Strong Arms

So, winter is here, the yard is white and the wood stove is getting used.  Some years I don't mind the white stuff, but then years like this when it warms up and turns the snow into a substance similar to cement, I could do with out.

A few birds have stuck around, mostly the Mountain Chickadee's and Red Breasted Nuthatches, but there have also been a few woodpeckers, including a beautiful Norther Flicker.  I was never able to get a photo of the Flicker, but did get a couple good shots of this Hairy Woodpecker during a snow storm.  I haven't seen the woodpeckers in a couple days, so maybe they've moved on.

As for me, I've been alternating between moving horse manure or snow.  I think the snow has finally gotten deep and heavy enough that the horse manure will be staying where it is until spring, but I still have to move snow to get to the barn and the front gate.

A fair share of moving snow requires shovels and my arms and back are getting plenty strong.  My lower back was causing considerable problems lower down in my leg and foot and I had to ice it to get some relief.  Such fun, come in from the 32 degree outside and stick ice on my back.  Well, it worked, along with a fair amount of asprin, got the swelling down and my leg/foot feels a whole lot better.

I think maybe today is take a day of rest before more snow has to be moved and enjoy a good book and a warm fire.  Stay warm all!