Every year, it seems like a race to complete projects before winter settles in. Despite a couple of cold spells, our autumn was mild. This is one of the few years I have been able to get gutters cleaned before the leaves and debris in the gutters freeze. Although our leaf broom broke, Maggie was able to manually rake and move leaves onto the garden to help increase the amount of organic matter in the soil. The cats put on weight and got fluffier.
November 26, we received our first accumulating snowfall. The prior day, I had nearly completed installing posts for a fence around the garden. Two posts short; if frost is slow to set in, I may get this project done.
Our dog Maxie, having been through 17 winters now, paid no attention to the inch of snow. The cats and chickens however, were not happy. The cats spent the morning hiding under the cars in the driveway, and the chickens spent most of the day huddled next to the coop.
Winter brings many challenges to us. Outdoor water for the animals freezes and requires replacement. The dog likes being outside but comes in more often for warmth. The cats constantly try and sneak into the house for warmth. We spend less and less time outside. Despite the challenges, winter remains one of my favorite seasons. I enjoy the quiet and the slower pace, and fresh snow covers the browns and mud of fall. Soon it will be time to start planning for 2024.
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