DreamRiver Farm

The winter that doesn't seem to be

2011-12-29T15:00:00.001-06:00

Well this is the first winter in my 11 years in Minnesota that we haven't had snow for Christmas.....or any snow for that matter. Last week saw temperatures in the 50's mind you I'm not complaining. Just commenting on the irony that the faucet in the barn is now fixed, no more hauling 200' of hose from the house to the barn to water the critters, no -40* days, been a remarkable amount of sun. It's actually been quite nice.

I have to admit that I'm glad am not a crop farmer as I would be getting worried about the field conditions, my hat is off to you crop farmers I would drive myself crazy with worry about weather and other issues I have no control over.

here's a new small/sustainable farmsite that I like
http://www.farm-dreams.com/

Frosty, the Nubian goat is most definitely bred. She seems huge already, she is due on or around March 4. I don't remember my other goats showing so early in their pregnancy, I'm hoping all goes well.

New heifer calf on November 30, wow that girl is a bouncy, jumpy one!

I hope you all had a Merry Christmas or Happy Holiday and I wish you the best in the upcoming year.

Photo's; scooter the lab- think he has 'hoof and mouth' disease and some cows building a nest

Brrrr,

2011-11-10T18:09:00.001-06:00

Ok, I admit it, I laugh often at the weather reports. Do they ever actually look out a window? No precipitation in the forecast for a few days and what is it doing? Trying to rain,snow or sleet, all precipitation in my book.

I attended the Small Farms Conference again this year in Columbia MO. Once again lots of great speakers and learning opportunities. I recommend looking up: Greg Judy, Holistic Management and learning about how to heal our deprived, nutrient poor, starving soils through all natural means. I'm almost embarrassed to admit how amazed I always am when seeing before and after photo's of neglected land that is now thriving with a very diversified group of critters. Embarrassed because I should have learned by now not to underestimate the healing power of nature.

Apparently the goats did not like my absence too much, were depressed and off their feed for the few days I was gone. It's nice to be missed but wish they would continue their normal routine while I'm gone.

Things are looking very good that my little black and white Nubian doe is indeed bred, no signs of coming back into heat. I'm excited for little floppy eared babies but also glad that the buck seems to have done his job in the short time that he was 'visiting'.

Annie, the 11 year old lab LOVES her raw milk. Make sure you don't set the bucket down or she'll eagerly slurp it all up. She seems to be less stiff and sore in the mornings now that she is getting raw milk daily. Yep, the other two dogs get their share as well.

Tomas, the Percheron seems to enjoy his goat friends, they are never far from each other and it is quite comical to see the goats dash underneath him or between his legs. He never even bats an eye at this. He is definitely enjoying the twice day feedings that he gets now that he is with the goats, if I'm too slow he paws the ground to let me know that he is ready to be fed and "hey, here's the trough".

Cows and the other horses are all doing well, enjoying the pasture rotations and I really enjoy not feeding so much hay, just moving them into different pastures that haven't been grazed lately.

Wishing you all a safe and warm winter

How quickly the time passes

2011-09-13T05:08:00.001-05:00

I remember hearing as a kid that time goes by faster as you get older; wow, they weren't kidding!!! Seems like we just had snow on the ground, now the leaves are turning & falling. Have observed geese migrating -which seems early to me this year. Wooly bear caterpillers are solid orange, what does that mean? Hopefully that it's a different type of wooly bear and not some evil harbinger of winter doom.

After 6 years out here I have finally visually observed what we affectionately call the monkey owl. Truly it sounds much like a monkey and certainly not what I expected an owl to sound like. I had pretty much id'd it from some audio but it wasn't until Sunday when the barred owl was finally spotted and the id confirmed.

We also this year have Northern Harriers, a very cool bird of prey that interestingly enough look similar to owls-and adaption to their hearing and hunting technique.

I lost my first and favorite Nubian goat last week to meningeal worm, a nasty parasite of deer that wreaks havoc on goats central nervous system. I have to thank Molly the goat, for her love patience and getting me back into goats. She's missed very much.

Prior to Molly getting sick I had been working on getting another goat so I could finally make cheese. I discovered a Saanen owned by a friend of a friend and now Princess Fiona makes her home here. She is currently producing almost 2 gallons of milk a day, a very respectable amount!!! Did you know that goats are capable of producing their own body weight in milk in just 10 days??

Fiona being shown at MN St. fair by Kirsten, a friends daughter. They did great.

Beauty of Butterfly

2011-08-27T08:55:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite photos to date.

beauty

2011-08-27T08:48:00.000-05:00

Tons of butterflies have invaded the flower garden this year, it's always in movement with at least 4 different species that I can ID. We also seem to have a companion Northern Harrier a beautiful hawk, that I had not seen previously. Orioles are still coming to the feeder another new event for this year, and a plethora of hummingbirds that are trying to keep my sugar supply low.

Goats are doing well although Maggie decided to somehow get out this morning and was having a good time gallivanting around the barn. She seemed VERY glad to see me come out to do the morning milking though.

Cows are currently mowing the front yard, I love this system, mowing and fertilizing in one step with no use of gas on my part. Weather has been absolutely beautiful lately, 80's and clear skies for about a week now.

Upcoming plans include extending the pastures permanently, and keep rotating the livestock through the current pastures to keep weeds down and the animals well fed.

Not much else is new although this seems to have been my busiest summer, a bull out for lease, cows coming in for breeding, a new heifer (traded heifer for heifer) lots of interest in the Dexters, the milking routine.

hope this finds you all well and safe :)

I see spots

2011-08-17T06:04:00.000-05:00

I finally was able to find a quality dairy doe with spots!!!!!

She's a yearling Nubian and came from a wonderful couple, the previous owners had the nicest, cleanest place I have seen in some time. All goats were friendly, well fed, shiny coated and everyone of them had their feet trimmed. I had been getting very frustrated in my search for another doe, but can recommend this farm w/o reservation.

Stumpy, our little bull calf for the year is absolutely adorable, suspect he may be a shortleg, but he looks just like a miniature "bob" his sire.

Pastures are looking great this year with all of the rain we have had. We've lost quite a few trees in all the storms but fortunately they have all been box elders or other 'crap' trees.

Currently getting a dozen or more eggs a day, really need to start taking them to the farmers market.

The new girls

2011-06-03T08:08:00.000-05:00

Tuesday had me picking up some purebred Nubian does. Molly a 3yo had kidded 8 weeks ago and so was still in milk. Frosty the yearling doe came along for companionship. I've built a little milk stand and the girls (human) think it looks like a toy-in comparison to the cow size stand. I'm quite proud of my handiwork and it has made milking much easier. Currently I'm getting about a 1/2g a day from Molly. I hope to increase this with a twice daily milking routine. She's also very thin, probably a 2 on a 5 scale body condition scale. They both seem to be settling in very nicely. I don't think the yearling had ever been outside, she had been living with about 50 other goats in an old dairy barn. Molly I know had been in the barn for at least 8 weeks if not longer. Now that they have settled in they seem to be enjoying the sunshine (yes, we finally had a few days of sun )and the any time grazing. Initially they wouldn't seem to graze unless I was out with them but now they seem to have it figured out. I've never had goats that seem so hesitant to eat, I know this will soon change and they will be eating everything.

Last Dexter calf, bull, was born on Friday and all the little ones are a joy to watch jumping and playing together.

Pasture rotation is working WELL!!! The area that has been fenced off since late last fall is mid thigh in mostly grasses, appears as though at this point the weeds are being out competed

by the grass YEA!!!!!!

enjoying the sun!!

2011-05-21T17:59:00.001-05:00

Little Dominick was born on Monday, I don't think he weighed 35# at birth but he is making it up quickly. The fence that they are behind is 48" tall so you can see that mom is quite short

The plants in front of them are daylillies and Iris's so you can use them for scale on the little guy, I figure he's probably 24" tall.

hehehehehehe so excited!!

2011-05-20T18:00:00.000-05:00

Calf was born on Monday 5/16 at 6:20 p. Shorty has had trouble with her last two calves not being able to find the teat because she is so short, I resumed training Shorty and began milking her tuesday and supplementing the calf. Had suspicions this morning that the calf had finally figured out the any time fast food situation so the evening milking was for us. Dominick the calf is definitely nursing off of mom and so I plan on continueing to milk her for our use, cheese, kefir, butter etc. I am SO EXCITED!!!!!!!

Still awaiting one more calf for the season. Broiler chicks are getting huge and will be processed in three weeks.

A sign of spring

2011-05-06T12:55:00.000-05:00

Yea, saw my first hummingbird of the season this morning. Rose breasted grosbeaks are here also.

Fantastic news clip on Dexter Cattle!

2011-05-06T12:50:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5Q_AqzIFBo

this is a great little clip that tells about the breed.

Ruby

2011-05-05T14:09:00.000-05:00

Having a tough time lately getting a photo to post, here's another attempt

warmer days

2011-05-04T09:13:00.001-05:00

Well it seems that perhaps spring is possibly here. Today will mark the second day IN A ROW that the sun has been out.

Dexters are loving the pasture rotation and are super easy to move. In fact Ruby (pictured) will run 11 mph to keep up with the quad and the grain bucket, she manages to jump and buck at that speed also.

Shorty is still holding onto to that calf!!! I'm sure it just seems like forever as this is one of the most anticipated births, as I intend to milk her. She has practically turned into a lap cow, loves the brushings and scratches and allows me to handle/touch her anywhere.

A few brave flowers have bloomed, we are still having heavy frost in the morning, guess that is to be expected when the overnight temp is only 33*

Work in progress

2011-04-09T09:30:00.000-05:00

Oh, the warm sunny weather has been a blessing to me. The portable fencing is up for the pasture rotations, anxious to see how that works out this year, looking forward to allowing the pastures to get some rest in between grazings.

I have been halter breaking two of the Dexters, one a yearling heifer and the other a 8 year old. I am amazed that it is going so well. I can already after just a couple of days take the heifer out for 'mini' walks she is very curious and has been real pleasure to work with, she also very much enjoys getting brushed daily as does the older gal. I would like to be able to show the yearling later in the fall and the older gal is due to calf in the next couple of weeks and I hope to be able to milk her.

Take care, and enjoy the coming of spring.

Aaaaaah

2011-03-29T13:57:00.000-05:00

Aaaaah, how nice the sun feels today. 40* bright sunny WONDERFUL!!!

Chickens seem very glad to be about as well.

The Melt

2011-03-28T15:49:00.000-05:00

Dare I hope? Hope that perhaps warmer weather is on the way? Well, I'm going to do it anyway!!! The creek has already risen and gone back down, runoff from the north seems to be abating. Ok, look back at my hill.... waaaaaa! snow still over 6" in spots. That's ok, I know spring is on it's way. Birds are singing and returning, chickens are out and about.

I spent the last weekend driving to Iowa with Theresa, a friend to pick up a dairy Dexter for her. It was a long day of driving but it was nice to be out and about, the only downer was that I was unable (no money) to purchase another dexter that was already being milked. I will have a dairy animal this year!!!!!!! Met Larry Graber and his wife, enjoyed a nice cup of coffee with fresh, unpasteurized cream and a glass of milk also. Theresa is also the proud owner of the little bull calf whose picture graced the blog in February. He is doing well at ox school and is anxious to get a buddy/team mate.

Spring?!

2011-03-14T08:55:00.003-05:00

Well at least the sun is out today,seems like we haven't seen it much this winter.

We have a few Dexter Calves available for sale at this time, 2 dun heifers and a dun bull. Email for details

I love my little cows!!!

FROSTY!!!

2011-02-10T07:52:00.003-06:00

Although it's warmer here this morning than the previous days, the cows and horses seem quite comfortable outside of the barn. The little bull calf ( although huge for his breed) ended up in the house as I think he must have had a longer, delayed birth and was quite chilled when I discovered him in the nursery. Warmed up and full of food, he decided to help out with the laundry. Here at the 'funny' farm we have had; a rooster, a lamb and now a calf all spend time in the house recuperating. Elroy, the calf was quite fun watching how to learn to walk and then jump and even moo while in the house. He has gone to live with a friend of mine where he will learn to be an oxen. I wish him well

Thought for the day

2011-01-07T07:18:00.000-06:00

Patrick Henry
"The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government -- lest it come to dominate our lives and interests."

Glorious Days

2010-12-28T09:28:00.002-06:00

After what has seemed like perpetual dusk, the sun has finally broken through the clouds for the second straight day. I wonder if it's a primal instinct to feel more optimistic on sunny days. All the animals are following the sun around the fields and soaking up the warmth. Followed by running and playing, it gives hope that the spring and warmth will come back.

Following up on a FB post I made yesterday, I don't care what car you drive, what you eat or even what color you are. We all eat, breathe and sh#@ the same way. Rank is not an indication of character neither is your position or social standing. I'm free to have my own opinions, just don't try to shove yours down on me. Use of violence doesn't make your opinion 'right' to me it makes you look ignorant, have you even looked from another perspective? Don't be a 'sheeple' use your brain, look outside the box for more info, before you pass judgement on others.

K, I'll get off the soapbox now. Keep in mind accepted scientific fact is being disproven all the time,

By DANIEL ESTRIN, Associated Press Daniel Estrin, Associated Press – Mon Dec 27, 6:13 pm ET
JERUSALEM –

Israeli archaeologists said Monday they may have found the earliest evidence yet for the existence of modern man, and if so, it could upset theories of the origin of humans.

World's Smartest Horse

2010-12-12T09:46:00.004-06:00

I’m very excited and pleased to have the opportunity to spend some time with Mark Peterson, trainer of the “World’s Smartest Horse.” (www.markanddusty.com ) Dusty, the horse has appeared in many TV shows, commercials and equine presentations. The relationship between Mark and Dusty is wonderful to watch, it’s the win-win scenario that makes it a pleasure for both man and horse. Many of you know that I strove to have my Vet. Tech. students appreciate animals for what they are inherently, to not be arrogant and realize that animals ARE very capable of learning our language. The win-win situation is great for both owner and animal, each gets a paycheck. Many people (scientific & equine community) have stated that horses are not capable of problem solving. WHAT!!!! Come people use your common sense, if horses were not able to problem solve how do they survive in the wild? Isn’t survival at its basis, problem solving?

Once again I wonder how many times an event has to occur, be recorded, documented before science ‘accepts’ it as fact and not anecdotal evidence? Just because a method is new or seems unusual, isn’t the way it’s always been done; ask yourself; does it make sense to me? Am I getting willing participation from the animal? Do I have to use force or does gentle persuasion gain the effect/action I am looking for?

Dusty has learned an incredible vocabulary of verbal request and is able to carry these requests flawlessly, (but not w/o a smile see his website). I am eager to learn from Mark and Dusty, I hope that I may be able to have Mark look at something a little differently so it will be a win-win for both of us as well. That’s what it is all about, having both parties feel that they have gained whether animal/animal relationship or human/animal etc….

Go hug your animal (2 or 4 legged) and remember they are smart they learn our language, how much of theirs do we learn?

Mark and Dusty also have a facebook fan page at

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dustys-Fan-Page/153059171389300

Woohoo! SNOW

2010-12-11T08:36:00.003-06:00

A bit of dissapointment on waking this morning, only 4" of new snow. However, in the last 2 hours we have received an additional 2". The geese are pretending to be snow geese and have ventured from the little barn back down to the creek.

Horses and cows don't seem bothered by the weather. In fact horses haven't been in the barn at all yet. Curious how much snow we will get. My new brain child is to hitch Tomas, the Percheron, and see if it's possible to ski behind him. Should be entertaining.

Snow!

2010-12-04T07:50:00.003-06:00

Definitely mixed reviews on the snow situation this morning. Scooter as usual is unfazed and thinks it's great fun, Tiny, the border collie seems mostly indifferent but finds it difficult to walk when her belly is partly in the snow, Annie, the black lab is " been there, done that." Scooter has found all of his favorite toys that were buried in the snow. He has a phenomenal nose! Horses and cows are like "where's the food?"

There is about 10" of fresh, fluffy snow on the ground. I hope it sticks around, I would just as soon keep snow on the ground till spring instead of snow, melt, freeze, repeat.

Hope you all are warm and safe.

Welder needed :)

2010-12-02T08:42:00.003-06:00

Boy those Dexter cows are powerful for their size. They have managed to destroy their round bale feeder. Without a feeder they tend to waste a lot of hay. The trouble with these guys is that the ordinary feeder sold for round bales doesn't work as they don't mind stepping over the sides and end up standing in the middle of the feeder. Regular sized cows are too wide to fit between the bars but not these guys!! The search is on for a welder that can custom make a feeder for these guys.

No snow cover here yet, glad that the ground has at least frozen. Frozen ground is much easier to drive over than the slippery mud.

Dexters in the dirt

2010-11-28T10:45:00.002-06:00

A few weeks ago I made another one of my famous barters and traded dirt for landscaping/stream bed restoration. Yes, I did say that I gave away dirt/soil for several hours of landscaping. Finally got several large tree trunks removed from the stream bank, and regraded for a more natural slope.

The cows thought this was great fun and at one time there were about 4 of them in the bucket of the dozer!!! Then after the dirt was mounded they spent a great deal of time running over the piles and jumping and bucking, it was very comical as all the cows were involved not just the youngsters. I'm very happy to report that in the four years I have been here that 98% of the stream bank is now covered in good vegetation, there seems to be more fish visible in the stream also.

I've been keeping busy practicing different types of cheesemaking. Hopefully soon I will get one or more of the cows gentled enough to milk for my own supply of fresh milk for cheesing.

wow,

2010-11-15T14:47:00.003-06:00

It's always a surprise to me how many people from some varied walks of life and places read my blog. Just ran into someone this morning that wanted to let me know how they support the work and goals I'm trying to achieve here. It's very nice to hear.

Tomas, got his feet done again and is doing so well with his new farrier. Of course he really doesn't get much of a chance to put a foot down with both of us hanging onto his massive leg. He is definitely figuring out how to hold his feet for work instead of having them tied up to a stock as he was used to. His stunning good looks may also be getting him another 'date'. He throws some great colts.

Still very slow with my head cold, courtesy of Missouri, grateful the sun is shining today!!!

2010-11-11T08:50:00.002-06:00

If people let the government decide what foods they eat and what medicines they take, their bodies will soon be in as sorry a state as are the souls of those who live under tyranny.”
~Thomas Jefferson, 1778

Thoughts for the day

2010-11-10T11:00:00.004-06:00

“If people let the government decide what foods they eat and what medicines they take, their bodies will soon be in as sorry a state as are the souls of those who live under tyranny.”
~Thomas Jefferson, 1778
.
"There is No Right to Consume or Feed Children Any Particular Food; There is No Generalized Right to Bodily and Physical Health; There is No Fundamental Right to Freedom of Contract."
~US Dept of Health & Human Services and US Food & Drug Administration, 2010

I believe that laws are necessary for the general good, in order to be civilized. I don't believe that we need laws regarding EVERYHTING we do or eat or want or believe in. What happened to common sense? It's certainly not very common anymore! We have become a country where just about everything is regulatated including our freedom in choice, how did this happen? Too many sheeple just following along or not standing up for what they believe in. Take a stand, wake up!!! lets bring America back.

Back Home!!!

2010-11-08T16:20:00.003-06:00

phew after 12 too many hours in the car I finally am back home. I can't wait to get started on many of the new techniques that I learned or became reaquainted with. Hopefully this beautiful weather will continue so I can get some work done on fences in prep for high density planned grazing. This will enable me to graze more of the land, and allow fallow paddocks to rest and recuperate.

Big "T" a friend and a big bale for eating.

time flies

2010-11-05T20:15:00.003-05:00

Wow, time has flown by so fast!!! I can hardly believe that October is over.

I'm currently in Columbia Missouri for The Small Farm Conference. The show has brought together many of the great minds and leaders of the small farm movement. I'm learning many new ideas (to me) of ways and methods of successfully farming in todays economy, how to find and fill niche markets, how to deal with the ever increasing bureaucratic maze of regulations that only apply to small farms.

It's pretty frustrating to realize how narrow minded and docile the American public has become in allowing Uncle Sam to regulate so many facets of our lives. What we can view on TV, movies, what we can eat,drink,smoke, whether I can owe a gun,mandatory immunizations, etc. How did it come to be that Americans no longer think for themselves, or ask themselves if this newest policy or law really is necessary? Will it really make their live more safe, more enriched more whatever?

to be continued

Rain! what a surprise

2010-09-24T08:17:00.004-05:00

Wow, I still don't think we have made it over a week without a measurable amount of rain. The last two days however have been crazy. Most reports have the area receiving at least 6" of rain. I had forgotton that there is a drain tile around the back of the house until I noticed the drain end shooting water into the air. Tomas's pasture is quite soggy as there is a drainage ditch from the opposite side of the road that drains through his pasture, I moved him up to the paddock and barn. Parts of the hwy south of us are closed as the road is under water, Hwy 52 is the major route to Rochester from the twin cities, they expect the northbound lanes to be closed for at least a week to repair the damage. So glad the house is up on a hill!!!

to the left in the pictures of the bridge, there is actually a walking path that goes under the bridge, as you can see it's totally underwater!

big foot-little foot?

2010-09-12T13:16:00.002-05:00

ok, so does the daughter have little feet or the percheron really big feet? In any event the youngest daughter fits into Tomas's new boots. He has a cracked hoof that makes him sore on roads, so we bought him boots to protect his feet.

Hypocrisy of animal rescues.

2010-09-08T12:40:00.004-05:00

The hypocrisy of animals rescues and adoptions.
Let’s face it there are way too many unwanted animals in the world today. In fact too many unwanted people but that’s a different rant. I also understand after 18 years in the veterinary field that rules are necessary to function. What I don’t understand is the hoops that rescue organizations force their potential adopters to jump through/over and around in order to adopt an animal.
I’ve had an experience with a chicken rescue here in Minnesota that will not allow me to adopt a chicken, even though she admitted I was a great home, took excellent care of my animals and insured that they get all of their needs met specific to the species, that she herself would love to live at my farm but…………. Because I chose to eat the eggs my chickens produce that made me ineligible to adopt. I pointed out to her that it seemed to be a bit of a hypocrisy unless every one of their adopters is a vegetarian. Many studies have proven that plants suffer a measurable response when faced with picking/pruning etc of the plant so who’s to say that just by virtue of being a vegetarian makes a better adopter. She also did not like the fact that we occasionally butcher our cows, completely disregarding the facts that a) I prefer to eat food that I know where it came from b) no hormones/antibiotics added c) humane treatment d) that I am helping to preserve a heritage breed. I also highly doubt that everyone of their adopters uses or wears no leather or leather products. I am offended too that she mentioned that she occasionally buys eggs at the grocery store to feed her chickens and the majority of eggs purchased at a store even when labeled: cage free, free range or organic may not be so. Cage free/free range only means that the birds are not in a small confined individual cage, but they may be in a larger group cage and it does not mean that they are allowed access to fresh air or outside. Organic does not mean that they are treated humanely, only that the food they are fed is ‘supposed’ to be organic. Hate to tell you but, organic has become a catch all phrase and that animal products may be fed to these organic chickens. I wonder why if there is such a moral dilemma to eating chicken eggs why don’t these rescuers limit the amount of light the chickens have access to prevent egg laying. Egg laying is an amazing use of nutritional resources by the hens and to lessen their egg laying allows more nutrients to be available to the hen itself………oh wait that would make sense.
I strive very hard to insure that all my animals are able to live as they were originally designed for. Example horses have a very specific range/roaming requirement in order for their bodies to work the most efficiently, do I have enough acres to fully satisfy this requirement? No, but I certainly allow them complete access to their 17 acre pasture where they and the cows are free to roam, socialize and be themselves, in fact the chickens are completely free roaming, daily foraging for bugs, dirt and whatever thing a chickens may find exciting to do.
In closing as I told the women at the rescue I fully believe that their personal views and opinions are preventing animals from being adopted by caring, responsible, educated people. Rules are necessary to function but logical needs also be applied. I believe that these people care about these animals but have become misguided in their rescue efforts. Well I’m going to go out to the barn to visit Joe chicken, who comes when called, gets lots of treats and seems to not care that I eat eggs from the hens, in fact I’ve never had a hen even notice that I have taken eggs, meaning that they don’t come screaming and pecking into the barn when I collect the eggs. Maybe they do get upset, but as a certified animal behavioral consultant I have never seen any behavior that would indicate their indignation at losing a egg, and once an egg is laid the hen leaves the nest and roams about the yard.
I've added a picture of some chicken girls enjoying their day, here at the funny farm

It's a bad hair day!

2010-09-03T07:45:00.003-05:00

Well here he is, our new white crested, black polish Rooster. I wanted to be sure to name him to reflect his polish heritage so his name is..............Joe, yep, makes me laugh too. Daughter, Lauren, got the giggles even worse than I did when she saw him for the first time and then continued to break into giggles every time she looked at him. He's seems to be very docile, hasn't even tried to escape when he has been picked up. We also picked up another 10 hens ( not polish) to replace those lost to the racoons this summer &^%^!%!*^!

Brrrrr, weather has gotten quite cool this am, cloudy and overcast today.

Well that's about all the new news, so have a great day and I hope Joe brings a smile to you.

oops, forgot the after shots

2010-09-01T08:27:00.004-05:00

Ok, so here are the shots of a more accurate portrayal of how the creek usually is, with a photo from last night.

Wow, what a few minutes of time and a few inches of rain will do

2010-09-01T08:15:00.003-05:00

There is less than a minute between the above photo's. The creek went from a little above normal to a raging river in less than 5, went over our banks in several places. The photo is of a spot that is normally about 15' from the edge of the water. The bank closest in the photo is about 3' tall, NOT anymore.

Geese were entranced by the flood, having their usual vocal discussion on; what do you think happened? i don't know, do you think it's safe? I don't know and on and on.

Neighbors had two creeks running through their property, one of them covering 1/3 of their driveway. This second creek then went through the cornfield and into Tomas's pasture. He was not impressed by this show of water force and reared, and stomped his foot at it.

This morning creek is almost back to normal, and it's a beautiful day, hope you have one too!

Ruby Red

2010-08-30T10:41:00.003-05:00

Well, I have finally remembered to take the camera out to get recent photo's of our first Dna typed red Dexter. The photo's don't replicate the shiny, shiny new copper penny color of her but it gives one an idea. Next on the agenda start halter training her, I would very much like to show her. Not too many Dexter classes or shows locally so it may be that she is shown for exhibit only. That's ok, I welcome the opportunity to educate the public on this wonderful small breed of cattle. The other calf in one of the pictures is, Spunky Mooster, you know like Punky Brewster. It's amazing that she wasn't tearing around wrestling with the weeds or bumping heads with Ruby.

Animals definitely seem to hang out with like sex, or color. The three boys all hang together and Spunky and Ruby are always together.

Scooter the dog is getting huge!!!! We joke that he is part great dane. He's still waiting for his brain to show up, think he has DADD-dog attention deficit disorder. He's a great dog, even if we do make fun of him.

Peeking chicken

2010-08-28T09:42:00.003-05:00

Yes, it is a Peeking chicken, peeking out from the new basement they and the dogs are attempting to excavate.

It's official we have a dna confirmed red heifer!!! woohoo, she is the color of a new penny, very shiny and healthy. We've had two heifers this year and two bull calves. It's been very nice finally getting some heifers that are eligible for registry. Tomas is enjoying meeting new people and carrying them around.

Garden has gone nuts, have already canned 10 quarts of tomatoes, and frozen probably another 10 gallon size bags of them.

yea green!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-18T09:09:00.003-05:00

Wow, it's starting to green with the trees getting leaves and the grass is growing. We had about 3 hours of our front yard looking better than the neighbors before he got out and mowed his.

We have planted our chickens, just kidding but they sure look funny when they are using their dust bath and all that can be seen is just their heads.

Tomas, the percheron has been hired to go to a friends daughters 6th birthday. He loves kids, and what a great treat to have a knights horse attend your princess birthday party.

Anxiously awaiting soem of the cool weather crops to start peeking up from the ground. Just a few more weeks before the rest of the garden can be planted.

One of these things...does not belong

2010-03-13T08:52:00.004-06:00

Can you tell from the picture which one does not belong? Scooter had to check out what the chickens were so excited about.( black oil sunflower seeds). You can see that he is not bothered by the chickens and visa-versa! Yesterday one of the chickens actually went between his hind legs to get to the other side.

Geese are excited to be able to bathe and swim in the creek again. I love to see them shake their tail feathers when happy.

Ruby, the little calf is full of energy and fun, galloping around and jumping for joy. Still waiting on the other two expectant mommas.

I would love to see the sun come out but am grateful none the less for the warming temperatures!!!

Firemouth cichlid

2010-03-09T17:54:00.001-06:00

This guy one of three is looking for a new home.

Ain't got no 'body'

2010-03-05T09:32:00.002-06:00

lol, March 4, brought us a little female calf from 1st time mom "minnie moo". Neighbor, Lisa and I brought the little calf up to the pole barn in keeping with our policy of isolating mom's and calves for 2-3 days. Mom however took a few more minutes to get up to the barn and then she acted like she didn't recognize the calf. After a very quick trip to the co-op for colostrum, and 16 oz into the calf, I went to the house for more and by the time I returned the little calf was up, looking very perky and thankfully was now over by mom and a few minutes later I heard the wonderful sounds of nursing. Yea, maternal instinct kicks in. Scooter our youngest lab was very intrigued with this new addition as it was about his size and almost the same color!! Photo attached is of Scooter checking out the newbie who looks body-less tucked into the hay.

Two of my older cows are looking very close to calving also, and for the week we have had very sunny and beautiful days. Snow is melting and the ground can be seen in spots. Yea!! spring.

A sparkly new day

2010-02-13T11:57:00.003-06:00

Wow!!!! this morning has brought an ever changing perspective on how the sun glistens on the trees. There was approximately 1/2" of frost on all outside objects. The rising sun changed the shadows and reflectivity constantly, a battery needing recharging required that I went outside at different times for photo's. Two other neighbors I spoke to this morning all remarked on the glory of the day. I only wish that I was able to fully capture the sight with the camera. I have also discovered that Tomas does not like the flash to go off right in his face w/o notice. He was very perturbed and walked off shaking his head.

at least the sun is out

2010-02-12T08:11:00.003-06:00

Three days of continuous snow has finally broken to leave a beautiful, crisp day. Tempetures have fallen since the snow quit, but with the sun out it doesn't seem quite so hard to bear.

The livestock is following their usual course of action which means even with sub-zero temps they still are rarely in the barn.

Geese has decided flying wasn't all that it seems to be and are sticking very close to their barn. One of their favorite day time spots is under the goose neck trailer!

Chicken egg production has finally fallen off. We haven't had any damages from frostbite this year, which is very nice, although most of the chickens we currently house have rose combs, rather than the taller combs.

Time Flies & so do geese

2010-02-07T08:29:00.005-06:00

Per the title it seems time has gotten away from me (again). I am reminded of the phrase ' hours pass slowly and days fly'.

Ok, second half of title; adult geese per the references do not or can not fly. Well my geese apparently have never read the reference material. They had started taking morning flights across the pasture and circling back to the barn. I figured 'ok, weird, but they return immediately so no problem' I was wrong, one Monday morning they start on their normal flight path but then continue on down the road. No problem, they will be right back. Nope, not in their plans. I waited all day for them to return and by nightfall still no geese at home. I had a rough idea of their location as the neighbors were keeping me updated. Tuesday, still not home so off I go on the quad to round them up. That plan worked for about 5 minutes until they just moved farther off of the road where they promptly sat down completely comfortable. Off I go to herd them back, ooops forgotten the depth of snow. I struggle through knee deep snow and managed to finally move them about 50 yards in the correct direction. Yea, I think we are on the way home. The geese had a different idea; walk 20 feet sit, I move closer, they walk 20 feet and sit, this goes on for the 50 yards when suddenly they decide to fly, good I think 'fly back to barn' NOPE make a big aerial circle and fly across the road into the neighbors yard. A few choice words and I head back to the quad, remember the knee deep snow? Well in some spots it's up to mid thigh, I begin to feel like a member of the Donner party ( deciding that I would have been frozen and eaten in the first day) struggle through a few feet, this is like a stair stepper from H#@ll. Nearing the road and quite tired from this endeavor I decide to crawl, yes crawl the last 20 feet to the road. At this point I didn't care if the neighbors saw me, I just didn't want to take a step, a very high step, sink through snow and repeat any more!! Crawling allowed me to stay on top of the snow. Reaching the quad, the road and civilization, I decide to leave the wonderful fun (hahahaha) geese to find their way back home.

Wednesday morning finds one lone goose in the front pasture, Yea! they are coming home. School bus drives by, and poof the lone goose is gone......grrrrr. Later that morning, time for chores in the barn finds three geese there. Acting very spooky but at least home. Next morning four geese home, I'm wondering A) if I can count. B)what took them so long C) where is the 5th? Next day 3 geese, what the heck!!!!??? Later that afternoon 4 geese, am I going crazy or what ( don't answer that).

Following week geese count remains at 4. I figure a coyote or something got the fifth one. I hope they decide they had enough adventure, I still wonder why they decided to venture off, looking for more water? adventure? I don't know, what I do know is adult domesticated geese (American Buff) can and will fly. Don't believe everything you read!!

The male Dexter calves have all been sold and are at their new homes. Sheep were sold, amongst many jokes about hubby delivering them to a truck stop. " hehehe, did he dress them up when he delivered them?......No surprise the trip took so long, sheep and truckers together...... The truck stop was midway for the new owner, who lives in North Dakota, insert more sheep jokes here.....

Pride goeth before the fall, we made it through mid January thinking we finally had the watering figured out for livestock, yea all spigots functional, water for everyone. Then, within a week both spigots freeze up and we are hauling water to the tanks!!! I decide to work efficiently and fill a large plastic container to fill Tomas's water, I am within inches of dumping it into stock tank when the behemoth shifts his hind end and cracks the container dumping all 50# of water everywhere. Couldn't he have waited until I emptied the water first?

Bubby's wound is healing very nicely, Kasino the mare still is looking longingly at Tomas who is now housed by himself. Time will tell if she was successfully bred.

Weekends bring lots of food, friends +/- football games/bonfires. Kate, the youngest spent all day Friday and Saturday baking. I of course have a love/hate relationship with this. Yellow cake cooked with whole cranberries, topped with whole cranberry sauce ( homemade) mixed with cream cheese is a too delicious treat! I rationalize that at least the cranberries make it a health food choice. A pre super bowl bonfire with friends went well, we had doubts if the wood would burn, but Sunday morning brings the fire still smoldering. Check out the person the the fire picture to get an idea of the size of the fire.

Lab tested and approved

2010-01-20T11:21:00.004-06:00

I'm not sure if any of my readers are football fans, I hadn't watched a game in years until recently. How could I not watch now when my the Vikings are doing so well? It has even been lab test-see photo. Annie, the lab, has not been dressed up in a few years. She grew up in a neighborhood of young girls and spent a lot of time attending tea parties and the like. She still seems to enjoy the dressing up part and even cooperated to let us put the viking shoes on her.

The geese lately have taken to venturing about and went to the neighbors on monday, guess I will have to clip their wings again. They apparently haven't read any of the books that state that adult domestic geese can't/won't fly.

Bubby's wound is healing nicely, it's amazing how he will just stand for me to flush (32oz) the wound with antiseptic solution and then rub some ointment into it. Of course he always gets lots of treats and a bucket of corn when I'm done. I figure in a week or so he can go back to the big pasture and Toma's to the paddock.

Waiting

2010-01-16T08:38:00.003-06:00

Seems like I often spend time waiting. Waiting for the sun to be out, cows to calf, bubby the horse to mend, etc. etc. I think waiting makes one more appreciative of the event when it finally happens. I know today is a great day, the sun is out, I heard the first cardinals and I take comfort in the promise of warmer days to come. I saw the phrase; " hours creep by but the years fly by" and I find that to be very true.

Bird count, 2 Robins, 2 mourning doves, sounds of cardinals spring is on its way. I tell myself this anyway as we still may receive lots more snow.

Check out my list of blogs I follow for some great info!!

time flies

2010-01-15T09:53:00.004-06:00

wow, I didn't realize it had been so long since my last post.

New events, Bubby my gelding quarter horse received a rather large bite from my stud. I believe the stud was protecting his food supply, although it seems rather weird as they have been together for many months now. Oh well, cleaning and flushing and giving antibiotic shots are keeping me busy. Poor Bubby is not too keen on all this attention. This wound is gross, even by my vet tech standards. Softball size around and about 1.5" deep yuck.

We are expecting two calves any time soon, can't wait babies are always fun!!! I have sold my babydoll sheep and livestock is down to just the Dexters, horses and chickens,geese.

I'm hoping this doesnt come as a big surprise but "Monsanto's GMO corn has been linked to organ failure" http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/01/12/monsantos-gmo-corn-linked_n_420365.html

I'm so glad that we have the opportunity and the blessing of being able to raise our own meat, hoping the garden will actually get going this year. I'm planning on raising a pig this year also. Another learning experience I'm sure.

I hope this finds you well, healthy and safe.

Oh my goodness how could I have forgotten? Scooter the wonder puppy is growing like a weed. We keep joking that we aren't going to let him go to sleep because you can almost see the difference is size when he gets up. He went from 18# on 12/29 to 23# on 1.8 amazing!!!!

H

seems kinda white out

2009-12-23T22:17:00.000-06:00

here's the view out the backdoor at 9:30pm tonite, you can see how fast the snow is coming down.

Holey Moley

2009-12-23T21:53:00.004-06:00

Good heavens our new addition "Scooter Danger Downs" who joined our family on December 15 is now all of 16 pounds. I'm quite sure that is 3 pounds or more than when we got him. He gets along well with the other dogs even though the old lady (dog) is not really all that impressed with him. He so far has been very easy to work with, he's quite vocal when he wants something whether its food, outside or attention. I'm surprised that more people weren't aware that there is a 'fox red' color of a yellow lab. Poor little guy, snow is already up to his stomach on our latest venture outside, he had the most forlorn, pitiful expression while he was outside doing his business ears flapping in the snowy wind. Wish I would have had my camera handy.

Today apparently was the day for jail breaks. First the sheep which have been sold and we are holding them until pick up this weekend decided they were tired of staying in the barn and should be free to go to the pole barn where it's stacked to the ceiling in hay. Fortunately once they saw me coming they all ran back into the barn and there stall. Lawrence went to feed the horses and cows and we have never had to close the gate behind us when feeding in the winter but today the 3 horses made a break for freedom. I think it was the mare that instigated the escape, she seems to act very tired of the 'dumb' boys. They had a good ole time trotting around the house, the little barn...should we go into the gorge? .....nah... lets trot around some more. Surprisingly it was "Toma's" the stud that finally decided to come over for treats and then it was a simple matter to lead him back into the barn/pasture with the others following.

We already have at least 4" of snow since about 4 pm this afternoon, considering the report had us receiving only 2-4" total tonite we seem to be well ahead of schedule, and they are still advising that the most snowfall will be overnight. Well what can you do?

I hope this finds all of you well and I wish you a safe and Merry Christmas.

Second winter of the year

2009-12-09T11:23:00.004-06:00

LOL, since our first snow in early October we went into a very warm spell broken only yesterday by a big snowstorm. Dept. of Transportation is quoted as " if you live in southern minnesota, stay home!!!" Many of the interstates and secondary roads have been closed. We have recieved at least 8" and drifts up to 3 feet high.

Horses have yet to come into the barn, the cows however are only venturing outside for a snack, check out the photo as they head back to the barn. Check out the photo of the cows and the little calf making his way down the slope of the creek. The geese are also staying outside and at times get almost completely covered by snow. Chickens seem to be doing well, but they are staying in the barn.

Goodbye to a giant

2009-12-03T07:47:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving Day was a mixture of emotions. A mixture of relief and sadness all rolled together. I had recieved the news on Wednesday November 18, that my dad was in the end stages of lung cancer.( He lived in Spokane Washington) The statement was a complete shock as I had no idea he had been sick. Of course that was how he had wanted it. I was able to speak with him on Thursday to give him my love and wish him some easement of the pain he was in. Due to aggravating my neck injury I was unable to fly home to see him, however this was most probably a blessing in disguise as he declined quickly from that point on becoming delerious and failing quickly and passing into God's hands on Thanksgiving morning. While selfish and distraught over the loss, I was thankful also that he was now out of pain.

He was a giant of a man, in so many, many ways. I was always proud as a child to be able to say my dad was the: biggest, strongest, smartest etc. as it was all very true. Over 6 1/2 feet tall he was indeed a giant of a man. This was the man that showed me nature, took me hunting, fishing, sailing, exploring and where I learned an appreciation of nature and the beauty and bounty it can provide. We developed a game of 20 questions usually played after he had been out in the woods or lakes. I soon learned that my first question should be: 'does it bite?" He was always bringing stranded or injured animals, rodents or reptiles home. Twenty questions was usually the way I learned what species of animal it was. Now you can see the importance of my first question. A quirky, dry sense of humor. I remember well learning to read and asking from another floor of the house: "Dad, what does w, h, a, t spell?" and his answer.......... "what!" "Dad, what does w..h...a...t.. spell?" and his reply "What?" this went on for some time with a growing frustration on my part and held in laughter on my dad's part till mom finally stepped in, called time out on my dad and the meaning of the word w...h...a...t become learned.

I remember spending lots of time being 'forced' to watch educational shows like 'NOVA' or other PBS specials, how awful that was!!! Now I realize how very much I learned from these shows and it also furthered my love of animals & nature and my eventuall career as a Licensed Veterinary Technician/zookeeper/instructor. We also watched plenty of Star Trek, it was typical of Dad to determine which episode it was within the first few minutes of the show. My friends often commented that he reminded them of 'Spock' due to the fact he had such a dry sense of humor and was well informed on a variety of subjects.

While we didn't always see 'eye to eye' ( catch the joke there?!) as I inherited his wonderful sense of determination or is it stubborness? He was and will always be my dad, a giant of a man.

So today, as always 'I love you Dad, God Bless'

Frank's Day!

2009-11-21T14:14:00.004-06:00

After 3 years of visiting from Arizona Frank bagged a deer. A very nice 6 point (eastern count, 3 pt western count) He had not bagged a deer in almost 20 years. Last year we were honored to have his son get his very first deer ever and now the challange is on between the two for the biggest deer this year.

lol, he also doesn't know that since he is moving to Florida we can let him reciprocate and crash at his place. hehehehe

What a great time to be a vikings fan!

2009-10-20T13:04:00.002-05:00

Lol, I haven't watched football in years, Lawrence really never has but this year has brought us back to watching football. It's been exciting to see the Vikings do well so far this year. I will admit this past weekends game was almost a dissapointment, but we managed to win at the last few seconds, I'm thinking that there will be alot of review on the teams part about how the game played out.

Monday was Lawrence's birthday and he received a fabulous coat from our good friend and number 1 Viking fan.

Animals are in an exceptional mood right now with the bull and horses playing tag while the calves are running around and kicking up their heels.

SNOW!!!!!, & big head 1, nose 0

2009-10-10T09:19:00.002-05:00

AAAAAgh, woke up this morning to a light dusting of snow on the ground. Lawrence states that he can't remember the last time it snowed before his birthday. It's now overcast and looks ( and feels) like the snow may stick around for at least a few hours.

Big head 1, nose 0 yep that's right. My nose lost in the encounter with Tomas's head. He stepped on his lead rope and got startled swung that big ole head up and smacked me right in the face. I had to look several times before I admitted that yes, my nose was now canted distinctly to the left. My great neighbor, Marcia, kindly took me to the ER where it was confirmed that my nose is broken and displaced to the left. I find out Monday the details of having it re-set. Hubby just came in from the barn and states that Tomas seems very concerned. Today will no doubt bring some interesting new colors to my face, already I have some lovely blackish, green areas, but the good news is that with all the swelling you really can't tell that my nose is displaced!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (late) to Sharon and Rick!!

tomatoes!!!

2009-10-01T15:42:00.002-05:00

Lawrence (DH) was sure surprised when he ventured into the garden for the first time since tilling it. Tomotoes, tomatoes everywhere. I just giggled as he remembered quite well my surprise at his purchase of so many tomatoe plants. They are not going to waste, Saturday they made a wonderful sauce for my jambalaya, spaghetti sauce for the freezer as well as lots more for freezing and use later.

Rudy, a dear friend was kind enough to lend a hand this weekend, removing the dead trees that were remaining in the front pasture. He seemed at ease on the tractor and was a big help. THANKS Rudy!!

I extended the pasture temporarily today to allow the animal access to some grass that had not been grazed in many many years. They seemed to enjoy the change of scenery also.

Hey Honey!!!

2009-09-18T10:53:00.003-05:00

Yea, our bee's were so happy this year that we have been able to harvest honey in our first year of beekeeping. We have probably harvested two quarts of yummy, delicious honey. How cool it is to eat honey from your own farm. Plus, whipped with butter and slathered on toast it's like frosting, yummy!!

This year have been a very productive year for us, the previous years of work have culminated into healthy streambeds, beautiful pastures-now almost weed free, furrowed ground smoothing out, it's very rewarding for us.

Animals are all doing very well also. Hard to believe that fall is here.

The Twins

2009-08-19T19:03:00.002-05:00

Well ok, they aren't really twins but they sure look like it. "they" are Reuban and Waldo ( of the wheres' waldo fame and post) they are almost inseperable. One of them sounds like what I would expect a muppets car to sound like. A very short maaa. and that's it.

I'm still keeping an anxious eye on Shorty, beginning to think she is never going to calf, she's huge!!! Still as sweet as ever although she has been pushing other cows away from her ( I keep thinking it a sign of upcoming labor) but no calf yet.

The neighbor must have brought his bull back from loaning him out for breeding, all of the cows are having a yelling contest across the street back and forth. Our cows may be small but they sure sound loud, way louder and deeper than the bull across the street. We think he should be ashamed of his tiny bellow.

Chickens are all doing well, suspect that a neighbor went on vacation and had the kids watch the dog... or not or maybe it was just a weird coincidence that all of the chickens that we lost this year were in the middle of the day and no sign left of them, and no animals alerted. Oh well it is life on the funny farm

Speaking of the funny farm; I have a new chicken with an overgrown top beak ( I will trim back this wknd) who comes to the porch for food.....cat food that is. So I have a cat food eating chicken, a dog food eating cat and a cat food eating dog. Did ya catch all of that? Told you it was the funny farm

Family history

2009-08-14T16:47:00.004-05:00

lol, ok so it's not my family history but I have had multiple requests for the percheron stud family so:
"Sterling's Tommy" registered name
reg # 273745
sire
Chief's Successor Topper
dam
Morning Glory's Delight
he also has on the top "King Lyndon"

I had a very enjoyable time at Rush River Percherons. They were most welcoming and incredibly patient with my endless questions. I learned a lot and hope to see them at either the Iowa St. fair or MN st fair.

My new favorite quote

2009-08-12T07:39:00.002-05:00

"riding is the art of keeping the horse between you and the ground."

Today I am off to a Wisconsin Percheron farm to observe them hitching and working their horses. This a family run farm that spends much of the summer traveling the country and showing their percherons in 6 & 8
team hitches. Wow, I can only think what a chore that is to hitch that many tall horses! Looking forward to learning what I can today.

My little red wagon

2009-08-10T16:06:00.003-05:00

Woohoo, now all I need is a collar for 'Thomas" the percheron and we will be driving to town in style in the little red wagon.

Weather has finally warmed up!! Phew, humid for minnesota as well. I have been busy taking down fences that led to nowhere and were always in the way. It's nice to see how our work is paying off in lush grass pastures.

Bee's seem to be doing very well, everywhere I go there is a constant sound of their busy buzzing. I'm anxious to see if or how much honey there will be to harvest this year.

Sugar shortage

2009-07-31T13:18:00.002-05:00

phew, if the hummingbirds keep this up there will be a sugar shortage. I am filling the quart container three times a day. This feeder is still the favorite of the hummingbirds.

Orioles are back or perhaps they never left, they are once again active on the one hummingbird feeder.

We do have our QH gelding for sale, we are moving into the drafts and draft crosses.

Home Sweet Home

2009-07-20T16:02:00.004-05:00

Well, it happened I fell even more in love with Thomas, the percheron. He now has a permanent home here at DreamRiver. You can see from the first picture that he is also a fellow with a great sense of humor! He is truly a gentleman, even when around some very excited mares...wink...wink. Time will tell if our Thoroughbred mare has settled (pregnant) If all goes well we anticipate a fabulous colt from Thomas & Kasino.

Where's Waldo?

yes, where is that darn waldo? Waldo is the name of our newest calf on the farm. A black bull calf that has appeared and disappeared for varying lengths of time, including yesterday where we weren't able to find him for over 12 hours!!! I must admit that it was great exercise walking up and down the hills in search of the little guy, but a little frustrating as his mom didnt' seem to know where he was either. It's very common for most of the newborns out here to be 'missing' for a few hours, but typically mom is relaxed and calm. Waldo's mom was anything but calm and relaxed.

Thomas-Percheron Stallion

2009-07-07T13:31:00.004-05:00

Woohoo, Thomas the incredible Percheron with hair like Fabio's will be coming to stay with us for awhile. This stallion has an incredible temperament, rides, drives, has logged and will do all this even while next to mares. Thomas will remain at DreamRiver until sold or I fall even more in love with this horse and refuse to let him go. He is for sale at this time. Email for details

Cliff Notes

2009-07-01T21:10:00.001-05:00

Well, it appears that the cliff swallows have FINALLY resigned themselves to building nest on the barn. It has always looked like there were multiple nests there but they appeared to have been powerwashed off. It is very nice to having them building nests on the barn instead of the front of the house.

I purchased a new hummingbird feeder the "Tejas" model. This feeder is constantly full of hummies, with the remaining two feeders still in use. The Tejas is apparently quite the favorite and requires refills daily.

Orioles-0, Hummingbirds....lots!

2009-06-17T08:12:00.003-05:00

Well the Orioles have come through and left on their way to the nesting areas. Many more hummingbirds this year, than in years previous. Two feeders are continuously used and fought over. I was able to see the hummingbird courtship, it consist of the male flying a semi-circle in front of the female. It is almost a perfect mathematic 1/2 circle. The female makes her choice based on her impression of the circle. The males are quite vocal during this display.

The bee's are being extremely productive and we may be able to harvest honey this year. It often takes a year to harvest in order to leave enough honey for the bees to survive the winter. We have sampled some honey and boy is it good!! Pastures are coming along nicely this year. Each year we have more and more grass that is replacing the weeds. It's amazing how keeping the pastures mowed will decrease the weed population dramatically. I will tell you that I am looking forward to not having to mow but it is nice to see all the grass coming in. The cool spring has allowed the cool weather grasses to come to seed, something they have not done since I have been here.

Looks like we might have a few more calves this spring also.

I have given up on keeping the border collie from chasing the horses, as you can see by the picture the horses activelly seek out this pastime! I think that often the horses enjoy chasing the dog as much as she likes to chase them!

Busy bees and cool chick(ens)

2009-05-26T18:23:00.003-05:00

Well the air conditioner must be the greatest spot in the world to hang out. Lawrence went out to check on the bees and they are very beezy making comb and honey. We were able to sample some of the honeycomb!!! Honey was very sweet, bees wax....well tasting like wax!

Breakin trail

2009-05-24T16:59:00.005-05:00

Phew!, we (more like hubby) have been working on the wooded section of the property this year. Previously our work concentrated on restoring the stream banks, mowing down thistle and burdock (rather than use herbicides)and we are being rewarded this year with almost park like pastures. It still amazes me 1) that I get to live here 2) how effective mowing is against weeds. We always get quite a following when we mow, from the barn swallows sweeping up the insects we stir up to hawks on the lookout for a tasty rodent treat.

Just one fence line remains in the way of connecting the east side of the gorge to the west and then we will be able to bike, hike, or ride throughout the entire property. It's very rewarding to see our work opening up spaces, encouraging new growth and more wildlife.

The maple tree is one that I consider a memorial tree for my grandfather, it sits on a hill overlooking all of the property.

Barn Swallows, not house swallows

2009-05-18T10:12:00.003-05:00

Well, once again it's the time of year where the BARN swallows try to nest on the house. Don't they know they should be in the barn? Front of the house looks like something from San Juan Capistrano (place known for thousands of these birds).

Orioles have been back and at the hummingbird feeders for approximately one week now. Interesting battles between the orioles and the hummingbirds, even with two feeders. A neighbor down the road has been getting Indigo Buntings at her thistle feeder. These birds have an absolutely wonderful iridescent turquoise color, may start feeding thistle here.

Bee's seem to be very happy. I called Lawrence in with a degree of worry in my voice told him I needed him to specifically identify what i had on the computer screen. His first response to the photo of the bee was, "yes, its one of mine' when i repeated that he needed to specifically id it, he came up with "Stevie # 3" Stevie can be viewed in the photos here.

I still have awe that I have been fortunate enough to have this property. Front pastures are beginning to look like a park. This year marks the fourth summer on the property and almost every single day I count my blessings for the beauty of this place.

2009-05-16T19:31:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo

2009-05-16T19:19:00.002-05:00

I finally was able to squirrel away enough money to buy a nice (very entry level) camera. I havent had a decent camera in over 20 yrs. I am attaching a slide show of some of the shots I took today

Hollywood horse aka Grace, was very difficult to photo as she kept getting closer and closer even fogging the lens at times.

Tiny jumping fish

2009-05-10T20:33:00.004-05:00

LOL, this afternoon at dusk we were walking along the creek when I spotted a expanding ring in the water. I knew it had been made by a fish jumping, but when I saw the little tiny sardine come fully out of the water in a wonderful dolphin jump it was funny. It was a tiny brown trout, this year the creek seems to be fuller than usual with all sizes of trout. Two blue herons are visiting daily, we have Canada geese a pair that come over every morning, lots of Robins this year,and goldfinches. I hadn't seen many robins or Goldfinchs in years past. I am waiting on my bluebird pair that has nested in the same house for 2 years to come back. Hoping that maybe they are just using one of the 6 new bluebird houses I placed this spring. I have also seen what appeared to be a teal, but it moved away before i could fully identify it.

Cows are all doing wonderfully. We moved them to the small pasture Saturday so they could eat of the rapidly growing grass and allow the two bigger pastures to rest and recover. Bob, (the bull) is apparently excavating a basement in the small pasture. There is a small gully where the runoff goes and Bob gets in the gully and scratches his head at surface ground level. He has taken the 2ft wide gully into a 4 foot wide gully. His hair on his head, does look marvelous!!

How many geese fit in a dog house? Apparently the answer is 4. The geese all roost in the dog house that I put out for them to nest in. It is a multi-purpose house as they lay eggs, some sit on the eggs and all but one goose gets to come and sleep at night.

Broiler chickens are getting big, dumber every year, but we don't buy them for their IQ.

This year we are really able to see the wonderful changes and improvements that we have been making over the last 3 years. Pastures and creek bank are restoring wonderfully, I believe that is also the reason for the increased trout numbers.

Picture was taken on 5.6.9 evening toward the east, if you look close you may be able to see the full moon also. PTL for this beautiful place.

Bee's are making comb and the queen is laying, overall it looks like a happy hive. I am surprisingly more excited about the bee endeavor than I thought I would be. How sweet is that? ahahhaah sweet..honey..... :)

Been Beezy!!!

2009-05-05T17:19:00.003-05:00

Wow, it has been very busy around here, the spring clean up, clearing more trees in compliance with the forestry plan we have developed with the forestry service, and bees!!!

Yes, it's true. We now have a hive and as of noon today bees to occupy the residence. I am excited but filled with a little bit of trepidation as I react strongly to certain insect bites/stings. Re-assured by the fact that the bees will leave me alone if I leave them alone. Hoping it will be a successful endeavor for us. I didn't realize that all farms in years past had a hive or 3-5. Hubby wasn't taking any chances with them, a wise decision.

Rain!!!

2009-04-19T10:18:00.002-05:00

I can almost see the grass growing and greening before my eyes. Not sure who will be happier the animals with the new grass growth or myself for the same reason.

Morning brought 4 new chicks, 3 black/white and 1 yellow. It's so cute to see them peek out from mom's wing. Geese eggs are due to hatch any day now also. If you are interested in some American buff goslings let me know, there are LOTS of eggs.

We deliver "Larriette" and her calf to some great people today. I always love getting to know the people our animals go to and Susan and her family seem to be kindred spirits, with the same goals of land stewardship and animal husbandry that we have. I'm excited also to see their farm and the jersey calf and other critters they have.

Here's to green growing grass!!

Easter Baby!

2009-04-11T09:28:00.003-05:00

Woohoo, this morning beckoned with lots of sunshine, frost on the ground, hungry critters and a new heifer calf this morning. We just missed the actual birth but were able to observe the newcomer getting up and nursing. Sandy, the mom, allowed hubby to pick up the calf and we were able to tell it was a heifer. Mom and Bunny (what else could we name her?) are both doing great! Looking forward to seeing Bunny up and running around.

Larriette, another cow is also very close to calving so maybe we will have two of close age to watch play.

Geese are waterfowl right?

2009-03-25T10:47:00.002-05:00

I have always thought that geese were waterfowl. However the keystone cops aka the geese have taken several weeks to venture down to the creek. Once there it took over 30 minutes for them all to actually get their feet wet! Walking into the creek, but still keeping their feet on the bottom of the creek at all times. One finally lifted its feet and seemed startled that there was a current and it was now going backwards aaaaaaaaah, quick run away!! They all four finally got into the water but left and went back to the barn w/in the 30 minute span.

Morning found them wandering the south side of the creek and then discovering them on the north side of the creek in the pasture. I am thinking that they must have crossed the water, but now have serious doubts. They spotted me outside (I'm mom) and thought let's go see her. I am expecting them to cross the creek and come back to the south side where the house and barn etc are located.......Nope, not my crazy crew they decided to cross the bridge, heaven forbid they should get their feet wet!!! All I could do was laugh and once again consider renaming the farm to "The Funny Farm"

Cows seemed to have discovered that we fixed the electric fence and it does shock them. Daisy our shortie has tested it at least twice but seems to have realized it means to stay on her side of the fence.

We have snow today, currently it's going sideways!!! I'm so glad its spring.

We do have a goose setting on her eggs, I don't have a count on how many eggs are in there, hopefully not toooo many.

Baa Baa Black sheep

2009-03-19T14:46:00.002-05:00

Last tuesday brought us a black lamb. "Gonzo" is doing well, and is a joy to watch sproing around the field. We are still anticipating another lamb any time soon, hopefully a little girl this time around.

The case of the revolving cows

2009-03-14T19:21:00.005-05:00

Ok, so everyone has their own way of doing things.(foreshadowing!) Friday morning dawns sunny and ...could it be? above freezing woohoo!! In Minniesoda that means that it shorts weather already. Not quite yet for me, but you get the idea. It's been the longest winter. We loaded the cows that were in the little paddock into the trailer w/o any trouble, removed halters, vaccinated the baby and were off to the other side of the driveway to release them into the large pasture with the horses and 3 more cows. ...dun, dun, dun..... get a few chores done, turn around and we have a few cows in the front yard. Herd them back in, do some more chores and general spring clean up around the place ....and now we have cows out of the pasture and along side the road. Yea, this is fun well at least I think that's what the cows thought, I DID not! Guess what? its the same set of cows that were out a minute ago (the ones we got in December). Bob, the bull, is doing his best to impress the girls with his jurassic park bellow which echoes all the way down the valley, hence his other name, Jurassic Bob. I set off across the pasture just to keep an eye on them, make sure they don't cross the road-the neighbors dog was doing a great job of intimidating them into staying on our side of the road. (Note, this is basically a private road as there are only 12 houses in a 3 mile stretch of road, not much traffic). Cows see me coming and decide oh, lets go back into the pasture, fortunately hubbie had seen me set off and was in place to open the pasture gate. TADA!!! they are back in...and out, and in and back out. Remember the foreshadowing part? Well that's where I would have checked to be sure the electric fence was working before moving the cows. Ok, so now we are 'heating' the fence after the animals have left, come back, left... Fence doesn't seem to be hot, so back to the drawing board, rewire the first section of fence as we knew it wasn't getting any power, still nothing ( a few choice expletives later) I can only guess that for some reason with the ground being frozen and not using the electric fencer all winter that maybe something is wrong with the ground rod. Dump a bunch of water on it and tada, fence working. Back into the house for a well deserved break and some food. Hehehe we observe one of the new cows testing the fence, yea, it's working (my thought not the cows). Phew I can finally relax...surprise 2/5 newbies are back out, wait now there's 3..4 of them out, head back out the house and at this point the cows know the routine and head in the direction of the gate 1/2 way there and the 5th newbie decides to join the parade, get to the gate and watch all of the cows step through the fence obviously not getting shocked grrrrrrr. Hours later and the warmth of the sun seems to have solved whatever the fence problem is/was as now they are all in and appear to realize what the fence means.

Next day and all is good, everyone still in place. Bob, is the only one that seems to associate with the newbies they are all on the north side of the creek and the well trained cows (ones we have had) are all on the south side.

Sunny and Gracie the oldest and youngest horses are diligently babysitting Stuie the calf any chance they can. Momma cow seems to have resigned herself to their constant presence by her calf.

Hope and warmth are in the air as it might be that spring will indeed come to Minnie-soda this year.

It also appears that Stuie will be sold as a registered bull, perhaps we should change his name now...

Baby time

2009-03-05T22:48:00.002-06:00

Well as promised here is a picture of our latest addition, Stu. I will admit we have a morbid sense of humor in that we will name the males animals as food items. We hope Stu will be sold as a bull as he has great bloodlines.

Babies!!

2009-03-04T11:38:00.002-06:00

Yea, the first baby of the season. A bull calf, born last night at 7:30 mom & baby are both doing well. Stu, the calf, is figuring out that legs will allow you to do lots of things like run and jump. It's always so amazing to me how the nursing instinct goes into action so quickly. He was up and nursing w/in a 1/2 hour. Pictures to come later today.

Bubby's insight of the day

2009-02-20T08:44:00.002-06:00

Bubby the quarter horse is also very excited about the continuing cold weather

Big Bad Bob

2009-02-20T08:30:00.001-06:00

well big bad Bob, the bull is at it again. Trying to incite an equine riot. It is very funny to watch this 900+ bull trying to get the horses to play with him. Bob fortunately has never realized that he is a BIG! boy. He remains incredibuly docile and easy to work with. His head is now approximately 20" across, it almost does not fit in a feed bucket. We are still waiting on a calf due any time. In fact yesterday we tried to move 'momma' to the pregnancy paddock and of course we got everyone moved.....except for her. grrrrrr. The pregnancy paddock is also where the new girls we got in December are at. Bob was thrilled with the idea of meeting them in person. He got very vocal and adamant about getting close to them. I also am aware that a) he is a big animal b) he is a bull, so it was a little bit intimidating to go head to head with him to get him moved. LOL, to confirm that he doesn't realize his size, he tried to squeeze under the pole fence like he did as a calf. He seemed quite confused that he couldn't get through. The scary thing is that given a little bit more effort I'm sure he could have easily bent the pole rail and got in.

I am very ready for some warmer weather, however I am very gratefull that at least the sun has been out teasing me with it's promise of warmer weather.

All of us two leggers are doing well. My jewelry is being very well received and I am quite proud of the new chain maille pieces I have completed. I haven't seen any maille pieces in any of the local artsy shops. I hope my pieces can be displayed at a couple of these stores.(dreamriverdesigns.blogspot.com).

Well think that's it for today.

The great goose debate

2009-02-11T14:03:00.003-06:00

For those of you not having had the pleasure of the company of geese I hope that you have at least seen the two geese in the Disney movie "the Aristocats". Geese of which we have five apparently must discuss Every move no matter how small in great detail. Example, the barn doors have been open for a few weeks now and it has taken about that long for the debate to conclude that "I don't think we will get eaten' I image the whole long process to have gone something like this, do you think we should go outside? Well, I don't know. WhY? The chickens are going outside. I just don't think its wise to go out there? Well, how about we just peek out the door a little bit and see? WHAT!! I'm not sticking my head out the door, you do it. ME!! how about we all stick our heads our together and on and on. Once it was established that they could successfully make it out the door, it was incremental how far away they would get. They looked just like the ducks in the shooting gallery. Single file three steps to the right, ok now 4 steps to the left and on and on. At least the make me laugh.

Other events making me laugh was watching our ferocious bull chase the horses. I was concerned at first until I realized that this was a mutual play time and who was chasing who switched around. Our quarter horse would get into a face off with the bull and each would bluff like they were going to move, the horse won that one every time. It was also incredibly funny watching all 800 pounds or so of bull, sproinging off the ground with all four feet in the air and bucking and rearing. They all played like this for some time and it finally ended after 5-6 laps around the hay feeder!!

Currently there is a bald eagle in a tree about 50' from the house. A few days ago we had three fly over the house so close that you could hear their wings flap. How cool is that?!!

Chickens are laying 12- 14 eggs a day now. Geese are also getting in the spring mode, as it is now a definitive that we have at least one male and female. I had checked them when we first got them, but it's not always the easiest to sex geese.

Corduroy Cows

2009-02-10T17:35:00.001-06:00

Corduroy cows, standing out on the back porch last night enjoying the 'crispness' of the night I heard what sounded like someone walking in corduroy pants, turns out it was one of the cows and the noise what from the crunchy snow under foot.

blizzard is doing well out in the barn with his 'chicks' No further trouble with his foot. It's been nice to have him back in the barn, although it has taken us all about a week to quit tip-toeing around so as not to wake him and his crowing.

I welcome your comments on the jewelry.(dreamriverdesigns.blogspot.com) Some pieces are already sold, I also welcome your thoughts and prayers that this endeavor will bring in some sort of income for us. It's been tough with both of us laid off.

208,000 miles later the toyota has finally died, that too has been another blow for us. It did however provide a very reliable ride for a long time.

Well, that's all for now. The family is feeling neglected as I seem to spend the majority of my time working or deep in thought of the next design.

phew!!!

2009-01-17T17:48:00.002-06:00

well if it isn't one thing it's another. hose broke in the pole barn auto waterer, an item we had been meaning to do some maintenance on in the summer. Fortunately it was just he hose portion of the waterer and we were able to close the hose shut to keep water from flooding the barn. The waterer has a spigot that has been there for who knows how long and it is firmly rusted shut, any action to close the spigot I feel would result in a metal part disintegrating and leaving the pipe open, not something I want in this weather.

Morning started with Hubby saying 'come here,it looks like we have a problem' turns out it was only two of the cows that had snuck through an open gate (LAWRENCE!!!!) and were on their way to the mini barn. this actually was quite fortidious, as I had been thinking this morning that we needed to move big momma cow to the mini barn for her upcoming calf. Big momma was amazingly one of the two cows venturing forth and it was a simple matter to get them into the pregnancy paddock. It also was the reason we were in the pole barn that early and noticed the busted hose. Fortunately it looks like only two bales of hay were affected, and should still be ok to feed.

I have also gone forward and ordered inventory for our Rosary, chaplet, jewelry business. We feel confident that this is where we have been lead, to start our own business, but it was still kinda scary placing the order. We have several beautiful desings, and the girls have shown a natural talent for design and creation of items. It's great to have us all working toward a commen goal.

Heat stroke, well at least the weather is out of the minuses, its a balmy 20* today. Not sure if this will last but it has been nice to appreciate the warmth. LOL, having lived in the south, many people would still call our temperatures not fit for life. It's amazing how you can adapt. In any event, I sure appreciate the spring alot more than when I was in the south and could harvest flowers and vegetable in Febuary!!

Blizzard the rooster has completed his reovery and is now back in the barn with his 'chicks' since T-rex the other rooster has gone 'suspiciously' missing, Blizzard is doing well out in the barn with no competition from Rex.

My first Blog

2009-01-14T08:40:00.002-06:00

Don't put the Florentine Fish with the Triangle Fish because there Evil there from the bermuda triangle.

Thins I say in my sleep.

Lawrence

Trials of winter

2009-01-13T09:25:00.003-06:00

Well, we have the auto waterer in the pole barn frozen, the spigot in the little barn surrounded by an ice moat, courtesy of the teenager allowing the water to overflow and a temp of -24 currently. Our old mare had a bad couple of days, but seemed to enjoy her pampering in the stall and some anti -inflam meds for her arthritis. She's back with the herd and doing well.

We have sold one of our bull calves, Bezee, he's now a steer and in Chisago City. Funny his mom didn't really bawl for him as much as I expected, I'm sure the neighbors were glad of that. Blizzard the chicken is doing wonderfully. Hubby took him to our friend, a vet, all at the clinic got a chuckle out of seeing barnyard animals and the fact that he crowed the entire time at the clinic. Blizzard also escaped from his crate he was being transported in and took a few arial laps around the truck cab while being driven to the appointment. Apparently this was just TOO much for our lab and all 80# of her tried to crawl onto Hubby's lap. All in all it sounded like an exciting road trip... a man, a dog and his chicken!!!!

Recieved about 7" of beautiful snow yesterday, they are calling for another 1-4 this afternoon.

the girls and I are enjoying our time beading chaplets, rosaries, bracelets and necklaces. We have come up with some beautiful designs. We are to start business calls this weekend, wish us well in this endeavor.

Good News!!!

2009-01-08T10:26:00.003-06:00

It's been a busy couple of days. Lawrence and I have decided to dedicate and form "Butler Creek Co." producing hand-crafted chaplets and rosaries. Searching for jobs over the last couple of months has not produced any for either of us. Family obligations also limit one or the other of us in regards to work schedules. After a lot of soul searching and we came to to conclusion to form this company, portions of the proceeds will be donated back to church and our community. We both feel very strongly about this and hope that you will wish us well in this venture. We have totally given it to God and if it is meant to suceed it will. We will also continue in raising heritage livestock w/o the use of hormones/herbicides or any other additives. We hope to be able to provide fresh farm eggs/lamb/beef and continue to steward the land back to a healthy state. Several of our friends are quite talented in many other crafts (that's some of you followers of this blog) and we hope to be able to help advertise and sell their products as well.

We intend to carry multiple price ranges and custom designs, this also fits in perfectly with my decision of a few weeks ago to go forward with hand-crafted jewelry.

The house chicken decided yesterday to join the figurines of chickens in the kitchen/mudroom window-see photo bottom right of blog. We performed what we hope was the last mini surgery on his foot and removed a foreign object and hope that he continues on the mend.

Not much else is new, looking forward to warmer weather but acknowledge that it is the cold that makes those warm days so much sweeter.

sunny and beautiful

2008-12-31T12:49:00.002-06:00

wow, what a beautiful night last night was. It's always so amazing to me to see how many stars are visible when there are no city lights to detract. I again saw a shooting star, which seems to happen most every night I'm out to notice.

Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for the beauty and glory and the priviledge of living here.

I will have to get the camera out to take some more pictures, it's so spectacular today, cold I will admit but sunny. Horses still don't spend any time in the barn although the cows do come in at night when it is really cold out.

Blizzard, that darn chicken.... I mean the wonderful house chicken seems to be missing Lawrence who spent the last two days snowmobiling in Wisconsin with almost 2 feet of fresh powder. Blizzard seems to crow quite persistently waiting for someone to come talk to him in the morning (Lawrences job :) )

I have added a link with directions for making rag rugs, I have always admired them but never made one....yet.

chicken song

2008-12-28T17:35:00.003-06:00

lol, hubby is in the kitchen singing a made up song, called the "chicken song" Blizzard the rooster is very helpful and crows at the appropriate times. Yes, we are the funny farm!!! the song apparently now is about his not having 11 special spices and herbs, but he must cook a pizza in a very funny falsetto. Its always interesting!!! Rooster does seem to be getting better, he is starting to use the foot more and more.

Had the Downs family Christmas get together yesterday. It was a good time, always interesting and usually intellectual conversations, at times getting pretty rowdy.

All of the critters are doing well. The driveway or should I say "slideway" is a now the luge run, the sun has been out and melting some of the snow off which all drains and then freezes on the long sloping 'slideway" Hopefully the salt we put out will make it at least somewhat passable.

Rodeo-yee haw

2008-12-24T08:57:00.004-06:00

phew, finally dehorned the calves yesterday. Bezebull was as anticipated quite the rodeo. I have what I believe is the biggest bruise of my life on my thigh. It takes up my entire thigh and is a fascinating blend of blues,purples and yellow. I suspect that Bezebull is older than the breeder told us. He is a good 50% larger than the other two calves, and had actual horn formation instead of the nubs on the others.

We were very fortunate to have the assistance of two teenage relatives along with our teenage daughter. Having extra hands to hold and prep supplies was a huge help.

Snowing and blowing today, temp of 8* this morning. Blizzard the rooster continues to be an effective alarm clock. Hopefully soon he will start using the hurt foot.

Tiny the border collie was anxious to help herd the cows and sort them prior to dehorning. After herding she was ready to rewire the house, build an addition, plow the snow..... any of you with experience with BC's know what I am talking about!! Annie, the lab is occasionally showing her age, not however when it comes to retrieving the ball, she will still do that for hours.

Merry Christmas to all, have a safe and blessed season!!!

bitterly cold

2008-12-22T08:43:00.002-06:00

4 am this morning brought temperature of -11, due to global warming at 8:30am it is now -18!!! Beautifully clear skies create diamonds in the snow.
Horses still are using the barn, although the cows definitely are using it some. bob, the barn cat has now entrenched himself in a tight nest in the hay in the pole barn, coming down after the sun comes up for his food.

Blizzard, the chicken continues in ICU. He is much more alert and has taken to getting out of the kennel and wandering the mud room. He talks a lot to us, and always responds with either a coo or cluking when spoke to. he also politely holds his foot out for treatment.

We haven't received any more snow since Saturday although up north they did receive a few inches on Sunday.

Ja, it's minnie-soda

2008-12-21T07:48:00.002-06:00

WOW! lots of snow now. Received somewhere between 18"-24" yesterday. Hard to get an exact amount, as we went into blizzard conditions with severe winds blowing the snow everywhere.

I do know that the snow is up to the horses knees, past midline on the border collie. Dogs are unable to squat to do their 'business' Windchills in the -35.

This morning brings clear skies and the strong wind from the west. It was interesting yesterday to observe the snow coming from the east with little wind until 4 pm, at that time sky was dark to the west and then....BLAM!! severe gusts of wind and blowing snow from the west. A dramatic change that was interesting to observe. Unable to stay to observe for too long as the wind brought bitter cold.

Farm tasks for the week, move 'Rosie' one of our pregnant Dexters to the other barn to get acquainted with the new moo's we purchased earlier this month. Rosie is due around 1/15 but her last calf was a week early and we lost him. Hopefully this time will bring a healthy calf.
Chickens have not slowed down with laying. In fact we now receive 13+ from the 18 hens. C-rex the huge buff rooster has taken advantage of his being the only male currently in the barn to harrass all the hens, he's kinda a jerk!! Blizzard the house rooster is making a slow recovery from bumblefoot. He seems very much to enjoy his position in the house.

Mental health alert!

2008-12-21T07:47:00.001-06:00

PLEASE DO YOUR PART
Today is one of the many National Mental Health Days throughout the year. You can do your bit by remembering to send an e-mail to at least one unstable person. My job is done!
Life is too short for negative drama & petty things. So laugh insanely, love truly and forgive quickly! From one unstable person to another. I hope everyone is happy in your head - we're all doing pretty good in mine!

ja, ja it's a bit cold

2008-12-16T10:52:00.002-06:00

LOL, only in minnesota do we finally say it's getting a bit cold when the temp. goes into the negatives. Yesterday was bitterly cold with actual temperature of -8 and windchill of some ridiculous number like -27 or so. My thoughts on both the wind chill and heat index are "it's too stinking cold or hot for man or beast"

Blizzard the rooster is continueing in ICU- that's the intensive chicken unit, for his infected foot. He's definitely feeling better as we start the morning coffee while he crows, it's actually fun having a rooster crow in the house in the morning, the girls however do not share our enthusiasm for it as they still have another 20 minutes before their alarms go off.

Snowing again now, wouldn't mind couple inches of accumulation. Horses and cows still refuse to hang out in the barn, out of the wind. I think they feel it necessary to keep a watchful eye on their hay in the pasture.....wouldn't want it to go MIA.

Batton down the hatches!!-or the vampiristic/carnivoristic chickens

2008-12-14T15:24:00.003-06:00

Well this morning was a balmy 40 degrees, no sign of the impending "storm of the winter" Skip ahead to 3:30 this afternoon to a fridgid 30 plunging downward, winds about 30mph and gaining, throw in some snow going horizontally and you have a picture of this afternoon.

It's such a great feeling to know that all the critters and their accomodations have been fortified for the storm. Time will tell if we get any real accumulations of snow. Farther north has a better chance with some forecasts calling for 5-12".

the freezer is once again full or should I say soon to be full? Our wonderful friend who has hunting priveledges on our property shot a nice big doe for us. This year the weather is just right to let us hang the meat to age. Last year it was too balmy to age the meat.

I have also discovered that we have vampiristic/carnivoristic chickens. Quite a feeding frenzy of chickens in the front loader of the tractor that had been used to bring the deer to the barn. They were in the loader cleaning up the blood that had come from the deer, dumping the loader into the snow at least kept them out of the bucket, but into the snow to eat these apparently delectible morsels. Later the afternoon, prompted another frenzy when I started feeding the suet to the chickens, it was crazy feathers flying everywhere as they struggled and battled to get the most suet.

WooHoo! SNOW

2008-12-09T09:13:00.002-06:00

Well, it is very apparent that winter has hit Southern Minnesota. Woke up to about 6" of new snow. Kids are all excited, no school today.

Horses are having a great time kicking it up in the pasture. Cows meanwhile don't seem to share the horses enthusiasm. Slowly dragging their way out of the barn for their breakfast.

It's a grey day.

2008-12-08T15:17:00.000-06:00

The weather has been cold, but that's to be expected in winter I suppose. It's very cloudy and grey today with intermittant snow showers. New cows are feeling completely at ease and enjoying their life at the 'spa'

Wonders of all, the geese actually put themselves to bed last night w/o having to be told to 'go to bed' Really, I have been herding them in at night since we got them and using the expression 'go to bed' after a few days that's all I had to do and they would go into the barn.

The Christmas tree went up this weekend, first time I have ever had a grown up tree. my mom had always gotten me hallmark ornaments through the years. Having worked for a christmas decoration import company the tree this year is very elegant with only gold, silver and a few red accent pieces. I'm quite proud of it.

Mini Moo's!!!!

2008-12-04T16:29:00.001-06:00

Woo hoo! we finally have our new dexters here at home settling in. We now have 6 more, 3 cows and their 2-3 month calves. We have named the black girl "minnie Moo" Dexter total of 10. The in laws graciously purchased 3 of the new dexters to enable us to extend our bloodlines. Thanks, ma & pa downs!

animal inventory
10 Dexters
4 horses
5 geese
21 chickens-including one bantie rooster that sounds like a toy when he crows
4 babydoll sheep
2 dogs
1 cat
1 large fish tank- central american fishes

The geese seemed to have realized that they live here now and have quit trying to walk away. I think the 2-3" of snow have really helped them establish their new home. Chickens meanwhile refuse to come out of the barn with snow on the ground.

We have had two deer harvested off of the property this year. One to a first time 12 year old hunter, and one huge doe to one of our friends son. Our area was categorized as an intensive hunt area this year. Have spotted several bucks on the property this year.

Snow!

2008-11-30T08:23:00.000-06:00

Well here it is, the first 'real' snow of the year. Seems later than usual. The new additions of American Buff geese seem to have finally settled in and quit trying to return to their hatch spot. Its only an hour away. First night they decided to break out and managed to get a mile down the road. Pretty sight to watch them fly, but it did enable to move long distances. A wing trim solved that.

We are expecting 6 more Dexter cows and their calves on Tuesday 12/2/8 very exciting.