RicelandMeadows

January 27, 2025

The grip winter has had on us for the past two weeks is finally letting up. It is still cold and wintery, but the temperatures are climbing up to near freezing. This is much better on man and beast than the sub-zero days we just endured.

The chores must be done. Animals must be fed and looked after. The stalls must be kept clean, so animal beds stay warm and dry. I snapped these pictures yesterday of our youngest son and his team, getting straw from the straw shed to be used for animal bedding. This young team has really come into themselves. They are trustworthy and safe. They are strong and willing. They are patient and quiet. You will notice that Jake is tying his lines around a pole. This small detail can prevent a wreck should the animals run off. I doubt that they would, but safety on a farm must be the number one priority. I was glad to see this.

This picture reminds me of an old photograph when things were much simpler. The only difference is that those photos were in black and white. I am a happy blessed man to get to relive those times. Homemade soup made from vegetables and meat raised here on the farm complements a day of working horses. The tractor is parked in the dry shed, ready if needed, but this shows the harmony we enjoy.

The warm and cold days of maple syrup season are knocking on the door. We are getting ready, slow but sure. In the meantime, we will enjoy the waning days of winter and the joy that working horses gives us.