With  freezing rain hitting us twice this week, those of us who have animal chores are struggling against the elements. Snow and ice slow down many of our tasks. Simple chores such as feeding and cleaning the horse stables become difficult. What keeps me going is the knowledge that in just a few short months I will be sharing the horse barn with a group of amazing teenagers. At many times throughout the winter I think back to previous summers and how one horse or another shared a special memory with a farmer. Kachina, the 29 year old Arabian helped a total beginner gain confidence, or Trey, our rescued 6 year old Thoroughbred, being ridden for the first time by Jordan, a 15 year old from Massachusetts. They are the memories that keep me going in these more difficult times.
    Ray Conner, a former staffer, and Barb Frownfelter our neighbor are both  huge supporters at the horse barn. Caring for eight horses is not a small task and these two hard working ladies give our guys lots of love, time, and energy.
    The sheep and cattle seem to be unfazed by the weather and with their constant rotation to fresh pasture seem as happy as ever. The chickens on the other hand are very appreciative of being moved to the main barn yard where they can escape the cold wind and rain to the safety of the lower barn floor. The main is over 100 years old and has provided warmth and a place to escape the elements for many years. Pre-Longacre time the Long Family grew chickens, pigs and cattle. Here we are 37 years later doing the same tasks and experiencing some of the same struggles that these winter months bring.

Louise