We are certainly experiencing some good ol’-fashioned summer weather. I don’t want to complain, but it sure makes me nervous about equipment and the risk of fire. My tractor tends to run a bit warm, so I spend all my time staring at the temperature gauge and switching between my sunglasses and my cheaters to make sure I see things correctly.
Since I am still operating with only one tractor, I spend a lot of time switching equipment around. It isn’t bad, but hooking up the baler is difficult because the PTO is so darn heavy that holding, pushing and lining it up takes a lot of effort.
I have been recruiting others to help with that part when I can. My cousin Charlie told me to rig up something that holds it in place while I line and push. I don’t have a super creative mind that way, and for the most part, someone is usually nearby. (I am sure people will dread hearing from me.)
Shane has been coming out to rake and cut, so that has been very helpful and keeps me at the station a little longer. I thought I would hold off baling if I could in hopes of cooler temperatures, but that hasn’t been happening these past few days. The thing is, you gotta make hay when the sun shines!
Things are progressing nicely at the Station. The spring cereals are all headed out now. We have some persistent weeds that I may have to take care of once again. I am holding off on that as well because the thought of putting on a spray suit really doesn’t appeal to me.
We planted our last corn plot for the diagnostic day. We are trying to plant at different depths, and I am not sure how successful we are, but we are giving it our best effort. The corn specialist said he is happy to speak to whatever we provide him! I will use this as your reminder to register for the event! We are continuing to get businesses interested in attending and setting up displays. You will want to join in! This event will feature a forage focus as well, so there will be something for everyone!!
Last week Quinn and Paiton Veldhuisen hosted our 4H meeting. It was so great to see their excitement about our coming to visit their farm and 4H animals. They are doing a great job of preparing for the fair. (That is only one month away.) I am hoping I can find time to take something to the fair, but I can say these long, hot days don’t make me feel like fighting with any animals. I know the weather will change, and I will do my best to find time to get something trained.
I was supposed to be in Southern Ontario next week for meetings, but with all that is going on, I made the grown-up decision to stay home. I have asked for a Zoom link so I can still join in, but this way I can keep on farming!
