How We Know That Spring is Really Here!

What a difference a week makes.  If you look at last Sunday's post, the view from the milking stand was very snowy.  This morning, after some wonderfully sunny and warm days, the view is quite different.  

The snow was useful in one way - I shoveled some of it into the greenhouse to moisturize the soil in the planting bed. 

Since it has continued to be below freezing at night, I have not moved any plants out there until today - transplanted little lettuces.  They look pretty scraggly right now but having done this a few times, I know they will take off and do just fine.  The tomato and pepper plants that are downstairs under the lights will be moved out there soon.

I moved one of the broody hens out to the Summer Coop and gave her some eggs.  She seems quite content there by herself so hopefully there will a good result. 

The rest of the poultry are really enjoying the warmer weather.  The hens have found the soft dry soil of the hayshed to dust bathe in.

The goat kids are really growing and full of vigor.  They hadn't gotten much outdoors time until now.

Today we got our exercise by cleaning out their quarters in the corner of the pole barn.  They were not thrilled to be confined to a small space while we worked but finally all settled in for a little relaxation.

Our efforts made for an impressive (and odoriferous) pile of soiled bedding that will eventually be compost for our crops

 So how do we know that it is really spring?  Spot has emerged from her warm home in the shop - I don't know if she has set a foot outside all winter!
Thank you for stopping by the blog for a farm update.  See you next week!  Until then, be well friends.