Raindrops splatter against the window panes. In anticipation, we watch for the watery drops to turn to fluffy white snowflakes. Bare branches stand out against the white clouded sky. The chickens shake and ruffle their feathers, guarding against the freezing temperatures. The landscape is bleak except for the great fir and pine trees that appear bold green against the brown of the rest of the world. The black iron stove is almost constantly filled with a steady flame; it warms the room. Baske...