Pigs # 11: Only 1 week to go!

Just got back from talking to Richard & James at Morris Free Range Meats & Horticulture in Coedypaen, and they can take the pigs to NS James (www.NSJames.co.uk) in Raglan on Monday to be 'processed'.  Looking forward to seeing and tasting the results of course, just writing out a draft of the letter to tell them what we want done with the meat (chops, sausages, joints etc.).  On the other hand a little sad to see them go too.  They are absolutely wonderful animals, I've been really surprised by their friendliness, intelligence and personality!  Totally different to sheep for example, much more sociable.  Another thing which is lovely, is that they use their straw 'duvet' style and actually cover themselves up completely with it - I've put it much more clumsily than William Cobbett, a wonderful author who said of pigs 'You will see them, if they have the means, cover themselves over for the night.  This is what is done by neither horse, cow, sheep, dog or cat....Their sagacity in providing against cold in the night, when they have it in their power to make such a provision, is quite wonderful.'  [William Cobbett, Cottage Economy, http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cottage-Economy-Paperbacks-William-Cobbett/dp/019281270X/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1340054558&sr=1-1-fkmr1 - if you can, get the edition with a preface by GK Chesterton). 

I think they've had a lovely life with us, they've certainly expressed their natural instincts - rooting, scratching and escaping!  I'm really glad we've decided to keep them together 'til the end'. 

Next step: Get some more!

Chickens # 5: The New Home of the Tymawr Farm Flock!

Lots of TLC and disinfectant required first of all though!  As well as a new roof and a going over with some wood preservative.  However, it is massive, intact, and has some sturdy wheels (may have to be towed behind the Polo, which is my substitute tractor for now!), I love a project!