Winter

Winter, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

Freshly fallen
Pristine snow
Blankets the field
Winter still
Has hold of the land

Exotic Chicken

Exotic Chicken, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

These were the lucky birds who were allowed to scavenge outside their cages. It was Agri-Tour Day in Eastern Ontario and we decided to set off and explore a few of the farms. This chicken was not on a farm, but was kept by some people who raised exotic birds. Most lived in enclosures that seemed far too small.

These alpacas had much more room to roam. They seemed content. They are raised for their wool which is soft and warm. There are a few alpaca farms in the neighbourhood.



Our last stop was on a goat farm. The animals were very gentle. This big fellow kept asking to be patted. Some of the goats were in indoor pens because it was the Agri-Tour day. The farmer explained how they are raised. On most days they have access to outdoor pastures where donkeys guard them. It seems that donkeys, dogs and llamas are good for guarding goats. They sense danger, warn the animals and the animals head back to the barn. We spoke with the wife of the farmer (who makes incredible sorbet and gelato). She felt it was important that people see where and how food is raised and to see where it ends up. They sell goat meat, eggs from their hens and rabbit from the rabbits her son raises. I must say, I would rather buy from small farmers who raise animals in spaces where they can live comfortable lives than to buy some of our supermarket meat that comes from animals that have been raised in crowded, uncomfortable situations. These animals were obviously loved, enjoyed the outdoors and the company of people.

Mar 7/10 Farm

Mar 7/10 Farm, originally uploaded by susanvg.

Country air with bright blue skies and sun warming the countryside. We walked in lighter coats, our step more sprightly. Winter's snow is retreating revealing mud and thatch. The smells of spring permeate the air. Seasons changing.

Day 319: November Farm

Day 319: November Farm, originally uploaded by susanvg.

November has leached the colour from the countryside. All that was green has faded to straw. November paints with a monochromatic brush. Warm temperatures for this time of year coerced us to cycle out of Casselman. Later in the day the sun was hidden and the gold of the afternoon turned to grey. It is a time for moving indoors, for soups and hearty meals to warm the dark evenings.

Day 114: Alpacas

Day 114: Alpacas, originally uploaded by susanvg.

The first time I drove along the roads near Embrun and saw alpacas I did a double-take. We are not in Peru! It seems there are a number of alpaca farms in the neighbourhood. Before Christmas, there were kiosks on the main street in Casselman with craftspeople selling their products. An alpaca farm had socks, mitts and other goods made from alpaca wool. Standing beside the kiosk, in a pen, were two alpacas. I fell in love. They have very sweet faces and incredibly thick, soft wool.

The fields here are not yet green, so the alpacas are feasting on hay from last season. I wonder if they are looking forward to the sweet new growth.

Day 93: April Showers

Day 93: April Showers, originally uploaded by susanvg.

April rain started to let up as I drove along this country road. The ground is still not able to soak in the water. Signs of spring are everywhere. As I drove to Casselman last night, I saw many vees of geese flying over. I love to hear their honking as they pass over. It's funny how I never tire of the seasonal harbingers; a robin preening on the fence this morning, the sound of geese, the first signs of growth poking from the ground.

November rain can be depressing - relentless and grey, but April rain brings promise of renewal.

Day 54: Travelling past Farms

Day 54: Travelling Past Farms, originally uploaded by susanvg.

ViaRail - Canada's national railway. I travelled from Kingston Ontario, home to Montreal. I like rail travel - it goes at a pace that gets you there in a relaxing fashion. We passed through snow covered farms. I tried taking a few photos out the window - and this was one. I loved the red barn. When my children were young I used to keep them occupied while I drove with a variety of games. One was to spot certain objects. A red barn was frequently on the list when we drove through the countryside. When I saw this I felt like I had scored!

Sometimes rail travel is a little too slow - our train was 40 minutes late getting to our destination - the joys of winter travel.