Embracing the Unpredictable Weather: A Day on the Farm

The Surprising December Weather

The date is December 20th. We should be experiencing cold or at least cooler weather. However, today’s high will reach 80 degrees. Just five days ago, we had our first hard freeze. Greg was busy shutting off the water to the barn, moving and covering hay bales, and protecting our outdoor faucets. Meanwhile, I was bringing plants inside, covering or moving the more delicate ones, and putting coats on the goats. My daughter joked that "Coats on Goats" should be my next children's book!

Each day since that freeze, the weather has gradually warmed up. Bees have started collecting pollen from a feeder on the patio, and dandelions are beginning to sprout. My plants are utterly confused. Honestly, I’m confused too!

A Glorious Day in the Yard

Despite the confusion, I managed to get outside and work in the yard. It was glorious! The sun was shining, the temperature was a pleasant 67 degrees, and there was a mild wind. If only my energy matched the number of projects I have planned!

I thought I’d take you along as I work on the farm.

White Kitty

White Kitty found a cozy spot in the barn where she could sleep undisturbed. I placed an old cat bed on a storage crate and added a self-warming blanket on top. (You can purchase those on Amazon.)

Roscoe

And again, with the animals! While I was cutting up kindling, Roscoe, my ever-helpful dog, was busy chewing on suitable twigs for himself. I had to relieve him of that task!

Thanksgiving Pumpkins

Allison, my stepson's girlfriend, gifted us these lovely pumpkins for either our compost or the chickens. Are you starting to see a pattern? Our lives revolve around animals, and it’s a joy!

Larger Twigs

Here are the larger twigs I sawed up using a Stihl Electric Pruner. It's so easy for me to use. There’s no need for a huge chainsaw for these tasks!

The Tarp Saga

One last photo to share. Greg covered some of the hay with a tarp. The tarp has been a whole saga of its own, which I’ll save for another time. It has blown off at least two times due to high winds, and each time, Greg has fortified it with even more heavy objects. Railroad ties are the latest addition to keep it secure.

Alright, everyone, I need to get going. Lunch needs to be prepared for both humans and an impatient animal. Take care, be safe, and enjoy every moment that you’ve been gifted. Later!

The Importance of Adaptability on the Farm

Life on a farm is unpredictable. Weather changes can happen overnight, and we must adapt quickly. This adaptability is crucial for the well-being of our animals and plants. We learn to embrace the unexpected, whether it’s a warm December day or a sudden frost.

Preparing for the Seasons

As we transition through the seasons, preparation is key. We ensure our animals are comfortable and our plants are protected. This includes covering plants during cold snaps and providing warmth for our goats. Each season brings its own challenges, but with careful planning, we can navigate them successfully.

The Joy of Farm Life

Despite the challenges, there’s immense joy in farm life. The connection with nature, the satisfaction of hard work, and the love for our animals make it all worthwhile. Whether it’s watching bees collect pollen or seeing our goats frolic in the sun, these moments remind us of the beauty of life on the farm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, life on the farm is a blend of hard work, joy, and unpredictability. We learn to adapt and find happiness in the little things. So, as we embrace the warm weather in December, let’s remember to cherish every moment. After all, each day is a gift.

For more insights on farm life, check out this link.