Last night and today all the Christmas turkeys went to the processor. Tomorrow they will return and be picked up by their new owners. Now there's no one left in the barn except BD and Lucky, the duck who survived a mink and and owl attack. What else could the poor little fellow be called??
These turkeys are about 15 weeks old and there are some large birds this year. There is no reliable method of determining the final weight of a bird, only the length of time they are kept and when you can get into the queue at the processor's. Temperature also plays a role and if the weather is colder, the birds expend more energy in heat production and less in growing. Up until the last week or so, the temperatures have been mild. There are still a few turkeys available if anyone needs one. Sorry, no shipping, farm gate only.
The birds are raised as naturally as possible, even if they are inside. The weather is too harsh and there are too many predators to safely raise Christmas turkeys outside in Newfoundland. I always feel sad when they go, but know they've had as good a life as can be provided with enough food, water, clean pens, radio and ball games. Yes, they are party animals in the true sense...
Meanwhile back in the studio, thoughts of a wintry sea took over inspired by sketches at a local beach then a crop of one of those waves executed in watercolour as twilight settled over the scene. You can read more about it, see the beach sketch and read a story of shipwrecks and phantom dog heroes at Watermarks.
4 comments:
Love the wave Jeanette, I can feel the cold.
I always know Christmas is just around the corner when your photo of this year's turkeys appears on your blog!
The day was cold and the water a lot colder I'm sure Gayle.
Awww, isn't it great to become a tradition? :)
I love your stories. I know nothing of farm life, so I always find your descriptions of the goings on fascinating. Your watercolor is beautifully executed. When I think of the winter sea I can't help but think of Winslow Homer (I am reminded if the character Schroder in Peanuts who refers to Beethoven at every opportunity)in the way that Homer was interested in depicting the power of the winter sea - color and light, the wind blowing back the spray, etc. Simply awesome. Oh, and your link to Watermarks was a wonderful treat - great site.
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