February 2021 Wasn’t Supposed to Start Like This!

It is February 1, 2021 at the homestead and this month met us with a snowstorm. The weather man had been calling for a storm later in the week with 1-3 inches of snow. However, the storm came in early and decided to circle our valley several times dumping ten inches of snow.

We love the snow and the beauty it brings, but the juggling act that is required when it snows can be daunting. Adding to the pressure of clearing the snow was a list of firewood orders to be delivered. As the day progressed, it was apparent that the amount of snow was going to severely limit deliveries. Not only did we have to get out our long lane, but we had to be able to deliver, and customers had to be able to receive the loads. Luckily, we have considerate customers and were able to reschedule everyone’s’ loads and provide those people first that needed wood the most. In our Appalachian Mountain region, many people still rely solely on firewood as their only source of heat.

The snow also affected our regular daily outdoor activities. Animals are fed in the morning and late afternoon/evening. The farm dogs are always first, followed by the farm cats (strays that found their way to our barn), the chickens, ducks, and goats. We currently have two young male dogs that are full of energy and need constant watching.

The ducks are amusing in the snow and seem to love being in it. They have been at the farm about two years now, and the females give us an egg nearly every day. Even in the winter months when the chickens take a break due to the low number of light hours, the ducks still produce. The ducks and chickens are temporarily housed in a super calf hutch that is attached to a chain link kennel. We let them free range during the day and return to their housing area at night.

By the way, we do sell duck and chicken eggs. Check our website for information or text us. We can have them ready at the end of the lane for your pickup, so you won’t have to navigate our long lane.

Since we will not be doing firewood or mill work this snowy day, Chuck takes to clearing our long lane. He first starts with the wheeler with a plow attachment and quickly upgrades to the skid steer.

You never know what Mother Nature will throw at you, but always make the most of what you are given. Thanks so much for your support and make it a great day!

Music in this video: “9In Heaven” by Timmoor “Zither Polka – Alpenmusik – Music from the Alps” by JuliusH “Mountain Air” by Caffeine Creek Band All music can be found at www.Pixabay.com.