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... barn stories: rural tracker

Early in the morning the wild rabbits are still in their holes, keeping warm from the cold fresh new snow.  As the sun comes up they begin to come out. By the afternoon, they have made their way across most of the land leaving signs of their day's adventures in the snow.

... out there, in here

Last Friday night, the full moon was bigger and brighter than it's been in 50 years.  Seventeen thousand miles closer than normal, it lit up the night landscape so every snow covered hill could be seen in complete detail.

In this photo the moon is so bright that its reflection is caught in the camera's lens... one moon in the sky and one in hand.

... barn stories: introducing mistletoe!

Well, our newest arrival finally has a name!  After much debate, waiting and watching to see what kind of character this little guy was turning into, we've settled on Mistletoe!  With a mother named Blossom, and his propensity to kiss your nose when you put your face near his, it just seemed like a perfect fit!

Eating his first pieces of hay!

Showing off his walking skills under the warm heat lamp...  Thanks to all of you for helping us find his name!

... signs of the season

As the first official day of winter comes closer and closer, these elk make their way to their winter range.

... barn stories: our newest addition!

I was up all night in November during the full moon and no baby came. So, I thought I just had a very overweight sheep with long hair and left it at that.  Jacob sheep are seasonal breeders and a little one in November would have been odd anyway. For the last six years, I have been able to let the ram graze with the herd in the summer without worry of breeding. Imagine my surprise when I came down to the barn on December 5th to see my ewe Blossom in labor. Gestation is 5 months which means she would have conceived in July. The light and temperature this spring and early summer were different, which could have contributed to this wonderful holiday surprise.
 

This little baby boy is in need of a seasonal name can you help us out?  We would love to hear from you and get your suggestions!