A Visit to Jorge's Farm

I'm slowly kinda developing a friendship with a local family.  

This week, I got to visit their small family farm.

You might recall my post, Jorge and Flor Make Chicharron, from February 1, 2022.  It turns out they were making the chicharron from animals they raised themselves.  Which makes things a little personal and sad.  But less sad, because I think these animals had a mostly good life, at Jorge's little farm.

When I found out Jorge had a farm, I was excited about the potential of visiting it!  When he found out I work at an agriculture museum, he invited me to do just that.  So cool!! 

The adventure started with a ride in Jorge's very old and well used pickup truck.  I'm not sure who had the best, or safest seat?  Toby sat in the bed of the truck.  He said it was the most dangerous thing he'd done all year!   But since he was riding with two kids, aged about 12 and 6, and they seemed relaxed, he thought it must be ok???  I shared the cab of the truck with Jorge and his very kind wife Maria.  I was pressed against the door pretty tight.  I kept hoping it would stay shut!!  

The farm was small, and a seemed little improvised in spots.  But really, it was pretty well organized practical.  And we could tell that Jorge and his family cared very much about the welfare of his animals.

 

We got to pet his horse Luna, watch the pigs enjoy a shower and meal, pick up some chickens, all while being followed by a big turkey intended for a family member's birthday dinner :(

We also got to chew on some tart, not yet ripe tamarind right from the tree, and see how a spice called achiote grows! 

Pictures

1) Mateo and Regina seem to love the farm.  Mateo was especially proud of his roosters.  He wanted me to take pictures of them for him.

2) This kinda handsome turkey followed us around though most of our tour.  But he didn't want us to pet him :(

3-4) Jorge feeding tortillas to one of the pigs, and Jorge and Regina petting the pig while it eats.  Sweet.

5) The breeding pair of pigs were keen to say hello to us!!

6) A family member giving a welcome shower to the pigs.

7) This hen was lying on about 5 eggs, and 2 very young hatchlings.  Mateo liften the hen a little to show me.  Then he so gently put the hens wing over the young chick.  His tenderness was very heartwarming to see.