A year on and we are still all here - a few deletions and a few additions, the swallows are back, blossom in abundance and Dale’s life has started the circle of life with a flourish.
And I have a new friend - he quietly starts his daily routine with no fuss, demands no attention and thoughtfully works through his daily instructions. He is called Robo, not a looker, but a life changer for me.
My other friends, who all equally contribute to making the farm both functional and viable. The favourites have produced 5 stunning calves.
The chickens are free, which sometimes means sharing the odd meal.
The dairy cattle are delighted to make friends. Rolo the Shetland has started the moult.
While Harry and Cloud, the two sheep, are counting the days till their winter coats are shed, using electricity. And the young pigs are enjoying life in the woods.
The farm shop has been replaced with a thriving Nursery named Little Berries - and the farm animals have made weekly appearances as part of the learning experience for the young child end. No one is allowed to have favourites, but Rolo the pony has had two visits, and I think he will get a lot of baths this summer. I have had plenty of family visitors over the last year - and the training starts early.
And the dog training is taking longer.
Ending on introducing the latest group of women - they are chatty, gentle, and slowly adjusting to being part of a larger team - another new language to learn.
