My mantra for the last few weeks has been “my house is untidy but the calf shed is in pristine order.” I give a pointed look at my visiting friends, encouraging them not to look around too hard. Most of them know the situation. It is difficult enough to keep one house tidy without adding another dimension. My priority has been the calf shed. It is humming. Over the years, we have learned to manage our resources and our energy. The spring for farming families is wonderful but manic. Finally, the sun is shining. It is phenomenal how quickly the countryside is changing. Tractors are starting to roll and fertiliser is being put out. The cows’ coats are shining up and the grass is growing.