09/30/2026
Every year, once the nuts begin to fall from our pignut hickory, the pigs move underneath it and become what Dave affectionately calls the Nussvakuums—German for “nut vacuums.” It’s hard to think of a more accurate job description.
They LOVE it under this tree, snuffling through the grass and crunching their way through the hickory nuts. The shells are incredibly hard, and yet somehow those snouts and jaws make quick work of them. It brings me such joy to watch them do exactly what pigs do best.
These photos are from a foggy morning last week. On Monday, we took the pigs to the processor. That part is always bittersweet. We raise our pigs on pasture, give them room to forage and root and play, and do our best to be good stewards of them while they’re in our care. And then, eventually, comes the goodbye.
We’ll miss Misha, Galina, Margot, Gelsey, and Isadora, but know it is a privilege to care for the animals that will eventually feed us. We’re grateful for the food they’ll provide for our family and for the friends and neighbors we’re able to share it with.
Thank you, . 🩷
