We still have snow on the ground but the days are growing increasingly milder, with little fits and starts of warmth and sunshine coming more often and staying longer. Which is great because I need the gentle lead-in to Spring.
Winter here has been interesting on many levels and to be honest I'm glad to see the back of it, though as they go, this one was a dry winter and I appreciate that.
In all the time we've lived here I cannot say we've had one this cold, but with any luck it may have served to kill off those parasites that can overwinter under certain conditions, and if that has happened then I'll take the cold in trade.
I am amazed at the hardiness and resilience of animals that live outdoors. And in talking with other farmers I've decided that sheep are in particular, uniquely endowed to withstand the cold.
The horses did very well too, but local cattle ranchers have reported a number of losses in the extreme and I'm surprised, not being a cattle rancher and with limited knowledge of the beasts.
We've started gathering the sap for syrup, and my shearing equipment is being sharpened in preparation for harvesting fleeces, something I look forward to with great excitement.
And aside from the soon-to-be lambs, my most appreciated benefit of warmer weather will be pulling out the hoses to water everyone. No more bucketing back and forth!
Regards,
Kathryn
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