I hope that everyone has had a lovely Christmas and New Year. How quickly the time passes us by. We are already heading into 2013 with gathering speed. Being swept up in the momentum is something that is hard to escape. Living here on the farm makes slowing down a little easier. I have mentioned before, the comforting routine of daily farm life is a safe haven from all the hustle and bustle out there in the big wide world.
Our animals have had an ordinarily peaceful time over the Christmas and New Year break. Nothing unusual has happened except for the fact that we are a pig down. I wonder, how many of you had roast pork during the festive season? We certainly did, and in fact it was rather wonderful! We are fortunate to be able to grow our own meat. It is immensely satisfying to eat a meal knowing that you have reared the animal and provided it with a good and happy life. I must say, our roast pork this year was the best we have ever tasted! There is, however, a side to growing your own meat that is quite confronting. It is difficult to take responsibility for your food, especially when it comes down to the nitty gritty of having to end an animal’s life. It is much easier and anonymous to go to the supermarket or butcher and ask for your favourite cut of meat. You do not have to face the day to day nurturing and be accountable for whatever may go wrong. I am proud of my family’s decision to take this big responsibility on. I recognise in my children, a sense of respect and gratitude for their food. They have helped to provide their own food and it is teaching them to really appreciate what they have.
