Tag Archives: sheep

Berkshire Pork Anyone?

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This week’s farm trip took us to Paisley Ontario where we met Ashley Burke at her farm Alverstoke. Ashley raises sheep, chickens and Berkshire pigs.

Ashley took us on a tour and I must say this was one of the most beautiful barns we have had the pleasure to be in. Ashley’s holistically natural approach to raising her animals is wonderful to say the least. From the food and nutrients they eat to the pastures and barn they live in these animals live a beautiful and natural life.

It was quite a chilly wet day so all the lambs were inside and baaaing away to say hi when we entered. We went over to the side where her beautiful Berkshire pigs were – if you have not seen a Berkshire before – they are the big black pigs with the 6 points of white on them (legs/feet, face and tail). We met Dobby – her boar and her 3 sows. They were a little curious to who the strangers were but mainly I think were happy to be relaxing inside on a chilly wet day.

After the barn tour we went inside and chatted about many of the great events that Ashley is involved in on and off her farm. She has even hosted chefs in training at her farm which has made her a great learner and educator of Ontario farming. Very cool.

Another great day with a great woman at her beautiful farm!

B.

PS – watch out – those Patricia lambs are friendly but can be nippy too :-).

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.