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The Peanut Trap and "The One Bad Day" - Lessons from the Farm

written by

Mike Dougherty

posted on

October 21, 2025

Back in the days when I loaded my truck with coolers of orders and made deliveries myself, one of our customers gave me a children’s book, The Peanut Trap. I remember reading it to our oldest daughter when she was just one or two years old. It has been in our bedtime story rotation here and there, but as she's grown older, it's been set aside for more “big kid” stories.

Recently, while discussing how to load our latest batch of pigs onto the trailer for their “one bad day,” our oldest daughter enthusiastically suggested we use peanuts. At first, I did not catch on to why she said that until Rebecca pointed out that she was remembering The Peanut Trap.

The Story Behind The Peanut Trap

In the story, young pigs discover free peanuts left out for them, despite Grandma Pig's warning, “Do not eat free peanuts!” The young pigs do not listen and end up trapped. It's a simple yet powerful lesson about being wary of things that seem too good to be true, especially when they are free.

From Peanuts to Pumpkins

We don't keep peanuts on the farm, but our garden, which is far too big if we're being honest, produced plenty of pumpkins and squash this year. For about a week before our pigs’ “one bad day,” we made sure they were treated to generous helpings of pumpkins and squash.

When it came time to load them onto the trailer, we scattered pieces of pumpkin inside. The “trap” was set, and with some patience (and a few laughs), all the pigs made their way in, eager for those delicious and free pumpkin treats.

The Duality of Farm Life

Loading pigs on their one bad day always reminds us of the dual nature of farming. Raising animals from tiny piglets, calves, or chicks into strong, healthy adults ready for harvest is both rewarding and deeply humbling.

At Wild Meadows Farm, our mission is to ensure every animal raised lives a happy, healthy, and natural life, and that they only ever have one bad day.

Respecting the Natural Order

It's never lost on us that the animals we care for, the ones we scratch behind the ears, feed by hand, and watch grow, eventually go on to nourish our family, team members and customers. Their contribution sustains not only us but also our employees, partner farms, and the local businesses we work with.

Some believe we can or should move away from animal protein altogether. I understand that perspective, but I have also met many who have come to us after struggling with their health from cutting out animal foods. In my humble opinion, animal protein is real nourishment, a genuine health food without the fancy marketing.

I share the concerns of those who question how most meat is produced today. That's why we choose to raise our animals differently, with respect, care, and a connection to the land. It's not just about food; it's about honouring life and maintaining the natural order of things.

As always, thank you for following along. We hope your day is a great one.

Wild Meadows Farm

Blog: On The Farm

Grey County

Durham, Ontario

The Peanut Trap

Butchering Pigs

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Wild Meadows Farm Ltd.

394265 Concession 2
Durham (West Grey), ON N0G 1R0

Contact

mike@wildmeadowsfarm.ca
(519) 710 5702

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Mon–Sat, 8am–5pm
Sunday by appointment

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