by Claire Dill
January was... fun... With all the snow and the deep cold, we managed pretty well, but there were some long days trekking around getting everyone fed and watered and trying to keep things from freezing up.
Jonathan cleared the snow off the machine shed roof, which was marvelous.
Thankfully we have plenty of hay, and the cows are looking pretty good, they came through that cold snap pretty satisfactorily.
Ice crystals built up on the wires and grasses.
The beauty of the hydrant, the hose, and the float working.
Last year was a struggle with calving mortality, and I'm not sure what to expect for this year, we may not have very many calves. And for sure, I'm not expecting any for a while yet.
It's odd to not be getting into high alert mode, but I also don't mind a slower start to the calving season. Spring and fall calves are much easier to watch for and manage than winter and summer calves.
Winter is hard because the calf can freeze if the mom isn't attentive, in summer we have to watch pretty close because of the potential for dehydration if the baby doesn't nurse in good order.
Clover should be up first, probably in March or April.
We haven't tested the cows to have specific due dates much these last few years, but we may do that soon to be able to plan this year with more information.
A tired puppy at the end of the day.
Hours of miles of snow travel.
Finding mice under the snow.
I am definitely enjoying the feeling of spring these last few days, and could be very happy if it just continues and stays. :) but if we get more winter, I guess that could be good to hit the insect population.
So I guess whatever God sends we'll have something to be thankful for!
Julie found a nice sunning place, even with the snow.
Dad and I hauled hay while Jonathan cleared the machine shed roof.
Thick fog, but enjoying clear ground with no snow!
Lia watching the milk cows eat.