After a few early snowstorms, winter seems to have stalled here in Western Maine. At the start of the New Year, the temperature is mild and there is not a bit of snow left on the ground. We’ve had plenty of wildlife sightings – from turkeys and deer to bald eagles and coyotes. And there is fog instead of ice over Gilman Pond. While this has sadly delayed Gabe’s creation of cross country ski trails from crisscrossing the pastures, it has meant less work keeping the areas around the barn and feeding areas clear for the tractor and cows. After a new group of calves arrived at the Ranch this fall, we are heading into the winter with the most cattle we’ve had yet. Thankfully, last summer was a great year for making hay so we are excited to be able to expand the operation with plenty of feed to spare.
We hope you all enjoy the start of the New Year and here’s hoping for snow!
Blue keeping watch in early January 2012
Snow for Thanksgiving 2011
Gabe and Maisie moving cattle in late fall 2011