I have stopped writing the Christmas cards to let people know the blog is still alive and kicking, but I have been away and managed to come back from the sun with some freckles and a fever, but totally relaxed and recharged. The result of this is that Christmas is being done in a week. Most importantly though, the animals all looked great on our return and Berry’s has been happily ticking over waiting for the revamp next month. Guy Fairhurst, as mentioned before, is champing at the bit to take over Fairhurst’s at Berry’s. It will be huge; Guy is coming with fresh eyes and catering expertise, and I am looking forward to having a first class eatery on my doorstep, as the locals are too I am sure.
As for me the animals won’t know what has hit them - everyone is going to be groomed, herded and generally made very customer friendly - ready for the Farm Tours and Experiences. It is the part of Berry’s I really enjoy, apart from chatting to unsuspecting folk hoping to eat their lunch in peace!
One lovely lady sidled up to me last week and said I think I still have one of your ponies, I was a little unbelieving as most of the ponies who passed through Swinithwaite all those years ago were elderly when they arrived, apart from one, Little Misty who was 6 when she came to be ridden by similar aged children - she was a rare pony as she didn’t bolt when the children were let off the lead rein, and let the children feel they were in charge. Little Misty is now 30 and lives in East Witton. Her last rider is now 6ft 4’ and he brings her in every day, with Little Misty’s nose reaching his knees. I will have to visit her, its lovely to know your past pets have found happy homes and are enjoying a well-earned retirement.
Little Misty many years ago
Vinni’s music night was a wow, we didn’t want him to leave. We had amazing pork (though I say it myself) cooked wonderfully by Guy Fairhurst with home-made baked beans, amongst other goodies. The only slight “moment “was when Adrian felt a need to go into karaoke, he felt everyone was waiting for him - so off he went into New York, New York, it’s quite a long song. Luckily, no photos taken.
Piglets happily weaned and Guilty and Auntie are back with Sherlock the boar- there wasn’t a second glance, and for Guilty it didn’t come a day too soon.
When is weaning due?
The short horn bull, Fortune Maker, goes home this week. We now wait anxiously to see what the Short Horn crossed South Devon calves will looks like.
Harry the sheep is starring in his first nativity in church on Christmas Eve, not sure he is very biblical looking, but he is cuddly. I think he can leave his cart behind.
I must share this photo with you which was taken above Swinithwaite on a run by my son last month - its looks magical and a good note to end the year on.
Here’s to fun and success next year.
Happy Christmas.
