February on the Farm: Embracing the Quiet

Winter on the farm is a season of quiet preparation, where the rhythms of daily life slow, but never truly stop. While the fields rest beneath a blanket of frost, the heart of the farm remains warm and bustling with life.
A Barn Full of Life
Our sheep are comfortably settled in the barn for the season, where they have plenty of space to move around and a deep bedding of straw to insulate against the cold. They enjoy locally sourced hay, a choice that not only provides them with quality nutrition but also reduces our environmental footprint.
Aside from keeping our ewes and yearlings well fed, one of the biggest winter challenges on any livestock farm is ensuring a steady supply of fresh water. One of the best additions to our barn has been the drinking posts, which provide on-demand access to fresh water without requiring electricity or the risk of freezing. This innovative system makes winter animal care much easier and ensures that the flock stays hydrated even on the coldest days.

Ozzy, our ever-dedicated guardian dog, spends his days and nights in the barn with the sheep. He still has a lot to learn and has boundless energy, but his watchful presence reassures the flock.  Sharing the space with Ozzy are our barn cats, Baxter and Cece. They split their time between the sheep barn—where they nap among the hay bales—and another barn, where a warm fire offers a cozy retreat. These two have mastered the art of winter survival, always finding the warmest spot to curl up and rest.
Meanwhile, Tilly, our beloved McNab Shepherd, is embracing her semi-retirement with well-deserved relaxation. She has traded the open fields for a spot by the indoor wood stove, soaking up its warmth and enjoying the slower pace of winter. Though she still keeps a close eye on farm operations, her days are filled with more rest and well-earned comfort.

Winter’s Gifts
One of the best things about winter is the chance to slow down (just a little...) and embrace traditions that connect us to the land. Our wood cook stove becomes the heart of our home. It's the first place we all gather on cold mornings and it's a place to prepare warm, nourishing meals for our family. 
As we enjoy this season of stillness, we also prepare for what’s to come. Spring will soon bring lambs, fresh grass in the pastures, seedlings, and renewed energy. But for now, we welcome the quiet moments that winter offers. It’s a time to appreciate the warmth of the barn, the health and safety of our animals, and the simple, steady rhythms of farm life.