RicelandMeadows

November 11, 2025

On this blustery, snowy, icy Veteran’s Day, I am inside looking out. There is much to do, but I am just being grateful for our service members past and present, of which I am one. Thanks you to all.

Murtagh, in the photo above, sports a new haircut. He got is first of many a few days ago. It was his first introduction to the clippers. He looked at them, smelled them and stood quiet as the hair fell. I purposely let the vibration touch his ears and the straps on his halter. He never even flinched. I am liking this “son of Hank” more every day.

Last week a friend came to take some photos for a fun project she is working on. We walked around the farm and enjoyed a beautiful day. We even spent a short time in the forge shop where I demonstrated a bit.

It was a good reminder for me to get busy making hooks and other needed hardware for the new barn. Soon, the forge room will be a great place to duck inside out of the wintery weather.

We spent a little time out in the pasture with the horses. The horses were very curious of the strangers and their equipment. They got up close and personal with the photographers. I had to calm a few fears and make sure the interaction went well…and it sure did

I told my friend that she had caught the joy found in my retirement in one photo! Maggee and Sam the border collie agree!

This is a short BLOG about what has been happening here as we prepare for winter. It is so nice to have the barn renovation all wrapped up and in use. The sugarhouse woodshed is full. Young horse training is in full swing and contentment can be found in all corners of the farm. I am one blessed and thankful man.