This morning, on December 5th, we woke up to the quiet, magical sound of the year’s first snowfall. There’s something comforting about watching soft flakes drift down over the trees, blanketing everything in a calm layer of white. I always love that peaceful beauty—but here on the homestead, snow also signals a long list of chores that need to be tackled before breakfast.
Snow may look gentle from inside the warmth of the house, but once it arrives, you immediately feel the shift. The animals need a little extra care, the structures need checking, and the land itself needs a quick winter tune-up. So with coffee in hand and boots laced up, I headed out to make sure the homestead was ready for the cold day ahead.
Preparing the Chicken Runs Before the Storm
Late yesterday afternoon, long before the first flake fell, I covered the chicken runs with tarps. Keeping those runs dry is essential when the temperature is hovering around freezing. Today’s high is only expected to reach 33 degrees, which means I have to do everything possible to keep the chickens warm, dry, and protected from frostbite.
The tarps help block wind, shed snow, and give the birds a dry place to scratch and move around. It’s one of the simplest yet most effective winter prep steps we take each year.
Morning Chores in Fresh Snow
After feeding the chickens and ducks early this morning, my first real task of the day was clearing the snow off those tarps. Snow may not seem heavy at first, but as it accumulates, it can create pressure that risks sagging or collapsing. A quick sweep every few hours keeps everything secure and prevents cold drips from forming in the runs.
From there, I made my way to the greenhouse. Snow on the greenhouse roof is a big concern because the paneled structure isn’t designed to hold much weight. I carefully cleared the snow from the top, making sure the panels were free from pressure and the sunlight could still work its magic once the clouds lift.
A Sweet Surprise in the Garden
Before heading toward the beehives, I decided to take a quick walk through the garden—mainly just to check that the rows were holding up well under the snow. To my shock and delight, the strawberry plants still had strawberries on them. Finding bright red berries tucked under a layer of frost felt like discovering treasure in December. It’s little surprises like that that make homesteading so rewarding.
Checking on the Bees After the Snowfall
Next were the bees, who depend on us heavily during the winter months. I gently brushed snow away from the hive entrances. Keeping the entrances open helps reduce condensation—a major winter enemy for honey bees. Moisture inside the hive can chill a colony far faster than cold air alone.
Thankfully, last week I had already wrapped the hives in thermal winter wraps and fed them sugar, ensuring they were well prepared for this cold spell. They were tucked in safely and ready for the weather that arrived overnight. Clearing the entrances was the final step in making sure everything remained balanced inside their tiny winter world.
Ensuring the Electric Fences Stay Powered
The last major job of the morning was checking on the electric fence chargers. Snow can block sunlight and prevent the chargers from pulling in enough energy. I wiped them off so that when the sun finally appears—hopefully later today—they’ll recharge properly. Predators don’t take snow days, so it’s crucial that the fences stay powered even in winter weather.
A Busy, Beautiful Start to Winter
The first snowfall of the year always feels magical, but it also brings a renewed sense of purpose. Winter on the homestead is a different rhythm—slower in some ways, but more demanding in others. Today reminded me how connected everything is: the chickens, the ducks, the bees, the garden, the greenhouse, the fences. Each piece relies on us a little more during these cold months.
Even though the day started early and the chores were plenty, I wouldn’t trade this life for anything. There’s something deeply satisfying about stepping back inside after a snowy morning knowing the animals are warm, the greenhouse is safe, the bees are secure, and the homestead is ready for whatever winter throws our way next.
Here’s to the first snowfall—and to all the work, beauty, and cozy days that come with it.
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