Blizzard
The year 2025 kicked off with a record-setting blizzard that transformed our farm into a winter fortress. The storm arrived Saturday afternoon, with ice coating everything in sight before the winds howled in, bringing relentless snowfall through Sunday evening. When the storm finally subsided, we were left with a staggering 12 to 15 inches of snow, with drifts towering several feet high.
Our morning was spent digging out—both the driveway and our animals. Lance was up early, working hard to clear the porch and garage, while Cody joined him shortly after. Despite living here since 2014, we've never seen the snow drift quite like this. The wind carved new patterns across the driveway, making the cleanup even more challenging.
The goats were snowed into their sheds, unable to reach their hay or water. Colton took on the task of digging a path so they could access what they needed. Thankfully, their tank heater held up great, keeping their water from freezing even with snow piling over the top of the tank. While Colton worked on that, I focused on putting out hay for the rest of the livestock. With the big round bales frozen and buried, it took some effort to pitchfork hay to everyone. The sheep, eager for fresh hay, came running when they saw us.
Seeing snow resting on the sheep's backs was actually a relief—it means they’re well-insulated and staying warm. The cattle wore similar snowy blankets and seemed entirely unbothered, contentedly working through their hay bales.
Lane had to dig out one of the sheep tanks, while Cody chipped ice from another. Only two tank heaters failed, unsurprisingly they were fully exposed to the wind. Fortunately, sheep can eat snow for hydration, so they weren't completely without water.
I'm incredibly thankful for our three strong boys and a hardworking husband who worked hard all morning to help care for our animals and get us out. We are also thankful for good neighbors who come to the rescue, bringing their skid steer to help clear the driveway and open the roads.
Despite the single-digit cold, Colton and Kinzie still spent hours outside sledding and playing. Our hill made the perfect sledding run until the grader came through to clear the road. Kinzie has also been busy building snow caves in the giant drifts.
Evening chores were easier after the livestock had full bellies and had moved around all day. However, my new concern is the paths we’re making through the snow. As they get packed down and refreeze, they could become dangerously slick for both humans and animals. With no above-freezing temperatures in the forecast, the snow is here to stay for a while.
Fingers crossed this was the last blizzard of the season! Enjoy some photos from around the farm today.
