Cold Comfort

It has turned cold and wet here in Ohio.

Crops have been harvested, leaving the fields empty, muddy, and brown.

This time of year I warm my belly and my soul with bowls of rich stew created with the ingredients that I put up so lovingly in the summer.

But I'm not the only one looking for warmth.

When fields are harvested critters have to find new homes. This one built a nest under the inspection lid of my propane tank.

Unfortunately he's not a very good housekeeper. And I would prefer it if uninvited tenants didn't poop on my propane tank.

But I have to admit, I found it hard to evict this cute little fellow, especially after he winked at me.