Photo by Jamie Plain
For the Aud family, agriculture isn’t just a career path—it’s a way of life. Brad and Lindsey Aud, along with their five children, run CRAVO Farm just outside of Whitesville. Their family’s farm name carries special meaning, created from the first letter of each of their children’s names: Caleb, Raelyn, Andrew, Vivian, and Owen.
Homeschooling gives the Aud kids the flexibility to be deeply involved in farm life. Andrew (13), Owen (11), Caleb (10), Raelyn (9), and Vivian (7) all pitch in with daily chores, livestock care, and tending the family’s large garden. Together, they’ve found their place in agriculture, each one bringing unique passions and skills to the work they do.
“From the time they could walk, our kids had a job,” Lindsey shared. “They’ve grown up learning the value of responsibility and teamwork.”
CRAVO Farm is bustling year-round. The kids help care for cattle and chickens, and they all pitch in during hay and straw season, cutting, baling, and loading. The family’s garden produces tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, potatoes, peppers, and watermelon, which they sell at a roadside stand and at the Owensboro Regional Farmers Market. Raelyn, who has a particular love for flowers, even runs her own spring business selling petunias.
The boys have also taken an interest in livestock showing through 4-H’s Feeder Calf program. Andrew, who has been showing for three years, was proud to win Overall in 2024. Owen’s steer won Champion at the Daviess County Fair, while Caleb earned several ribbons in his first year. Raelyn is already proving herself, showing dedication when she took responsibility for caring for a calf named Darla. “We think Darla is the prettiest calf on the farm thanks to Raelyn’s efforts,” Lindsey said.
Each child has developed their own goals and dreams through their agricultural involvement. Andrew hopes to run his own farm one day, while Owen dreams of becoming both a mechanic and a pilot. Caleb imagines raising cattle, sheep, pigs, and chickens when he’s older, while Raelyn aspires to become a veterinarian. Vivian, still the youngest, is soaking it all in, happiest when she’s working alongside her dad on projects.
Of course, farming brings challenges too. From extreme weather to tough losses with animals, the kids have learned resilience. Whether it’s bundling up to do chores in the cold or coping with the heartbreak of losing a calf, the Aud children face it with determination. “They’ve seen farming be both physically and mentally draining,” Lindsey said. “But they’ve also learned to keep a smile on their face and keep moving forward. That’s how we hope they approach life, too.”
Despite the hard work, the farm is full of fun memories—like Vivian insisting her muscles grew after she accidentally touched an electric fence, or Andrew’s excitement driving a truck for the first time.
For the Aud kids, agriculture isn’t just part of their childhood—it’s shaping their futures. CRAVO Farm is more than land and livestock; it’s where five siblings are growing up with responsibility, grit, and a deep love for farm life.