WhirldWorks Farm
A small homestead and Debouillet sheep farm in Central Texas
Winter time Farm chores
Back in the fall I decided to start feeding the chickens and the rabbits only once a day, in the morning, to make the early evening chores (since the sun sets earlier this time of year) easier. One thing that makes this possible is using large enough water and feed dispensers so they have enough to last.
At some point I also made it so that the rams and ewes could re-enter their respective barns whenever they want so that if we are late getting home, they can go into their barns, if they want to, when it gets dark. This has worked out pretty well. The littlest changes can make the routines and responsibilities so much easier!
I also try to divvy out the hay in the evenings when I have time, because it’s warmer in the evening and the mornings are often very, very cold. I have to be sure to wear something over my mouth and nose while I’m outside in the cold. It helps my sinuses and lungs and maybe keeps out some of the cedar pollen. I bundle myself up but I always get too warm before I’m done with my rounds and take everything off.
Just last Sunday we re-attached the wall panels in the barn. We had taken them down last spring to increase air circulation for the summer. It worked really well, although the panels were a bit harder to re-install, than they were to remove. But we put them back up just in time for the lambs to be born and have a nice warm space to be. And we had two lambs born this week,, unexpectedly early,, which means I’m not quite sure who their sires are.. But they are healthy and adorable just the same.
How does the change of seasons change your routines? What things do you do to keep in manageable?
WhirldWorks Farm 
I’m glad you have found ways to lighten your chores. And the new lambs are adorable!