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The Royal Winter Fair

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2011 marked our inaugural trip to the Royal Winter Fair. Both John and I have wanted to go to the fair for years. Our friend Lisa was our catalyst to go this year as she mentioned that she has wanted to go for years as well. So off we went. Well, let me tell you we were not disappointed and this is definitely the first of many trips to come.

If you have gone to the fair you already know what I am talking about. But for those that don’t, here are some (not all!) of the highlights:

The Animals; Sheep – who knew there were so many different sheep. Goats – the cutest animals – John fell in love. Pigs – pigs are awesome. Cows – LOTS of cows. Chickens and Turkeys – there are so many gorgeous – yes gorgeous – different types of chicken and turkeys!

The Produce and Dairy – they have awards for everything…giant pumpkins, apples, squash, zucchini, best cheeses, best eggs. They even had a butter carver on site!

The live Bee Hive – that was cool. Did you know that in the winter the hives survive outside by not moving too much to waste energy but by moving from outside to in to keep the hive warm enough not to freeze. So cool.

The Animal Petting area – man, can those goats, sheep and llamas work you for a little piece of kibble – they are pros! They let you think that they are eating out of the palm of your hand – truth be told – it’s the other way around.

The SuperDogs show. I have seen it before at the CNE and I will go see it again. It is exciting, corny and just so much fun. I’m sure our yellow Lab Sam would have loved it to!

The shops – lots of fascinating different vendors – too many to check out in one day. I am hoping that the ‘Paw Protector’ cream that I got for Sam’s feet to fend off ice and salt this winter works well and I am looking forward to donning my new ‘coshmere’ scarf! (it was only 10 bucks!).

I am mentioning last but they are definitely not least …. The people working and volunteering at the fair. We had some of the best conversations with farmers and volunteers that are a wealth of great information. They really make THE place to go for tons of great information.

It was great day and I already can’t wait until next year. I think the only thing we’ll do different next time is get weekly passes.

B.

Northward along the Bruce Peninsula

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My sister, who lives with her hubby, GSP and Boo kitty at the tip of the mighty Bruce Peninsula, tipped us on to a fabulous sheep farmer outside of Owen Sound. So this week’s trip was to go North to Owen Sound and then more North to Tobermory for a great family visit.

To start our trip we met up with Sheila and Jeff at Keady (pronounded K-D) market which is just outside of Owen Sound. I must say – it is worth the drive to Keady! What a fantastic market. With the smell of freshly popped kettle popcorn in the air this market was a-buzz with all types of vendors and shoppers. From the livestock auction, fresh local fruit and vegetables, local crafts/jewelry and more than I can think of, there is definitely something there for everyone!

After checking out Keady we went to meet Bill and Pam Stonehouse. Appearing in the distance as we climbed a hill leaving Owen Sound we could see the big red barn that welcomes you to Stonehouse Farm. We visited with the Stonehouse’s for a while and met their friendly horse named Dakota. That trip we bought our first 1/2 lamb from Bill and Pam and have since been back a few times to buy more. The Northern Cheviot lambs from Stonehouse has been some of the best we have tried. And if you know me – I LOVE lamb – so I have tried quite a bit.

After that we continued up to Tobermory to relax and enjoy great company, laughs and food! Fantastic! – thanks Sheila & Jeff!

If you’re looking for a day trip this summer I would recommend checking out Keady Market and then going into Owen Sound. It is a bit of a hike but to this traveller – well worth it. Keady market is open on Tuesdays throughout the summer. Google em on-line for more information, directions and hours.

B.

Recipes, Farm Trips, News, etc

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We have had many many requests for recipe ideas to use with Meat Me in the Junction meats. Also some of our customers have given us recipes that they have tried with our products that they have said turned out great. This is where we will be sharing these great concoctions with everyone.

This section will also have a few stories about some of our exploration trips and things we learn along the way. Our Facebook page has more stories and pictures to peruse as well.

We hope you enjoy it!  Bria & John.