Winter of January 2026

Today is January 30, 2026, and my time in the barn today was painful. The temperature is 1 degree, and it's freezing. Today, while doing my morning chores, I could only use one arm because the other arm was glued to my underwear. That is my technique or survival skill to keep my hands warm in these frigid temperatures. I switch them regularly, then perform as many tasks as I can. The technique did not achieve what it was supposed to do.

The water systems are frozen solid, and the sixteen inches of snow make it difficult for the livestock to go very far. Every vessel that can hold water for the livestock is frozen, and the water completely freezes. I carry frozen rubber buckets down to the basement to thaw, then I can use them the next day.

Everyone stays close to the barn. The chickens and ducks are barricaded inside, and I refuse to hunt or chase one of them stuck in the snow. I have learned that through experience. They all think they can travel somewhere, only to realize the snow is too cold and end up stuck.

There has not been a break in the weather, and I might go outside and scream. Anyone care to join me, and we could have a chorus of frustrated and annoyed people in the area. This weather must leave. I do enjoy the beauty of snow, but the temperatures, as one might say, “Bite!”