Epsom & Utica News

by Faye Ashton

Hopefully, all have enjoyed this summer so far, as the forecast tells us we are heading into cooler weather, almost autumn-like.

I have waited for News, but everyone seems to be busy making the last days of August count.

At the farm, we have enjoyed watching the barn swallows swoop around the calf hutches and yard, but their time here is usually from April 25th to August 25th. I searched for them this evening, and they have gone. We’re not sure where they go. This year we had quite a few more swallows than in previous years.

Also, we just realized we don’t have pigeons like every previous year. They are always around the buildings and sometimes nest in the shed. None at all.

Actually, the fly and mosquito population is much lower than in other years. We know wet conditions increase the fly and mosquito numbers, so I guess this very hot, dry summer does have one or two benefits.

The cicadas are still singing loudly each evening, enjoying their time with us.

We are thankful for the 40 mm of rain that fell on Tuesday evening. Our land sucked it up after a month of starvation.

On Tuesday evening, the Uxbridge 4H dairy calf club was all together leading their calves on our front lawn. Each year, we get a front row seat. For some, this was a first time, but for others it is old hat now. The rain stopped just long enough for them to parade and improve their leading technique. They all retreated to the cleaned-out shed for a social time together.

One week remaining for school families before heading back into a routine. Both Port Perry and Uxbridge fairs are on the horizon for all to enjoy.

The matriarch of the Herrema Family, Helen, passed last week, and we send our deepest sympathy to her family, farming friends, and neighbours.

One Sunday left for services at the Glen, at 7 p.m. Church resumes in Epsom, at 10:30 a.m., in September.