Spring has Sprung!!!!
Spring has Sprung!!
It is already the last part of March 2012. As one gets older they begin to ask “where does the time go” but, when the
weather throws us off - as it has this
month, we then begin to wonder about more than just the time.
The sun has been shining each day for last few weeks, the
buds are on the trees, the spring bulbs are in flower, we can hear the frogs
chirping and the birds are happy. Funny how the change of seasons will enhance
our senses.
One of my favourite sounds are the frogs, even as a young
child I loved frogs and their sounds. We have a large area on our road that
frogs mate and live, when driving by this time of year we slow down and open
the windows, and listen for their sounds. A sound that brings balance and
confirmation that all is okay. On our
farm we also have many pockets of where the frogs and toads love to be, I enjoy
and look forward to each year where they come out of their hibernation and
enjoy the warmth as I do.
Spring also brings us the return of many species of birds.
Robins have been seen for the last few weeks. To see the orange of their breast
is a sign that spring has sprung. Now we will wait for the Baltimore Orioles
that usually nest in our yard to return. After that we will honour the return
of the Barn Swallow.
I think Spring touches us all, but I think a Farmer the
most. A Farmer relies on Mother Nature
to work with them as we respect the fact that we want to also work with Her.
A good Farmer will respect Her. Managing the soil and land while
farming and providing a home for wildlife, which includes the soils, water in
the area, and always take in consideration the overall health of the environment.
Providing healthy food for eaters is not rocket science, but it takes time and
effort. Please take the time to find your local farmer and support those who
are going that extra mile and taking the time and effort to do so for you – the
Eater.
Now that I have had my “rant”,
(which is not my style), I shall blog about our farm for the 2012 season.
Planning, planning and planning, who takes more time
planning than a farmer?? We have a few new buildings to be erected in 2012. A new
chicken coop for the layers that can be moved around, a new chicken area for
our meat birds, and a new shelter that will be for the piggys. It is important
to have the animals move to new areas throughout season, to not only forage but
leave some manure behind.
The vegetable garden is in well swing, many seedlings in the
greenhouse growing fast, we are waiting to get the hoop house erected (maybe
this weekend). Michael and Daniel are very dedicated to growing heritage and
organic vegetables. Their plants are super and delicious when harvested.
What we do know is; we will continue to have Black Angus
beef available by the cut, beautiful brown fresh eggs, meat chickens, turkeys
for Thanksgiving and Christmas, Birkshire pork by the cut, and various vegetables
as they become ripe throughout the season.
If you would like more information about our farm - please call us
Peter and Karen
519 232-4105