Monday, February 10, 2014

This past weekend was an uneventful one at the farm.  The only visitors were our son and his family (Gordon, Melissa and granddaughter, Haley) on Sunday afternoon.  The weather remained cold and mostly gray, but Melissa, Haley and I did pay a visit to the cows and horses.  We visited the fish pool, too, hoping to see one of the koi, but no fish were visible--I expect they are hibernating underneath the big rocks, since it's so cold.

Today's news includes a forecast of what may turn out to be a major winter storm for this week, beginning Wednesday evening and continuing through Thursday, with accumulation of perhaps 8 to 14 inches.

Stephen and Geo battened down the hatches ahead of the storm, just in case.  We are hoping we don't lose power to the farm, which has happened in the past with heavy snows; it can weigh down tree branches, which then pull down power lines.  

Sherry was here doing "maintenance" cleaning, watering plants, etc.  Her buddy, the little screech owl was back again this morning, roosting in the framing of the south portico.  This time, Stephen and I got to see him (or her).  The owl is small, but beautifully marked, and appeared to see us inside, but quickly closed its eyes, maybe going back to sleep.  We imagine the little owl has been catching mice, which seems a good exchange for sheltering in the roof of the porch!  Thanks to Stephen for the photo.

Melvin, the Orkin technician, was on site today, taking care of all the dwellings.