A tiny bit of the property
I could get used to farm life. It’s a slower pace, a lot of manual labor, and the rewards although not always immediate are tangible. David and Chiara are relatively new to the farming game. They have only had their farm for about 4 years. And I think that what they have accomplished in four short years is remarkable.They have constructed a small house, a stable with 20 stalls, a riding arena and paddock. two storage barns, and have fenced most of their property so that the animals can remain "free" outside. On the other hoof…they still have a long way to go.
One of the piles of crap which we have to "organize"
One of the main tasks that we have on this farm is to organize the clutter to make way for new animals and a vegetable garden. Luckily, we are both exceedingly good at organization. We have helped to consolidate a large majority of the various implements and building materials. We burned a lot of excess wood and debris, and in the process have been firing some of Liz’s pottery. We have also started construction on various shelving and bird houses with the left over wood (of which there is a lot), at Chiara's request.
This shed is full of stuff to "organize"...sigh
We are even "organizing" the ground;)
Liz getting her hands dirty
It seems that about 90% of the soil around here is 100% clay. Which is good for experimenting with pinch pots and what not, but not too good for agriculture. Liz is excited because she can practice with the yellow. ocre-colored clay...she actually taught a class for the local elementary school about clay and how to make clay pendants, bowls, etc. for a unit on prehistoric cultures (But that is another post). Anyway, the soil sucks here for growing anything. Fortunately, we have a ready supply of horse and cow manure with which to ameliorate the soil. Unfortunately, we are waiting on a neighbor's rototiller (in the shop) before we can mix the soil.
Liz is a bit overwhlmed at first, but after a bit everyone is all smiles.
Clay is messy...
Just Chillin' next to a fire
Tons of dried cow s*%t ready to be tilled.
Once we get the soil mixed, the plan is to plant dozens of trees around the property and start a vegetable/herb garden. Hopefully we will get to see this happen before we leave. Until then we still have plenty to do, clearing space for the proposed pigs, chickens, and sheep that they want to start raising.
David knows everything about raising horses, and within the past 2 years has taken an interest in raising cows…with good results. But as far as anything having to do with cultivation or small animal husbandry, Chiara wants to be in charge of that. And sometimes there are heated Italian debates between the two as to what the future of the farm will be. As most of these debates are during meals, we are usually present for most…which can be awkward. But it’s necessary, I guess, if they want to grow this farm. We will leave in a short while, and really have no vested interest in this land; but they are in it for the long haul. I just hope that we can help with whatever we can while we are here.
This has been an invaluable experience. One day I hope that we can use what we’ve learned here on our own hobby farm. And with Chiara’s cooking and the family’s jovial and welcoming nature, it will be hard to leave. Farm-life from Portacomaro!
making Foccacia
What else have we been doing?
Went to a horse race without gates or saddles
Pratice make mediocre
Helping with hoof care
Visited Turin
Saw the face of God
Found The Beef
Liz got Strep.
That's all for now...stay tuned for more. See ya!
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