Winter on the Farm
As I’m sitting here writing, the ground has a fresh blanket of snow covering it. At least 3 inches have fallen so far. The temperature outside is 15*F and the warmest place to be is sitting next to the fireplace with a cup of coffee.
Farming during the winter months doesn’t mean going on vacation until Spring time rolls around. Just the opposite is true. The winter months can be very exhausting, especially when working with cattle.
The cows still need to be fed and milked twice a day. The barns still need to be cleaned twice a day. Plus, special attention has to be given to the bedding for our cows. Fresh sand needs to be hauled in and placed in each free-stall. Waters need to be checked for ice and cleaned.
The Maternity pen must be kept clean and dry for the newborn babies that are born. Sometimes calves that are born in the bitter cold need to be brought in the house/garage to be warmed. Once they are warm and dry they can then survive the cold. Calves born in the winter need to be dried off a quickly as possible so it doesn’t lose all it’s energy trying to stay warm.
All calves need special care during the cold days and nights. Deep bedding of straw so they can nuzzle in it to protect from cold. Calves also can be very susceptible to frostbite. Especially on their ears. On top of the bedding each calf must be consuming enough calories in order to keep warm and not lose any body weight.
Cold weather is also very hard on equipment. My husband has always said that cold weather brings out the weakness in electrical components. (batteries, starters, alternators…)
None the less, farming is still the best. No matter what the season we are in, there will always be trials and troubles. Learning to look at the best of things, even in the worst of times, will make you stronger and you’ll be able to face whatever comes your way with a smile.
Blessings to you!
Whatever you do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Col. 3:17
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