Woodchucks and Pinkeye

We’ve been having a problem with a woodchuck that has taken up residence near our shed. Woodchucks are beautiful little creatures, but they dig big holes and get into our feed. In the wild, they are wonderful; on the farm, they are pests. Yesterday my son finally was able to shoot the animal that has cause so much damage of late, and he has decided to try and tan the hide. I’ll have to take pictures of the process.

He was trying to skin the animal out last night, but ran out of daylight, so it is now wrapped and in my basement refrigerator (yes, the same one I just scrubbed down due to the spilled ½ gallon of souring milk). I know people who store animal skins in their freezers until they have time to work on them. This could take some getting use to…

Since my son was busy with the woodchuck, he didn’t start the evening chores until close to 7 P.M., which is about the time dusk settles in this time of the year in Wisconsin. When he returned to tell me that Polaris (a calf) had pink eye, we had to call my husband to see what to do. Then we called the vet to find out dosage information. At about 9:30, my son and I were out in the dark giving shots and putting medicine into the little girl’s eyes. She was so sick that she did not even try to get away from us when I put the needle with the stinging meds into her neck. Twice. I hope she will be O.K

The stars were out last night when we were working on the calf, but this morning the skies are cloudy and the day feels dreary. I will work some more on organizing my bookshelves and catching up on the paper shuffle.

Remember to say a prayer for those who are in the midst of the Hurricane. I pray that this time of disaster for so many along the southern coast will lead them to ask questions that will help them find Him who offers courage and peace. I pray for strength for those who weary of the task of cleaning up and rebuilding. My sister says the FEMA crews work 7 days a week and never seem to get done cleaning up—they had much yet to do after Ivan when Dennis hit the Pensacola area. I do not know all that the people have suffered, but I do know that God is faithful in his loving care for us.

Blessings.

I try to get some exercise each day; I rarely walk alone.
Here Ruffy is trying to keep up with me. She mews and
mews her complaints about my going too fast, but when
I pick her up and carry her, she squirms to get out of my
arms. Silly Ruffy.