This morning Brian and I had a wonderful "field trip" to Cast Iron Dairy, the new home of Bronwen and Blackberry, and soon, little Birdie. Christine held up milking for us so before unloading sheep, we hustled off to the barn to relieve two Nubians, a Shetland and two Milking Shorthorns of their creamy bounty. Christine's two little cherubs are already wonderful farm hands, eagerly helping feed and milk. Brian and I got to try our hand at milking all three species with varying amounts of success, even though we've both had a wee bit of experience before.
After milking I unloaded Blackberry and Bronwen and got them settled in. Bronwen was immediately introduced to Christine's other ewe, which was the one we milked. She wasn't sure why she was in this strange place, but I know she'll get lots of love and attention from Christine and her kids (the tot in overalls is a friend).
After taking care of the sheep, we all trooped to the kitchen for a fascinating tutorial on cheesemaking. Christine helped us whip up a batch of 30-Minute Mozzerella (curds forming below) while answering all manner of questions about making cheese.
Meanwhile, back at home:
Actually, I left the sheep in the fold until I got home, then turned the ewes, lambs and Browning, who had been keeping Blackberry company, out in the arena. It is getting overgrown from disuse while Russell is laid up, so I decided the sheep could help out. Poor Bonny can't figure out where her mama went!
Looking for the earplugs at . . .
6 comments:
Oh, poor Bonny, and yes, it will be loud, huh? Are you going to Black Sheep Gathering? I will be there Sunday and I am so excited...
At least Bonny has a reason to bleat. My crew is the noisiest ever and their mothers are right there! What an idyllic farm! Your babes are going to be in good hands.
Oh Ruth, I'll miss you! I will only be there on Friday. :-(
Susan, Bonny was loud BEFORE her mom left, so I knew I was in for it....
Dang, sorry I'll miss you. I've never been there, and I'm really looking forward to it!
You'll love it, Ruth! I'm afraid I wouldn't be very good company anyway; I've got a NASTY cold....
This is so neat! I just had to come and see when you mentioned your own mozzarella. What a treat to have three kinds of milk. What a treat to have an experienced cheese maker take you through the steps. Sure beats dripping milk all over the recipe. :)
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