It's finished!

This past week, Shannon finished putting in the mulch and filling in the play yard. He went to Southern States, got 2 big scoops of mulch, and then transferred it to the play yard, blackberry, raspberry and blueberry bushes.

Our neighbors and great friends brought over this old tractor tire they said was taking up space in their barn. It will serve as the sand box. Shannon will have to make it a cover, so the cats don't use it as a cat box.

Overall, I'm tickelled pink with the results. Have I said how much I love that Shannon is so handly around the house yet? I love how he takes so much pride in his home and farm, and is always looking for a project...

He said the other day all the projects around the farm are done for me. Well, this is proof that that's not true! This one is for Pyper! Great job, Shannon!

Kidding Around

Encouraged by the wonderfully warm weather, we took Pyper to a friend's farm to visit their goats and kids. Pyper was clearly excited!

This is 4R Ranch, in Crockett, Va. Is there anything more beautiful than the mountains of Southwestern Virginia?

"Here's looking at you, Kid." Pyper loved her new friends.

So much so, she wanted to shower them in kisses...

Goats butt heads, right? Pyper thought so.

This was such a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Shannon, Pyper and I had a great time. Thanks, Kay and Joe!

Getting Ready...

Shannon and I thought we'd add another horse stall to the barn last spring. Luckily, Shannon is very handy and did all the work himself. My friend's daughter, Jordyn, who loves horses, helped out too. It took a few weeks, but it turned out really nicely, I think. We've recently decided to transform this horse stall (which we rarely use) into the new chicken coop. With some fencing and thought, I think we'll have it predator-free in no time! Shannon is very proud of himself. As he should be. He did a great job! Jordyn scrapes off 60 year old cow manure off the walls. This is clearly an initiation of sorts to see if she can really handle the barn life. She passed with flying colors.

The finished product from inside the barn. Now, Shannon is going to add a screened door to the top of this one, and screen to the rafters down to keep out owls, hawks and barn kitties. I think my Dixie Chicks will love their new digs!