There’s reason homestead-minded folks seldom consider moving to Northern Minnesota. Yep, we’ve got lots of lakes, rivers, and government land, both State and Federal. Lots of wildlife and woods. But unfortunately, we have a very famous tough winter. Last night it was -40 at our place, with a little wind. We kept both the living room and kitchen wood stoves going all night. Mittens glared at Will from her wheelbarrow when he told her to get out because it was so cold outside. She wouldn’t get out. But, boy, did she ever show up at the window with the bird feeder tray in record time, even for her. (She thinks it’s her private door. She hops up there and pretty soon I notice her and slide the window open so she can get in.) The deer come pretty quick when we call them for feed. I’m sure they use up the calories when it’s this cold!
We saw one of the young wolves out on the beaver pond this morning. He was burying something, probably a bone, in the long grass and snow. Then he trotted away down the creek. That was exciting but last week, we saw not only all four young wolves but their parents and another adult wolf, making seven at once. It was almost dark so I couldn’t get any pictures. Pretty cool! We did call the dogs back home the next morning as they were out there, peeing on the “signpost,” a dead stump sticking out of the ice. I think every male wolf peed on it! The dogs were also signing in.
I’ve been busy packing seeds. As you can guess, after our seed catalog came out, a lot of orders have started coming in. I want to make sure we have lots already packaged so picking orders is faster and easier. I’m trying to get ahead as my TAVR heart valve procedure is on Wednesday. I don’t know why I thought it was Thursday. I went for my labs today, luckily in Virginia (the town, not state). I’m hoping all goes well so I can quickly get back to things.
I hope everyone plants a big garden this year, so they not only have enough for their own family but some to share with friends, neighbors, and relatives. I know I plan on doing just that, including a big wheat patch. I feel unsettled about a lot of world things. — Jackie
Hi Miss Jackie, I’m am praying for an easy procedure on Wednesday. I also want to say that your unsettled feeling is shared by many of us. Thanks for sounding the alarm. Pyro
will keep you and your care team in prayers on Wednesday for an easy procedure and speedy recovery.
katherine
At first I thought a newbie cat had shown up at your place. I’ve been feeding extra these past few cold days (not as cold as you are but still darn cold). The cull buck shows up to get his fill before the does and fawns do. But plenty out there. The cardinals and other birds hit the extra seed and the refilled water. Saw a big hawk – likely red-tailed yesterday consuming a bit then flying off with its kill.
We may get some flurries on Wednesday but our ground is bare of snow.