February 14-15, 2014

We are hoping that this was the last multi-day week of sub-freezing temperatures for the winter. It was very windy and only in the low 40s, but it was above freezing. This huge ice cycle had been dropped by the bluffs above the spring. It was in the low 20s Saturday morning but climbed into the upper 50s. It was not good enough for Sally though because it remained very windy.

Garden

Sally wanted to get some spinach started, so we stopped on the way out at the Farmer's Co-op and picked up some seeds. I weeded this mound and the stretch along the north fence of the garden. The soil was very dry and my fingers got very cold. Saturday she planted the whole packet of seeds, watered, and spread some pine straw.

Pond Seal

I had these three bags of bentonite clay that had been stored in the chicken coop for years. Since I had cleaned out the coop, I decided to go ahead and spread it around the spring tank in hopes, once again, that it might seal it and keep it from leaking out.

The last time I had done this I had almost rolled my truck when I attempted to back it out of the little road over to the spring. (I had to have a tow truck pull it back up onto the road.) Not having a wheel borrow I decided to use the Outback, but turned it around and drove straight out.

Tender got to go along. From past experience I do not expect that just spreading the stuff will stop the leak, though that is what I have been told. I wonder if getting some hip waders and stomping around in there would help – or get some pigs as Eddie had suggested.

Fire Wood

Saturday I drove the Outback down near the SE corner taking my Stihl, splitting maul, and sledge hammer. I cut up the red oak that had been broken off by last year's tornado. It took almost 3 hours and I figure I have 2 to 3 truck loads of nice wood. I could barely lift the largest pieces. I only split about 40% of it, but it does split nicely. I brought one piece back to the house for Sally to smell and feel. It was wet inside and I have been explaining how you need to get it split a good six months before you plan to burn it to allow it to dry – and we will need this wood next winter. (Sally was using my iPhone for internet access, so I did not get any pictures.)

Prune Fruit Trees

Sally pruned her rose and I pruned the nectarine, apples, and pears. The pears are what I have the most hope for, though we have had several nice nectarine crops. We just have to pick them early to beat the wildlife to the fruit.