Time of the long shadows

Okay, you already know that winter is approaching and it's getting colder. But since last week, this is also becoming much more noticeable in the light. The farm itself is located relatively low in the valley and has about 3 hours of sunlight - if the sun is shining. However, our training route takes us up over 200 meters in altitude for the first 4 km to the plateau of Altevatn, where there is even more sunlight, but it's always about 4°C colder. However, it always feels like it's sunrise or sunset, which messes up the sense of time. By the way, our cars now also have snow chains, which helps a lot with braking, but it makes a lot of noise and shakes and rattles even more :D But we're slowly getting the sleds ready too, so everything is ready when the snow comes. The sleds are completely self-built here and are mainly made of ash, as it has long fibers and is relatively flexible. The sled consists of numerous individual parts, but there are no fixed, i.e. screwed or toothed, connections - everything is connected with ropes. This way, the quite massive sled maintains its flexibility and movability. By the way, we're also busy splicing ropes, i.e. braiding various lines for the teams. In the picture in front (white), you can see the pattern of a neckline, behind it in blue is one of my examples - pretty good, right? :)
Otherwise, the job still demands a lot from me... we're outside for at least 7 hours a day, in wind and weather as I said. Many tasks have become easier for me, but there are always new tasks coming up, and so I'm still usually pretty exhausted in the evenings and groan as I crawl into the bunk bed ;) My spoiled student hands now consist only of calluses, crusts, and bloody cuts, but they're becoming less sensitive. In general, life here is physically and mentally tougher. Interpersonally, it's not always easy with the 5 inhabitants of the farm, but I'm taking a page out of the dogs' book - I'm developing a thicker skin ;) In general, I'll probably bring a little more mass home, which is partly due to the constant physical activity and partly due to Regina's excellent food :D Because despite all the disagreements, the 5 of us still end up at the table together ;) I'm also getting more attached to the dogs every day and enjoy spending "extra" time outside - because cuddling always feels good :) By the way, the northern lights have also made an appearance again, the photo was taken lazily from the living room window - Haha, yes, life in the north does have its advantages ;)