Triple 'B'

Every mother appreciates an audience when giving birth....but learning the facts of life can be a little much for the weak of heart.In the past week, the youngsters have learnt a lot as three calves joined the herd.  First to arrive, Bathsheba:

Followed by a Mother's Day surprise with unusual ears:It being the year of 'B', we couldn't name her 'Foxy' or 'Photoshop Gone Wrong'.  Fortunately, Blossom  was the name picked using our random number generator (...Humph picking a number between 1 and 13.  Took several attempts and explanation that 14 was not a valid choice).  Congratulations to Lesley Parkins and Douglas Fryer for a very apt name!

And finally, a first-time calf for a giant heifer:

We welcome Betsy to the world!  A good, strong name for a sizeable calf, suggested by Sue Fuller.  Betsy, born in a snowstorm, has decided that she will only sit in patches of snow.

More calves to worry Farmer Humph at the end of March!

No rest for the newborn

No. 100, my favourite cow, has calved!  And unlike every other cow, refused to calve until we followed her into the barn, so I'm adding 'Cow Doula' to my CV.

But  if this little heifer thought she deserved a rest after the birth experience, with an excellent mother like No. 100...think again:

Guaranteed to get a calf up and moo-ving.(...towards the annoying photographer.)

2013 is the Year of the 'B'.  First name out of the hat: 'Bathsheba ' - congratulations to Diana Jackson.  Special mention for Mrs Bennett, the first ginger heifer born will a 'Boudica'.  Inspired!

Equinox Walk

EQUINOX WALK

 followed by tea and cake at Lower Dairy Farm

Saturday 23rd March

Leaving the Anchor Inn, Nayland at 2.00pm

Everyone is welcome!

 Join us for a walk from Nayland to Little Horkesley guided by Suffolk historian, Chris Hunt.  You’ll get to learn a little about the history of our local villages before we finish off with tea and cake at Lower Dairy Farm!

For more information, contact the Transition Nayland team: info@transitionnayland.co.uk

Work to be done...

The newest arrivals to the farm, three Berkshire weaners.

These pigs are tasked with clearing the farmstead we call 'Bethlehem'.  Formerly a cattle yard and shed (hence the name), this area is somewhat overgrown - a des res complete with harrows, a seed drill, a plough and the remains of a cart used to transport casualties in WWI (so the story goes).  We've cleared away all things sharp and nasty and today the Horkesley Porkers were released to dig and snuffle their way through the site.  Free-range living at its finest!