Hauling Water

We have had some cold mornings lately which isn’t unexpected considering it is December. On those cold mornings, I have a morning chore I have to take care of before leaving the house for the day. I fill and carry a bucket of water over to our pig shed. Yes, we still have our pigs, our shed doesn’t have electric so I fill a bucket in their yard so they have water. So far I have only had to tow water in the carrier through snow once.  It was a workout. Lately, I just carry a five-gallon bucket. It is much easier and quicker. Yesterday I took them carrot peelings as a treat since I had peeled a bag of carrots.  They enjoyed the treat but I had to go into the shed to feed them. Apparently it was too cold for them to venture outside, even for carrot peels. 

I enjoy the short walk across the field to water them. I go over at dawn and I can still see some stars in the sky.  I also hear water flowing into our lower pond which is very relaxing and comforting.  I get to take in the beauty that God has given us during my morning chore.  If I had more time, I’d spend time outside but I have to go back to dress for work and leave. 

Why do we still have our pigs?  Well they were born late – over Memorial Day weekend!  They are ready for “market” now but their “market date” is December 21.  Crazy late date!  However, the friend we bought them from scheduled that date with a butcher we have been trying to get into so this is the open door for us. Once we go to him, we are “in” and that makes John happy. 

I only have to haul water for two more weeks and I am counting the days off.  John is worrying about getting the trailer to the shed to load them but I’m sure he’ll figure something out. As long as it isn’t too wet or we have a few feet of snow, off to market should go smoothly.

Here they are and these pictures were taken almost a month ago. Our two pigs that are huge. They really are a wonderful animal and both of them enjoy being brushed.