A near blizzard today brought an abrupt end to our grazing season. We had rain overnight, and then this morning the wind moved in, the temperature dropped and the snow started falling. Actually, the snow was coming in horizontally rather than "falling."
That's really the worst possible combination for the horses -- first to get wet, then have the wind come up, followed by freezing temperatures and snow. They're already soaking wet and just get thoroughly chilled. So our employee Cindy and I headed out today to bring in the last of the horses still out on pasture. She got the above photo of me earlier in the day, leading blind Marie and blind Hawk in to the barns from our east pastures.
The snow and wind really picked up this afternoon, and all the horses are very snug and happy to be in their stalls for the night.
This weather system is bringing even lower temperatures with it ... while tonight we're going to be a respectable 17 degrees F (-8 C), for the next two nights our forecast low is 3 degrees F (-16 C), rising to a balmy 11 degrees (-11 C) by Friday night.
Winter may have arrived.
Keep warm, precious animals! Wishing you milder winter weather.
Posted by: Nina | December 03, 2008 at 08:14 PM
I hope everyone is warm and dry inside, now. Horses are quite the heat machines, though. With all the internal fermentation going on, they can stay outside in colder weather than you think they could be comfortable in. But rain is another matter. I think a warm Polartec blankie is in order.
Posted by: Janet in Cambridge | December 03, 2008 at 07:25 PM
The picture of you leading the horses through the snowstorm belongs on the front of greeting cards; it is just so perfect! Thanks for sharing.
MaryJane
Posted by: MaryJane Cooper | December 03, 2008 at 03:41 PM
That's a beautiful photograph.
Posted by: Lynn | December 03, 2008 at 11:51 AM
Aw, shucks. Colleen stole my thunder. Tucson, yesterday, had a high of about 77 degrees with a low this a.m. in the 40's. Today will be "colder," with a high in the low 70's.
But, no, it won't be like this all winter.
Posted by: Vicki Small | December 03, 2008 at 09:44 AM
Goodness! Hope everyone stays save and warm!
Posted by: Stacy | December 03, 2008 at 09:32 AM
I see more than a near blizzard in Montana; I see a loving, responsibile rancher taking care his beautiful animals.
Sending you a warm hug.... : )
Posted by: Boundforglory | December 03, 2008 at 09:27 AM
Not related to this post, but I just found you mentioned in the article about sanctuaries in 'Dog Fancy' this month. You should post and let the others know it is out there. Such nice pictures and accompanying article about you.
Posted by: Jill Merrick | December 03, 2008 at 09:20 AM
Gadzooks....now I know why I live in Florida...and here I was complaining about it being cold...it's 40 degrees...that's practically bathing suit weather for you guys!
Posted by: Debbie | December 03, 2008 at 07:37 AM
Keep warm my RDR friends! Boy, Winter came fast!!!!!
Posted by: Shirley * James * Portland, OR | December 03, 2008 at 12:41 AM
Brrrr, that was a quick switch for you all. Guess I shouldn't complain to be in 45 degrees at night & tomorrow daytime 80 degrees, then a little switch Thurs daytime, 60 degrees, sunny, no rain in months & months, San Antonio, TX. Everyone there stay warm & cozy!
Posted by: Colleen & Sweet Kitty Erin | December 02, 2008 at 08:31 PM