loose a tooth, not realizing at the time this was a natural puppy occurrence. Also, Otis lost one of his huge adult canine tusk. Again, Farmer Pat found himself a part of this occurrence. Both, LadyBug's and Otis' lost tooth found there way into The Granary where they held their spot on a shelf for the year.

Okay...you may now begin to wonder how on earth a gift and some teeth would cause our heart's to melt. They had them both made into jewelry for us to wear. So when you see a dog's baby tooth, or a pig's tusk adorning our neck, remember only a farmer and the farmer's wife could possibly be touched by such a gift.

petting farm, petting zoo, farm tours, milk a cow, ride a pony, guided tours, pumpkin patch

Closed til 2012

2011-10-31T17:25:00.000-05:00

Thanks for helping make 2011 a record breaking year at Mulberry Lane Farm! We enjoyed meeting tons of new farm friends and we look forward to your return visit in 2012. We can't wait to see how many more new friends we'll have the opportunity to meet next year!

But for now...Farmer Pat and his helpers are busy getting the farm ready for a long winter's nap. Animals are brought into the barns...automatic waterers are turned on...the mangers are full of hay....the straw is fluffed for soft bedding...and now everyone is about snug as a bug in a rug.

Be sure to visit our blog throughout the winter months to see updates on how all the farm animals are doing at the farm.

PuMpKiN Harvest Celebration!

2011-09-20T21:19:00.000-05:00

Join Mulberry Lane Farm as we celebrate

The PuMpKiN Harvest!

September 23 through October 31, 2011 each guest receives a FREE PuMpKiN that you pick yourself from over 6 acres of pumpkins!

It's like being lost in the candy store. Each pumpkin looks better than the next. Allow yourself plenty of time to find just the right one.

But first enjoy your guided tour of the farm.

Ride a Pony
Milk a Cow
Catch a Chicken
Kiss a Pig
Cuddle a Kitten
Enjoy a Hayride
Pick your own FREE Pumpkin
and More!

Also available at the farm; Farmer Barb's homemade sloppy joes, Farmer Barb's homemade chicken noodle soup, Farmer Felicia's caramel apples and more. You'll have a yummy good time!

Farm opens 10 AM Daily.

petting farm, petting zoo, pumpkin patch, pick a pumpkin, pony rides

Pumpkin Blossom Festival

2011-09-15T21:30:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin Blossom Festival

^at Mulberry Lane Petting Farm

Sat Sept 17 & Sun Sept 18, 2011

FREE SliCe of Amish Made

PuMpKiN PiE

w/Paid General Admission

FREE SliCe of PuMpKin PiE
Guided Tour of the Farm:

- Milk a Cow - Catch a Chicken - Ride a Pony

- Kiss a Pig - Cuddle a Kitten - Enjoy a Hayride & More!

FREE SliCe of PuMpKin PiE
Cornbox Play Station
Photo opps w/Rover the Dog & Patty Pumpkin
Face Painting by Local Yth Grp (Donations)
Caramel Apples, Pumpkin Cookies, Pumpkin Muffins, Farmer Barb's Homemade Soups & Sandwiches available to purchase.

Oh, and did we mention…

FREE SliCe of PuMpKin PiE

Diddles Handmade Goat Milk Soaps

2011-08-24T20:30:00.002-05:00

Always looking for quality and interesting products to carry in The Granary. We are excited to announce the newest product added...Diddles Handmade Goat Milk Soaps.

Available in Mulberry & Pumpkin Fragrances.

I usually found myself having to lotion up after my shower because my skin felt dry. Not after using the goat milk soap!

The soap is locally made in Femont WI. Just down the road from where our home-made Amish jellies come from in Wild Rose, and pickled items from Pickett. We try to have all our Granary items come from local vendors.

Perfect for yourself , as a gift or just something special to take home from your farm visit.

Ingredients: Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Goat Milk, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance Oil.

petting farm, petting zoo, ride a pony, pony rides, cow milking, hayride, pick a pumpkin, pumpkin patch

Fox Cities Magazine Photo Winners!

2011-07-31T12:16:00.003-05:00

Mulberry Lane Farm is proud to announce that two of our guest have won for their photo entry in the 2011 Fox Cities Magazine Photo Contest.

Grand Prize Winner!

CORN BIN

Peter De Schmidt of Fond du lac, took this photo of the farm's Corn Crib during a June visit. Peter's photo took GRAND PRIZE honors! We agree with the Fox Cities Magazine. It's a beautiful photo!

2ND PLACE - THINGS

"HAMMING IT UP AT MULBERRY LANE FARM"

Amy Phillips of Oshkosh took this photo while on a school field trip with her daughter. After the students left the Sow Barn, Amy said she looked back to see the piglet's "calling her for her attention." She couldn't resist the photo opportunity. Amy took 2nd place in the "Things" category.

Congratulations to Peter and Amy for sharing your beautiful photos with us. Mulberry Lane Farm is honored to be the subject of your photos.

Link to Fox Cities Magazine: Fox Cities Magazine Click on magazine photo on the left side of page to see all the winners.

photo contest winners, petting farm, petting zoo

CoRn FeST

2011-07-16T07:39:00.001-05:00

FREE - All You Can Eat

CoRn oN thE CoB

w/ Pd General Admission

Sat Aug 13 & Sun Aug 14, 2011

Admission from 10 AM - 2 PM
Farm Closes at 4 PM

Pd General Admission Includes:

All the Corn-on-the-Cob you can Eat
Guided tour of the farm: Milk a Cow - Catch a Chicken - Ride a Pony - Kiss a Pig - Cuddle a Kitten - Enjoy a Hayride & More!
All the Corn-on-the-Cob you can Eat
Cornbox Play Station
Face Painting
All the Corn-on-the-Cob you can Eat
Caramel Apples & other food items for purchase
Guest Appearance By: Rover the Dog & Friendly the ScareCrow

Oh, and did we mention…

All the Corn-on-the-Cob you can Eat?!??

General Admission: $10/person (under 24 mos FREE)
Nope - not a misprint. Crazy price for all you can do and eat!!

(Sorry, NO Coupons/Discounts/Groupons will be accepted at this event.)

free corn on the cob, corn roast, corn fest, petting farm, petting zoo, cow milking, pony rides

Nesting Guinea Hen

2011-07-15T09:04:00.000-05:00

Farmer Pat saw that the guinea hens have found a safe haven on the farm in The Old Wood Shed. They apparently felt so safe they laid more eggs than they can cover!

Actually, to see this many eggs isn't unusual. The guinea hens like to lay eggs in secluded nests on the ground. They will lay an egg a day. Once there is a clutch of 20-30 eggs the guinea will stay on the nest. The eggs take approximately 28 days to hatch. Guinea hens will often share nests as they have here at the farm.

The baby guinea fowl are called keets. The male guinea fowl is called guinea cocks. It'll be so cute to see the guinea keets following mom in less than a month. Happy hatching little ones!

guinea fowl, petting zoo, petting farm, pumpkin picking, pony rides, milk a cow

Skinny, Minnie & Max - Triplet Calves

2011-07-13T09:15:00.000-05:00

Video of our visit to TV26 on Wednesday, July 13th (click on link below).

Today we brought our triplet calves to the studio. There is only a 1 in 105,000 chance of a cow having triplets. Born at Mathes Dairy in Hilbert these 3 where gifted to Mulberry Lane Farm to be raised and to give our guest the opportunity to see and pet these cuties.

http://www.nbc26.com/news/local/125479818.html

Bonnie's Barnyard can be seen the second Wednesday of eash month on TV26 WGBA.

calves, pony ride, petting farm, petting zoo, hayride

"Bonnie's Barnyard" on TV26 Green Bay

2011-07-06T12:35:00.000-05:00

Set the alarm. Gather the kids.

"Bonnie's Barnyard"

will be on WGBA TV26 Today program every 2nd Wednesday of the month starting July 13th! Tune in to see what special Barnyard friends we have in the studio.

At Mulberry Lane Farm our philosophy is that learning can be fun.

We have teamed with TV 26's Jenny Evans of the Today program to bring FuN! farm animal facts right into your living room! Did you know you can tell the color egg a hen will lay by looking at the color of her earlobe? Did you know that you must eat 126 apples to equal the calcium in 1 glass of milk? Did you know...well, I don't want to give it all away here.

Tune in to see and hear all about

Bonnie's Barnyard.

petting farm, petting zoo, fun farm facts, Mulberry Lane Farm, milk a cow, ride a pony, hayride, pumpkins

Open July 2 & 3 - Closed the 4th

2011-07-02T07:27:00.000-05:00

What's more American than Time with Family - Hot Dogs, Lemonade & Apple Pie - Milking a Cow while at the Farm?!?!

You bring the family. Let the store supply the food. We have the milking cow & tons of acres of farm to enjoy. This 4th of July weekend take the time to reflect on whats important.

See you at the farm!

mulberry lane farm, fun for the kids, petting farm, petting zoo, pony ride, pumpkins

Heartfelt Thank You!

2011-06-20T06:56:00.005-05:00

I once heard it said...

"We have learned that no matter the age or the background there is something about a farm that brings out the joy and worth in others."

At Mulberry Lane Farm we are blessed to experience this first hand & to have a wonderful staff to help us carry out our mission. Allow me to share a recent email we received from a family who visited the farm.

Farmer Liz

Hi,

We just wanted you to know how much fun we had at your farm yesterday. Our guide, Liz, was wonderful!! She was so friendly and patient. It was a joy to spend time with her learning about the animals and seeing your beautiful farm. Our kids enjoyed it so much that they were begging to go back as we were leaving the parking lot. We can't wait to come see you again.

........What wonderful memories!!

Thank you for making our Family Day so special,

The Adams Family

The Adams Kids

Thank you Farmer Liz, The Adams Family and the rest of our farm guest and staff. Being transparent, I have to admit we have days we forget why we do what we do. Your kind words help remind Farmer Pat & myself why we do what we do. We thank you for that!

--Frmr Bonnie

NO iphone, NO ipad, NO ipod just....

2011-06-16T16:24:00.003-05:00

iDad time!

Put away the gadgets. The things that take your attention away from what is most important, your Dad! Spend quality "I and Dad" time at the farm this Father's Day, June 19th. Dads are FREE.

(Dad Free with a paid admission. No other offers apply.)

Dads FREE on Father's Day

2011-06-12T19:45:00.004-05:00

Kids, make plans with Mom to bring Dad to the farm next Sunday. Dads are FREE on Father's Day June 19th.

Dad will enjoy reminiscing about his boyhood days of being on the farm. Milk a cow, enjoy a hayride. See if Dad can catch a chicken or kiss a pig! It’ll be the best Father’s Day present ever. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the beautiful picnic area overlooking the farm fields.

Tours begin continuously between 10-2. Farm closes 2 hours from last tour departure.

Dads FREE on Father’s Day. Sorry, no other offers apply.

Piglets

2011-06-11T18:54:00.005-05:00

It's hard to count how many piglets our gilt had. They love to pile on top of each other.

The ones on the bottom don't seem to mind in the least.

Triplet Calves

2011-06-07T09:39:00.008-05:00

Newest arrivals at Mulberry Lane Farm are triplet calves (2 are heifers & a bull). Now, which is the bull??

Nope, heifer. Distinguishing mark, full white marking on forehead.

Nope, the one on the right is a heifer. Distinguishing mark, well...there isn't one. Solid black forehead. And as much as LadyBug hangs out with the calves she'd be a heifer too, not a bull.

You guessed it. This is the bull calf. Distinguishing mark, white spec top of forehead.

free martin, petting zoo, petting farm, pony ride, hayride, pumpkins, milk a cow

A Window in Time

2011-06-05T20:22:00.011-05:00

No, it isn't a photo lifted from a magazine cover. It's actually a scene you'd see while peering through one of the farm house windows. Allow me to explain...

Being at the farm daily, we often don't see, or we take for granted, what our guest see. What looks to us as an eye sore...a broken barn door hanging off it's hinges in need of repair, may look to our guest as a beautiful red barn door laid as a backdrop as an entry of nostalgia. A yearning for the past when life was simpler.

Recently I've been bragging about all the photos our guest send us after their visit to the farm. It's a blessing to see the farm through their eyes.

We just received photos from a guest who visited last fall. It was a full CD of photos so I've taken the liberty to share some of our favorites. Are you ready to have your breath taken away?!?

These photos are courtesy of Robert Resnick of Revelations of Design.

Need a photographer...let me get you in touch with Robert.

It's a Bull

2011-06-02T18:50:00.004-05:00

We had a first at Mulberry Lane Farm during the night. A calf was born! Cinnamon had a very healthy, handsome looking bull. Now, for the name??!?

A Star is Born

2011-06-01T06:44:00.005-05:00

Have you always dreamed of being a star? Seeing your fans cheer and shout with glee as they see you approaching? Waving the American flag while strolling down an avenue lined with 1000's of people? Yes, 1000's!!

In this dream are you dressed as a COW?!?!?

Here is your chance. Mulberry Lane Farm will again participate in the annual Appleton Flag Day Parade held Saturday afternoon on June 11, 2011. We need two more volunteers to complete our herd of 8. We have the costumes so all that's left are willing able bodies. Must be at least 5' tall, love to smile and able to walk 2 miles. Email us at mulberrylanefarm@yahoo.com to sign-up for a really fun time as shown in last years photo above.

Guest Photos from Memorial Weekend

2011-05-30T18:24:00.008-05:00

Although we were closed on Monday in observance of Memorial Day many guest enjoyed Saturday and Sunday at the farm. It was definitely a relaxing weekend as families lingered into the day just enjoying the nice weather, the peacefulness of the country and the joy of spending quality family time together.

Here are some photos forwarded to me from a few of our guest...

Some photos done with iphones and some done by professionals. Need a photographer? I can put you in touch. Thank you all for sharing!

Memorial Day Weekend at Mulberry

2011-05-27T19:31:00.007-05:00

Farm will be open Saturday & Sunday, May 28 & 29, 2011.

-Ride a Pony
-Milk a Cow
-Cuddle a Kitten
-Kiss a Pig
-Enjoy a Hayride
and play with some of the cutest kid goats ever!!

In observance of Memorial Day we will be closed Monday, May 30th.

Guest Photos

2011-05-23T10:43:00.007-05:00

Often we have guest at the farm that thoroughly enjoy taking pictures of their farm experience. Some are professional photographers, some are photo hobbyist, and some simply take photos with their cell phones. When these photos are forwarded to us we are blessed at seeing the farm through their eyes. Here are just a few recently emailed to us. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do.

Motherly Love...

2011-05-15T17:40:00.004-05:00

Need I say more?

-photo courtesy of Farmer Quianna

Farming Thru the Eyes of a Child

2011-05-13T13:12:00.004-05:00

Okay, off to do chores. Let's see...I have animals to feed, cows to milk, hay to bale, manure to spread, hoofs to trim, equipment to repair...ee-gads, a farmer's job is NEVER done.

Now to figure out how to get in there to feed these rascals!!?!

Ah-ha...caught-ya. I'm working up an appetite wrestling these critters. This ain't no job for the faint hearted.

Gotta get to the fields before the sun goes down. Now how do I get this contraption into gear?

to be continued....

Moms FREE on Sunday May 8th

2011-05-06T07:23:00.010-05:00

Honoring Coni Keyes and Loretta Rochon on Mother's Day at Mulberry Lane Farm. Come celebrate your Mom with a FREE admission to the farm.

Coni Keyes mother of 13. Pictured are Dad (Bob Keyes), Bonnie, Tim, Dan, Farmer Pat, Perry, Charlie, Cindy, Ken, Ted, Kitty & Karen. Not born yet and missing from photo are Krissy & Kelly.

Loretta Rochon mother of 8. Pictured are Dad (O'Niel Rochon), Danny (Pepe), Rochelle, Steven, Susan, Jillene, Gala, Farmer Bonnie and Robin.

----------------

Bring your Mom to the farm and visit the baby kid goats, baby lambs, baby calves, baby chicks, baby ducklings, baby kittens, baby bunnies, baby, baby, do we have babies! That's why we celebrate all Moms on Mother's Day.

Tours begin continuously between 10-2. Farm closes 2 hours from last tour departure.

Ride a pony, milk a cow, enjoy a hayride, catch a chicken, pet a pig, cuddle a kitten and more.

$10/person. 1 and under 23mos FREE. Moms FREE on Mother’s Day. No other offers apply.

Twin Lambs Born 4.29.11

2011-04-30T13:46:00.006-05:00

Farmer Pat found these two little cuties this morning when he went out to do chores. The spotted is a ram lamb (boy). The coal colored is a ewe lamb (girl).

I think this little guy is going to get a lot of attention. He's a cutie pie.

Baby, baby, do we have babies!

2011-04-29T08:31:00.009-05:00

Just some of the new born farm animals you'll see this spring...

Interesting animal fact: Did you know that as this little lamb grows she will begin turning light like her mother?

Interesting animal fact: The mother rabbit pulls out hair as part of nest-building. Her kits (or kittens) are born nearly naked with little to no hair. The Doe's hair keeps them warm while their own hair grows. The bunnies had just been born so I didn't want to disturb them.

Interesting animal fact: Almost everyone knows a male cat is called a Tom. (As in "tomcat"). But did you know that the female is called a Queen? Appropriate, don't you think?!?

Interesting animal fact: Geese are the largest waterfowls but spend most of their time on land. Because geese are so noisy some farmers use them as watch-dogs. They'll definitely let you know when someone is approaching!

You'll see these and many more baby animals when you visit this spring. Plus learn more interesting animals facts. Remember...learning can be fun!

Butterscotch Has Two!

2011-04-27T21:58:00.007-05:00

We are so proud of our first time mother, Butterscotch.

She successfully delivered twins during a very cold rainy day Tuesday April 26th. Butterscotch had a shelter in the pasture but being a first time mother she wasn't sure what was happening.

Farmer Pat found the girls just in time to bring them in, dry them off and place them under a heat lamp. Today they are happy, healthy and playing in barn waiting for your visit. Spring season begins May 4th!

Easter Arrivals

2011-04-22T09:09:00.003-05:00

Sixteen cute little goslings arrived just in time for Easter. Because of the cold damp spring, delivery by the hatchery was delayed by over a month. But geese grow fast. By the time we open May 4th these little guys will be twice the size (if not more) they are now.

Can you pick out the different breeds? I can't yet but the experts can. I have to wait until they are older. Now, they just look like cute cuddly fur balls.

6 Toulouse: The varying shades of gray in the plumage emphasize their deep, rounded white breasts and massive appearance.

3 White Chinese: Are pure white in color and have a knob on top of their heads and are excellent weed eaters.

4 White Emden: They have the same massive appearance as the Toulouse, combined with a pure white color. They have orange feet and bills.

3 Roman Tufted: One of the oldest breeds classified as a smaller, plump bird with a friendly personality.

Five Little Kittens Who Lost Their Mittens

2011-04-09T11:36:00.010-05:00

Technically lost was the kittens, not the mittens. It took us 3 days to locate Sis and her litter because she had them so well hidden. Aaliyah eventually found them in a corn crib all curled up in the far corner. Ahh...

Born Wed April 6, 2011
Spread out a little so you can see them all.Video of kittens

Singing the Blues

2011-04-02T08:39:00.004-05:00

Is it my imagination or are these gals singing "The Winter Blues?"
Now that the warmer temperatures have finally arrived and the ewes are about to give birth, the annual sheep shearing is scheduled.

Kisses Anyone?!?!

2011-03-29T19:57:00.007-05:00

Ladybug kissing Cinnamon

Ladybug kissing Lightening.

Ladybug trying to get close enough to kiss Boots.

Trying to get a little closer for more kisses from the cattle.

And those who wanted NO kisses!!

Spring Baby Farm Animals

2011-03-29T07:59:00.003-05:00

Looking around the farm I can see many expecting farm animals. One that has really peaked my interest is our nanny goat, Half&Half. Could it be three years in a row she has quads?!?! She is getting awfully big. (I'll try and get a picture posted soon.)

Of the three pregnant ponies, Blondie is the biggest and I'm guessing will deliver first.

But the ones that really keep you guessing are the ewes. It isn't until they are sheared that we can really tell how big they are. Opsie Daisy here doesn't look pregnant at all! But just wait and see...(to be continued.)

Ladybug at 3 mos.

2011-03-23T17:18:00.008-05:00

Like my Dad always said, "all bad weeds grow fast." It's hard to believe how much Ladybug has grown in three months! But, her weight and height aren't the only thing growing...SHE'S GROWING SPOTS!

Take a look at the February 15th post. No spots (other than a few around her nose). Now look...

P.S. She's really not "bad" but she is ALL puppy!!

To watch video of Ladybug play catch with Farmer Pat, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLEAK4kElVE

The Conclusion of Otis & The Principal

2011-03-03T10:48:00.009-06:00

On Friday Feb 18th Otis visited Menasha High School where Principal Dr. Larry Haase kissed Otis in agreement with the students for raising over $3000 for the Heifer Foundation. Here is the conclusion to the event...

Otis being guided to the center of the gym.

Dr. Haase making his grand entry.

Otis not eager to be kissed by the Doctor.

Otis much happier to be kissed by event organizer and teacher Erin Culligan.

With lipstick on his snout and a smirk on his face, I'd say he enjoyed himself!

First Book Fox Valley

2011-02-26T13:09:00.007-06:00

Mulberry was proud to be part of the First Book Fox Valley event held on Saturday, February 26th at the Menasha Public Library.

Farmer Bonnie opened the event with a reading of "Looking for a Moose." Afterward the kids enjoyed book-themed crafts, game activities and a chance to visit with some of the Mulberry animals.

Farmer Cindy held Mr. Flapper to give all the visitors a chance to pet him. Farmer Phil was in charge of Charlie, one of the farm's kid goats.

Special thanks to Farmer Kevin and Farmer Aaliyah for their help too. It was certainly a successful team effort.

Ladybug

2011-02-15T09:38:00.006-06:00

Meet the newest addition to Mulberry Lane Farm...LADYBUG.

Ladybug (affectionately called Lady) was born on December 20th at Kinni River Springers Kennel, Hammond WI. She is a Bench/Field English Springer Spaniel. We brought her home this weekend and she's already showing us how smart she is.

Ranger is the sire. (Dad)

And Sal is the dam. (Mom)

Now you know where she get's her looks from!

Ladybug looks forward to meeting all the guest at Mulberry this spring. She loves playing and chasing the tennis ball.

Otis and the Principal

2011-02-15T09:20:00.005-06:00

Otis will make his debut during a 2 PM Menasha High School assembly on Friday Feb 18th. Principal, Dr. Larry Haase challenged the high school students to raise at least $3000 for the Heifer Foundation. If they met their goal he agreed to kiss Otis! I don't think Dr. Haase realized that Otis is almost 4X the size of Green Bay Packer linebacker, Nick Barnett. :)

We Open May 4th for the Spring 2011 Season!!!

2011-02-04T09:22:00.005-06:00

Attention Teachers - The sooner you reserve your spring field trip to Mulberry Lane Petting Farm the more FREE admissions you’ll receive!

Make your reservation online or by calling:
-Before February 15th and receive 3 FREE admissions per 25 paid admissions.
-Before March 15th and receive 2 FREE admissions per 25 paid admissions.
-After March 15th you’ll still receive 1 FREE admission per 25 paid admissions.

Spring comes to life at the farm with the birth of all our baby animals. Baby lambs, baby calves, baby kittens, baby chicks, baby ducklings, baby kid-goats, baby piglets, baby bunnies baby, baby do we have babies!!

Good for field-trips May 4th through June 10th only.

P.S. Only have a few hours to spend at the farm because of am/pm programming? Many teachers have found combining both am/pm for a very special end-of-the-year field trip to be just the answer.

We look forward to seeing you!!!!

Appleton 2010 Christmas Parade

2010-11-24T09:41:00.005-06:00

Mulberry Lane Petting Farm presents: Farm Family Traditions

The family farm is legendary in WI with Christmas traditions dating back to our Grandparents and beyond. Even tho it may be Christmas morning the farmer must complete his morning chores before going back to the farm house to partake in the holiday festivities.

Mulberry Lane Petting Farm takes a stroll down memory lane to relive one of the oldest farm traditions, delivering the morning milk. Farmer Pat is at the reins seated atop the antique milk wagon pulled by…… reindeer?!?

Or are they the farm’s milking cows!?!?

Thanks to our "cows" Farmer Gala, Farmer Wendy, Farmer Liz and Farmer Ron (pictured). Farmer Kevin, Farmer Olivia, Farmer Cindy and Farmer Bonnie (not pictured). Farmer Pat on wagon and Granddaughter, Aaliyah as the farm kitty-kat.

2010...Oh what a year!

2010-11-05T07:33:00.005-05:00

Thank you to all our guest who helped make 2010 such a memorable year. It certainly was exciting and we have some people to thank...

Equitable Reserve Association for holding your 5th annual "ERA Day at Mulberry Lane Farm." Over 300 ERA members visited the farm in a single day.

The first "Green Bay Packer Association Family Day" held at Mulberry. By all indications it won't be the last. (We believe some Packer players think Otis needs be signed up for the Packer front line!)

Seth & Kate Lenz for hosting their wedding at Mulberry Lane Farm. We felt honored to part of such a special day.

For the corporations and private individuals who caught Mulberry's vision to "provide an ideal country learning environment where people of all ages can interact and learn about farm animals through a "hands-on" guided tour" and made generous contributions to our "Future Farmers Grant" program WE THANK YOU!

U.S. Venture, Appleton
Schwaubenlander Farms LLP, Chilton
Jillene and Bob McLaughlin, Beloit
Carol & Paul Gehl, Hilbert
John Anderson, Host of Wipeout

Our awesome staff! Without them there is no us. We have the best tour guides and best farm hands in the land! Need I say more? They are the reason Mulberry has become the premier field trip destination in the area.

And YOU...our loyal followers and guest of Mulberry Lane Farm! We humbly thank you for joining us. Your laughter, your squeals of excitement, your giggles, your shared words of appreciation...we thank you.

We look forward to 2011...See you in May!

Submitted photo by guest: JPickart

Xtra FREE Pumpkins & Gourds

2010-10-30T08:01:00.005-05:00

Last chance to celebrate the fall harvest. Decorate your Thanksgiving table and/or porches with the extra pumpkins and gourds we are giving away to our visitors. Farm open Saturday and Sunday, Oct 30 & 31. Open at 10AM. Last admission to the farm is at 3PM.

Pick a Pumpkin at Mulberry Lane Farm

2010-09-19T07:07:00.000-05:00

Everyone picks their own FREE Pumpkin in fall!

Open 7 days a week Sept 24 through Oct. 31st. Fall is in the air and it's time to make the caramel apples, bring out the harvest wagons and trim the farm with corn stalks, Indian corn and pumpkins.
Fall is a beautiful time of year to be in the country. Whether you are on a guided tour of the farm, enjoying a hayride, mulling around sipping hot apple cider, or munching on a crisp caramel apple, we're confident you'll enjoy your time on the farm.

Remember to stop back at the Granary to receive your pumpkin ticket to visit the Pumpkin Patch.

Everyone picks their own FREE pumpkin!

Future Farmers Grant

2010-08-10T19:51:00.016-05:00

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide an ideal country learning environment where people of all ages can interact and learn about farm animals through "hands-on" guided tours.

Here at Mulberry Lane Farm we take this mission very seriously. We are thrilled when our guest share how overwhelmed they are by their visit. Unfortunately, with the current economic climate and school budget cuts, we have found some students unable to experience this same joy and excitement.

We believe every student, no matter their family's financial situation, deserves the opportunity to participate in a Mulberry Lane Farm field trip. Therefore, we have begun a new program called the “Future Farmers Grant.” We invite you to join our team by contributing to the grant program.

How does the "Future Farmers Grant" work?

Fill out a pledge card
Fill out top portion of "Distribution Form"
Based upon your pledge, MLF will forward you the completed distribution form with the name(s) of the teachers and schools who have requested a grant.
Write your tax deductible check directly to the school(s).
If you’d like, many of our contributors visit the farm the day the students come on their field trip. See first hand the excitement and joy on the students’ face when they get a chance to:

- Milk a Cow

- Ride a Pony

- Catch a Chicken

- Kiss a Pig

- Cuddle a Kitten

- Enjoy a Hayride

- Receive a FREE Souvenir or Pumpkin

- and MORE!

We have learned that no matter the age or the background there is something about a farm that brings out the joy and worth in others.

Call or email us today to receive your pledge card and distribution form at 920-989-3130 or mulberrylanefarm@yahoo.com

The Story of Sis

2010-08-10T17:07:00.000-05:00

"You'd never know it by looking at me that I just had a kitten, would you?" Sis questioned.

Farmer Bonnie explained, "I hate to tell you Sis, but you had more than 1 kitten!"

"Well, yes, maybe 2 or 3. It's hard to tell. It just looks like a pile of fur!" Sis sighed.
Helpful Farmer Bonnie said, "Here, let me help you count. I'll spread them out a little more. That should help."

"There, that helps...I think I count NINE!" exclaimed Farmer Bonnie

NINE?!?!?
You GOT to be Kidding!
"Yup, nine!" Assured Farmer Bonnie
"Count them."

"Oh my, oh my...what am I going to do with NINE kittens?" Cried Sis

THE END

Ahhh...Cool at Last

2010-08-09T18:52:00.001-05:00

Remember sweetheart...not having sweat glands the only way I can stay cool is to wallow in mud!

Try it...you'll like it! (P.S. Don't tell your Mom I told you!!)

Lucy's Daily Stroll

2010-08-09T18:41:00.001-05:00

(Double click on photos to enlarge to see horses in the background.)

Each day while Lucy's pen is being cleaned we allow her to "free range" to get her exercise.
I think Chilli (colt) was questioning his mom, Winter (mare) if he was seeing things.Winter felt she needed to get a closer look. Sure enough...Lucy! Out for her daily stroll.You can tell by her teats that she has some hungry little piglets waiting for her return. In fact, 11 little piggies waiting at home. BUT, like most Moms, there are just those days when you need a little "ME" time.

This is a Fox Cities Viewpoint

2010-08-03T21:14:00.011-05:00

Thursday 8/5/10 Mulberry Lane Farm has the privilege of sharing our "viewpoint" on the radio!

It was a really cool experience going into the studio for the taping of my "view." With all the awesome technology we were able to do it in 1-1/2 takes. They can cut, splice, delete...gee I should have asked them to make me sound like Marilyn Monroe while they were at it. :)

For those who can't tune in to WHBY 1150 (AM station) at 7:15 AM, 12:15 PM and again between 5:15 and 6 PM, I thought I'd share my script.

I challenge you...Do you think you could live a day without agriculture?

Defining agriculture as "the production of food and goods through farming 'ag' products touch our lives...from your wooden bed frame, cotton sheets, goose down pillow, woolen blanket...and you aren't even out of bed yet!

Try having an ag free breakfast! No eggs, bacon, toast, milk, juice, cereal...difficult, isn't it!

We are indebted to our farmers. Where would we be without them?

According to the Census of Agriculture,
"A long term trend observed is the aging of farm operators...the fastest growing group is those 65 years and older."

Who will replace our aging farmers before the family farm is extinct?

Educating our children, instilling a love of farm animals and land is imperative.

Hands-on learning is the best way to learn about farming.

So I give you one last challenge...

visit a petting farm
the county fair
or farm progress days with your children. There are countless farm education opportunities.

Who knows, you may have a future farmer in the family!

This is Bonnie Keyes, Mulberry Lane Petting Farm and This is a Fox Cities View Point.

Doe had Kittens!

2010-08-01T11:47:00.007-05:00

No we don't have a deer at the farm that gave birth to kittens. We have a female rabbit (Doe) who had bunnies (called kits or kittens). The male is a buck. Kind of confusing if you ask me.

Our Doe gave us a sure sign that she was about to deliver by pulling the hair from under her chin to line the nest. This is to keep her kits warm until their own hair grows long. You can see one buried in the hair if you look close. We still don't know how many she's had! Shhh...we don't want to disturb them.

White Peahen has Five!

2010-08-01T11:31:00.004-05:00

The White Peahen and/or Peacock are frequently mistaken for an albino, but it is a color variety of Indian Blue Peacock. Its white color makes it look really magnificent and elegant.

Our white peahen had 5 peachicks. She mated with an Indian Blue Peacock so we are anxiously waiting to see their color as they get older. They could turn out to be a combination white and blue!

FREE Ice Cream

2010-07-25T07:48:00.003-05:00

FREE Froggs Tadpole ice cream cone for ALL visitors to the farm today!

Froggs in Sherwood WI and Mulberry Lane Petting Farm have teamed together for a Summer Breeze Event. Present your farm sticker at Froggs and you'll get a FREE Tadpole cone!

Sunday July 25th only.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2010-07-11T10:21:00.009-05:00

Like chocolate chip cookies? At Mulberry Lane Farm we offer chocolate chip cookies fresh baked and frozen! We've found on those hot humid summer days many of our guest love to bite into a cool frozen cookie. Yummy!

We also have yummy jellies and jams. Ever try mulberry jam? It's very hard to find because it takes soooo many berries to make just one jar of jam. We have it for sale her in our Granary along with other mouth watering jams. We have Door County raspberry jelly along with the very best strawberry rhubarb jam made from our very own Farmer Barb!

Another favorite is our hand-made African baskets. It's our way of the WI farmer supporting African farmers. Hand weaved of elephant grass with some of the grass died from plant extract making vibrant colored baskets. No two baskets are alike.
You'll also find pickled asparagus, pickles, honey, garden salsa, maple syrup, cherry pie filling, caramel topping, cider spice and more!

Mouth watering yet?

Never too old to learn.

2010-06-27T17:53:00.005-05:00

Today while I was out touring our family guest we stopped to visit Winter and her colt Chilli. I mentioned, "Did you notice that Chilli has blue eyes?" One of the guest explained that it is called "walleye." Sure enough. I came home and looked it up and found...

wall·eye (wôl′ī′)

noun

an eye, as of a horse, with a whitish iris or white, opaque cornea

I'm so glad she shared this information with me. I enjoy learning too!

A True Duck Story from San Antonio , Texas

2010-06-27T15:23:00.002-05:00

Something really cute happened in downtown San Antonio this week. Michael R. is an accounting clerk at Frost Bank and works there in a second story office. Several weeks ago, he watched a mother duck choose the concrete awning outside his window as the unlikely place to build a nest above the sidewalk. The mallard laid ten eggs in a nest in the corner of the planter that is perched over 10 feet in the air. She dutifully kept the eggs warm for weeks, and Monday afternoon all of her ten ducklings hatched.

Michael worried all night how the momma duck was going to get those babies safely off their perch in a busy, downtown, urban environment to take to water, which typically happens in the first 48 hours of a duck hatching. Tuesday morning, Michael watched the mother duck encourage her babies to the edge of the perch with the intent to show them how to jump off. Office work came to a standstill as everyone gathered to watch.

The mother flew down below and started quacking to her babies above. In disbelief Michael watched as the first fuzzy newborn trustingly toddled to the edge and astonishingly leapt into thin air, crashing onto the cement below. Michael couldn't stand to watch this risky effort nine more times! He dashed out of his office and ran down the stairs to the sidewalk where the first obedient duckling, near its mother, was resting in a stupor after the near-fatal fall. Michael stood out of sight under the awning-planter, ready to help.

As the second one took the plunge, Michael jumped forward and caught it with his bare hands before it hit the concrete.. Safe and sound, he set it down it by its momma and the other stunned sibling, still recovering from that painful leap. (The momma must have sensed that Michael was trying to help her babies.)

One by one the babies continued to jump.. Each time Michael hid under the awning just to reach out in the nick of time as the duckling made its free fall. At the scene the busy downtown sidewalk traffic came to a standstill. Time after time, Michael was able to catch the remaining eight and set them by their approving mother.

At this point Michael realized the duck family had only made part of its dangerous journey. They had two full blocks to walk across traffic, crosswalks, curbs and past pedestrians to get to the closest open water, theSan Antonio River , site of the famed "River Walk." The onlooking office secretaries and several San Antonio police officers joined in. An empty copy-paper box was brought to collect the babies. They carefully corralled them, with the mother's approval, and loaded them in the container.. Michael held the box low enough for the mom to see her brood. He then slowly navigated through the downtown streets toward the San Antonio River . The mother waddled behind and kept her babies in sight, all the way.

As they reached the river, the mother took over and passed him, jumping in the river and quacking loudly. At the water's edge, Michael tipped the box and helped shepherd the babies toward the water and to the waiting mother after their adventurous ride.

All ten darling ducklings safely made it into the water and paddled up snugly to momma. Michael said the mom swam in circles, looking back toward the beaming bank bookkeeper, and proudly quacking.

At last, all present and accounted for: "We're all together again. We're here! We're here!"

And here's a family portrait before they head outward to further adventures....

Like all of us in the big times of our life, they never could have made it alone without lots of helping hands.

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

2010-06-23T19:12:00.002-05:00

Farmer Barb's Strawberry Rhubarb Jam returns to the Granary shelves! We had been sold out for the season but Farmer Barb got busy and...whala! Do I hear yummy?!?!

Chilton Father's Day Parade

2010-06-20T17:28:00.004-05:00

Here they come...

Here they go....

Mulberry Lane Farm participated in the Chilton Father's Day Parade. Farmer Pat pulled a 100 year old running gear with Farmer Aaliyah and Farmer Olivia holding a kid goat and lamb inside the wagon.

Farmer Quianna and Farmer Kevin handed out candy dressed as cows...aaah...perhaps we should say Kevin was a bull?!? Farmer Liz and Farmer Cindy handed out brochures/passes. Farmer Susan pulled up the rear in a sag wagon in case Teddy Bear who was tethered to the back of the wagon left anything behind.

Farmer Pat believes there were 5000-7000 people lining the streets of Chilton! We are so honored to have been part of this special day.

Spend Father's Day at the farm!

2010-06-19T15:26:00.003-05:00

1 FREE Dad per family group on Sunday, June 20th. Open at 10 AM.

Get a kick out of seeing Dad catch a chicken, kiss a pig, cuddle a kitten, strut with the turkeys, enjoy a hayride, milk a cow and more!

Birthday Celebration with FREE Admission

2010-06-16T12:34:00.004-05:00

Help Farmer Bonnie celebrate her birthday this Saturday, June 19th. Print the coupon/photo for FREE admission to the farm!

PS - any quesses how old she'll be?!?

Beautiful Cows.

2010-06-13T18:57:00.002-05:00

As featured in the Appleton Post Crescent...Farmer Cindy and Farmer Bonnie.

Parade Photos

2010-06-13T18:33:00.006-05:00

Appleton Flag Day Parade

2010-06-13T14:12:00.004-05:00

We had an awesome time participating in the Appleton Flag Day Parade. We considered it an honor to be able to march along with all the military units.

In our busyness I never did get a photo of our hay wagon in the parade. If you happened to get a good photo and would like to share it with us please email it to mulberrylanefarm@yahoo.com. We'd love to post it here! Thanks.

Thank You!

2010-06-11T08:42:00.004-05:00

We often get Thank You notes sent to our Farmers (tour guides) from the children that have visited Mulberry Lane Farm. Here are some excerpts from some of our recent "Thank You’s". These are the comments that put smiles on our faces and warm our hearts knowing we are doing what we are meant to do…run a children’s petting farm.

“I think that you are the best farmer (Farmer Liz) ever in the whole entire world. You have a big farm. I was nervous to hold the chickens because I thought they would peck me. They didn’t peck but just loved to be held. That tickled when I was feeding the sheep corn and the goats grain. I just could pick one of those lambs up and bring it home.”

“Thank you for letting me ride the horse named Teddy Bear. Riding the hay ride made me feel sick but I’m ok now. P.S. eating outside was fun because I never did eat outside before.”

“I liked the horses most of all. The class liked horses the most too. My second favorite were the baby cows. The slobber was gross. The cat I held was fluffy. I called it Fluff. I like the peacock that had a blue head. I held a chicken and it was small. I wonder how pigs like Otis are so big. I wish I could bring a horse home. I wish some day I could work with animals there too. I want a kitten like Fluff. I was last to hold a kitten. I held it longer than anyone.”

“I had fun at the farm. I like Mulberry Lane. The most fun was riding the horse named Winter, milking the cow and holding the baby animals. I think that Mulberry farm is the best farm ever.”

“The farm is very pretty. I love your farm. I love everything about it. The hayride was very fun. That was the most fun ever in my life.”

Otis the Boar

2010-06-06T16:28:00.003-05:00

Chances are that when you visit the farm Otis is napping under the shade of the tree and you don't have the opportunity to see how big he is. I was able to take a video of him which proofed to be slightly difficult. When Otis is awake he wants attention. He loves people. I kept having to move backward so I could keep him in front of the lens!

PS Turn up the volume to hear Otis snorting at me "Will you stop taking the video and just pet me!"

Family Day at the Farm

2010-06-05T18:47:00.006-05:00

I must admit, I'm not always thrilled to tour. I much prefer the admissions, bookwork, reservations etc. But today I had the pleasure of touring the most wonderful families. Thank you families for making my day so enjoyable!!?!

I also have to admit, next to the kid goats, the kitten barn is my favorite stop during the guided tour of the farm. The one below found a brick missing in the wall and is playing peek-a-boo with you. Oh, that little stinker?!?!

Pumpkin Planting

2010-06-02T20:47:00.004-05:00

Farmer Pat prepares the field for pumpkin planting with great anticipation. Dark clouds are looming in the distance.
The rain held off long enough for the seeds to get into the ground. Farmer Pat's brother, Perry shows him the ropes. Next year Pat is on his own...brother Perry has retired from pumpkin farming.

Memorial Day

2010-05-29T07:44:00.005-05:00

Mulberry Lane Farm salutes all veterans and their families for the sacrifice they have made. Join us on the farm as we commemorate the members of the United States armed forces who were killed in war and those currently serving so that we may all celebrate FREEDOM.

Open Memorial Weekend:
Sat., Sun and Monday with tours running continuously from 10 am to 2 pm.

Guest Visit from Ripon

2010-05-25T20:24:00.009-05:00

Photos submitted by guest who visited Saturday, May 22nd.

Thank you girls for sharing your visit with us.

Farm Guest

2010-05-25T19:33:00.004-05:00

We love it when our guest share their farm experience with us. A family who visited the farm today emailed us this beautiful photo along with a note... "Our daughter will be talking about her adventures on the farm for days to come. You (Farmer Dawn) did a great job."

WFRV TV 5 Road Trip

2010-05-24T20:33:00.004-05:00

Lisa Malak and Millaine Wells of WFRV TV 5 Green Bay visited Mulberry Lane Farm. Their Road Trip aired Sunday, May 23rd. Farmer Pat and Farm Cindy had a wonderful time with the girls and hope that they visit us again soon.

Thank you Lisa and Millaine for the beautiful job you did in presenting MLF to your listening audience!

Click on the link to view the TV 5 ROAD TRIP.

http://www.wfrv.com/news/local/94694704.html

Glorious SUN!

2010-05-15T07:46:00.003-05:00

Finally...dry, warm, sunny day!

Beautiful spring day awaits to great you at the farm.

Lilly and Her Litter

2010-05-12T20:20:00.006-05:00

Visitors to the farm have often heard that sows farrow (give birth) 3 months, 3 weeks and 3 days after being bred. Many farmers add, "3:00 in the morning." However, Lilly farrowed at 3:00 in the afternoon!

Piglets are 3.5 - 4.5 pounds at birth. Pigs are the fastest growing animal on the farm. They grow 2-3 lbs. a day.

Piglets establish a "teat order" within 3 days of birth. Since the front teats have more milk your stronger piglets will be found there. Your smaller, weaker piglets will be toward the rear. In the video you see them in the early stages of determining this order. The piglet at the rear was JUST born and is still finding her way around. If you look closely you'll see she still has birthing fluid on her.

Mother's Day at the Farm-Mom is FREE

2010-05-08T20:32:00.004-05:00

Our newborn critters honor their Moms by inviting your Mom to visit the farm FREE on Mother's Day.
(1 free Mom per family group)

Quadruple Two Years in a Row!

2010-05-05T20:37:00.003-05:00

Farmer Pat knew by just looking at Half&Half she'd kid more than one. He suggested I take a photo of her and take it soon. This photo was taken at 8:00AM Tuesday, May 4th. I returned to the farm about 3 PM the same day and...
you guessed it,
she had 4 kids!

Ahhh, they are the cutest little things. But...you'll have to visit the farm to see them.
Don't you love a good tease?

Field Trip Day

2010-05-05T05:28:00.004-05:00

Mulberry Lane Farm (MLF) tour guides are excited to take their first field trip to visit our "sister" farm, Green Meadows Farm (GMF), Waterford, WI. Or, should I have said "mother" farm.

GMF is where Farmer Pat grew up. GMF has been operating since 1964 and is known nationally as a premier petting farm that other petting farms model their operations. MLF being one of them. We have learned many things from GMF and we now get to see it first hand.

GMF, Waterford opens today, May 5th. We wish them a successful, fun-filled year!

MLF opens Thursday May 6th.

YMCA Healthy Kids Day Event

2010-05-01T17:32:00.007-05:00

Rocky, Ted the Pony, KeNeely and Dora sure had fun meeting all our new friends who visited us at the YMCA today. We can't wait until you visit us again at the farm so we can introduce you to all our other farm buddies.
(double click on photo to enlarge)

Visit us at Healthy Kids Day event!

2010-04-29T05:50:00.003-05:00

Rocky in a rush to get to Healthy Kids Day.

We'll be at Healthy Kids Day at the Neenah/Menasha YMCA--this Saturday, May 1, 2010 from 10:30am to 1:30pm. Rocky our mini-mule, Ted the Pony, newborn kid goats, KeNeely and Dora will all be there too. Come and see us!!!

Sheep Shearing Day

2010-04-24T12:20:00.009-05:00

Opsie-Daisy before her hair cut.

Or should I should say wool cut?

How it's done.

Look at all the wool Opsie-Daisy produced. Her fleece now lays on the ground before it is gathered up to give to a local gal who will spin it into yarn. On average a sheep will produce 8.2 lbs. of wool a year.

After the shearing they get a pedicure too!

If you look closely you can see the lanolin on the back of this Suffolk ewe. It wasn't visible when she had her wool but now that she is sheared you can see the yellow lanolin.

Lanolin is a fatty substance obtained from wool and used in soaps, cosmetics, and ointments.

Once the shearing is done the sheep are let out to run and play.

Dora

2010-04-11T19:55:00.005-05:00

Meet Dora. Born on 4/5/10. Just one of the new arrivals at the farm waiting to meet you when we open on May 6th.

Dora invites you to celebrate "MOM" on Mother's Day at Mulberry Lane Farm, Sunday May 9th. One FREE Mom per family group!

It's a Girl!

2010-04-11T19:42:00.005-05:00

CLOUD

(Short for Thunder Cloud)

Born on Saturday April 10, 2010
Thunder, Cloud's protective mom.

Cloud at Play
It's amazing how lively a filly can be at just 1 day old!

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T07:04:00.003-05:00

Hippity Easter from the Mulberry Lane Farm Critters!

KeNeely born 3.20.10

2010-03-20T16:25:00.009-05:00

Today when Farmer Pat went to feed the farm animals he noticed one Nanny goat didn't run out to the grain bin with all the other Nannies. He knew instantly there was good reason. Sure enough, upon further investigation, he found our first born kid of the season. (3/20/2010)

KeNeely you ask? Odd name for a kid! Let me explain...

With my Dad heavy on my mind today (being the 16th anniversary of his passing) I wanted to name the new little fella after him. I made a call out to my siblings (there's 8 of us) for suggestions. My sister Gala came up with the perfect fit. Remembering my Dad's nick-name, she suggested calling him KeNeely. So, KeNeely it is! Think he'd approve?

Sure Signs of Spring at Mulberry Lane Farm

2010-03-18T20:04:00.014-05:00

I found 3 very apparent signs of spring as I walked around the farm today.

Blooming pussy-willows and crocuses.

The arrival of the first spring chicks.

and...B I G bellies about to burst with new life!

...and 7 days later (3.27.10)...Sis delivered a litter of 5!

Fleet Farm Ad

2010-02-27T10:03:00.000-06:00

Recognize anyone? If you guessed the turkey you're right! One of Mulberry Lane Farm's many turkeys are now rich and famous...well, maybe not rich...but how many turkeys do you personally know on the cover of an ad catalog?!?

A STAR is BORN!

100+ year old Mulberry Tree

2010-02-26T19:00:00.002-06:00

Mulberry Lane Farm is named after the 100+ year old tree that still majestically stands at the farm. Although old and has lost many of it's limbs, the tree still bears mulberry fruit. While on your tour of the farm your guide will share the story of the mulberry tree we obtained:

Excerpt from “The Schwabenlander Family, A Genealogical Record and Brief History” book, 1992.

"… However, they also had their fun. The one thing which was often mentioned by Frances in later years, was the way she and her brother, Anthony, along with her two sisters, Marie and Rose would climb the old mulberry tree, which was near the apple orchard. Once they got up into the tree, each one had their own branch, which was their make-believe residence. Here they would climb from one branch to another to visit with their neighbor on the other branch all in mimicry. There was, however, one restriction to climbing the mulberry tree. The children were not allowed to wear shoes while climbing for fear that this might damage the tree.

This particular mulberry tree was planted by John Prechtel back in the 1880’s when he also planted an apple orchard, of which some apple trees along with the mulberry tree are still bearing fruit today. By the early 1920’s, when this mulberry tree was probably in its prime, it bore enough berries to feed all the birds in the whole neighborhood, and then some. However, if the birds had not already picked most of the berries before they were really ripe, the family would use some in making jam and jellies. From all indications, Frances and three of her siblings, namely, Anthony, Marie and Rose were a very closely knit group throughout most of their adolescent and teenage years, whether at work or at play. Even today, some of their little adventures from the days when Rose was only eight years old are often talked about. …"

Oh how they grow!

2010-01-16T16:55:00.010-06:00

Granddaughter Aaliyah and I spent time visiting with the ponies at the farm today. It dawned on me how much Storm (born March 30th 2009) and Princes (born May 19th 2009) had GROWN! Thought you'd enjoy seeing for yourself.

Storm THEN...Farmer Pat had to kneel to be close to him.

Storm NOW...he's as tall as Aaliyah!

THEN...Princes next to her mom, Blondie...NOW she's as tall as her mom!

Princess was all legs when she was born. Now she's all mischief.

Otis

2010-01-02T12:36:00.005-06:00

Otis the Boar is happy and "tickled pink" to spend the winter in the sow barn where he's protected from the winter winds and he can snuggle into fresh straw and keep toasty warm.

Happy Holidays from Mulberry Lane Farm

2009-12-09T18:54:00.017-06:00

From Our Home to Yours

May your footsteps be guided by joy, peace and hope this holiday season and throughout the new year.

From the Family and Staff of Mulberry Lane Farm

Photos courtesy of Russ Raddatz

MLF presents Annabelle's Wish

2009-11-24T21:33:00.005-06:00

Tour Guides, Nieces, Cousins, Guest of MLF and more enjoyed participating in the annual Appleton Downtown Christmas Parade. Please read the previous blog to understand why we all dressed up as lovable barnyard animals.

Do you recognize any of your tour guides? Farmer Cindy (cow), Farmer Barb (bunny), Farmer Ashley (barn mouse) and Farmer Jeanne (cow)

We had some Peacocks and kittens on the haywagon too.

Christmas Parade

2009-11-21T09:34:00.006-06:00

We are excited to announce that Mulberry Lane Farm has been asked to participate in Wisconsin's biggest Christmas Parade! Last year's parade drew approximately 80,000 spectators to Downtown Appleton. Additionally, a television audience of over 100,000 views the parade live and during rebroadcasts on CBS 5, WFRV-TV and WJMN, Channel 3.

Parade entry description:
Mulberry Lane Petting Farm presents Annabelle’s Wish

Our unit is based on the classic children’s Christmas video “Annabelle’s Wish.” A lovable calf named Annabelle born on Christmas Eve and a friendly bunch of barnyard animals befriend Billy, a young boy who cannot talk. Legend has it that Santa gives voices to the animals for one day each year. Therefore, Christmas Day at the farm magically comes alive.

Mulberry Lane’s hay wagon (trimmed in white lights) pulled by the farm’s tractor will be filled with bales of hay with children and adults seated on them dressed as those friendly, talkative farm animals with “Billy” (Farmer Pat) at the helm. Everyone will be dressed as cows, pigs, ducks, horses and more!

Join us on Tuesday, Nov 24th. Parade begins at 6:20PM

End of Fall Season

2009-10-30T19:24:00.008-05:00

Hard to believe the fall season has come to an end. Thanks to all that visited Mulberry Lane Farm in 2009. We enjoyed your company! Our farm animals look forward to your return visit next year. Keep an eye on our website for our 2010 schedule...in the meantime, by popular demand, we will continue to post items of interest throughout the winter on our blog.

Since it is the end of the year we are looking to adapt out some of our lovable kittens. Please contact the farm if you are interested. We have a couple female tortoise colored kittens, 1 or 2 black kittens and several male and female tiger striped. All are very lovable and are litter trained. Please seriously consider two as they have always had many buddies to play with and cuddle with for naps.

One little, two little, three little piggies.

2009-09-28T19:38:00.004-05:00

On average a sow will have 10 to 12 piglets. I guess that makes Scarlet above average! She had 14 piglets on Sunday September 20th.

Scarlet is a 4 year old Yorkshire. She was breed to a Hampshire boar.

Open 7 Days a Week thru 10/31/09

2009-09-25T18:58:00.003-05:00

If you are like me, fall is your favorite time of year and there's no better place to enjoy it than outdoors in the country.

Come visit the new arrivals at the farm. Scarlet and her litter of 10+ piglets!, Shiny and Violet, our Heifer calves are only 7 and 8 days old, and Speckles our Doe had a nest of bunnies just this Tuesday!

So there is a lot to see and do at the farm along with visiting the Pumpkin Patch to pick your own FREE Pumpkin. The only hard part will be deciding which one to pick!

Mulberry Lane Farm

Sheep Shears by Andis

A Wedding at Mulberry Lane Farm

Oh My! Grab a kleenex before sitting down to enjoy this awesome video of a couple deeply in love captured by a very talented team of professionals at Kim Thiel Photography. Must admit, the backdrop certainly enhances this masterpiece.

Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Ort for allowing us the pleasure of hosting your special day. And to the team of professionals at Kim Thiel Photography...thank you for capturing this blessed event. Godspeed.

Click on link to watch video: http://www.kimthielphotography.com/blog/weddings/a-mulberry-lane-wedding-film-christina-jerry/

Shetland Ewe Stops By the Morning Show on TV26

Up, Up & Away.

"Bonnie's Barnyard" on TV26 Green Bay

Weddings at Mulberry Lane Farm

Christmas Gift They'll LOVE!

Talking Turkey

A Precious Gift

Closed til 2012

PuMpKiN Harvest Celebration!

Pumpkin Blossom Festival

Diddles Handmade Goat Milk Soaps

Fox Cities Magazine Photo Winners!

CoRn FeST

Nesting Guinea Hen

Skinny, Minnie & Max - Triplet Calves

"Bonnie's Barnyard" on TV26 Green Bay

Open July 2 & 3 - Closed the 4th

Heartfelt Thank You!

NO iphone, NO ipad, NO ipod just....

Dads FREE on Father's Day

Piglets

Triplet Calves

A Window in Time

It's a Bull

A Star is Born

Guest Photos from Memorial Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend at Mulberry

Guest Photos

Motherly Love...

Farming Thru the Eyes of a Child

Moms FREE on Sunday May 8th

Twin Lambs Born 4.29.11

Baby, baby, do we have babies!

Butterscotch Has Two!

Easter Arrivals

Five Little Kittens Who Lost Their Mittens

Singing the Blues

Kisses Anyone?!?!

Spring Baby Farm Animals

Ladybug at 3 mos.

The Conclusion of Otis & The Principal

First Book Fox Valley

Ladybug

Otis and the Principal

We Open May 4th for the Spring 2011 Season!!!

Appleton 2010 Christmas Parade

2010...Oh what a year!

Xtra FREE Pumpkins & Gourds

Pick a Pumpkin at Mulberry Lane Farm

Future Farmers Grant

The Story of Sis

Ahhh...Cool at Last

Lucy's Daily Stroll

This is a Fox Cities Viewpoint

Doe had Kittens!

White Peahen has Five!

FREE Ice Cream

Froggs in Sherwood WI and Mulberry Lane Petting Farm have teamed together for a Summer Breeze Event. Present your farm sticker at Froggs and you'll get a FREE Tadpole cone!

Sunday July 25th only.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Never too old to learn.

A True Duck Story from San Antonio , Texas

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Chilton Father's Day Parade

Spend Father's Day at the farm!

Birthday Celebration with FREE Admission

Beautiful Cows.

Parade Photos

Appleton Flag Day Parade

Thank You!

Otis the Boar

Family Day at the Farm

Pumpkin Planting

Memorial Day

Click on link to watch video:
http://www.kimthielphotography.com/blog/weddings/a-mulberry-lane-wedding-film-christina-jerry/