Hello Human

Each morning as we make our way to the barn...

first stopping at the pond to feed the pond ducks,

then heading to the sheep and pigs

 to change water and tidy-up a bit,

we are greeted by so many happy faces.

I'd love to think that they are just happy to see me,

but in truth, I know they are just hungry

and my arrival heralds the start of another day...

and every day starts with breakfast!!

As I walk past the pig yard, 

Moonbeam stands at the corner of the dry lot

just making sure I am headed his way.

The herd follow the fence line back up to the barn,

knowing that they will either be taken to the pasture,

or, as in the case of this somewhat soggy week,

be given a meal of hay.

As I open the barn door, 

I am greeted by Beatrix One and Beatrix Two-

one of them always perched on the stall wall.

While all of this greeting is taking place,

I am acutely aware of the pigs as they

snort and squeal...

calling for their breakfast.

Pigs are definitely impatient when it comes to meals.

They are never just hungry...

no, they are always STARVED!

We make our way around the farm feeding and watering,

cleaning up manure and dumping it on the compost pile.

By the time an hour or so passes,

everyone is happily munching away.

Yesterday was a special day, though.

The farrier was due to arrive after breakfast to trim

everyone's hooves.

In anticipation, I put halters on the donkeys.

Having them ready ahead of time saves a lot of effort.

If the gals see the farrier before I get their halters on,

they quickly respond with

"Oh no, not today!"

Yesterday, Chloe had decided that a halter was not in her plans

for the day.

She ran circles around her yard until, exhausted,

she finally acquiesced.

All I had to do was wait until she was tired.

"See?  That's not so bad."

The farrier came and we practiced social distancing.

Everyone stood nicely.

Everyone got peppermint treats.

And that was the excitement for the day.

Have I mentioned that Griz is the official "helper"?

Yes, he wants to be in the middle of things...

everything!

Just a few photos that I wanted to show you...

the forsythia by the old log cabin is ready to bloom...

It won't be long for the flowering quince, as well...

And outside of the barn on the hollow logs that 

are planted with flowers in the summertime...

a lovely variety of fungus.

I love fungus... it fascinates me!

This particular fungus reminds me of an ear lobe!

I can scarcely believe that Friday has rolled around again.

My house is cleaner than it has been in years.

I am well organized and ready to start outdoor spring projects.

Sadly, I don't believe the weather is going to cooperate this weekend...

rain is predicted.

Regardless our time will be full.

To those who are feeling isolated...

we are sending hugs from the farm!

Be well, friends.

We'll be back Monday with more tales.