One of the nicest “extras” we bought for the farm is a real farm bell. We ordered it from Lehmans – an Amish catalog and store full of basic homestead and farm tools, including lots of non-electric devices.

We have pretty strict rules about the bell. It is really loud and is not supposed to ring just for fun. If we are out somewhere on the farm and the kids need us for something, they can ring it. Likewise, if the kids are out playing and we need them to come in for dinner or some other reason, we ring the bell. If you hear the bell, it means, drop what you are doing and come home. It even works on the loud, windy days.

You may notice the bright and sunny 50 degree days are now gone and snow is back.