;Our first morning's work done!!  We woke to 0 degrees and some fresh snow.  Matt had come up to check on the premature calf born yesterday.  He saw no signs it had nursed yet, and with the cold, the window was closing pretty fast.  We helped him set gates and fences and herd the mom down through fence chutes to a small barn.  Then carried the calf down to the barn.  We helped maneuver mom into a gate that locks her head in place.  Matt then worked to get a milk stream flowing.  Betsy worked with the calf, and the calf in fact began sucking and getting milk.  Matt milked the other side, and used  tube to quick deliver a quart or so of milk directly into the calf's stomach.  The colostrum is so important at this point, for immunity and strength.   All went well.  Matt had other concerns including a trip into Livingston to the doctor with one of his children. So Betsy and I took over getting water buckets and hay for Mom.  With the calf standing and actively nursing, Matt felt the odds had shifted this morning from 50% chance of surviving to 95%.  Doesn't mean it is a done thing, but it sure feels good to see the progress!  Betsy and I will head in to Livingston for provisioning, then periodically check hay and water for momma when we return.
Glorious sunny and very cold morning!