This week started with taking two of the pigs off to the abbattoir! They took quite some loading, splitting them up from their brothers, but we wanted to take two at a time; partly as they are quite a bit bigger than one of the others. The other reason is that we don't have large storage facilites, and so two are easier to sell than four at a time! They will be ready next week - let's hope they taste as good as our Oxford & Sandys...!
We got the Ewes in again to check them over, wanting to make sure they are having enough hay, and that their feet are ok - we need to pay special attention to 'June' who's having triplets - they may turn up early, and she must keep in good condition with the others. We don't want to start feeding them 'hard' food too early, otherwise the lambs will get too big, and then be difficult to lamb.
Thursday, we nearly had a full house, and spent the morning unloading and stacking hay bales for the sheep, and some DIY was needed on the sheep shelter due to the snow and wind. The farrier came to shoe the two horses.
Friday, we had a special visit from 'Coopers Hill' school in Gloucester. They have started a 'Farm Club', and wanted to come and see what we get up to here. 16 children aged from 6 - 9, had a lovely morning, feeding the pigs, collecting eggs, feeding the hens and ducks, and meeting the sheep. After break, we moved to the Poly tunnel, where they planted their own 'salad' seeds and each took a pot back to school. They all behaved beautifully, considering it was a horrid freezing day!
Don't forget we have Pork available next week.....!