Needed to move the 2nd trough back to it's original position, as running the extension cords from the chicken house wasn't working, kept tripping the power. So moved the empty trough lower down the veggie garden to the end of the one extension cord, added a stake with many outlets (an outside one for Christmas lights) then added another extension that reached the 2nd trough in the main pasture. Switched them both on, no tripping, and both started heating. Success :). Eventually got the water running into the empty trough, then moved the water to the newly moved one I had to tip over so that I could move it, and then finally, filled the one in the lower barn enclosure too. Then dragged the hosepipes down the driveway to empty them, and dragged them back to the outside tap ready for tomorrow, when I'll do it all again.
While still outside busy with the 2nd trough, had to chase Seasaidh out of the feeder, twice. This last week, Gabriel attacked it and pulled off one of the feet, so it now stands lobsided. Although I hunted for the u-shaped piece yesterday before putting a fresh bale out for them, I couldn't find it anywhere. Now that side is low enough and Seasaidh is taking advantage. Thinking cap on, can't double ring it yet as I don't have enough bolts and washers to put the 2nd one Gabriel took apart last week back together, but could use a log under that side. Found a appropriate sized log, carried it out to the hay ring, but couldn't lift the ring to insert it. Left it there, went and got the tractor for the 2nd time today and used the bale spear to lift the ring, hopped off, inserted the log, perfect.
After finishing in the milk parlour, while filling Mandas' jars in the kitchen, I saw Gabriel attacking the metal feeder ring, lifting it off the ground, tossing hay everywhere and then eating while the ring rested on his back. Bloody bull, turning food into bedding. Rushed outside, shouting at him to stop. When I reached him, he did that sideways kick in the air, and ran off a little ways, giving me the eye. Stinker. I turn my back and he saunters back to it and tosses it up in the air again, over his back. So I shouted again and charged him, as fast as a fat woman can charge over partially frozen ground with huge ruts and divots. He waited until I reached him, then danced away again. It's a game for him, but for me, not so much. I gave up, I can't stand outside all day making sure he doesn't do that. My wet feet were freezing and my hands red and sore. Hay isn't cheap and I gave the 2 lots of cows the 2 bales I bought from Mike yesterday. At least Seasaidh can't reach to climb inside anymore so she won't poop on it, but there seems to be more hay outside the ring than inside it, I picked up as much as I could, but it's rather pointless as he'll just chuck it out again. Seriously thinking about butchering him, as he sees the bale feeders as a challenge. Hmmm, another 500 lbs of meat for the freezers.
Made pizza for lunch which I only got to eat at around 4pm with all the running around outside today.
Checked the water in the chicken house, defrosted nicely while sitting on the heated pedestal. Happy that it wasn't tripping from that one piece of heating equipment.
Time for a shower and to wash my hair, then bed as the house is cold. About 30 plus degrees warmer than outside, but I feel chilled. My feet haven't thawed yet and I'm actually considering a bath as the shower isn't that effective in thawing frozen bits and bobs. A jucuzzi sounds great right now :).
Angel came for drinks the other evening and I opened a bottle of South African Alto. Was rather nice. Checked on the 6-gallons of Merlot brewing down in the basement, Angel said it looked and smelt just like hers, so a few more months, and we'll have wine. Nice, non-sulphured wine :).
Winter has only started and I'm tired of it already. Oy vey :(((