'Tis The Season

December 3rd already? Yup. It is becoming very clear here at Lazy Danes that we are barreling towards the winter solstice and the hoopla - good and bad- that comes with it. That's OK, we're prepared! Mostly.

With the shortening of the days and the chill in the air, the animals know without the aid of a calendar that winter is approaching. The chickens are laying fewer and fewer eggs and ranging father into the woods to forage for their bugs and grubs. Chickens, ducks, goats and Dinkey are eating more bought food than finding their own. As the weather turns colder I'll spend more and more time breaking up ice in buckets and thawing waterers.

Here's Rosemary showing off her warming layer of fat. I've dug out the Under Armor and Carhartt gear in hopes of a bit of warmth for myself.

Inside preparations for warmth have been made as well. The kerosene has been stocked and the heaters readied. Heavy blankets have been washed and piled on beds. Of course, when blankets and kerosene heaters aren't enough there's always a Dane around. Or little girls.

Willow, Madison and Luke

Bo had no snugglers during the last round with the camera so he tucks his nose in to stay warm. Don't worry, I'll cuddle up with him shortly.

Along with the all the changes in weather, the solstice brings the holidays. Our Chosen Conifer has been cut down and erected in the living room complete with lights, baubles, and gifts for loved ones piled underneath. All this taunts the dogs that would love "claim" the tree and presents as their own. Why do we have all boy dogs again?

The kids are doing their part to bring traditional offerings to this time of year. So far they've brought home a nice, if rather small, cold and they are currently recuperating from a thankfully short lived stomach virus. While missing school for a day each and between the Disney movie marathon they've helped wrap presents and made snowflakes to decorate the window.

Who doesn't love to cut snowflakes?

I've been knitting, making hair bows, trying new recipes for hearty soups and doing seemingly endless amounts of internet shopping. I'm really excited about this years Lazy Danes swag, too-no hints yet but stay tuned!

Weather aside, it's a great time of year. I'm enjoying the break from milking still and I'm looking forward to the holiday gatherings, time with family and friends, and the magic of the season reflected in the children. They are waiting impatiently for snow (please, no), time off from school and the visit from the fantasy elf.

This month always seems to fly by...