Walking Again

So I am just starting to walk again.
My doctor made Physical Therapy sound optional, but given that I’m already in physical therapy for abdominal issues, I’m hardly going to skip making sure that my feet will be okay for years to come.  It’s no surprise that my physical therapist observed that I am really, really strong, but have little flexibility.  Labor that involves restraining animals and lifting heavy loads will do that.  This is a good time for me to focus on my overall body capabilities so that I start farming again at the top of my game.
I am just starting to walk comfortably into the barn and out of it.  Without good control of the ball of my foot and my big toe, I have to take it easy.  I am not confident that I’m going to be able to control the clutch of the tractor sufficiently, so I am holding back on doing tractor work for the time being.
Matt has done a fabulous job with the sheep.  It almost seems like a boon – he’s developed his own handling habits and ability to evaluate the sheep.  Without me to help, he’s harnessed his own observational skills and grown his confidence.  I can’t thank Matt enough for managing everything while I’ve been on the couch.
The sheep also recognize Matt’s work, as they now run to him first for petting and attention.  I don’t think I’m a stranger in their eyes, but I can hear the “where have you BEEN” in the way the sheep respond to me.  I wish I could go headlong into handling them and feeding them again, but I have to be very cautious that I don’t twist my ankle or get my foot stomped.  I am still fragile, and it stinks.
Some scenes from the barn, now that I’m back in it:
 

Published by cloverworks

A Vermont Sheep Farm and Homestead specializing Purebred, Registered Bluefaced Leicester and Border Leicester sheep, in fine yarn and pasture-raised lamb.

2 thoughts on “Walking Again

  1. Glad you are getting out and about again. I love to read your updates and look at your pictures. Love the barn. Do you clean it out mid-winter or just leave it until spring?

    1. Hi Callie,
      We may clean it out in mid-winter just because we are feeding hay that’s putting out a lot of waste. Typically, we would leave it all winter so that it stays warm and dry. Rotting manure gives off heat, warming the barn just slightly.

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