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September arrives bringing some needed rain with cooler weather supposed to be on the way. We started herd meds August 31st so the main herd has had their Dectomaxx as well as some needed toenail trimming. Everyone was very co-operative which always makes things go more quickly. We're always gratified when we see how trusting our animals have become and, as a result, toenail trimming is no longer the hassle it used to be. Of course, over time, we've learned a few tricks of the trade which also helps:-) Jim's vegetable garden is producing big time now and so we're not only eating well but are able to give things to our friends as well as take produce to the local Senior Center. Those folks, many of whom were gardeners in former years, really appreciate it and that ensures that nothing goes to waste. We're hoping to get hay put up over Labor Day week-end. Our summer here has been so rainy that getting hay cut and baled without being rained on has often been an exercise in futility. But this past week we finally had a run of dry days which enabled our supplier to get hay made for us--hooray!! It's always comforting to go into winter with the barns well stocked as we find it's much cheaper to feed them well than to vet them when they get sick. As we learned when we did meds and used the weight tape some of them are obviously eating too well:-) While working around the rain that's in the forecast for the first few days of September, we plan to finish meds and toenails with the 6 boys and then we're in good shape. We recently power washed the barn walls and replaced the soiled sand with fresh so now the only major job I like to accomplish before winter is to take down, wash and replace all the glass globes for the barn light fixtures. That will happen sometime during September, most likely when Jim is off duck hunting. Yes, we do make time for things other than chores. Jim is working with Jessie, his hunting dog, getting her tuned up for the upcoming hunting season. I'm getting ready to pay a visit to a college friend who lives in Iowa and also having fun getting our little girl comfortable on lead. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit as the weather is generally cool and comfortable and the animals are enjoying their peaceful pastures. Call to arrange a time to enjoy them.
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When do you shear?
If the weather co-operates, we prefer to get everyone sheared in May. Sometimes that isn't possible if it remains cold and wet but generally May is a good time to shear here in Wisconsin. Since there seems to be a heat wave happening sometime in June we really like knowing that everyone is cool and comfortable before that happens.