Spring Fever

The past few days have gifted us with highs in the 60's.

A major case of Spring fever has invaded every cell in my body.

(Sadly with today's gale force winds, 

the warmth is blowing out and cold air is rushing in 

to remind us that Ole Man Winter has not yet packed his bags.)

Warmer temperatures give the piglets (I use that term loosely) an opportunity

to spend lots of time out of doors.

Getting them to their grazing yard is a slow process 

that requires the use of their harnesses and lead ropes.

Without them, our dear little piggies would surely take off for the chicken coops in search of food!

They spend a little time rooting around their yard,

grazing on grass hay,

and sleeping in the sun.

I took this picture with the telephoto lens, and tried to get close,

but as soon as they heard me sneaking up on them,

they came running.

Getting them back to the barn at the end of the afternoon

is a much easier process,

as long as I bring a reminder of what waits for them in the barn...

food!

A few shakes of the feed cup, and the pigs take off

running toward the barn.

At this point they are focussed 

and on a mission....

not stopping until the barn is reached and their noses are in their dishes!

Generally speaking, managing these gals is a pretty easy job.

They are highly motivated by food,

so getting them to do anything is easiest with treats.

They are willful and strong, but extremely sweet natured.

Even when they throw a "hissy fit", they do so with kindness!

Spring fever had it's way with all of us this week.

Sadie enjoyed a grass bath...

The chickens all had dust baths...

And the horses enjoyed some time in the front pasture...barren as it is right now.

Before we know it, the land will once again be green and lush

and the horses will get fat from grazing!

By the way, we are picking up Daphne and Morning Glory
(our new mini donkeys)

next Saturday, March 3rd,

and bringing them home to the farm.

(Just in time for kidding season!)

March will be an exciting month here on the farm!
Stay tuned.....