Happy Holiday to everyone from those of us here at Briarlea Farm. The snow is coming down this morning in big clumps and as there is no wind, it is calm and beautiful. The dogs managed to contain themselves until an hour or so ago then convinced me it was time to take them for a gallop down the road. It's quiet here as those of you who have visited will attest, so a mile run is a common morning activity.

The barn seems lonely now with no friendly goat faces to greet us in the morning but we've been assured that they've settled into their new home. For that we are thankful. The sheep are looking fat and warm in their heavy woolen coats and the barn turkeys have figured out how to roost above them as well as how to bully their way to the grain feeder. In the henhouse the peafowl are looking sleek, we're getting eggs still although not nearly so many as in the summer. The old pair of geese are already looking forward to spring.

Our friend Lee from Pennsylvania sent this picture of Bruta, Zeke and Sam. Bruta and Sam are littermates to Margeaux, Trouble, Bennie and Kaida....can you tell?!

We will be heading south next week this time, to places warm and sunny - a welcome respite for me - and an opportunity to work the dogs on dry land. We'll keep you posted!