The snow has gone and left rain and fog in its wake, for a somewhat gothic appearance to the landscape. The ducks and geese are absolutely fine with this, although the barn cats would like it to be a trifle dryer, please.

We presently have six ducks remaining, although a raccoon was shot at recently. The coyotes have not been back since we arranged some of the portable mesh fencing around the pond, since the ducks insist on sleeping there at night. It's rather annoying; during the day they will be on the porch or even on the roof of the porch, but at night they insist on being in what is very nearly the most exposed spot available to them.

Last night the truck began overheating, necessitating a tow truck. The mechanic has made mixed noises; there is some damage to be fixed, specifically a new waterpump, but overall it is likely to be only a few hundred dollars. While this is not as wonderful as 'just a busted hose and you're good to go', it is much better than 'you'll need your engine rebuilt', so we're taking it as a win.