"As the light grows longer
The cold grows stronger
If Candlemas be fair and bright
Winter will have another flight
If Candlemas be cloud and rain
Winter will be gone and not come again
A farmer should on Candlemas day
Have half his corn and half his hay
On Candlemas day if thorns hang a drop
You can be sure of a good pea crop"
Candlemas is a day of taking inventory of your farm.
The days are getting longer and they sure are getting colder!
This date in February is the halfway mark for winter.
A farmer should have half of his hay, grain and wood to make it the rest of the way through the winter.
This storm, that we are currently experiencing, really brings the need of checking your farm inventory to the forefront of your priorities.
As I struggled to unbury my truck from the deep snows and drive to the farm to water the cows this morning, I heard the radio announcing all the schools, businesses, meetings and events that were being cancelled. The rural roads that I drive to the farm were slippery and empty of vehicles, except mine.
It was then that I realized that
Farmers don't get "snow days." They must get to their livestock to feed, water and check on them. Every. Single. Day.
Certain cows look forward to my frequent visits.....
Hope you are all staying snug and warm and planning for spring.
