Herdwicks of Highfields Farm

Digging out #StormARWEN

Some things never change....taking much needed time amongst the flock. Houdini the gentlest, kindest soul, sharing peace and solace on the hill..... #herdwicks #calm #reflection

We've had a little surprise this evening. The ram's got in with the flock around 5 months ago by mistake. On the rounds 'Snowdrop' was away from the main flock. At the grand age of 14, she's given birth to a very strong herdy boy. Such a good mum, and I get my lamb cuddles 💕

Ooh dear Hetty, sometimes life can make you feel like hetty looks all you can do is dust yourself off, try & pick yourself up, and find a way through the craziness that life can throw at you sometimes 💙 #herdwicks #believeinyourself #bekind #staystrong #youvegotthis

Beautiful blue skies and sunshine but a chilly bite to the wind. Pippin and the elusive Daisy who definitely keeps herself to herself. Considering she was bottled fed, she certainly is an independent character of the flock. #herdwicks #holidaybarn #selfcatering #peak_district

Billy 💙 #herdwicks #peakdistrict

Spring has returned to the farm, skylarks singing, curlews curling. The hares a frequent sight on the moorland & primroses in bloom on the more sheltered sunny banksides. There is no lambing for us these days, but Droopsy, Houdini, and the rest of the flock bring daily joy.

This evening, as I listen to the wind howl around the farmhouse, the fire crackling away the sheep will be seeking shelter from #stormdave they have the shelter of the barn to escape if they wish from the inclement weather. Bracken & Houdini under darkening skies a few days ago

Our handsome Bramble, it's been lovely to enjoy some nicer weather recently. A pair of curlews have returned to the farm a beautiful sound that lifts the spirits at this time of year. Can't wait for the wildflowers to start emerging, and the cycle of nature begins again #nature

Double cuddles today. Mabel and Billy. Billy does make me smile he slowly gets closer and closer and then leans on you. Mabel is suffering with a poorly foot but was very good and let me spray it for her. Billy soon shot off when I sprayed it he wasn't having any of it #herdwicks

Took some time this morning to just sit amongst the flock, something I've not done for a while. I like to think they know how much calm and comfort they bring when things are hard sometimes. With Houdini extra special, it's taken time, patience, & love #peace #herdwicks #solace

It's the little things that are keeping me going at the moment. The flock always: the warmth of the sunshine on your face & as I walked down the stairs I spotted the curlew had returned to the meadow. I opened the farmhouse door & it flew away with its haunting yet beautiful call

Sweet dreams, Meggy, now at peace, on the farm by the Beech tree with your biscuits and balls snuggled on your bed. Gonna miss your squeals of excitement, your company, and the joy and love you gave to everyone you met. May you now be free so sorry 💔 xx

It's nice to see signs of spring appearing on the farm. Snowdrops have been in flower for a few weeks, daffs & bluebells are starting to push their leaves through & catkins dangling on the Hazel trees. Think Houdini and the rest of flock are looking forward to some nicer days ☀️

This is so hard to witness. The fields that Meg used to race round with her ball. This afternoon, we had a gentle plod. She's OK in herself, very slow, disorientated, but is managing to find her food bowl and around the house just about. How things can change so quickly 🧡 #sad

Skittering of snow here on the farm this morning. As ever, our gorgeous Droopsy bringing joy even on those gloomy days 🤍 #herdwicks #sheep #snow #peakdistrict

Seeking solace amongst the flock with Billy 🩵 #herdwicks #peaceful #sheep

Thank you for all your beautiful messages for Herdy Bear. She truly was loved by many. Captured as a proud mum with her gorgeous patchy knee twins. Back in the day when we bred some with a Blue face ram. And Bracken learning and respecting her place amongst the flock🤎 #memories

It was time to let Herdy Bear go today. She's wandered these fields for 18 yrs. Strong-willed, spirited fighter. Never one for scratches or fuss, but at the end, she let me lay her head on my lap as I said my goodbyes. A dignified ending for a beautiful soul that will be missed🤎

Our gorgeous Meg has had some tests at the vets. All fine. Unfortunately, the past few days, she has, in a very quick space of time, gone blind. She became very disorientated & started banging into things. She and we will have to adapt to a new way of life with her. Love U Meg ❤️

Tough few days. I pulled by back, simply opening a gate to feed the ram's. It's gone into spasm & I'm now on strong painkillers. I haven't been able to walk properly, never mind check the sheep. Luckily, they've been looked after for me. Slowly on the mend. Bramble in the snow 🤍