With the recent ice and snowstorm, there was a coating of each on the fencing. We have two types of fencing here on the farm - woven wire and chainlink. The former fencing is around the pastures and most of the property and the latter is around the backyard to keep the dogs safe.
Overnight there was a storm that left a covering of ice on everything. Needless to say, walking outside today was rather precarious.
One of the responsibilities I have with the Scandia-Marine Lions Club is to take photos of the Lions as they join the club. I have enjoyed doing this and having a directory that shows the smiling faces of those who enjoy serving the community.
This squirrel - fuzzy with its winter fur - is grabbing a quick lunch before heading up the tree.
The cardinals have been visiting the feeders during the winter a lot. It's always so uplifting to see them, especially after not seeing them a lot during the summer. I think all the native plants provide enough food for them that they do not need the seeds at the feeder. Now, however, with the cold they need all the food they can get.
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During the winter we still walk the property to make sure that everything is okay. It's important as caretakers of these ten acres that animals are safe and not hurt anywhere on it. We enjoyed seeing all the activity wherever we walked - tracks, rubbings on trees, and "beds" that the animals made in the grass and weeds.
Cooper loves playing outside in the winter. He was waiting for me near the gate, his muzzle dusted with snow.
We leave the native plants up in the winter to provide a landing spot for birds and cover for wildlife. Many of the plants have seeds still in them that can be consumed during the winter.
The pileated woodpeckers are looking for insects on the pine trees and eating the suet in the small, square feeders. I'm surprised at how low these birds will go to the ground looking for food.
The dogs were barking incessantly today. When I looked out the window, I saw why: a coyote was right next to the backyard behind the woven wire fence. This bold coyote as well as its companion stayed around for quite a while before disappearing into the west pasture.
Olivia had the honor of representing St. Lucia at Christ Lutheran Church today. This annual tradition is something that the congregation looks forward to not only because it celebrates the holiday, but also because it celebrates a graduating senior.
