Winter is Coming

     Good Morning,

     For the first time since school began, I spent an entire weekend at home.  It was a chance to catch up on chores that have been neglected for too long.  In addition, I got to spend some quality time with all of my animals.  That pleasure alone, gave me a much desired lift despite predicted bitter cold temperatures and snow.  
     All around Moose River Farm evidence of the beautiful extended fall weather exists. Some of my flower boxes are still maintaining dashes of pink and yellow blooms against barren tree branches.  Even the garden continues to produce winter squash and carrots while cherry tomatoes ripen within the trapped heat of a tiny greenhouse.  The longer all of this goes on, the shorter winter will seem.  
     Choosing to live in the Adirondacks requires us to accept that summer is short and long winters extend from late fall into late spring.  The goats sleek fur is thickening with cashmere that will keep them warm in the months to come.  The horses' shiny summer coats have been replaced with teddy-bear hair that will insulate them under blankets.  Donkeys, Bing and Frankie have established a fuzz from ear to hoof in just a few days.  Even Rosemary is beginning to slow down, consuming fewer calories as her body prepares for semi-dormancy.  Along with four inches of wet snow that fell this week, these signs remind me that the inevitable is on its way.  Together, Rod, the animals and I will stick it out, thankful that we have each other to see it through.

Despite several inches of wet snow this week, our farming endeavors keep producing. 

Tondi, (the collie), spent the weekend with us, keeping warm by the fireplace.

Rosemary doesn't need a costume this time of year. 

My petunias have survived many freezing cold nights this fall and are still blossoming.

Green grass this late in the year is unusual but Spirit and Tango are not complaining.

The chickens have been liberated to the garden to clean up.

Like my goats, the deer are beginning to grow thicker coats.  This one is looking in my classroom window.

Three Gerbera Daisies add color against the grayness that is November in the Adirondacks.