Great Way to End the Week ~

I've been looking forward to a certain chore being completed since we started our renovations on our little barn. I can assure you it was in need of many things when we started, still does in many aspects. But the second most anticipated one was accomplished yesterday. You can read about the first one that gave me such a thrill at We're WIRED. Lon has worked hard with a lot of frustrating setbacks this week to get water into the barn. We've had it outside all along, but with a faucet that froze on cold mornings. Leaving us no recourse but to haul water bucket by bucket in order to give our livestock something to drink. I had longed for the convenience of a ready tap with aching arms and each step I've made in the past. Not any longer! He installed a frost-free faucet out side, new plumbing and sink faucet to our make-shift sink area inside. A building that once had running water in it, has it once more. To be able to wash your hands as soon after finishing a task is wonderful! Having to wait till we got back to the house is a thing of the past. Not having to fight with frozen hoses and faucets will make our winter chores a lot easier too. I've already set up the inside sink with the necessary supplies; hand soap, cleansers, cleaning rags, sink brush, paper towels and hand sanitizer along with cloth hand towels for us. I smile each time I turn the facet's handle and see clear, cool water flowing into the sink. He has left the plumbing under the sink in such a way. That in the future we can add on a small hot water heater to give us warm hand washing during those cold winter days sure to come. Yea! And double Yea!

I attended my third basket class yesterday over at our church this time. You can read about the first two at A Tisket, A Tasket . Being so close to Easter, the basket chosen by the instructor was designed with the intent of filling it with goodies for children.

I was more interested in making mine into an egg gathering basket. We always seem to be running short of one around here! The basic process is the same as with the previously made ones, but we learned how to give our baskets a handle this time.

I chose a soft green and bright yellow for my accent colors, thinking of the daffodils that have been filling the roadside and yards of neighbors. I enjoy the process of making baskets and look forward to the day when I might be able to sit down and weave one at will.

While I was at class, Lon was busy with a few chores, running errands and picking up our babies at the post office. Several weeks ago we placed the order for them. Waiting anxiously for the day when they would arrive. We have ordered from other suppliers in the past, but not like the ones waiting for us in this cardboard box. I was already excited to be able to attend another basket class. But when the postal worker called the same morning to announce their arrival. She had me wishing for the time to go there instead.

Twenty five Freedom Rangers were waiting for me when I got home. They are a old breed of chickens from France, perfect for the homestead. Like their names suggest, they are wonderful at free ranging; living off the land. Not to mention being a great way for us to be free from store bought chicken. Our plans are to raise them with the future babies sitting at present in the incubator. We are told they required a longer growth time, but the trade off in flavor makes it worth it. We anticipate that they will ring true to their heritage and we will be able to offer fresh wholesome chicken to those interested in buying them. Another Heartland Farm product in the making.

Looking forward to new things this Spring ~

Deborah