I was exhausted this afternoon and laid down to rest; this has been an intense week for me. Maria came in to check on me and said she was going out to feed the animals.

I jumped up, put some boots on, and grabbed the Leica 2.

I wanted to go with her, help her if I could on this cold and rainy day, and capture some of the work she does on the farm with joy, love, and without complaint.

I followed her around for a half hour. It was impressive, what she did with good cheer and purpose within half hour.

Come and see my Willa Cather Woman at work.

She shovels the manure and distributes it throughout the pasture. Her own pasture rehabilitation program.

She changes the bird feeder every day. The birds are hungry now.

She carries the hay out of the barn and out to the feeders for the donkey and the sheep. Fate is crouched at the ready. But for what?

Every day, Maria throws some bird seeds to the Imperious Hens

This is just the afternoon chores. She also feeds Minnie in the basement and goes out to make sure the hens are snug in their roost.

She chats with donkeys and visits with sheep. In between, she makes and sells quilts, potholders, hanging pieces, scarves, calendars, postcards, and magnets.