It’s a challenge to get away from the ranch for more than a few hours.  Occasionally, however, we can squeeze in a week of vacation if the timing is right and last week was one of those rare opportunities to take a break. We had just taken the pigs into the processor, the chicks were still in the brooder, and the cows and sheep had plenty of grass.  With a little help from family to feed the dogs, hens and pick up the eggs, we were able to get away to Gatlinburg, TN and enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains with our son Jacob, daughter-in-law Lauren, and grandson Luke. 

I've always enjoyed time in the mountains, and I often drive through Tennessee wishing I had the time to stop and explore so I took this opportunity to do just that. As it is only a 5 hours from Ft Bragg, NC, Jacob and family were able to drive over and share our cabin in the woods.

Gatlinburg is more than just mountains, it’s quite the tourist stop - very much like Branson MO.  They have rides, and shows, and a very excellent aquarium. However the highlights of my trip were the walks in the forest and my attempt at fly fishing.  

I’ve always wanted to give fly fishing a try thinking it might have greater appeal than traditional fishing.  Fishing irks me because of the monotony, and I always feel like there are better things I could be doing (that, and I rarely catch anything). But after having caught a small trout, I was quite content to watch Jacob casting and allow myself to be mesmerized by the water flowing around the rocks.  This truly was a magical experience and brought me a great deal of joy. 

The ride up the mountain side was Molly's favorite thing to do, next to playing with her grand baby.  Molly spent many hours riding and showing horses as a teenager.  Even though she hadn't ridden a horse in about a decade, she took to it like a fish to water.  Although I prefer a four wheeler, I must admit that horseback riding is much more serene and I would certainly do it again

But we'll have to wait a while, as we're quite busy here at the ranch right now.  Just yesterday I picked up 4 new piglets and it takes time to get to know one another and build trust.  Tomorrow we’re picking up the pork we delivered two weeks back, and taking in a few Turkey Toms to the processor.  And on Tuesday we’re taking in a few lambs to the processor.  That means we’ll be fully restocked on pork next week and lamb the following week!  It also means we’ll have 4 of our free-range Midget White Turkeys available for sale (you can read more about our venture into Midget White Turkeys in the newsletter archives).  Our vacation was great, but we are looking forward to seeing you all again at the market. 

$7.50 per lb. - $50 Deposit Required

Delivered the Tuesday before Thanksgiving

Fresh - never frozen

The Elgin Farmers Market is a year-round market that will remain open every Thursday. Pre-orders are encouraged. 

The Taylor Farmers Market is a year-round market that will is open every Saturday. Pre-orders are encouraged. Live music most Saturday's from 11 -1.