Hampton Ridge Farm

We first discovered Hampton Ridge Farm at the Covington Farmers Market last summer. They're one of the regular vendors - and we purchased some of their infamous Cottage Bacon, and a dozen farm fresh eggs. My fiancé also picked up some of their pamphlets, and had been carrying around the idea that we should buy all of our meat directly from the farm ever since. He'd brought it up a few times, but finally let me know a few weeks ago that he'd placed an order for chicken, pork, and beef, and that we'd be picking it up on the farm from a man named Earl.At first, I was skeptical about visiting the farm. I am so on board with sustainable, organic, local farming, but I didn't exactly want to see "how the sausage gets made" ... literally. My fiancé assured me that we didn't have to see any of the actual animals, and that he just wanted to check out the space and meet the farmer. I hesitantly agreed, and I'm so glad I did.The farm is down in Glencoe, Kentucky ... probably 50 minutes outside of Cincy city limits. We set up a pick-up time, and were welcomed to the farm by a few sheep crossing the road in front of us (I don't eat lamb all that often, so I didn't mind seeing these particular animals). We were then officially greeted by Earl, who is probably the most down-to-earth and inventive man I've ever met. Earl gave us a small tour of the farm, explaining his resourceful processes, and how he keeps the animals cared for in different seasons. I was also grateful to know that he doesn't do any of the "processing" on site: that's handled by a middleman, who then returns the meat back to Earl to sell online and at the Farmers Market. Unfortunately, Earl explained he had just given all of his cows to his daughter and son-in-law for them to start their own farm, so he was fresh out of beef products. He did, however, stock us up on all sorts of chicken, pork sausage, chorizo, pork chops, and two dozen eggs. All of his products come frozen, and we brought an insulated bag with us for easy transport back to our home.While his prices are a little more than what you'd pay at the grocery store, you have to consider the quality and care you're paying for. Most people have no idea where their meat comes from ... even if it's organic. Even though I didn't want to actually see the animals, it's a remarkable feeling to know we're supporting a local farmer. And of course ... the proof is in the taste. Earl encouraged us to compare a store-bought chicken breast side-by-side with one from Hampton Ridge - and there's definitely a clear winner. If you're not looking to take a farm tour, don't worry, you don't have to! Visit their website and place an order for pick-up at the Covington Farmers Market. Or, just stop by the market and see what they have on hand: I promise you won't be disappointed!