January 3
I got off work this morning at 7:00 a.m. Fortunately, there were no calls last night, so I slept all night. I got home just in time to make coffee and get ready for guests. We had plans to butcher a pig today and had guests coming to learn how to butcher from start to finish. I honestly believe I learn something new every time we butcher, and it is always interesting to watch the response of guests who have never seen the process from start to finish. It seems that the dispatching is the most traumatic part for “newbies” to the process. They asked if it was okay to say a kind word to the pig, and thank it for providing food. I whole heartedly agree with that thought! We are always thankful, and voice a “thank you” to the animal that gives it’s life so that we may sustain our own life. From our conversations during the day, I believe the most surprising thing for our guests, was the choices that had to be made with the cuts from the pig. Understanding where each cut comes from is something that is sometimes hard to grasp when you have only purchased meat precut. For example, one must make the decision whether they want pork tenderloin or pork chops from each half. Because they each come from the muscle along the top of the back, you won’t get a large amount of both, but one or the other.
When it is freezing cold outside, there is outside work that must be done, and you are two, there are better alternatives that joining the adults. Kastin, who absolutely refused to get dressed because he LOVES his dinosaur pajamas, got to go spend the day with Miss Melody. Justin, Miss Melody’s husband, was helping us butcher the pig, so Miss Melody was recruited to entertain Kastin. I think it made both their days. Miss Mel, loves having little one around and Kastin loves being spoiled by Miss Mel. Melody cooked a delicious pot of ham and beans, that we all enjoyed in the evening. She and Kastin made brownies that were delicious as well. I can’t speak enough about how important good friends are. Community is key to living like we do. And, it doesn’t always mean having someone on site to help with farm tasks, sometimes the most important help is stepping up like Melody often does, cooking for those that have been busy all day, and watching the children when we are doing something that is just not conducive to the kiddos helping with. It frequently said, “it takes a village”, and that is very true when it comes to modern day homesteading. We couldn’t have accomplished everything we did today without the help of both Justin and Melody. We rely on their help often, and hope we help them as much as they help us. Good friends are invaluable!
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