There's a lot to be said for this downsizing malarkey...

Today for a change, the weather is half decent and I've had the chance to get out in the garden. My veg plot is completely ragged as it's been so neglected recently. The pig's field is a muddy quagmire, so much so, I've had to move them onto a new bit of grass. My wellies were getting bogged down in the mud, it must have been horrible for the pigs! (I know, they like a bit of mud, but surely there's only so much they can take). Anyway, we're off on holiday in a couple of days so I've been frantically preparing the place for Dor & Geoff to take over pig-sitting duties, including making up 15 bags of feed, strimming all around the fence line, laying duck boards across the mud and a new bed of straw for my hefty pigs. They, of course have totally sussed me out. They know I'm going to eat them and they're doing everything in their power to turn on the charm! The little sods now roll over on their backs when you give their bellies a rub... cute or what!!! They follow me everywhere and I'm in danger of falling for their charms.

What amazes me (although a seasoned pig keeper will probably scoff) is how three pigs from the same litter can vary in size so much. One of the boars is massive compared to the others and the gilt is so much smaller. They all get fed together and none of them seems to be getting more than its' fair share of tucker. In fact, what is really amazing, is how quickly they grow, full stop. Doesn't seem five minutes ago I was hoiking them off the back of Chris Jopling's 4x4 by it's back leg. Now, I guess they must be getting on for 50-60kg each. I'm really curious to see what they look like when they're cut up, what the ratio of fat to meat is etc. As it's my first time I don't really expect perfection, but whatever happens I'm sure it'll be glorious meat. I'm planning to take them for slaughter on September 1st, of course Sal & Katie are very squeamish about this (with good reason I guess) and I know damned well I'm going to grizzle at some stage, but it was always on the cards......

Anyway, we're off to beautiful Anna Maria Island on Thursday, can't wait and I'd like to take this opportunity of thanking my "outlaws" in advance for taking on my little herd while I'm away. I'll sign off now with a few pics, one showing Saturday's harvest from the garden, home made bread and jam (a real first for me!!), peas & tomatoes are still on their way (I hope), a cute pig pic and maybe a preview of our holiday...... did I mention we're going on holiday...................? yay!

Last day of term....

End of Term today, bit of a strange day really, it's Speech Day which is always busy and my girls in the kitchen surpassed themselves this year. Mountains of fresh cream sponges, shortbreads, fruit cake (even my Mum's malt loaf recipe made it onto the menu!!!), smoked salmon sandwiches, rare roast beef sandwiches etc etc. The tables were laden and it looked great, so if I never properly get to show my appreciation for all their hard work, I've done it here and it's for all to see.
The sad bit about the end of Term is saying goodbye to some truly lovely people, many I've known since we moved here 8 years ago when they would only have been I guess about 8 or 9 years old. I've also had to say farewell to Candy & Vanessa who have worked with Irene and I on the evening shift for the last two years. These two have been just the loveliest kids and I will genuinely miss them. I wish them both true happiness in their lives beyond Shebbear College.
So that's the sentimental bit over and done with, and now, in true July time, Devon fashion, it's pissing down with rain and I've got to go out and feed those bloomin' pigs! (only 8 weeks to go y'all).