Here's a scary thought... Christmas Day is only five weeks away today. Things are beginning to get busier in the shop with orders coming in and Covid is still presenting us with loads of problems. Hopefully, with help and patience we'll get through and enjoy the festivities.
Farming-wise. I can report that we've finished drilling all the winter corn seed - that's planting to town folk... With a view to improving the establishment of plants, we've been trialling a new drill. I couldn't be sure, but I think some of those involved were more impressed with the big, shiny 200-horse-power tractor that came with the drill. Personally, I'll wait to see how the crop performs.
This morning I removed the rams from the ewes. Hopefully they will have done what's required of them. One or two look as though they've taken their responsibilities to the extreme and will need nurturing back to full strength.
At the same time, we introduced some new Beltex rams to the ewe lambs that we're bringing into the main flock. Any of these that conceive be rear a lamb will be something of a bonus. Generally, though, it does improve the ewes' mothering instincts.
Wednesday morning was taken up by an inspection from Animal Health, Shropshire County Council, to renew our licence to feed home=produced food to the sheep and cattle. All is well. The paperwork is all up to date.
Next week we're expecting the Christmas trees to arrive. And hopefully, December 3 will see the reopening of the Cote Cafe and perhaps we'll start to feel a bit more normal.
Stay safe,
David