Dougal’s still here

It's been a pretty good holiday week all in all. Santa came along and we're still helping to eat up all the turkey. We had so little of it on the day that little Daisy was worried that it might still fly away, but we've put that to rights now. The only place that bird's flying now is right into my tummy! Yum, yum...

One slight blot on the horizon is Dougal – the westie from Wooler. He's still here, and it must be getting on for a week now. I still growl at him a bit but everyone else seems to like him. Grubby little rascal that he is. You'll never believe it, but we went off for a walk after Christmas day and he couldn't get through any of the fences we came to, or get over any obstacle in his way. At all. It was two steps forward, then back to pick him up, then off again...all day long. Me? I'd have left him at the first fence, but Skye wasn't having any of that and so we all waited. I think she quite likes him – just as long as he leaves the cat alone, otherwise his little honeymoon will definitely be over

Work is still going on full steam ahead, but I could always do with more – we've managed to recover the four lambs that went into the wrong field and we're feeding the cattle every morning...lots and lots. They eat even more than Daisy and Dougal – "the Westie twins", and they're both good eaters.

Oh well, I think I'll get a letter written and send it into Wooler – "come and get your dog...or else" should do the trick. Yes, that's definitely the way forward.

Take care

Stop Press

Westie Alert. Hoogah, hoogah!! I've just seen Dougal from Wooler coming in – WITH HIS BED...that doesn't look good, as it looks as though the little rascal is here for a few days. Oh nooo, nooo, nooo. He must have heard Santa's on his way and doesn't want to miss out. I'm just going to growl at him. Yes, I think that's best...you know I hate other dogs and I don't want him coming over every week.

Oh well, let's just hope we don't get another one after this. With a bit of luck I'll get out to work once the presents have been opened...

Take care

Merry Christmas

We're getting excited now. Really excited. Santa's on his way. Joy, joy, joy. I can count very well and have been keeping Skye and Daisy up-to-date as the days have been passing. We've been crossing the days off our bonio calendar and now we know that Santa is coming tonight. Definitely. Think of it – coming all the way to our kennel with some presents. I hope Skye and Daisy have been good enough. Daisy is wondering if we can get another bonio calendar for January as Skye has been eating all the bonios each day, but I don't think she'll be able to (mind you she is a terrier, so if anyone can she can).

Anyway, I don't mind a day off - and with some presents to open. We've had a few really boring days recently – boring, boring, boring...no sheep work to do and too much mud in the cattle yard for me to splash about in, so I've been babysitting Daisy and Skye. And boy o boy, they sleep a lot those two. But that's dogs for you.

Merry Christmas to everyone – from me, Skye and Daisy...and all the sheep and cows. I'm off to sleep – I don't want Santa to see me still awake

Take care

Frost settles in

Well, we've had a busy weekend here. It's been very frosty and cold all the time, which suits me just fine. I can warm up really well just by running around but best of all the mud is all frozen so I stay lovely and clean. Joy, joy, joy...As for lardy old Skye and Daisy, they prefer to stay indoors while Daisy puts on a fashion parade for Skye parading up and down in one of her new coats. I think Skye has put one onto her Christmas list!

The sheep are all eating up the hay now so we're busy feeding them a bit more regularly which is good fun – I make sure they don't get caught up under the loader by rounding them up into a heap while we unwrap the bales. It's not that easy as they're always keen to get to a fresh bale of hay, but I take it very seriously so none of them get past me – not even last years pets.

We're getting used to our new bedroom in the hall. It's very toasty, and it sometimes means if I keep my head down, I can sneak into the lambing chair in the kitchen which has it's own radiator AND is very comfy (although I haven't yet worked out how to make it go backwards which looks even more comfy).

Beds on the move

It's all change here over the last few days. We've been moved out of the laundry room and been put in the hall...there was some muttering about being too muddy to lie snoozing with all the clean things (but surely they didn't mean me, and Skye's never ever grubby so it's a bit of a mystery really). On the plus side, the hall has a huge radiator which keeps us nice and toasty, but (and it's a big but) we've still only got one decent bed since Skye chewed up our really comfy beds, so we get a bit cramped up sometimes. Are you listening Santa?

The really big problem I've got though is the weather – cold and wet – which is stopping me getting much sheep work done. It's soooo frustrating because my list of sheep jobs is definitely not getting any shorter.

Anyway, Daisy (isn't she gorgeous) has been getting Skye all worked up about Santa. Daisy was convinced that the geese that fly overhead in the evenings were Santa's reindeer, and poor old Skye thought he was on his way but she still hasn't sent off her list yet, the lazy brute, so we nearly had tears. I reckon if Daisy keeps that up mind you, there will be tears all right, but coming from a certain white terrier...

Oh well, here's hoping for dry and sunny tomorrow (are you listening, Mr Weather-forecaster?)

Take care

Mud...’snow’ joke

12 December

I must remember to be more careful what I wish for. The snow certainly disappeared – by yesterday it had completely gone...along with my feet which just sunk straight into the mud when I skipped out in the morning. Yuck, yuck, yuck...how's a girl supposed to keep working when it's as boggy as this. We've decided not to send any lambs away this week, and I have to say I'm glad not to be chasing them about in this mud.

Skye is sulking – she's the only dog I know that waits out by the back door cleaning her feet before she comes in, so it looks like she's going to have her work cut out. She says she's officially on strike now and will only go out when she's popping for a wee. Oh, and when she wants to stare at the cows in the shed. She and Daisy have been worrying about whether Skye will get any food when she's on strike. I reckon she will, but if not it will definitely be the shortest strike on record. Daisy has been telling us all, very loudly, that she's definitely not on strike and will definitely be hungry at supper-time...so much for solidarity with poor old Skye!

Anyway, the good news is that Skye's supper did appear, so she's pleased, and to be honest, I'm not sure anyone has noticed she's striking yet

Take care

Snow

10 December

I got up this morning – a new day – all full of hope and joy. I love mornings. But not this morning. Oh no. This morning we've got snow – and wind. I hate snow... it stops me working the sheep, and Santa hasn't yet had chance to deliver the boots I have asked him for so it's cold feet for me today (I hope I've been good enough for him to remember me...not long now). Skye loves the snow though – just out long enough to have a bit of a roll and a game with Daisy, then straight back to bed as work is cancelled. Just her idea of bliss, finishing off her Christmas present list. Mind you the snow hasn't done Daisy any favours - she doesn't look quite so gleaming white when you see her against the snow – in fact she looks decidedly grubby.

Oh well, there's nothing I can do about the weather. We've run hay out to all the sheep and Flakey (the bull) so they look a lot happier and now we're back in with both fires on. I think I'm just going to have to take it easy for a while. Let's hope we've got plenty of biscuits in...and logs...

Take care

Trip to the market

It's been busy here – sorting through the sheep, again, so we could take them to the market and keeping all the cows fed and toasty in the sheds. I like being busy these days – takes my mind off the wind, which as you well know, I hate...

But today as a special treat, I got to ride down with the lambs to the market. How exciting was that?? Very exciting (I'll answer for you). On a scale of one to ten, it's about 100 of excitement. I didn't let anyone know that on the way there, just snoozing in the land rover, but I did get a bit carried away once we were there. There were thousands of sheep there, thousands. If only I'd been let out...Just a shame about the wind, but poor old Daisy is cursing the weather even more than Skye and me at the moment. She went off on a trip yesterday – a 'spa day' Mandy called it – all very excited in her new coat, while Skye and I just muddled about the sheep. Skye was a bit miffed as she reckons she'd like a bit of pampering and says she has already chosen the colour of her nail varnish. Anyway, what a sight Daisy was when she got back. Looking very pretty that's for sure, but talk about shorn! Hardly any coat left and this is the middle of winter. Once we'd stopped laughing we did feel a bit sorry for her because she just looks COLD. Poor little thing – she can't believe it! Oh well, looking on the bright side, I can see the heating coming on a bit more often!

Take care

Brrr...

5th December

[Sorry – technical problems with postings – thinking of sacking the IT team]

What a change we've had. Brrrr... we've got frost and chilly days all of a sudden. I quite like it, and have a good roll out in the frost every morning, which is MUCH better than having to have a bath and my feet stay nice and clean because the mud is all frozen which I like. Skye likes the log fires in the evening more than the cold starts – she's a bit like an old car in the morning and needs lots of coaxing to get going if it's chilly (she's muttering at me now.. She reckons she's much more like a Ferrari – not that she's ever seen one, but now she's looking at the Italy holidays in her brochures which is cheering her up). As for Daisy, she's never up in time to see the frost, but keeps going to bed saying she'll be up early to come out and play – but she's still a puppy really and never quite manages it.

I can tell Christmas is looming – they both went off shopping yesterday afternoon after we'd had a busy morning getting all our feeding done. I was abandoned with the dogs again – I wonder if I should be getting a better rate of pay when I have to baby sit Daisy? I wouldn't have minded a trip to the shops – I haven't managed to get Skye and Daisy much yet, and last year with the snow keeping us on farm I just gave them some nice sticks I found. Still, we enjoyed playing with them until Skye chewed them up!

Apart from that, everything seems under control (touch wood), which is just how I like it.

Take care

Tups and Town

It's been another good day today. We've been switching the tups' colours so I've been busy. Very busy in fact. I had to hold all the sheep in a corner while each tup was caught so I had my work cut out as they all kept wanting to escape. Some chance! I was zooming about and managed to keep them under control. No thanks to Skye though – she just kept running about which upset the sheep so in the end she had to wait on the bike. Maybe though, she's brighter than she looks... perhaps that was what she really wanted all along! By the time we got in for lunch, I was ready for a good rest I can tell you.

The Princess was back into her coat again today and got a trip into Berwick – very smart she looked. Skye was very jealous, but I was too tired to bother. When she came back she was telling Skye all about it – she'd been to the hairdresser and by the sound of it had been spoilt rotten, but was very disappointed not to be given a 'shampoo and set' as well. I offered to help and said I would mix up some concrete and set her in that if she liked ha, ha – just as well I'm a fast runner! Skye told her not to worry – she was bound to get her own trim before Christmas...hmmm, I'm sure I could help with that...

Let's hope tomorrow's as much fun.

Take care

Lambs get a move

We've had a grand day today. Well, to be honest, the weather has been pretty average – wet and windy – BUT we've been moving the lambs about, so I've been busy, busy, busy...which is just how I like it. Oh you just can't beat a good run out. Little Daisy has been nose-to-nose with a lamb that wasn't going the right way and she pretty soon had it turned around – she's finding out just how naughty the lambs can be and has been telling Skye and me just how brave she was. Skye just can't believe that Daisy would happily go out to help with the sheep – she thinks Daisy needs a trip to the vet to make sure she isn't mad. Mind you, I told Skye she wants to be a bit careful – if anyone was going to fail a common sense test she wouldn't have to look too far to find them.

We're spoiling Skye a bit at the moment – she wandered off all absent minded this afternoon in the sheep field and got the wrong side of the electric fence. Anyway, you could hear the howl of indignation when she got a shock off it, but we think she'll live. I think there's more risk of her losing her voice with all the grumbling she's doing. Just give me strength...

Oh well, the cows are settling in nicely now – eating and sleeping their way to Spring. They love it, but thank goodness I've got a large list to work through over Winter. Counting my blessings!

Take care

Cows come in – at a run

Phew, what a windy couple of days we've had – and I'm not just talking about Daisy's bottom either. All my new courage has deserted me with everything heaving about in the wind – moving trees have been the worst though. I hate them. Skye tells me there's nothing to worry about and has always kept me company when I've been out and about – she doesn't ever worry about what might be in the trees and says that nothing is frightening when you've got your teeth sank into it. She always gives me a demonstration which cheers me up. Chomp, chomp, chomp...she's a good friend.

Tupping is going well – must be about half way through now I reckon, which is something to be cheerful about, although I never mention it to Skye who's been really chipper recently with lambs being sold pretty much every week at present. She's ok-ish at maths when she wants to be and thinks there must only be about 3-4 weeks left and is going about with a permanent smile. Mind you, it still doesn't get her out to help with them...

Anyway, today's big news is that the cows are in for the winter. One shout at the gate and they came hammering in. No second invitation needed there, but it has been cold over the past few days and they'll be much happier indoors. They all looked pleased about it and why not – nice and comfy and food in front of them 24 hours a day...I know a greedy little Westie that would think that was heaven.

Take care

 

Cows brave the weather

Well we've still got the cows out - it's been such nice weather they'd have grumbled like mad if we'd tried to bring them in. We're all set for them now - we've been welding new panels into the shed to make sure they can't escape once they're in and they're all bedded up as well. Just like a comfy version of Fort Knox! No doubt at the first sign of rain they'll be howling to be let in but we gave them some tasty silage yesterday which certainly improved their mood a bit.

Yesterday evening was all go as well. Sheep can be greedy things (I know something else that's small, white and greedy) and they've finished all the grass in the Big Field so I had to move them. It went pretty well (I never mind I they want to be chased about a bit though) and I managed on my own which was just as well as
Skye was looking at dog bed brochures now Daisy has agreed to write her a letter to Santa...I think it could be a long one

Take care

All dry here

Things have been looking up over the last couple of days. For a start, it's been sunny. Oh blissy, bliss bliss. All the mud is drying up and it's a lot more fun pottering about and looking at the sheep when you're not going 'squelch, squelch' all the time. Everything seems happy outside (touch wood) and even Daisy has managed to keep her low profile tummy nice and clean!

But best of all though, we've moved the sheep race inside out of the mud. We spent the whole day sorting through lambs and I've come in looking cleaner than when I went out, so I'm really pleased – no more showers for me – thank goodness. Even Skye was happy and was keen to lend a hand chasing everything about – she's full of surprises that one, but I think it's part of a little plot she and Daisy have hatched to see if they can get a bigger supper by being really useful. Let's see what happens when it rains...

Little chicks are growing fast. I'll get a picture of them tomorrow if I'm lucky – their Mum is starting to let them explore a bit now...nice little things, if a bit stupid

Take care

The Pampered Club

Skye has managed to join the "Pampered Club" today. She and Daisy are the only members, and Skye is VERY pleased to be there but strangely enough managed to get in by being lazy – not coming out with me this morning. Skye reckons she's one step closer to not having to work the sheep anymore, and is looking forward to the odd walk out with Daisy ("only in good weather mind you"), lots of lie ins, and plenty of treats.

Mandy took the Club out for a little walk this morning whilst I was hard at work. That was a narrow escape – I'd much, much rather be working that pottering around a field, but they both seemed very happy with the walk and I suppose it does keep them out of my way. When they got back Daisy was booked in for her winter trim and spruce up – she usually goes with her little troublemaking friend Dougal from Wooler so let's just hope the little devil doesn't get dropped here.

Anyway, a winter trim is something that Skye definitely won't need – she manages to cast her coat very effectively herself – all over the house...maybe we could give her a really close trim. I'm sure I could get my paws on the sheep clippers for ten minutes, and I've seen them working lots of times – it doesn't seem too hard! The kennel would certainly be a lot cleaner and it's still mild outside.

Take care

Curtains for the cows

We've had another damp day here, but all the sheep and cows are doing well, touch wood and the chicks are growing fast. I managed to get a sneaky look at them when Skye had her back turned (she's still looking out for them and would love to get them indoors).

We've been putting up some curtains in the new cattle shed today – green ones. They are meant to keep the worst of the weather out, but I'm a bit doubtful. They look a bit edible to me – a bit too much like grass to put that close to a bunch of bored cows. We'll see...but hopefully they'll last a while because they took a fair bit of putting up (and I should know, as I watched it all while I was having a well-deserved rest in the loader)

Little Daisy has been watching the weather forecast for a bit of cold weather – she wants to be able to wear her new coat and has been disappointed it's been so mild. Skye says she's daft wanting it to get colder (talk about the pot calling the kettle black!) and says she's definitely not looking forward to frosty ground making her toes cold. In fact, she's already spent ages getting her Christmas list together and says she's putting thick socks right at the top – along with a duvet and a sick note that lasts until lambing is finished. Bone idle...

Oh well, soon time to get the lambs back in so that's something to look forward to

Take care

Holiday plans

I'm bored. Bored. Bored. Bored. Skye's not – she's very happy – been lying in her bed all day with a smile on her face. All day today we've had nothing to do. No sheep out, tups happy, cows all fed and bedded, no disasters to sort out, just getting the sheds finished before we bring the rest of the cattle in. Nothing at all for me to do...at...all. In fact, the only excitement we had all day was having to frog-march the hens back in to their new quarters tonight– the dozy devils wanted back in to their old hut. Less common sense than a Westie (only kidding, we all know they've got more...).

Maybe I should take a quick holiday? I had a chat with Skye and Daisy who both said they'd come with me. In fact Skye had some well thumbed brochures tucked away. Trouble is we all want different holidays – Skye wants a comfy place to sleep, nothing to do, lots of food, Daisy wants somewhere with a really good restaurant that serves big portions, and I'm not going anywhere that hasn't got at least 100 times more sheep than people (oh, and no other dogs...or moving trees).

Holiday brochures are rubbish though – fine for Skye and Daisy with lots of symbols to show what they want but I've had a good look and can't find a symbol telling me how many sheep there are. You'd think I wanted something out of the ordinary. Absolutely useless. Maybe I should produce my own...

We've hit another snag – Skye and I haven't got passports, and Daisy hasn't got a clue how to get to the airport. I'll have to put my thinking cap on though - if we're going we'll have to get back before the bad weather sets in (although Skye says she's not that bothered getting back in a rush). But then again, who would look after my sheep while I was away? That's a worry. Maybe the odd quiet day is not so bad after all.

Take care

Chicks

Well, that's the end of a busy couple of days. Yesterday we were sorting through some lambs to go away – and this morning we took them off first thing. It's always a sad day when sheep leave the farm – even lambs. They can be frustrating – well, to be honest, they are frustrating but what would the world be like if there were no sheep? A lot worse in my view, a lot better in Skye's. She's been very pleased today and was hoping that when the trailer came back that another load would be going. She's a bad dog...

Anyway, I must tell you Skye's exciting good news. We've had some chicks born in the hen house. Skye saw them for the first time yesterday and has been asking how she goes about adopting them. Every time the door is opened she's straight over to have a look and would switch places with the hen that's looking after them in a flash. She says if she hadn't flooded our room the other day and got into everyone's bad books she'd have asked if they could have come inside. She remembers that sometimes lambs and even a duck have been inside being looked after and she wants the chicks in – "just for their own sake". We'll see, but she's asked Daisy to create a distraction around the hen house so she can nip in and "rescue" the chicks. I know Mandy's going to be mad if they do it...so Daisy's definitely not going to want that - sorry Skye.

Must get off to bed before Skye drives me daft – she's muttering to herself again...something like "cheep, cheep". Help!

Take care

Hen house chaos

The old bones were creaking a bit this morning – damp and chilly, and the temporary rugs we're (still) sleeping on are not quite as comfy as we've got used to. Princess Lah-de-Dah was late down and teasing Skye about how comfy she was in the upstairs kennel. Poor old Skye, but I soon cheered her up telling her the new beds would be even more comfy (although I'm not sure that's possible really) so she went pottering off to see how she could fit a bigger bed into her room. When I saw her at lunch-time (after a busy morning) she was talking about getting a Westie proof lock for the bedroom door and asking whether I'd ever seen one, and would I know how to fit it...she doesn't ask for much!

Now then, I think I've found animals even more daft than Skye and Daisy. The hens. As you know, we've been slaving away every spare minute fitting them out with a de-luxe hen house – perches, nesting boxes, feeders, windows, special floor, kichen sink...everything on the little wish list they drew up in the summer (except the tv. I'm sure they would squabble about what channel to put it on). Anyway last week we put them into it and today let them have a run out in the yard. Well, it was chaos at bedtime – all milling around looking to get into the old draughty boxes. I had to come over from finishing feeding the cows to see if I could get them over but it was worse than running lambs – just like pushing water uphill, one this way, one that way, oh dear oh dear. So back into their old boxes they went and they had to be carried across to the new hen house. I don't think they'll be out in the yard again until the old boxes are away! Ungrateful little rascals.

Here's a picture of some hens bringing in the wish list.

Take care

Water, water everywhere...yuk

Well, we've had a couple of very busy days here. All the tups went out yesterday. After quite a bit of sorting out I brought all the ewes and gimmers in and we put them into smaller groups each with some tups. That bit took all day and went ok, but I did get into a bit of bother and not all my fault – I mean what a lot of mud there is at present. All over the place, just mud, mud, mud. Anyway, I got a bit grubby. Well, to be honest I got really, really filthy. So dirty that when I got back in, I had to have a shower. Me!! A shower!! The horror of it all - and with Daisy watching my every move jealously. I wouldn't have minded at all if she'd changed places, but no such luck.

After I got out (clean, I must admit), things went from very bad to even worse – if that could be possible. Skye had eaten a plastic stopper on the radiator in our room for some reason (known only to her) and boiling hot water was now spewing out all over the place. They fixed it in the end, but not until both our lovely new beds were absolutely ruined. Skye had already torn hers quite badly a while ago (overuse, I think) but she's in proper disgrace now. Goodness knows if we'll ever get anything as comfortable again so I'm not speaking to her...ever again. Fancy - my lovely bed destroyed. Disaster.

Let's hope we get some long sheepy days to take my mind off it and help me keep my hands away from Skye's throat. Daisy came pottering in and said she thinks an anger management course would help...I'll told her I'd see how well they both manage anger whilst flying over the garden wall if they're not careful. Give me sheep anyday...they've got more common sense than these two

Take care

Bonfire night

Bonfire night – not my favourite day...but fortunately I didn't hear any fireworks this evening. All that banging and whizzing just frightens me – it would frighten everyone surely? We did have a bonfire though and that was quite good fun. Well...it was until I saw the reflection of the fire in the holiday cottage window and startled myself. I must be braver must, must, must – Daisy and Skye had a marvellous time, just barrelling around without a care in the world. In fact, Daisy was enjoying herself so much we nearly had a roast Westie on our hands, she got so close to the flames. As it was we did have a very grubby Westie to deal with but nothing that a bath couldn't deal with.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow – we've been getting all the tup harnesses ready today. Skye says she's going on strike or going off sick, she hasn't decided yet, but she's determined she's not spending the whole day with 'those smelly sheep', and with Daisy looking like a new pin she's clearly not going to be allowed near any mud, so it looks as though I'll be on my own. Good, good I say – bring them on...

Take care

Daisy’s coat

A drippy sort of day today – warm enough but just wet. Wet enough for me to feel sorry for the sheep – but they are sheep so they don't seem to mind at all, in fact quite the opposite. The cows, though, they definitely don't like the wet (but they are looking nice and clean!).

Ho, ho, ho!! Guess what we've seen coming in. Just this evening – Skye and I. A C.O.A.T. To be perfectly accurate, a Daisy size coat. Thank goodness it wasn't my size – I spotted that right away, but Skye was looking a bit more interested, especially once Daisy had hopped into it and started parading around like the Queen of Sheba. She looked a bit more dubious once I pointed out that a coat could only mean one thing – trips out in bad weather. Skye hates the rain almost as much as she hates the mud, but Daisy was really pleased and is now sure she's going to be working out on the farm this winter. Some chance! In fact, there's more chance of her being left to look after the cat's supper than that coat going anywhere near mud, so it's a winter of cosy little walks ahead for her...no, I definitely don't want one of those coats.

Anyway, I know what we're up to tomorrow – I'm sorting sheep out and Daisy and Skye will be parading about in the coat. I'll get a picture for you..

Take care

Easy street

As I thought, my worst fears came true...a day off. Skye has hardly moved all day much to Daisy's annoyance as she wanted her out in the garden to play. Daisy has been in and out of the garden like a supercharged jack-in-a-box. But Skye reckons she's earned her day off and said she doesn't want to waste it!! Me, I reckon she's done just that by wedging herself in next to the boiler all day, but she never listens. Deaf as a post when she chooses to be, but could hear the bonio box being opened at 100 yards...which still puts her some distance behind Daisy in my view. Skye and I both think Daisy's got some sort of food based radar system that warns her whenever any food is moving – we've certainly never got to supper before her...ever.

Anyway, hopefully tomorrow will see the hens hut finished and we can get on with more important, sheep, stuff

Take care

Tup day minus 4

Two days on the trot – I'm feeling a little stiff now to be truthful, but we've finished checking all the ewes now so that's a big step towards getting the tups out at the weekend. Mind you, I wouldn't grumble if we did the same again tomorrow. Skye would though...she only managed to help a little in the morning and didn't want anything to do with sheep in the afternoon – and pottered off muttering something about 'sheep', 'feet', and 'killing me'. I didn't mind though as it left more work for me and poor old Daisy wasn't allowed out to help – far too muddy for her short little legs.

Skye had been very disappointed first thing – she'd heard Daisy talking about the clocks going back at the weekend and now thinks that she missed out on an extra hour in bed because she didn't know about it on the day. We nearly had a rebellion this morning because she refused to get up first thing, but I told her to make sure she got to bed for a couple of hours before supper then she would get more than her extra hour. That cheered her up a lot but confused Daisy, but luckily I managed to give her a little kick to stop her pointing out that that didn't make sense. She'll learn not to upset Skye's applecart...

Anyway, rather disappointingly I think I'm getting a day off tomorrow. Just when you get into a nice routine someone pops up and says you need a rest...no wonder the country is going to the dogs.

Take care

Gimmers all present and correct

We've had a really good day today – getting the gimmers ready for Saturday when the tup goes out. It was all go for a while but we got them back into their field before it got dark – just! And you know what the best bit of the day was? Knowing that we've still got another 250 ewes and 300 lambs to come though this week!! Joy, joy, joy...

Skye was helping today (from the back of the bike though as she isn't fast enough to catch up with gimmers) and Daisy was nowhere to be seen for once. She's been busy though - she managed to chase a lamb back into the front field for me at lunch-time and would have chased all the tups back for me if she knew where to chase them. I was honoured she helped so close to lunchtime but she's a bit like me – never lets the sheep get away with anything and she's frightened of nothing that dog.

I'm growing to quite like her – time to go the doctor I think

Take care

I win some bonios

30 October

The shed's up – absolutely enormous it is. I'll be a lot happier once it's got the nesting boxes in I must say. Skye, Daisy and I have been taking bets on whether it would rain before the roof was put on, so now they both owe me all their bonio treats for the next week. I knew it wouldn't rain because I watched the forecast last night – Daisy and Skye were fast asleep as usual – and they were pretty annoyed when they realised they'd been outsmarted. I might relent later – one treat each evening is plenty really, but it's fun watching them squirm in the meanwhile. Maybe we'll do 'double or quits'...but they're pretty wary of me now and Skye is watching me like a hawk. Poor Skye – she only joined in the bet to keep Daisy company and doesn't really understand betting.

Apart from the shed, we've had a quiet day – the calm before the storm I think as we've got a busy week of sheep work planned. Let's hope the weather stays good for us and that Daisy doesn't remember to take Skye's place on the bike.

 

A shed for the hens

It's been a long day today. Up early to check everything and get the cows fed, and then we've been getting ready to put up a new shed for the hens. It looks pretty big, so let's hope it doesn't mean more of the wretched things, what with their scuffing and scratching about all over the place. I suppose they're not that bad really, and sometimes we get one of their eggs cooked up which is a bit of a treat. It's one of Skye and Daisy's favourite treats (being food it's got a good start) and now they love the hens – in fact, they're very high up on Skye's list of things to protect (the cat, Tinker, being right up at the top by a mile)

Anyway, the hens have been grumbling for ages that they need something more comfortable before the winter so it looks as though that's what's on the way – an all singing and dancing new home for them. I was a bit worried at first when I saw it – I never like a new building in the yard in case it's for me to sleep in, but I needn't have worried. Skye and I like sleeping inside and although we'd really like to get to the upstairs kennel like that little rat Daisy, downstairs is much, much better than outside...brrr. Skye told Daisy how she slept outside before she came to the farm and Daisy just couldn't believe it – outside!! Scary!! She's been as good as gold ever since – in fact, for a while we thought she'd been welded to Mandy's ankle she stuck so close, but I know she's got nothing to worry about. Mandy would sleep out herself before she put the Princess out.

Tupping moves a day closer – must be getting the ewes in soon. Jolly good.

Take care

Daisy rides again

26 Oct 2011

It's been a busy day what with feeding the cows and we've had to shuffle the lambs about and move them into a new field. I was very busy as usual hustling them along and Skye came along as well just in case the lambs were naughty again and refused to come out of the field like they did last time (I got them out in the end but what a job!). For some reason they never mess Skye about. Anyway this time they came out as quick as you like and scampered along the road as if they'd never caused a moments trouble in their life...as if!

Daisy came along in the land rover with Mandy and had a lovely time organising everything from the passenger seat. She'd love to have been a sheepdog, but I'm afraid her legs are too short and her tummy may be a little too big (but we don't tell her that). Since we got back she's been chuntering away telling us how she would have moved the lambs faster and better. I think it's just excitement, but Skye has offered to give up her place on the bike next time. Let's hope she forgets, but I've got a sneaky worry that she might not...

Still, at least the rain has stopped.

Take care

Selling cattle

It was a quiet day at home for Skye, Daisy and me. They went out to a cattle sale with a lorry load to sell. I just can't get excited about selling cattle – unless, I suppose, we could use the money to buy more sheep...now there's a thought.

Skye was worrying Daisy all day – telling her that unless the cattle sold well, that's the end of the meat in the evening biscuits. Daisy got into a right state but everyone seemed to come back happy enough which pleased her even more than usual (she always makes a huge fuss over Mandy whenever she's been out). Apparently they won some sort of prize for having the best heifer at the sale. I must say, I might have made a bit of a fuss later when some cows turned up – fancy buying more cows, as if we haven't enough already – should be selling them, not buying more, for goodness sake. I need more sheep, not big slobbery cows. Sheep, sheep, sheep...no one seems to listen to me – the only voice of reason in the madhouse.

Anyway, there was meat in tonight's biscuits so Daisy was happy. Skye was too once she realised that there are less cattle on the farm than there were this morning (just!) – not that she ever helps with them. As for me, I'm not grumbling just yet – after all we're another day nearer putting the tups out and I know there's lots of work to do before then.

Take care

Steers get a haircut

We've had a better day today – warm might be pushing it a bit, but better – definitely. Skye was out and about a bit more and Daisy was in and out, in and out all day. Me, I had my work cut out for me what with everything to check and feeding the cows. I've been given the important job of making sure no cows come out of the field when the feed is taken in. I take it very seriously and even though it's very tricky I'm pretty good at it, and it's great fun which is the main thing.

We've been getting the steers ready for market today. They're going next week so it was time to give them a quick brush up and trim – just like a proper hairdresser it was (although I've never been to one, thank goodness). Daisy has told me all about hairdressers as she likes her trip to get a trim and this must have been the same because the steers were enjoying it as well. I was helping, but making sure I kept well away from the scissors just in case! Anyway I got back in with no damage done. What a relief...

Take care

Daisy does lunch

It's been chilly all day. We started feeding the cows outside but I think they would rather have come inside to be honest.

Daisy has been the only one happy today, with her two coats and her well covered bones. She was off on some sort of jolly today while Skye and I stayed behind to get our work done. Skye was miffed that she couldn't have gone(she loves a trip out) but I said maybe Daisy had gone back to the vet. Skye started to count her blessings after that and started helping – she hates the vet even more than she hates working.

Anyway, Daisy has been fine recently after her little bug and came back happy enough – she'd been out to lunch apparently and very pleased with herself she was, telling us all about it. Unlike Skye, who's been muttering something about the 'vet' and 'conned' and 'exhausted'...she cheered up when the heating came on, but I'm not sure I'll get her out unless it's warmer tomorrow.

Oh well, one day closer to the tups going out...

Take care

Sicknote

What a windy day – again...it makes yesterday's gales look like a gentle breeze. We've been moving cattle about today so we can get them into a nice sheltered field. They looked very pleased about it indeed

Skye has been at the holiday brochures again, but is cross that no-one mentions resorts that don't have any wind or rain. I suggested she should try the Gobi desert, ha ha! She suggested I should take a long walk off a short pier – what a cheek! I think we're going wind crazy.

Daisy has been putting her feet up today – she's been under the weather and feeling VERY sorry for herself. Little rascal – it's the first time she's been poorly, but it looks like she's on the mend now though, and is back to her usual annoying self.

I'm hoping for a still day tomorrow. We're getting close to tups going out and I don't want anything putting our preparation back. We'll see.

Take care

Winter’s on the way

Wind, wind, wind nothing but wind. Oh, and rain. Nearly forgot that, silly me. Even Skye looked like she might have been blown away and that's saying something – she's the most well anchored collie I've ever seen. You know how I hate the wind – all those trees waving about.

It's certainly not sheep weather either – hot, cold, wet, dry – it just can't make up it's mind, and that's a worry for me in case they turn poorly. Well, I'll just have to really keep a careful eye on them all.

I think I'm a summer lover really. I'll go out in any weather, but I much prefer it dry and warm and we get lots more sheep jobs done in the dry, which is definitely good news. Anyway, today I thought it felt like winter, so I think we'll be bringing the cows in soon. They are certainly hoping to come in now, the poor old devils, and we prefer having them where we can see them when it gets chilly.

Up early I think for me...just to make sure my sheep are all ok.

Take care

PS I think poor Daisy has a bit of the wind trapped into her tummy...God help us all until she gets better

A trip to the beach

16 October

It's been a lovely hot day today – just the sort of day to spend browsing round the sheep. We started off well enough, with lambs to move. It's a tricky job, certainly not for Skye or the trainee, but it's just the sort of thing I enjoy most. I had them marching off down the road soon enough, believe me.

Then disaster...it kept warming up. Daisy started jabbering about a trip to the beach and before I knew it we were being bundled into the back of the landrover. Skye loves a trip out so she was happy. Me, I'd rather not have gone, but got no choice – and no peace either sat in the back with the chattering twins.

When we got to the beach, it didn't get any better. I hate strange dogs and everyone and his friend had their wretched dogs carted out to "enjoy" the sun. Most of them just looked as though they'd rather be somewhere else, and I would certainly have preferred them to be somewhere else. Not my two though – both of them racing round like a couple of demented greyhounds (well, the white one with little legs just looked demented and I suppose I'm pushing it a bit to liken Skye to a greyhound...)

Fortunately I was soon back home, and no disasters in my absence

Take care

It's a tiring life

Here's a picture of me slaving away in the tractor.  It was taken last week, in an unguarded moment after we had been preparing the fields for wheat to be sown.  Don't get me wrong, I like my work, but sometimes when it's sunny your eyes just droop...

A well earned rest

Bad news on the tup front - Skye has found the little blighter.  It must have taken her less than a minute to spot him and now she's in a right huff.  She says more sheep is just what she doesn't need, and definitely not more stubborn tups.  She's gone muttering off to find Daisy to get her resignation letter finished - I'm a bit worried after her fun earlier in the week Daisy might volunteer to take her place.  Let's hope not...

Take care

Suffolk tup has arrived, hooray!!!

We've had a quieter day today – to be truthful, I'm not that sorry as I was a little stiff when we went out first thing this morning. Not enough to stop me working you understand, but enough to mean I was glad to get back in from the rain. And boy, was it raining! Skye was really fed up by the time we got in – she hates the rain, absolutely hates it. Then, when we got back in all Daisy wanted to do was chunter on about her ride on the quad bike yesterday. If it had been anyone else, Skye would have bitten them but she lets the little dog get away with blue murder.

Anyway, really exciting news!!! The tup arrived today...nice little fellow – a bit chubby if you ask me, but I don't expect I'll be allowed to run a few pounds off him. Never mind, the most important thing is that he's here. I'm really pleased and completely forgot about the wet when I went out later on to have a look at him.

I'm keeping it quiet for now though and haven't told Skye – we don't want her getting any more fed up. I'll just have to hope she doesn't see him tomorrow morning. It's a bit optimistic I know – there's certainly nothing wrong with her eyesight and I know she can sniff trouble out, no problem.

Oh well, at least we'll get a good night's sleep. Ignorance is bliss...

Take care

Daisy works some lambs

What a cracking day we've had today. First, there was a breakout of calves from one of the fields. As we put them back in, some naughty cows got out as well – just as well I was there to chase them back in. I had them scampering in – pdq, I can tell you, and all in all a very satisfactory run out before breakfast.

Later in the morning we got all the lambs in for worming and some vitamins. They're exhausting little devils as they never go quite where you want – just like pushing water uphill. I had a little help from Skye to get them home and it took most of the day before they were ready to go back (Skye had had enough by then and had gone back to bed for a rest – she was cursing them and muttering that if she ever saw another lamb it would be too soon).

Daisy helped to get the sheep home and put them back – well, she had a ride on the quad while Skye and I did the work, but she did some huffing and puffing at them when they were slow going into the pens. She's brave all right and has been chattering to Skye about it all evening – poor old Skye, even she was chuckling about how the little dog enjoyed herself, and Daisy hadn't even been put off by falling off the quad. Twice, the dozy thing, but she just gave herself a shake and hopped about until she was loaded back on. Still she'll learn to hang on soon enough.

All in all, a really good day. Plenty to dream about tonight.

Take care

New tup due any day now...at last

I'm in a really good mood today even though it's been wet AGAIN. This morning I overheard a phone call arranging delivery of the tup we bought a couple of weeks ago. I'd almost given up on him ever getting here, and Skye had forgotten all about him (so she's definitely not happy). He'll be going into the front field with the others, which will make it easier for me to keep a close eye on them.

Daisy got a shock yesterday. We moved Flakey (one of the Charolais bulls) into the front field and he came over to the farmhouse growling away and stamping his great big cloppy feet about. She took one look at him and started yapping away – Skye and I both told her there was no chance of him getting into the house, but she was beyond herself by then and said she was not going to take any chances. He's a great big softie really, but I suppose if you're only a puppy then he might look pretty scary...maybe.

Anyway, he's still outside so she's a lot happier now.

I'm off to do a sun dance now so we get some decent weather for the tup, then I must get an early night so I'm ready for him

Take care

Planting crops, yawn, yawn

I'll certainly be pleased once all these wretched wheat fields are finished. It's boring, boring, boring. It's very disappointing to be losing grass fields and swapping them for this arable rubbish. I mean it's absolutely useless for feeding sheep on, and there's HOURS spent in tractors just going up and down, up and down. Still – only rolling left now and we can leave them be and get on with some proper work.

Skye's really enjoying watching the crops being planted – Daisy told her that less grass means less sheep and now they're both telling me that at this rate I'll be retired soon as well as Skye (who is still working on the resignation letter she and Daisy started last month). I haven't got the heart to tell them we've got more grass lined up for planting in spring! Ho, ho, ho – just wait till they see that, then we'll see about retirement (might even get some extra sheep if we're lucky)

Anyway, it looks like some of the cattle are ready to come in so we'll be spending some of the weekend getting the shed ready for them. They grumble a lot about the cold at night (can't say I blame them) and we're feeding them in the field now as well so they may as well be in.

More importantly, the ewes have been moved into grassy fields now ahead of the tups being sent out so I expect we'll be bringing them in soon to give them the once over. Good, good, something to look forward to...

Take care

Daisy rides in the tractor

Talk about wind – it's just as well I've got four feet to keep me anchored to the ground. I hate the wind, just hate it (I might have mentioned that before, but I just can't stand it). Daisy and Skye, on the other hand love the wind (need I say more?) – clearly they're very well anchored the pair of them (a bit like the shed is), and I tell them both that it would be a strong gust that dislodged them from the ground – ha, ha. Goodness knows what it is they like about it, all those moving trees and loud noises. Oh nooo, nooo, nooo...

Daisy has had a nice treat today – I told her it's because now she's getting a bit bigger she'll be trusted more. She was allowed to sit in the tractor cab in the yard this afternoon. Although she's far too small (and, dare I say it, bulky) to get into the cab, she was lifted in and sat there like the Queen of Sheba looking out through the window at the hens roaming about. Loved every second she did. She was chatting about it to Skye and me later in the day and is hoping she gets the chance to sit in again soon. She's very envious of Skye and me being able to ride in it every day, but Skye said she could take her place any day, no problem, as long as she definitely went out on all the wet days – we all know Skye would rather sit in front of the fire on most wet days (she's more like a cat than the cat). Anyway, at least it looks like Skye has forgiven Daisy for sneaking on her plan to run off to the sun. Thank goodness for small mercies...

Gotta go now though as I heard some chat that we're up early tomorrow to get some wheat sown. A girl needs her rest you know.

Take care

Help, I’m going mad

Daisy has got wind of Skye's plan to run off to search for the sun. It's not hard as Skye's been muttering a lot in the night about swapping her treasures for a train ticket, complaining about the wet and has been asking me to show her how to read a map (Daisy overheard her asking and has been pestering me to tell her what a map is – I think she thinks it might be edible). Daisy's not happy about Skye's plan – she doesn't like change in her little life and she likes playing with her Auntie Skye. She's certainly not planning to run off with Skye as she's got a really cosy spot here, so I think she's planning to snitch on her which will put an end to the (rather sketchy) plans and probably just as well too. Oh for a bit of common sense and a decent night's sleep.

Here's a picture of Skye and Daisy - "No funny business going on here, honestly"

You just wouldn't think Skye was a collie you know – she's lovable enough, but doesn't seem to have a brain cell in her whole body, and as for Daisy... I just despair. I think I'd get more sense talking to the sheep – and that's definitely not something I'm planning anytime soon.

Anyway, looks like the lambs need worming soon and we've got fields to get ready for wheat so with a bit of luck I'll be too busy working to worry about the pair of them. Thank goodness for that...roll on tomorrow.

Take care

Skye plans a holiday

Skye is fed up. A damp day today has reminded her that Winter is just around the corner. She had a look at the weather forecast on the telly this morning and saw that we were the only part of the country that was going to get rain and now she wants to get away. She raided her savings pile (she keeps all her treasures under her bed, but don't tell Daisy as most of them are food related) and came up with a couple of biscuits and some tatty clothes pegs which she now wants to use to buy a ticket to get down to family in Somerset. She likes it down there – no sheep, nice and warm AND she gets spoilt all day. I told her I didn't think she had enough to get a ticket, but she's a stubborn old devil and is planning to stow away in the car next time it goes to Berwick. We'll need to make sure she's got plenty to eat because I think it's a long journey and goodness knows where she'd end up – Lands End probably, she can't read and doesn't know exactly where Somerset is so has no chance of getting off at the right stop. Maybe she'll see sense tomorrow...but I won't hold my breath

Take care

Heatwave

Another hot, sunny day. To be honest it was a little too warm for me – I spent most of the time lying in the shade. We were going to bring the steers and heifers in today but we thought they would just get hot and bothered being moved about in this heat, so that's been put back until it cools down (sooner than we'd like, I'm sure).

Daisy looked as though she fancied another dip in the pond, but managed to resist. She doesn't like everyone making fun of her when she does something wrong so she's been trying ever so hard to be good today and it looks as though it's paid off – she was allowed out with Skye and me for a walk round some of the farm this evening. She was very pleased with herself - skipped out as quick as a flash and even let herself be picked up whenever someone drove past. I've told her before that if she learns to lie down when she's told to she wouldn't have the indignity of having her tummy flashed to every car going past. Anyway, tonight nothing was going to spoil her fun and good for her.

Skye is in another sulk tonight... Her beloved digging machine was cleaned this morning and has gone. She watched it very carefully but never got the chance to stow away in it – she'd have gone in a flash, with no thought to the consequences (like who would feed her, would her bed be comfy, who would play with Daisy – all very important you know). We're all glad she stayed and I'm sure she will be soon.

Take care

Splash goes the Westie

Sun again today – we could get used to this...the cows already have, and now spend all day lounging about in the warm. If I wasn't so busy looking after everything, I would enjoy a snooze in the sun myself – Skye and Daisy certainly made the most of it, but I had to move some sheep around and to be honest, I preferred that to being idle.

We went off to start feeding barley to the steers and heifers today – they were very pleased to see us, especially the big black and white steer that was Mandy's pet last year. He's very spoilt. As soon as we rattled the feed bag, he was nosing about us as if he'd not been fed, ever. Greedy little devil.

It's been a busy day here with the barley sown in the afternoon and with us finishing off the digging as well. All in all very satisfactory.

Satisfactory for everyone except Daisy that is. First of all she fell out with Skye for teasing the cat (Skye loves the cat more than she loves anything else and was over like a flash to tell Daisy off) then she was careering around the garden at lunchtime (showing off) and somehow ended up in the pond. Brendan reckoned she'd fallen in when she was getting a drink and he fished her out quickly enough. You had to chuckle – she looked very sorry for herself and seems to be carrying a bit of a tummy under her fluffy coat (I don't think we'll be long before the D word is mentioned again – poor little Daisy!). Anyway, it turned out alright in the end as she got a hot shower to warm her up...a real treat for her (but not my idea of a good time, I can tell you).

Let's hope tomorrow's sunny too

Take care

A treat for Skye

28 September

Another nice sunny day. Skye and I have had a chat and we've decided we like it warm – especially Skye who gets a bit of trouble with her sore hip in the cold. Well, she says she does anyway and it stops her having to go out!

Skye had a lovely day today. We had a digger in to help mend some broken drains in one of the fields and Skye and I went on the bike to help out. I just went for the ride, but Skye really likes digging – I mean really likes it as in it's her favourite thing to do. Anyway, after a while we had to go and do something else but Skye lingered and was allowed to stay. She was in heaven just watching all the holes appearing and she even managed to get some of her own dug.

Daisy came out later and ran about. Unfortunately she chose to run through one of the trenches and got filthy which didn't go down well at all and marked the end of her little outing. She's a proper little terrier all right

When we got back Skye was straight off to sleep and didn't want a chat about her day or a game with Daisy or even any supper. Must have been a good day

Take care

Daisy gets a shock

We got off to a busy start this morning with some sheep to move and then found the Angus bull was missing. We had a good look round his field, but oh no, nothing big and black to be seen. It took us a while to work out what the big brute had done – he'd walked out along the burn, under the main road and up the other side. I was keen to chase him about and scamper him back to his field, but I was overruled and we just put him back to the shed for a while...we'll have to have a bit of a think about him tomorrow.

When we got back in we saw Daisy had been up to her tricks again and had upset Skye who had had a little pop at her to teach her a lesson. Skye's pretty patient but when she does get cross it's best to just get out of the way if you can – she's been known to bite people she doesn't know if they come into the yard. We never did find out what Daisy had done as Skye wasn't telling and Daisy was jabbering nervously at us all. Skye got told off a bit and went off to her bed muttering – I definitely heard the words "Daisy" "lah-de-dah" and "spoilt" as she went. Daisy asked me what she could do to get back into "Auntie Skye's" good books – I just said grovel, then grovel a bit more. She looked a bit doubtful...

Anyway all was back to normal later in the day when we got back in (we'd been getting the barley ready to feed to the cows). Skye hasn't got a bad bone in her body and was out sitting in the sun with Lah-de-dah lying on her feet. Thank goodness – I couldn't put up with Skye sulking and Daisy wailing all night.

Take care

Cows break out

There was lots of early excitement this morning. I could hear the cows shouting from my bed so I knew something was up. They're not very cunning, the cows. You'd think if they got out of the field that they would keep quiet and make the most of it, but oh no, it's all shout, shout, shout – "Look at us, we're out". Then their friends from the next field start up and before you know it you could hear the racket in Wooler.

They weren't keen to go back in but we persuaded them in the end and then went off to put back some sheep that had got though the fence in all the excitement. All in all, a very good mornings work. Everything else was as it should be, thank goodness. A girl can only take so much rushing about, you know.

As we got in, Daisy was just getting up and wondering what all the fuss was about - she doesn't like the cows much - they're too big for her.  I told her not to go out onto the road for a while (she's not allowed out on her own anyway) as it was covered with cow muck, which would clash with her lovely white coat.  She just scowled at me - she loves getting covered with muck, but she's only a puppy.

Take care

Moving bulls

I was up good and early this morning, Saturday or not. We had cattle to move about and I wanted to make sure I was ready. When we'd finished, we had to move the Angus bull in with the other bulls. He's a nice old boy and gets on with the other bulls really well – much to disappointment of the gimmers in the field who came rushing over expecting a fight! I'll give them a fight, the bored little devils.

Here's a picture of the bull

We thought Princess lah-de-dah was dead when we got back in. No sign of her getting up until nearly 11am. Skye just looked envious – she loves a lie in, but she loves riding on the bike even more and we do that first thing. Choices, choices...Mind you, she makes up for it later in the day with a good nap when she gets in. Daisy usually manages to join her, but I just like to get back out again.

Still no sign of my new tup – that's always a bit of a worry but Skye tells me it'll be here soon enough, and too soon for her. I am trying to be patient, but it's hard you know.

Take care

Another new tup

You'll never guess. I've only just found out. Oh boy, oh boy. We're getting another new tup – that's three in the last week and bodes really well for the lambing. I haven't seen it yet, and I hope it doesn't take as long to get here as the other two did, but it's REALLY GOOD NEWS.

Needless to say, Skye disagrees. She just rolled her eyes and took herself back to her bed and not even her little mucker Daisy could cheer her up.

Went into Wooler this afternoon to pick up some bit and pieces – I thought we might be going to pick up the tup, but no such luck. Let's hope they don't forget...

Anyway, Skye has just asked how to spell retirement. Daisy is helping (?) her with a letter asking if she can officially retire before the next lambing, and preferably before the next winter. That should be a good read – not an ounce of common sense between them, but I wouldn't mind if she starts taking it a bit easier (if that's possible). We'll see, but I think she's barking up the wrong tree.

I'm off to settle down by the window and look out for the tup. It's good to be busy, busy, busy

Take care

Dogs driving me daft

20 September 2011

It's far too quiet for my liking at present.  we are having a couple of easy days after bringing home all the bales.  I ask you!  I don't feel tired in the slightest.  Fit as a fiddle, me.  Of course, Daisy and Skye are really happy, the lazy rascals.  They just love pottering about together - mostly looking for holes to dig and they always come back in muddy.  As thick as thieves they are.

Daisy has been rolling in sheep muck (again) so she's not very popular at present (oh dear).  Puppy or not, she's going to have to learn that she'll never get into the upstairs kennel smelling like that!  And Skye is just being naughty encouraging her to do it.  What a pair...

Let's just hope we can get on with my list of sheep jobs soon.  Just for my own sanity...aaarrgh

Take care

Bales away and tups home!

We’ve finished the bales at last.  Just as I was starting to get a bit stiff from all the sitting, but it’s over. Jerry said if he sees the bale trailer again this side of Christmas we can burn it, he and I.   Joy, now I can get back onto all the jobs on my list.  Sheep, sheep and more sheep, oh with the odd cattle day in as well.

Looking around this morning we saw 8 ewes in with the cows, naughty little things reckon there’s more grass in that field.  Funny thing is that they’re probably right, but that’s not the point.  We’ve put them on a diet until the end of the month, and then we start getting them ready for the tup.  Look on the bright side though, they helped me get the stiffness out of my legs!

Daisy has been a pest this morning jabbering about me – I’ve been out for three days on the tractor and you’d think I’d been away for a month.  Still it’s nothing a bit of a growl can’t sort out...anyway, she’s only a puppy so I suppose I’ve just got to put up with it.

But – the best news of all – the two new tups appeared.  Big strapping lads both of them.  I introduced myself straight away just to make sure they know who’s in charge so I’m not expecting they’ll cause any problems.  It’s so exciting, I can just feel us getting ready to put the tups out and in my book that just means one thing...lambs.

Take care

Missing tups?

Well, you certainly get some thinking time when we're leading bales – I spent a lot of my time thinking about the new tups I'm expecting. I wonder if they're lost? Or worse still, stolen? Best not to think about it too much. Surely they'll be here soon? I always ride in the tractor when we set off and keep my eye on the bales as well as making sure there are no sheep about that need my attention. Unfortunately there weren't any today, but it was so wet I didn't really mind.

Here's a picture of us in the field just about to set off home – I'm in the tractor, and Daisy and Skye would probably be running round the field chasing each other as usual.

When we got in it was sheep dog trials on the TV. I don't like the TV much (it's just too noisy for me) and would rather be working sheep than watching other people pretending to work sheep. It's just rubbish really... Daisy and Skye were fascinated by it (I rest my case...). In fact, I think Skye might like it a bit better than football, and she really enjoys that – mind you she enjoys watching me work and she says this is much better as there's no chance of her being called off the bike to do some running. She's a lazy old rogue for sure, and you certainly wouldn't want her looking after your last sheep, but we all like her as she is (anyway, I don't want any competition for work).

Hmm... I'll think about all my sheep tonight and tick them all off. That always relaxes me.

Bales, bales and more bales

I've been helping get the bales home today – we've got lots to bring home and I sit in the tractor and keep an eye on things. I like watching out of the back window looking at the bales being towed along – today we had two trailers towed behind us because we need the field emptied quickly. Skye joined in for a while (she looks out ahead of us), but she prefers her bed to the tractor really and only came out to see if she might be missing something more exciting.

You just wouldn't believe how much straw the cows need. They use some everyday in the winter – we use it to make their sheds more comfy and they also get some mixed up with their feed. Fancy that – enjoying straw...not my cup of tea I can tell you. Just give me a nice tasty bowl of biscuits any day. Still, getting straw in is always a good job to get done.

Daisy came out to the fields a couple of times – she loves to run about in the stubble once the crops are cut and she wanted to see a combine working. Skye and I gave her a bit of exercise as well, so I reckon she'll sleep well tonight. Mind you she got a scare today – while we were in the field a huge great big fox ran out from in front of the combine. I don't think Daisy had ever seen a fox before because she jumped a mile, but Skye kept an eye on her and would have stopped the fox if it had run towards her (nothing dangerous gets near any of Skye's family) – but we've got to keep on our toes, Skye and I, to make sure the little dog doesn't get into bother.

Looks like tomorrow is going to be just as busy

Take care

Moving sheep

What a great day I've had today. We went back to the farm I was born on and delivered a whole load of gimmers (well, three loads to be exact). It was a long day, but what fun – loading sheep, counting them, splitting them up into groups – we were doing all sorts. It was a bit sad of course to be seeing the back of any sheep (especially since I've yet to see any replacements) but we were pleased with them and they looked really well. Skye pretty much stayed indoors today – she certainly doesn't like sheep days and was muttering that she'd gladly help get rid of the whole lot of them, but wasn't going to be bothered to help if we were leaving any here. She's a character all right. Barking mad, but a character.

I'm getting quite used to my day kennel now. In fact, now that I've realised that I only go there if I've got more work to do later, I fairly skip into it. A great place.

When I got back in the evening, the Princess was chewing gently on a cuddly teddy of some sort. It looks like Mandy has been out and found some soft toys for the soft lump. Anyway, she's made up with this teddy, but I've told her to keep it clear of Skye – with her big sharp teeth – unless she wants to find out exactly what it's stuffed with. Mind you, Skye would be doing well to prise it off her in the first place, and Daisy would be off howling to get Mandy pretty quickly if she did have it taken from her so there's hope for it yet!

Take care

It’s all go

More wind today – I'm starting to get used to it now. It helps that I've been so busy. First of all the gimmers had to be brought in again and sorted through – rather reluctantly because we were sorting out a bunch to go away and still no sign of any replacements. Don't people know how much I like my sheep? It's all very concerning...

Then the combine turned up and we rushed about getting all the corn in. The cows were very happy to see that going on, so we had to shut the door of the grain store pretty quickly when we'd finished so they don't remember where it all went. That wouldn't have worked if it had been Daisy watching where some of her food had gone – she's got a memory like an elephant where that's concerned.

Had some really good news late in the day – my quad bike came back from the menders. Fantastic. I can't wait until tomorrow, but Skye was a little disappointed to see it back as she'd enjoyed not having it.

It's all go, go, go at the moment – just how I like it

Take care

Windy Day

What a day it's been today. Pouring down first thing and gale force winds all afternoon. So much for the Indian summer Skye and Daisy were talking about the other day – wishful thinking if you ask me as they both like lying in the sun in the back garden.

I must say, I was a lot happier with the rain than the wind. If truth be told, I don't really like it windy. In fact I positively dislike it. Why? Well everything moves about so much all the time in the wind, especially the trees, and I hate moving trees. I just hate them. It's been exhausting outside having to keep such a close eye on them, great big rustly things that they are.

What was even more annoying was that Daisy was really enjoying the wind – she's a proper little terrier and afraid of nothing (don't get the idea that I'm afraid of moving trees though, I just don't like them, honestly). She and Skye just sat out watching everything whistling past them, grinning. I don't think they're quite right in the head you know, it's certainly not my idea of a good time.

I'm hoping it's a bit better tomorrow as we've got a full day of sheep planned. It's so exciting thinking about it, I can almost forget about the trees.

Anyway, I'm off for an early night – got to get my beauty sleep...

Take care

Barley ready soon?

I was up early this morning thinking about the new tups. No sign of them yet, but Daisy is sure they're definitely bought – she saw them in the big tent. It's not easy being as patient as me.  Everything else seemed fine this morning when we looked round – apart from the miserable weather. Drip, drip, drip and we're still waiting to get all our barley harvested.

The cows are getting a bit worried now they know it's not yet safely stored away for them to eat in the winter. I keep telling them it'll be ok and that we'll get it as soon as it's sunny, but you know what cows are like – they just worry all the time. Worry about grass, worry about which field they're in next, worry about not having anything to worry about...

Anyway, we're all set for the combine now. I helped get the feed store ready today and that cheered the cows up.

Here's a picture of some cows keeping an eye on the clouds

Take care

Kelso Tup Sale

Everything was fine outside first thing this morning, which was a bit of a surprise really since we'd been weaning lambs yesterday. I wasn't sorry about that though as to be truthful, I was feeling a little stiff after yesterday – not that I would let that slow me down!

I came back in and had a snooze and must have dropped right off into a Skye-like sleep because when I woke up much later, Daisy was jabbering in my ear that she'd been to the Kelso tup sale and did I want to hear all about it (a tup is a male sheep)? Too right I did! Starting with how she'd managed to go without me...Anyway, apparently there were these huge tents full of tups of all sizes and shapes that were being sold. Daisy was a bit worried at first that she was going to be sold, but no such luck (only kidding!). The good news is that we've bought a couple – I can't wait to see them even though they're not my favourite type of sheep. Great big stubborn, smelly things that they are.

The bad news is Skye is fed up – tups mean lambs, which in her book mean trouble. With a capital T. Looks like I'll be glad of the sleep I had earlier as she'll be chuntering away all night about this now. With a bit of luck Daisy will learn not to talk to me about more sheep in front of Skye – but she's still only a puppy.  You see, I don't think Skye counts at all well so I'm sure she'd never have noticed the new ones, but she certainly will now she's been told about them. Oh dear...

Take care

Weaning Lambs

What a busy day we've had today. I'm absolutely exhausted and have hardly moved since my supper. But a really good day, getting some of my jobs for the month ticked off straight away – and so soon after making my list out.

We got all the ewes and lambs in and gave the ewes a special injection that they need each year. Then we split them up into two with lambs going to one end of the farm and ewes the other. I always feel a little bit sorry for them, but to be honest, the ewes don't grumble too much and almost seem pleased for the peace and quiet, and the lambs are just the lambs – really annoying all the time with their mischief and pranks. Anyway, if we leave it any later we won't be ready to send the tups out so I'm pleased to have it done.

One of Mandy's pets – Bleaty – is sulking though. She was born very small and lived in the house for a long while (Skye helped look after her – I was too busy to help) and she has got really tame. She's got really greedy as well. I must admit, I don't really like it when we keep one of the pets because they won't do as they're told. Anyway, these must be her first lambs and she just couldn't believe they'd gone with the others AND that she hadn't been given any special food to make up for it. She was having a right grumble to anyone that was listening (which wasn't me, I can tell you).

Here's a picture of Bleaty when she was a lamb, and Auntie Skye making sure she's OK

I'll get a good night's rest that's for sure

Take care

Daisy’s exercise plan

We've been busy overnight, Skye and I, working out how we can get Daisy some exercise to keep her nice and trim. She's getting very worried about all the talk of getting her weighed. To be honest, Skye was snoring slightly and had her eyes closed while she was meant to be thinking (and got very cross when I suggested she might not be pulling her not insubstantial weight).

Anyway I've come up with a cracking plan which involves Skye letting Daisy jump all over her in the back garden, while I go out and get on with all my work (I can't look after the farm and be Daisy's personal trainer).

To be honest, Skye is looking a bit broad in the beam as well and could do with the exercise – two problems solved. Skye disagrees and reckons she's just big boned. Big boned between the ears if you ask me...

I think she'll do it for Daisy though. She certainly hasn't come up with a better plan and likes the idea of staying at home for a bit each day now it's getting a bit colder.

Which reminds me, I must get my list of jobs out – I always enjoy looking ahead to my work

Busy, busy, busy

We've had such a busy time over the last couple of days – I didn't have any time at the computer yesterday at all. Well, I would have had plenty but the day kennel in the yard has reared it's ugly head again. Apparently I was too dirty to come in yesterday lunch-time, so I had my lunchtime rest in there. Skye and Princess la-de-dah somehow both managed to get inside, but I think that shows who does all the work around here. It's not a bad little spot really – I've got a room (with cushions) and a yard in a nice sheltered corner, and I managed to get a good rest.

We had lots of cows in yesterday morning – once we'd finally got them out of their field, and we kept one back in as she was a bit poorly. Oh, we kept the bull back as well – he needs to come out now and he's a bit grumbly about it, but he doesn't scare me with his rumbling on. Plenty of things do scare me, but not these lumbering old devils.

Then in the afternoon, we got on with finishing putting up all the barriers in the cattle area, mending fences and hanging a few gates. We're planning to be getting the sheep in again soon so it's nice to see that all finished.

Daisy is worrying again – there was talk last night of giving her a weigh in on the scales and the 'D' word (diet) was heard. Poor little thing – she loves her food, so with luck Skye and I can run it off her in the garden instead. She likes that.

Take care

A busy sheep day

What a good way to start the week off – I needed to bring all the gimmers in so we could have a look at them. They were in a field miles away and they weren't pleased to be taken away from the sun and grass, but I didn't take any nonsense from them and soon had them on the way. We had a bit of an upset when a great big lorry zoomed up the road but apart from that, I really enjoyed it. Unlike Skye, who stayed firmly sat on the bike – she said she was in reserve in case I needed help. I think she was just being idle, but I don't mind - I'm happy to do her sheep work as well. Can't get too much of it, but I'm a bit stiff now.

Lunchtime didn't go quite so well. Whilst I was pleased to see a Bonio biscuit coming my way (Skye got one too – they're our favourites), I wasn't so pleased to be receiving it in our new day-time kennels outside. We were pretty mucky though. Anyway, during the afternoon we had a good look through them I soon forgot I'd been out all day, and Skye managed to get indoors before we started up again after lunch so she was really pleased with herself. All in all, a pretty good day – the sheep went back to their field and I came in for a snooze. I went out like a light, dreaming about sheep until my supper turned up. Joy...

Here's a picture of some gimmers looking like they are cooking up some mischief.

Take care.

Getting ready

We've had a busy day today getting the sheep pens ready for next week. It's a great feeling looking forward to a few sheep days. The only slight cloud on the horizon is that the barley looks like it's also ready now, so I bet that we'll end up getting that combined first, but hopefully it won't take too long. Skye isn't too pleased to see the pens up again, but both she and Daisy are wondering whether the barley might be edible. Daisy says she's definitely going to give it a go and find out

One piece of REALLY GOOD NEWS though – the caravan door was left open for a while today and I managed to get a sneaky look in. Had to be quick so I couldn't be too sure, but it looks like I'll be very comfy this year when it comes to lambing – lots of chairs and a carpet. Bliss.

Anyway, I'm off to bed – lots to look forward to tomorrow

Take care

Apples

Ho hum, holiday cottage changeover day again.

We had a busy start this morning with sheep back in with the steers and heifers. I didn't mind though as it gave me a chance to have a run out and to teach the sheep who's boss. I quite enjoyed myself.

After that it got a bit quieter though – changeover day isn't my favourite as everyone is busy in those wretched cottages. I can't see how it takes so much time to get them ready. We kept ourselves busy though Skye, Daisy and I catching up on a bit of rest. Daisy was still working on her list of favourite foods from yesterday but struggling with her spelling – she's only a puppy still, and Skye was no help snoozing away all the time. After a while I took pity on her and helped her write it out. I certainly got a shock as top of a VERY long list was apple. I had to check it with her. Twice. I mean, apple – crunchy fruity things that grow on trees. Who ever heard of a dog eating apples? Skye probably would do but she eats everything.

Here's a picture of Daisy as a puppy.  I think this might be where the apple problem started...

I despair of those two greedy little devils, but tomorrow's another day and let's hope it's a busy one (I wonder if there's a job we could teach Daisy to do?)

Take care

Things are looking up

After all my recent worries, at last a bit of good news. Today they both went off to a sheep sale AND I saw them put the chequebook into their bag. I didn't go as I get a little excited and have to stay in the car. I know what goes on though – lots and lots of sheep are brought past and you pick the ones you like best. My problem would definitely be leaving any behind so probably best not to go in. Anyway, it looks as though I might be getting some more little playthings if it's true that my gimmers are going to be sold.

I watch all lorries coming to the farm very carefully at this time of year. Especially the big ones that could be carrying lots of sheep – it's so exciting. Definitely collie Christmas, and I've got my list sent in already. Skye's wondering why we need more sheep if we're going to be lucky enough to get rid of some. As far as she's concerned the only good thing about the sheep market is the canteen, which has got Daisy interested – she's busy making a list of her favourite food to take in with her in case she can't read the menu. I'm sure they just do things like this to annoy me, but it won't work. Well, not much anyway.

I'll be up good and early tomorrow. Plenty of jobs to keep on top of – joy, joy, joy

Take care

Breakdown

Today started off pretty well. I managed to get some sleep last night and no more talk of selling my gimmers, which is a relief. When we looked round this morning, everything was fine.
Brendan was round again and we got a good start on chopping up wood for the winter. That's a pretty good job to see started as I really like a good fire after being out on a winters day – even so, I'm always amazed how close Tinker and Skye can get to a fire without setting themselves alight.
Then - disaster!! My quad bike broke down. Skye and I were just riding home at the time, so I blamed her which made her pretty cross. I just couldn't help myself, but I didn't really mean it. It looks pretty serious as Jerry was taking bits off it for quite a while. How can I check the sheep now? I took myself off to get some thinking done just in case it can't be fixed by tomorrow. I mean, I've got a big responsibility looking after everyone and I'm not sure they can quite see how serious it is!
Anyway, after a phone call and a long anxious wait the broken bike was collected sometime after dark and we've got a replacement to use while it gets repaired. I wasn't able to get out to see it, so I hope it's a nice one. What a relief though...
I'm not sure my nerves can stand much more -  it might be me that breaks down next, so here's a nice picture of Skye and me in happier times – when the bike was behaving and we had just caught a sheep we wanted to check.  A very satisfying day...

Take care

A new worry

We had a little lie in this morning – didn't get going until about 8-ish. Skye was in heaven and was having such a good sleep I didn't think she would ever wake up. I don't much like a lie in, even though I knew it wasn't a day off you just can't be sure. Anyway, once we were up and about we had a good look round, and found that the cows we moved yesterday seemed to have lost the use of their legs they were so full. Every single one of them (including the calves) were lying down. Lazy devils I say, but I could see that Skye was envious.
Daisy came out to see us this morning – usually she potters about at home, but this morning she made such a fuss she was brought out for a walk. She had clearly just had a bath - looked like a Persil advert she was so clean, but she didn't look so good when she went back in again I'm afraid. She's a mucky little pup really, so it looks like she'll be down with us again tonight.
Not that I'll get much sleep. Skye said she thought she heard chat this evening about selling some of my gimmers. It always happens to me in September – out they go, to be replaced by ewe lambs. I don't understand why I can't have both - I've just got the gimmers nicely behaved (if we've got to get rid of some sheep, I say let the pet lambs go.  They're nothing but trouble). And what happens if the lorry that brings my new lambs gets lost? It's just one worry after another, but let's hope Skye just misheard. Yes, that's what I'll tell myself – she must be mistaken, after all we've just bought a lambing caravan so we must be keeping all the gimmers...definitely...
Here's a picture of some of them looking happy to be here.  I'll run a "bleat if you want to stay campaign" just to make sure...

Take care

Moving cattle

I've had another busy morning. We've been thinking about moving Flakey and his cows for a day or so, and yesterday we finished repairing the fence in their new field, so today we opened the gate for them and stood back. They were ready to move, that's for sure and got their heads into the new grass straight away. Chomp, chomp, chomp.

Flakey is one of our Charolais bulls and he's huge – really, really huge (the others are pretty big too). He's a nice old fellow but I keep my distance from him. I think he's a bit spoilt as well – often he gets a long scratch when we check the fields in the morning even before we check the sheep. I don't really mind but usually I'm keen to finish my jobs before we get too distracted.

Here's a picture of Flakey looking for a scratch. What a big soft lump he is.  Don't you think?

Take care