What's Going On?

We're about at the end of June and we're suffering with 100+ degree days.  The mornings are pleasant at 76-80 degrees.  Looking ahead, these temps will continue into next week then back off into the high to mid 90s.  With these temperatures, rain needs to fall to save any chances of a second cutting of hay.  We are desperate for it at this point since we've had only a tenth or two all of this month.

The heifers got their bangs vaccinations and tattoos so we'll probably keep two and the others will be sold.  Raquel and Brownie haven't had their babies yet and it is doubtful they will anytime soon.  

The hummers are downing a liter of juice every two and a half days.  I'm amazed such little creatures can consume so much.  On the other hand, I'm probably the only person within miles feeding them!

The birds are going after what is left of the tomatoes.  I picked over twenty on Sunday that were starting to turn red.  The rest I left to give them some more time.  It may be a lost cause at this point...

Gran kids over for some summer games.  They are ruthless and card sharks at this point.  There is no mercy shown toward their elders!!!

That's about it from here.  We are healthy, cool if in the AC, and drinking plenty of water.  We are dancing for significant rains and looking eagerly towards the fall!

We're Into Summer

The first 100 degree days are predicted for this week.  We're late with the hot temperature arrivals this year which is both a blessing and a curse.  The rain shut off the middle of May so things are getting dry.  The first hay cutting was pretty lack luster.  We think it is because we lost so much grass due to the drought last year.  If we can get a little rain soon, I think we can get another cutting.

We have separated the older calves from their mamas.  Lots of crying and protests for a few days but now everyone has settled into their normal routines.  Although I say this every year at weening time, I'm amazed by the quick personal growth each calf makes toward independence during this time.  

The hummers are drinking the juice from the feeder like drunken sailors.  I am preparing sugar water (a liter) every other day.  I haven't seen the babies arrive yet which is always fun.

I have mowed the yard more times this year already than I did all of last year.  I 'd like to brag and say it's because we have such a fine crop of grass.  HA!  We have healthy and vigorous weeds!  

We started burning some of our brush piles last weekend and lucked out with a cool cloudy day.  We still have many more to go.  Branches are still coming down that broke from the weight of all the ice during February's ice storm.  It never ends!!  

As we heat up and dry out, the garden is slowly burning up.  The tomatoes and peppers have been out of this world wonderful but I've already lost the battle to keep the garden beds wet enough.  So we'll enjoy what's left and look forward to next year.