Land of snow and ice and whatnot

The other day we had a little bit of snow, just enough to cover moss and areas of grasses. Charlie and I took a quick morning walk to double check the gates to make sure that the deer didn't knock them down.

I stopped and sat in the snow to take some shots of snow crystals and moss in the bright sunlight.

I found some more beautiful lichen on an oak branch. It was a challenge to get the shot as the branch was swaying in the wind. Challenges are fun though.

This shot of Yarrow was even harder. I had one still shot and tried again when a gust of wind blew it around. I combined the photos for fun. 

The fences were all intact and the gates were still up.

Black Friday was spent getting ready for the large snowstorm that was being predicted. I ordered some things on line so I wouldn't have to fight crowds. When I picked up my order, I realized I needed a couple of other things and had to go in the store.

It was only 8:30 and the place was dead as a doornail. Associates were standing around all over the store. I was surprised, although I have never set foot in a store on a Black Friday. I suppose things have changed so much with online ordering.

I grabbed my items and was on my way home. The weather service put out a Winter Storm Warning for most of the state, so I asked my youngest son to reschedule a visit. No use in having them get stuck here for days.

The storm came in quietly early this morning and has been piling up. I don't know what it is like up on the ridge, but it is rather peaceful here. The birds are enjoying  the feeders and I am enjoying the quiet while watching them.

Chores weren't bad at all. I used the large sled to haul the hay to the mules.  I give the sled a shove with its pile of hay and the mules part ways so it can slide past them. I go in and dump the pile. Since these three get along so well, I don't have to put hay in separate areas anymore.

Everyone is wearing a snow coat. Little Richard thought he check to see if I had brought his sweet feed.

This pony is in his mid thirties and still has quite a bit of energy. He is the only equine I have that will go indoors. I'll probably put him in tonight when the winds start up and the temps drop.

Everyone has plenty of hay and heated water. This morning they were giving themselves snow baths. 

We are pleased not to have to travel today.

The snow will fall, we'll watch the birds, and take short walks to check on things.

Here is to enjoying a peaceful winter storm day.