March brought one big winter storm (finally!) that blanketed us with a foot of heavy snow full of moisture. I got out on to enjoy it on my cross country skis for a couple of days before it disappeared. Overnight we heard it melting and dripping from the eaves as it slowly worked its way into the soil. By morning it was gone, thankfully giving the earth a much needed drink. It was a sigh of relief after such a warm, dry winter.
March kicks off calving season for us, and this little bull calf was the first of the year. We are grateful it has been a smooth calving season with the little ones popping up to nurse soon after landing on the earth. We have to be careful to catch and tag them right away or they quickly become too spry for us to catch.
Calving in a snow storm can be difficult. We take extra care to make sure everyone is warm and dry before night sets in. Deep beds of straw make cozy nests for all the calves… and the cows seem to enjoy it too.
Bart has been busy in the shop this winter – pursuing leather work, wood work and metal work. He built a forge last fall and has been trying his hand at making hinges, latches, and brackets. Even our new outhouse by the hayfields is adorned with quality, home-made metalwork. I am lucky to have such a handy man around!
Coulee Creek Ranch 