12:53 AM, 26 April 2010
Cool & clear

The lamb born yesterday evening died this morning without ever managing to stand and suckle. It's sad, but its birthweight was so low that we were not entirely surprised. A raven or other scavenger got to the corpse before we could bury it; we buried the rest of the remains, though.

Trips to farm store and hardware store were accomplished, and some pasture shifting was done. We also saw our neighbours to the west, and discovered that yes, black bear have been seen in the woods around here. Good to know, and definitely getting dogs at a good time. They've expressed interest in 'borrowing' some of our sheep to eat down grass and weeds in a confined area which otherwise would not be suitable for mowing.

Two deer were seen on the property today; they were standing, staring for no visible reason for a long time. It turned out that all five barn cats were sitting together, watching the deer like a small pride of miniature lions.

The Kingston Blacks, apricots and Johnny Appleseeds are all showing signs of life, along with various perry pears. Good signs.

One ewe keeps getting out but comes running back when a farmer shows up. At least she knows where home is.