Farming is an on going adventure for sure! There is always something new and exciting. Although our last working was not to accomplish something we had never done before, the incredible sense of satisfaction was still there.
Four families came together last month to butcher four pigs that had been raised off the table scraps of the Stokes’ and Mathews’ family land. Though we could have each stressed, worried and worked extra hard to complete this task alone, a community effort was far more enjoyable. We ladies donned our aprons, and the men folk sharpened their knives, and we had ourselves a good ol’ fashioned pig butcherin’, like the Amish.
First I must advertise a wee bit for the gentlemen hog and lady sow. Thought, the sight that comes to mind for most, is not altogether comely and attractive. There is a general mis-conception about pigs. Many feel that they are nasty, stinky, beastly creatures that must be raised on giant feed lots. But, I am here to speak on behalf of this poorly painted breed and put pig raising back on your to-do list.
There are so many benefits to raising a pig or two. They are truly one of the most economical investments you could make living on a small homestead. They require no more space then an outdoor dog and no bonding time. They can survive mostly on the scraps from your table and garden, along with a little bit of corn.(to make good lard) If you have a garden and can your veggies, your pigs will be in hog heaven with all of the leftovers, apple peels and pea shells are just a couple.
Pigs do not stink IF you simply do not give them enough water to make a pig sty out of their pig pen. Some people like to free range their pigs, however I do not really recommend it because they burn up too many calories.
So if I haven’t redeemed this wonderful breakfast treat and sold you on raising a pink pig with floppy ears and a curly tail, go ahead and scroll down and look at all the fun we had. (after all, you can’t eat a poodle.) 
All aprons worn for this day’s event were created by Amelia’s Aprons. Pictured are 2 basic kitchen aprons, but also worn were the ruffles and curves apron, and a regency style apron that we did not get pictures of. It is often handy to have extra aprons around for company to wear, especially if you engage in these types of community projects.
