While school is out for a couple of weeks and we are getting a much-needed break from our studies, the farm is never on a break. There is always always a project to finish or equipment to prepare for the next season. And, most importantly, there are animals to care for. The cattle need feed, water, and access to shelter and warmth. The 4-H animals are in the barn & lot. The freezer steers have their area of another barn. The cows are out and about in the pasture while the weather holds with areas of shelter available. New water tanks just arrived and they have a heating element to help keep the water from freezing. If we leave the farm for overnight, we get someone to do the feeding and chores.

While some people look at this as things they have to do. I look at these things as what we get to do. Our children do a great deal of caring for the animals as many of them are 4-H projects and beef for their business. They get to care for these animals from calf to either sale or the term of their life. They get to be involved in the vet visits to keep them healthy. They get to bond with these creatures and become mindful of life itself.

It is not always easy, especially in the bitter cold and snow, to make the way to barn. But, what a privilege to live this life.

Merry Christmas to All!