This is what we wait for
This is why Steve puts up all of those driveway reflectors - actual snow! For multiple days without in-between meltings! It hasn’t amounted to much; just a few inches really. And while I have missed the first two exciting plowings of the year (truly our idea of a fun “date” activity!), which retired Steve did solo, it is still fun to go outside and experience a beautiful snowfall. The stillness and chill warms my northern heart!
The goats don’t appreciate the snow quite as much as the mini donkeys did, but they still venture out. Also pictured - what is left of one of the Christmas trees!
Come on - how can you resist this little face???
I swear he’s smiling. Yes, this is Sammie.
A good number of the chickens will walk around in the snow, but even the hardest core hens won’t go far. They just come out for a little greeting when I visit.
Our outdoor area is working out pretty well this year. For awhile it was so warm and rainy and SUPER muddy and swampy, but now that the ground is actually freezing it’s a lot better. The clear plastic temporary “walls” have worked out great in terms of keeping it dry and wind-free out here. They have hanging food pellets and scratch in feeders along the wall. I also spread some scratch on the ground under the roof so they could peck around (typically that would be spread out in the run.) Two heated dog bowls take care of their water needs, though I admit it is a pain to have to bring a bucket of water all the way down each morning. Someday maybe we’ll add a frost-free faucet down here. Food and treats are kept in various plastic and metal garbage cans.
No matter how cold or snowy it is, I always open the front door of the coop for fresh air and ventilation. I actually noticed a little mold building up inside along the roof, which I don’t think I have seen before. I was going to have Steve install a little vent in the front, but nixed the idea. Guess I shouldn’t have. We have 53 chickens, and they make a lot of heat and moisture. A lot of people run heaters and heat lamps in their chicken coop, but honestly, they are not necessary (and can be a little dangerous!)
I can (and do) take this photo every few days - Mr. Photogenic.
Sammie and Walker showing me the way to the treats.
This is the gate I go through to get into the pasture, and this is how these three funny goats greet me. There are unfrosted animal crackers in the white metal hanging bin (that still says, “DONKEY TREATS”). Look at Walker with his chin up on the fence, hilarious.
Another great thing about having snow is that my muck boots are a lot less mucky than usual. Steve still thinks it’s gross that I keep this boot tray inside the house (vs. on the porch), but I have NO interest in taking my boots off outside!
