We changed our minds about expanding the herd at this time due to the high cost of feed. Our food crops are coming along nicely, but pigs eat a lot and it takes a lot of feed each day to keep them in tip-top shape. So, we're back to just Big Mama and Spot as our breed sows. Both of them have recently been bred, with three weeks between them, so we should have an easier time of it come May and June when they're due to farrow again.
Freckles got adopted by another farmer just starting out with breeding pigs, but Penelope filled our freezer (and those of a few friends, too). She was such a noisy, loud pig that it's doubtful we could have kept her for breeding anyway, due to the fact that we have neighbors close by.
The biggest news is that I've written a book of our farm tour! It is at the editor's now; we are aiming for its release later this spring. Those of you who have been to our farm will like the book for remembering all the information presented on the tour... and those who have not had a chance to visit will be able to see more of what we are doing here. Of course, I will let you know when it is available. Meanwhile, we continue to plant food!
