Much Has Happened ~

So much has happened since we last spoke, I'm not quite sure where to begin. The majority of it was good though life will throw us curve balls every chance it can. Every now and then when we don't see them coming we get blindsided. Such has been things around here to the extent that I have felt a little off-balanced. Writing didn't seem to get to the top of the priority pile that often and when it did it was soon knocked down the list by an emergency. I hope someone else can relate and it's not just me struggling to keep up.

We've come to the conclusion that some changes are needed to help the farm flow more smoothly through the challenging times. At present we are working through some ideas to carve out more time for ourselves. When the time needed to care for the livestock takes up more than what one is extending on themselves. Well, it is time for some changes. We figured it is time to either decrease the number of dependent animals or scale back on the "pampering" they are getting. We are choosing both options. After selling most of our Spring kids, we are down to 2 buckling left, who need new homes. Once they are sold our goat care will be easier and our milk production will be up. We are having to lock up the kids at night, so we can milk the does in the morning. Some still insist on nursing, even at 5mths of age and their mothers still let them. We are only milking once a day for a couple of reasons. One being we can't possibly use all the milk they could produce and two it effort to keep our evenings free for personal pursuits or just plain o' sitting. So we don't begrudge them them what little they get during the day. But we DO want our share of the milk.

Progress has been made on Cedar Hill, the horse/goat pasture, named for the large Cedar that stands in the middle of it. Fencing is a daily chore we are trying to work at in this heat. Which isn't for long once the sun gets high in the sky. We've let the goats & horses out into the area a couple of times to munch on the buffet out there. But someone has figured out where a small section of fence is not completed at the edge of the woods and keeps leading everyone out. Of course they all make a bee-line to my loaded plum tree. The one I've been intently watching for the fruit to turn ripe. Last year I put up 12 or so pints of jelly from this tree, besides all the fresh eating we could handle. Guess they will have to be banned from the area till all is completed. Here I was trying to be nice and let them have some fun in a new pasture. All it took was for one to ruin the opportunity for the rest of them. Though they didn't have to play "follow the leader" and could have stayed out in the pasture longer. Had they not given into peer pressure or should I say herd instinct.

We have also sold a number of laying hens this Spring also. Along with a few chicks and biddies we hand raised. The egg production count was getting above my extra refrigerator space. So something had to give or go! So we sold a few and have been dishing up boiled eggs treat to the remaining hens in an effort to keep the eggs as fresh as possible for our paying customers. Lon even gave away all the extra roosters to a couple of new goat buyers. Now all we have left at present are the roos we plan to hang on to for breeding purposes of the specific breeds we have. He has been putting them up in Roo-ville, but somewhere in the pen is an escape hatch. So they keep helping themselves back out to freedom with the hens. Some of our hens are looked quite ragged so we are trying to give them a break from the Roo's attention for awhile. Hence the locking up, as fertilized eggs are not a needed item right now. I have even pulled about 5 out of the barnyard and placed them in the play-yard of the B&B for some needed healing time . I am confident they will soon grow new feathers to shade their backs. Lots of rest and extra feed should do the trick. I may even go so far as trying my hand at making coverlets for the hens in needed of protection from the sun and our ever watchful flock Rooster, Big Boy. Who still likes to romance them from time to time. That is when he isn't being a watch-dog for them.

The Freedom Ranger chicks we got back the first of March, are now getting to harvest size. They are a heritage breed that is being used as a good choice for broilers. Growing slower than the "franken-stein" ones you find in the grocery store. But the upside is that we know what is being converted into their meaty parts from their food. (NO JUNK) Plus they are suppose to be more flavorful, due to the longer growing out phase. Next week we will start harvesting 4-5 each week, till all of them are either on the table or in our freezer. Time for heating up the grill and trying out some new recipes.

Speaking of recipes, I've started back on my cheese making with good results. Encouraged by my success and the multitude of yummy recipes for hard cheeses I keep finding. I've decided to order a cheese press, so I can venture out beyond the soft goat cheese I've been making. Bread baking is also a regular part of my week too. Finding a couple of new recipes that produce consistent results is a blessing. One in particular that we like is an Oatmeal loaf that makes great toast with a sourdough taste and some mighty fine grilled cheese sandwiches. I made a loaf this morning, but before placing it to rise a second time. I sprinkle it with cinnamon and raisins, rolled it up and then placed it in my prepared loaf pan. My experiment at making Cinnamon Raisin Bread for toasting. It is residing on top of my car in the garage as I type. I've found this heat is good for one thing ~ it helps my breads to rise quickly. Now if I could only find a way to bake them without heating up the kitchen from the oven.

Our garden is fully planted and we have little green tomatoes on our vines. Waiting for that first garden fresh matter to eat is hard. Watering has become a chore that has to be done daily, as we haven't had any rain to help us out. I'm using a soaker hose and rotating it to each row in turn across the garden. The garden area is larger than last year's, as we cleared out the last section of rocks and added 5 more rows to it. That's a lot of space added, but even so we still managed to fill it up. We have growing ~ 3 varieties of onion, 2 of garlic, 7 types of tomatoes equalling 40+ plants, 2 crowder pea crops, 2 types of cabbage, green beans, both yellow squash and zucchini, cantaloupe, sweet corn, sweet and red potatoes, cucumbers, a small row of beets to try, butternut squash and the last of my lettuce patch. That's a lot of plants that need regular watering in order to produce well. Our plan is to raise as much of our food as possible for fresh eating. Then supplement with some locally grown produce for putting away in the freezer and in my empty waiting canning jars for our winter pantry.

There is so much more I could share, but I am sure your time is just as spoken for as mine. Know that I think about my blogger friends often and I will try harder to sit down and drop you a note every chance I get.

getting more organized,
Deborah

Farm Trucks ~ Fireplaces

Much has transpired over the last few days. We have been seeing some cold nights and days for one thing. Making the fires in the fireplace a blessing. Lon worked extra hard this past Saturday to get the old wood heater installed, so we could enjoy our first fire in it. The heater is one we used to heat our old house with many years ago. The old thing is not a pretty sight, showing it's age, but it is working right now. Even though the blower makes a funny sound on high. Nothing that a little stove paint can't spruce up and with fingers crossed hopefully it will last awhile before it has to be repaired. Good news is it has put out a warmth that keeps our electric heat from coming on. The only down side is the trash that the logs create on the hearth and surrounding floor. I guess it will be a trade-off, free warmth for more sweeping. Now I will be on the look out for a dustpan and small broom to place within easy reach.

I have managed to get our bedroom, the bath and the dinning room decorated for Christmas. Also got our new tree up and decorated too. Hate stringing lights and am wondering if I can find a place to store it like I used to do with the lights still on, minus the decorations. Though I don't have a basement or a suitable place in sight, this might pose a problem. The combinations of holiday decorations and a warm fire made things quite festive here at the farm.

Lon made a trip over to Woodland for a round bale of hay for Sassie and the goats. It filled the back of his truck and then some. Can't beat a heavy duty truck for farm chores. Despite it's size it rolled off the bed of his truck easier than I thought it would. All the hay eaters wasted no time in jumping into it and munching away. Hopefully this will help stretch the hay bales we picked up recently to last longer than they would otherwise.

Rusty, our very first Roo has been hurt somehow, one leg badly enough that it keeps him from walking on it. He went missing for over a day before finally showing up. We had to caged him yesterday for his safety. As the other roosters were trying to fight him. It amazes me how they can sense when another one is weak. They will pick at it till they kill it, one way I guess to keep the flock strong. Can't stand to watch it though. Hopefully his legs will strength and we can return him to his rightful place as "King of the Roost" soon.

It must be the day for injured legs, for as I was doing the morning chores I noticed one of our Burbon Red turkeys was also standing still with one leg tucked under. It too would not bear weight on it and had to be caged till it heals. Makes me wonder if they are trying to jump off the roosts without watching where they are landing. So two hospital pens are now set up to add to our chores already established each day. Having to water and feed them separately requires a little effort, but not enough to keep me from doing it.

I also need to figure in the twice daily care of the 46 meat chicks (one died) to my chore time each day too. We are hoping the "brooder coop" we hauled home from our old place, an effort that took up most of yesterday and part of last night will help us with their care. It took ALOT of work to get it loaded on the back of a borrowed trailer. If it wasn't for our kind neighbor, Norman it would still be sitting halfway loaded at the other house. Traveling after dark was both a challenge and a blessing. As there wasn't many cars on the back roads and we didn't draw too much attention, especially from the local police. Getting home so late, we had to leave it still attached to Lon's truck. Requiring him to drive my car to work today, leaving me with no transportation. I am pretty sure he is going to enjoy his commute today and may even consider taking my car more often in the future.

We didn't get it home none too soon either, as Boots has discovered them and is thinking they would make great playmates. Kind of like fuzzy little pin balls that make a noise when you tap them.

Having no wheels today is okay, I have plenty to do right here and have no plans on going anywhere. Though there is that library book that needs to be returned. My stack of books has dwindled down to only 2-3. As I haven't had time to read much lately. Christmas preparations, farm chores and general maintenance is more than my days can handle . Not to mention getting ready for goat kidding coming up soon. And here I thought we would have time to rest some this winter. Like a certain little orange ball of fur curled up in my lap and arms. Sleeping peacefully unaware of the hindrance to my writing he creates. Mom is going to love sitting with Boots on her lap and to love on when they come down for Christmas in a couple of weeks.

Whew! Less than 2 weeks till Christmas. I can't believe it is so close!

Deborah

Changes on the farm

Yesterday brought much needed changes to the temporary living quarters for the chickens. Lon and I worked all day cleaning and re-working the pens, fencing and roosts for our flock of 62. Can't believe the number has grown so fast. Should of known when we kept having to go to the feed store for more food! They definitely have more scratching room here on the farm than before. Increased bug hunting should help with the feed bill. The biddies, all 14 of them were added to the free-ranging girls. They have grown so fast and we needed their play area for the 27 babies, who had bulged the sides of their pen beyond endurance. This group of Isa Browns and White Lace Wyanadottes were quite happy to run around and stretch their iddy biddy wings for the first time in their short lives. You would have thought it recess time on the playground for a bunch of kindergartners. Funny the biddies had been standing and looking out of the fenced in area at the hens and roosters out in the wide open world. But yesterday they stood and looked into their once enclosed area that the babies now occupied puzzled.

The building now looks more like a barn than before and all seem quite happy with their arrangements. Making the switches helped to make things easier for us to lock them up at night for their safety. Letting them out and serving breakfast each morning is a breeze too. Thanks dear one for all your hard work yesterday. The girls and I love it!

Amber and Sugar have continued to adjust and are getting use to our new surroundings and routine. Although they were determined to be where we were yesterday and pushed over the gate to their pen. Sitting at the table for lunch we decided that Amber's voice was being to easily heard. Only to be surprised a moment later to see her and Sugar's face pop up in the glass of our back doors. They love to be where ever we are and seem to think that they should be allowed indoors too. (Note to selves, re-enforce gate to goat pen.) They have discovered the plum tree in our yard and have scarfed up all the fallen fruit. Which has had me to scramble a few times to get the ones still good for our snacking. This morning Amber discovered that if she looked up there was plenty more of her sweet treats still hanging on the tree. Now I will have to go check the tree each morning before milking to gather in what is ready. At present we are gathering on the carport for our daily milking times between 7 and 7:30. Rain showers are not a good companion to successful milking. Though since moving the milking stand to it's new location we haven't had a shower to speak of. Uhmmm? I enjoyed milking her down in the pasture area under the shade trees. But staying dry was important too and now refrigerating her milk is a lot easier being closer to the house. Sugar spends her time tethered to a nearby tree with a pail of her own grains to munch on till we are done. Then all of us are off for our twice a day stroll around the property looking for the tasty leaves that they enjoy topping off their meals on. With so much space they have lots to pick from and with time we will be able to cut back, clear and open up even more browsing space for them. I know once we can get some permanent fencing in place and turn them out into their own space to play and nibble to heart's content, they will really begin to live the goat's life they were born for.

We do not have much to show in the way of producing our own food crops yet. As we had not moved in before planting time for a Spring garden. But we did put out 6 heritage tomato plants called 'Beefsteak" and two grape tomato plants that are looking good and already have small round orbs hanging amongst the yellow blooms. Six pepper plants have joined them on that side of the garden. An area that was broken up by a fellow fireman who came to do the much needed work on our driveway. Which is now void of humps and holes and is smooth to drive on. He even used his tractor to opened up the area next to it where the creek crosses under it. It looks so inviting, Thanks Mike!

Hopefully over the next hundred years we can remove the rock garden that occupies the space at present where we plan to plant a Fall garden. One thing for sure the sweet potato plants are growing strong and Lon says that I planted enough for the whole community of Woodland. If all 18 plants produce, I just might have. ;) Though one of my newly met neighbors up the road has a large field of corn. Mr. Palmer has already said I could get some of it when it comes in and I don't know for sure, but I would bet he would love to trade for some sweet potatoes too. I wish I had been able to capture a picture of him plowing his fields. It is a sight to see, as you don't find many who still work them with a hand plow and horse/mule power any more. Traveling back and forth to work on the house before moving we often saw him in the early or late light of the day working one row after another. I will have to keep my camera in the car and start driving by from time to time and to see if I can catch him in the fields for a snapshot. It's a priceless sight.

My to-do list continues to grow instead of dwindling as new projects are discovered now that we are living here. It still does not seem quite real, with each day bringing a new sense of peace to our lives. Hard work is not lacking around here, but it is satisfying work. Helping to flesh out a dream into reality for us. So much adventure to be discovered on our place, times to be shared and memories to be made. It is a joy to experience.

I have missed posting about our activities and had so much I wanted to share about the renovations on the house, funny happenings, set-backs and the challenges we faced. But busyness coupled with fatigue kept me off the computer. To try to go back and get caught up would be a HUGE undertaking for me. As I can I may sneak some before and after shots of the process if I can get the pics transferred to a usable file. So instead I have decided to let history be just that and share what is fresh and new in our lives here at Heartland Farm. It is no longer a farm lived out in our hearts and minds, but has become a farm lived on the land that was birthed in our hearts.

Enjoy your day. . . . . . I am,

Deborah

New Babes in Town

It was wonderful not to have to think about what day this is. Tax day! As we were able to get ours completed and filed last month. I do believe that it was the earliest we have ever had them ready. Instead for the past 2 days we have spent the time out at the farm, working on the house. Already it is taking on a new appearance as we remove the old to make room for the new. I believe the changes we are planning will give the place the look and feel of home for us. I catch myself standing in front of the windows looking out and daydreaming about how it will all look once we move in. Jason is helping us some and the days that he is there we get tons accomplished. More hands equals quicker success. We might actually make our proposed goal of moving in by the end of May, with his strong back and energetic stamina.

On the way back home last week we stopped off in Graham, Alabama to meet a lady I had been talking with about some baby chicks she was hatching. We have been looking for a local source of "Welsummers" to add to our flock without much luck this year. While looking through the GA Market Bulentin I was thrilled to see that she lived near our new home in Bowdon, Ga. A quick call and a meeting place was set for pickup. Ten, one week old chicks rode home with us that day to join the growing flock in our backyard when they are old enough. At present they are eating, sleeping and being baby chicks in a plastic tub in our living room. The tub has clear sides and we catch ourselves staring at them through it. A soft peeping is heard when they are awake and is like a sweet music to our souls. New life and another sign of Spring has joined us here.


The very next day "Big Mama" hatched out her second clutch of eggs. Five new biddies joined the Welsummers in the brooder box. One looks just like she did as a chick, cheery yellow with feathery legs, 2 are a honey gold with dark streaks in their fluff (Orphingtons possibly?)and 2 are black with yellow spots on their heads (future Barred Rocks?). Fifteen chicks all looking for a warm place to grow and giving Leah plenty to talk about. Her favorite thing is to point to one for me to pick up for a closer look and a gentle touch from a tiny finger. At present our chicken flock numbers at 38. Boy did that number climb quickly from the 16 we started with a year ago.


It was as if the "mothering" hormone was flowing through the chicken coop on the winds of Spring. For Mary (Barred Rock) became broody two days after Big Mama's deliveries last Saturday. On Tuesday I placed 4 eggs under this insistent Mother-to-be. Again all fat round ones. If all goes as smoothly for her we should have additional biddies to place in the brooder box on or about the 5th of May. We will be celebrating another birth that day as it is my daughter-n-law's birthday. We have definitely added new births and lives to our Spring this year. I look forward to having the opportunity to be apart of our goat's kidding (s) next year. I have been by my cat's side during labor and delivery in the past. But from what I have read on the milk-goats emails I receive, it is a wonderful experience. A little nerve wracking for first timers but a pleasure too.

Each day I look over the biddies to see if I can tell how many will become hens. Odds are there will be a rooster or two in the mix. It will be a few more weeks before we will be able to tell whether our experiment worked or not, in placing a certain shape egg in the nest for hatching. Good news is that the father to our friends who will be living right down the road from us has offered the use of his incubator whenever we want to use it. Hurrah! ! ! ! Lon had been talking about getting one after we moved but this will let us try one out before we buy. The Lord's blessings keep raining down on us. We are most thankful for them, too.

These future layers will be a big boost to our egg production come this Fall. For some reason we have been unable to discover the cause of why the girls have been slack in their laying for about a month. One would think with the warmer weather, increased plant growth and emergence of insects that they would be "fat & happy" right now. I pray that it is only a temporary lull in production, as we still have customer orders to fill and we do not want to go back to eating store bought eggs again. I have tried to eat them at a restaurant and can't stomach the smell or taste of them. Having fresh eggs and milk will definitely re-educate your taste buds to what real food tastes like. Going back to "confinement-grown" foods is not an option for us anymore. I even have one son who is a convert to the new way of eating and stated that the "name brand" milk tasted awful now.

Step by step we are gaining ground on the goal of raising our food sources and eating fresh, locally and nutritionally. With each one established comes the satisfaction of knowing we are contributing to our health and future.

Mother hen to many,

Deborah

Homefront News

Life has been quite crazy around here lately. Without boring you with the details I will simply say that we are STILL waiting on the "people in charge" to let us know whether we can get the property in Alabama or not. Waiting seems to be the choice activity for us right now. One delay after another delay, after one more delay, maybe yes now, no, wait some more, yadda yadda yadda. It is enough to drive one around in circles for quite a long while. It has already been over 5 weeks so far. I have wanted to post our happenings, but things have not worked out for me to do so. At least not in a timely manner. Will have to beg your forgiveness on being behind, but you know sometimes LIFE just happens in a manner we have no control over. Not that we ever truly did.

I can report that we have a growing stack of boxes to be used in packing. If and when we get the go-ahead and know without a doubt that we will be unpacking them in a new location and not right here where we started.

Our girls and guys are growing some nice looking feathers, putting on a little weight and literally dancing their way out of the hen house each morning. So glad that the rising temperatures are causing tender green growth to emerge for nibbling and pushing the hibernating insect population from it's slumber. The 4 youngsters have been spending their days out in the chicken play yard and exercising muscles not used in their enclosed bedtime environment.

It is hard to say, as each day they take on a new look but we may have more than one rooster in the bunch. One definitely, but another is taking on the appearance of some "rooster" like feathers. Hopefully it is just an illusion and we will have just one roo in the bunch of 3 pullets. With Rusty at the top of the Rooster rung, Chester (black sex-link rooster)nest and the young juvenile out of the Big Mama's first hatch (by Fred) we will have plenty of male representation in the flock. Chester is turning out to be a very pretty bird. Don't tell him I called him pretty as he might get offended at the remark. His coloration is rich and eye-catching, even if he does look kinda scrawny right now. He shows a potential regal flair in his future. Possibly turning the eyes of more than one of Rusty's girls.

Egg production has been down as of lately, which is confusing to us as they did so well during the winter. So to be able to add to the layers is important. There are a couple of other breeds we would like to try out as well. Maybe after we can get settled on the farm we can get some additional girls to help boost production later on this Summer/Fall.

Jason has started a few plants in little hanging bags called "topsey-turveys". He tried a couple last year and enjoyed watching the plants grow up side down. This year he has added some pepper plants along with the tomatoes he plans to grow. We were also able to plant the corn he bought in the enriched earth that was recently turned over on top of the chicken compost that had been added all winter. His broccoli plants were looking quite good,all tucked into their bed. That is until the chickens knocked over the gate to the garden and made a snack of them. Another project for the to-do list and another trip to the home store to buy some more.

It is hard trying to decide just how much planting we want to do here. That is if we will be harvesting someplace else. Though if the delays keep coming we may not be able to put in a garden at the new place and miss out all together. So in an effort to get something started I planted 2 rows of golden Yukon potatoes as my contribution to the garden. Hopefully we will get to see the fruit of our labor and enjoy some home-grown taters this fall.

Go put your hands in the dirt and feel the therapy it gives your soul. You will be richer for it, even if you come away with dirty fingernails.

Deborah

Changes are Happening

Changes are happening around here and I am not just talking about the upcoming change of residence. We have been having a warming trend all week, a definite contrast from the snow last Sunday. Each day has brought a rise in temps from the day before. Today's high was in the upper 70's with a strong afternoon sun that banished all coats and sweaters to the back of the closet. YAH!

As I sat at the table on our front porch journaling today I had to stop and savor the moment. I know my porch dates with this type of activity are numbered. I wanted to soak up the details , a gentle breeze ruffling my March flag, the serenade of the Spring peepers (frogs) down by the lake edge on this warm day, who are whispering that Spring is on the way. The sky, a shade of pale blue waiting for the intensity of a summer sun to brighten it. A red tinge that colors the tips of the maples in the yard and the little tuffs of green growth which is seen emerging through the brown blanket of color over the yard. Weather perfect for being outside with my hands in the dirt.

Pond greens for the aquatic life

Instead I did some housekeeping chores up at the chicken coop. The biddies born back in January are so big for only being 7 weeks old. With the warmer temperatures this week I promised them a day in the play yard and today was their field trip day. Closing off the sliding door to the coop and with the girls and Rusty out in the yard looking for their own adventure. I put 4 youngsters out to play in the sunshine and fresh air.



See how they have grown!

They seemed to enjoy the open space, as they have lived their lives so far in a cardboard box and a small pen. Walking about was a favorite activity and they looked funny lifting their feet so high off the ground. Both Clara Belle and Rosey had to come by for a peek at the little ones, not quite sure why they were inside and not outside with them.

Clara Belle

Rosey

Another big change that has been happening this week is the "sexy babes"have been getting braver with their wandering out into the yard for the daily scratch-fest. Even coming the 25 yards or so to the back porch this morning, a BIG step for the new girls. Today was the first time since bringing them home that they have totally incorporated themselves into the flock.

Staying near to Rusty and the girls than they had been and free-ranging right along side like one of the crowd. They too have grown in size and their feathers have brighten and fluffed out from their rag-tag appearance when we brought them home a month ago today.

Welcome to the family girls, note that Rusty is keeping a close eye on them.

Speaking of Rusty, his crowing is showing much improvement. Along with the growth of new tail feathers, he is looking quite the "Man" around here. He takes his job very seriously and tries really hard to find sweet treats for his ladies to munch on. But he doesn't like for you to mess too long around his house. Giving me the "don't come in here with that camera" look when he tired of my picture taking.

Rusty guarding the doorway to his castle.

Lon called this morning with a surprise message for me. A promise for an electric butter churn and butter mold from a neighbor we haven't even met is such a blessing to go along with such a day like today was. Both items I have been secretly wishing for in my heart. To have when we are able to get a Jersey for the farm and fresh milk to make butter. The benevolent man and his family will be living nearby the farmhouse we are trying to buy. It seems the churn and mold belonged to his mother and I feel honored to be given the opportunity to use them. We haven't even moved in yet and already this is the second family to make us feel at home in the neighborhood. You just can't beat the down to earth heartbeat of friendliness from country loving folks.

I should have been doing something towards packing for a move hopefully in a couple of months. Instead I took pictures, hung a load on the line to dry in the warm gentle breezes, talked to the chickens and knitted for a bit after eating lunch on the spot where I started my day. I am not sure where I will place the table at the farmhouse, but it will go with us and I am planning lots of evening meals shared on it while overlooking the farm. . . . dinner "al fresco". Lon says we won't be rushed to pack because we will have plenty of time to get the farmhouse ready before the need comes up. But I am sure if the truth be known, that he will be just as anxious as I am to be calling it home.

After cooking out last night for the first time this year. I can officially say Spring fever has set in for me. Why is it that the first grilled hamburger of the year tastes like something out of this world? Truly a taste of summer yet to come in due time. We are scheduled to go back out to the farm on Monday and I would love to be able to go ahead and move some plants out there for future flower beds. But I better wait till all have signed on the dotted line first. Then let the digging begin.

Do you have your Spring favorites list ready to share? Only 2 more weeks till Spring is here! I have been working on mine and will post it then.

"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn".

~Hal Borland

Enjoy!

Deborah

Biddies & "Babes"

It has been awhile since I gave you an update on the biddies hatched out by Big Mama last month. They are growing like weeds and have become very active, scratching in the litter, turning over their feeder so they can scratch some more, exercising their wings with flights to the top edge of the box to perch on it, rough-housing in the small area they call home, did I day scratching like crazy and eating like there is no tomorrow. I do not remember my first chicks being this active at only 4 weeks. They seem larger in size too. I guess home grown is always a good thing. Or it maybe the genes from their father, Fred. He is a very tall and stately rooster and sorry I still do not have a picture of him to show.

Checking out the scenery from the laundry basket while housekeeping was cleaning up their room and delivering room service of Chicken chow and fresh water. With this rate of growth their living quarters will be outgrown real soon. We are beginning to see the evidence that we may have a young rooster in the making. As one of the gang is demonstrating some rooster like qualities. We had hoped that out of the hatching we would get one roo, that would take after their father, Fred. Looks like we might get what we wished for after all. Here's hoping the rest are pullets.

We finally settled on the name Rusty for our rooster. He is doing a great job of protecting the "ladies". Sending them scooting to hide in cover with just one call every time he sees a hawk flying nearby. So good in fact that he has felt threatened twice by our 2 1/2 year old granddaughter to the point of going after her. Both times she was traumatized by his behavior, with the last time leaving marks on her face. She loves the "girls" and has always felt safe around them. Petting them frequently before the "bad chicken" came to stay. Now she if fearful of being out in the yard. So we have decided to keep him penned up when she is here and let him free-range with his ladies when she is not. Yesterday was the first day of his confinement sentence and he expressed his displeasure by crowing none stop. Oh, what a racked he made. I was fearful the neighbors would complain about the noise. But the safety of a specific little redhead is more important to us.

Last Saturday we made a trip to a town about a 2 hour drive from our home to buy some more pullets. We wanted to add to our flock of layers and had hoped to get some Silver Laced Wyandottes that were about 20 weeks. Unable to reach their owner that day, we instead purchased 5 Black Sex-links from an individual that lived in the same area. We came home with 6 as the man wanted to make sure that we had what we wanted and gave us one for just in case. While at his place we noticed he had goats as well. His doe had just given birth to 2 doelings back in January and we discussed buying them from him when they are weaned. It was a nice trip and a good connection for livestock for our future homestead.

The new "Babes" were placed in a pen by themselves for their quarantine time. They were not used to being handled, or having lots of open spaces and have been afraid of us for the most part so far. But I am hopeful that given time and some extra loving and feed they will come to see us as someone they can trust. Right now Rusty has not given them much notice, but I am sure when the new Babes enter his harem of ladies he will take notice real quickly. They are between 16-20 weeks old, so it should not be long before they are laying as well.

Our customer base for eggs seems to be growing each week. Which is a good thing considering the number of eggs we will soon have available. Just yesterday we were gifted with 12 beautiful brown eggs from our soon to be 1 year old hens. Another sure sign that Spring is not too far off.

Deborah

Piddle & Purpose

The art of piddling is a pleasureable pursuit that few individuals engage in. I for one love to piddle around the house and yard. Floating from one activity into the next with no outline to follow, other than getting some small task done and enjoying the mindless process the activity gives to me. Yesterday was one of those piddle days for me. Having the day to myself gave me the opportunity to pursue those pleasures that most days are void of the time for. Reading is a pleasure that I try to find time for on a daily basis, but often have to settle for a few pages here and there. Not today, I sat for many hours this morning pouring over some magazines that had been waiting on me to open their covers. Inspiration abounded from their pages and helped to fuel the quiet peaceful moments shared with a endless cup of hot tea. By mid day I decided that I better get dressed in something other than my p.j.'s and enjoy the beautiful day outside also.

A cool breeze drifted across the yard as I joined the "girls" outside, enough to cause me to slip on a light jacket. One that was easily shed a few moments later though as I piddled around the hen house, fluffing nesting material, gathering eggs, filling feeders & waters and the necessary scooping out of soiled shavings. Tossing additional clean shavings over their play yard really freshened up the place, inside and out. Refreshed and energized with the physical activity along with the fresh air led to a walk up our long drive to retrieve the mail. Then a late lunch and time spent on the front porch just sitting brought rest to the body and soul. Rocking quietly as the birds sang out a song for Spring's arrival, was a serenade that went great with the crocheting that I was working on. No agenda for the day leaves it wide open for the things that nourish the mind and the heart. Something I believe we should all make time for on a regular basis. Our lives can become so filled with many things to be done, that we often forget about the purpose of just being.

Taking advantage of "down time" when it comes available is part of our purpose I believe. It is very hard to serve others and be who we were designed to be if we ignore this type of blessing in our lives. Yes, piddling may be a lost art, but I for one am doing my best to keep it alive and I believe I am the more richer because of it.

Have you piddled lately?

Deborah

It's Saturday Again

Today started off smokey with fog and pretty much ended the same way. We have had an increase in wetness the past couple of days with more slated for a few more to come. A light jacket was needed when outside just to keep your clothes dry. The air held a heavy moistness and ever present misting rain. Making it a dampness that crept into my bones real quick. Finishing my outside chores today was quickly accomplished because of it. Even causing some muddiness of hands and shoes as I tidied up the garden and worked on keeping the "girls" out of certain areas of it. We have given them an invite to gleam from the leftover crops to supplement their diets, which they have relished down to the nubs of some plants.

Mr. Roo (until we decide on a proper name) is doing well and enjoyed his share of some collard leaves brought down by my mom on her recent visit. I did not get to hear him, but my husband told me before leaving for work today that Mr. Roo crowed 7 times as he was loading his truck. His previous owner had stated that she had not heard him crow. Which seemed odd given he is about 7 months old. But with 11 roosters on her property, how would you know which ones were and which ones wasn't crowing?

Misting rain did not prevent the ladies from strolling around the yard today. Feasting on the offerings from the garden and a gift of collard greens. Bugs and such are mighty scarce around here right now, most have either died off or are in hibernation deep below their efforts of scratching up a meal. A visible reminder of why egg production has dropped the last few days, with a daily token of 8. I guess getting damp in the process was in preparation for their "Satdy Nite" bath.

Circle round ladies it's bath time ~

Finding the only dry spot around here, under the porch overhang on the house. "Dirt bath!" for all was uttered, but "Big Mama" had other duties to tend to and declined the social scene. Three others were no where to be seen when the call went out, but I am sure Mr. Roo would have been glad to join them if given half a chance!

Miss Martha enjoying her dirt bath!

I love Saturdays, they are a fitting end to a work week and lend themselves to more pleasurable activities. I only have a few regular chores that I try to do on them, nothing heavy. Quick spruce ups to ready the house and yard for the start of the next week. Like sweeping off the porches, starting our meal for Sunday lunch, getting an idea of what I am going to wear to church the next day, doing a quick tidy through out the house and then something just for fun. Today it was catching up on reading some wonderful emails and blog sites. I had thought to go straighten up my sewing room, until the day slipped away into darkness. I still can't quite get used to these early evening hours this time of year. There are plenty of hours left in the day, but with the darkness closing in it only feels right to start shutting down the hatches for the evenings. Leaving me with only the desire to read with a hot cup of tea by my side, after getting in my "jammies" for the night. Simple pleasures make for a sweet Saturday. And that my friends adds up to living well in my book.

The day ended just like it begun . . . . ."froggy."

Deborah

Hormonal Female

Hormones have been at an all time high here this past week. Demanding that they be recognized and dealt with quickly. You know how convincing the female persuasion can be at times. Lots of discussion has been shared on the pros and cons of how to deal with these raging hormones. NO, I am not talking about myself! If you will recall there are other females around here on Heartland Farm, besides the human variety.

Martha, one of our Barred Rocks. . .

My girls have been quite faithful to deliver their daily gifts of round orbs for our enjoyment and for sharing since they began laying months ago. Averaging 10-11 a day, every week all throughout Fall and so far this month as well. From all the chatter on the homesteading blogs, there are many it seems who are seeing a decrease in egg production. Even some friends at church have mention decrease laying in their flocks too. It makes one wonder just why we are being so blessed with an abundance of eggs. Not that I am complaining one bit. We are very thankful for the blessing of eggs and of their company around here also. Our customer base has slowly grown from 2 to 5, with room for more with the girls helping out so readily. Come Spring when the Farmer's Markets near by open back up for business I plan to make their free-range eggs available to shoppers.

The challenge of motherly hormones has been a situation we have never faced before, at least not of the feathery kind. Big Mama, our only Brahma pullet has felt the call of nature to reproduce her own kind. For over 6 days during Christmas she has faithful sat in a claimed nest trying her best to hatch an egg or two, along with a golf ball that resides there. Stubbornly refusing to leave the nest and growling at us when we reach to gather the eggs under her. Yes, chickens can GROWL, it is a sort of low rumble in their throats. Despite the fact that there is no Rooster on the premises to ensure fertile eggs, she has not wavered in the least. I don't believe she is the type of loose woman, to have been off visiting neighboring flocks either. Which left her in quite a predicament and with no way to satisfy her longings. We tried to discourage her from setting, by taking her out of the nesting box and placing her outdoors, only to discover that she quickly returns to her post. A broody mama has the perseverance to astonish even the faithful of heart. Dedicated despite the odds against her. I think we could all learn a valuable lesson from her that would serve us well when faced with what appears to be enormous odds against us.


"Big Mama"

We came to the conclusion that we either had to find a way to bar her from the nest or help her out in some way. Choosing the later we started our search for some fertilized eggs for this desperate mama. Success was found with members of our church, Kirk and Dede. Who own a small flock down the road and a very stately looking Roo. They were more than happy to give us some of their eggs for Big Mama to try to hatch out. Gathering 6 from their 3 different hens, a Rhode Island Red, a Black Star and a Dominique will give Big Mama an assortment of offspring, should they all hatch. Fred, as the man of their coop is referred to, hopefully will pass on his great qualities as father to the brood also. I didn't think to take my camera to capture pictures of the adoption process. But, if I had known how beautiful a specimen he was I would have. I am sure they won't mind me coming back over for a few snaps of him to add to a latter post. He is such a looker!

What dreams of Chicken mamas are made of . . .

Home again we took our fragile cargo up to the coop to slip the eggs into the nursery set up by Big Mama. Easy enough as she was off the nest, to our surprise as it was the first time we had seen her do this in days. I reasoned that hunger was playing a big part in her stroll outside. We all know how the hunger pangs of the maternal can be at times. Throwing down some "candy" or scratch grain as most people know it, kept her attention while I marked the fertile eggs and placed them in the nest. It only took her 5 minutes before heeding the call to be back on the nest. She seemed unconcerned that there was quite a few eggs where she had left an empty nest minutes before. Happily settling around them, moving them about to better fit between her feet and fluffing out her feathers into a canopy of warmth over them. From the look on her face I believe I even heard her sigh a little. A happy moment for a mother to be.

She is the beauty in the middle . . .

Future chicks in waiting . . .

Maternal instincts. . .

So the countdown to motherhood has begun and unlike us of the human race, she will hopefully hear the peep of her adopted offspring in about 21 days. Not a long wait for the feathered mother to be, but oh, a long one for us adoptive grandparents. Placing the birth announcement on the nest to assure that no disturbance or gathering of the anticipated babies has everything in place for now. We, Big Mama and ourselves need only to wait for the blessed event to transpire in the middle of January. Not the best time for hatching baby chicks naturally, but who can argue with a determine female, high on hormones. I feel sure if she can hatch them she will be more than capable of taking care of her adopted children. We are now hoping with fingers crossed that one of them will take after his father and become a handsome Roo for our flock next year.


Picture says it all . . . . Waiting on nature,

Deborah

Ready, Set, Go!

Today wrapped up my preparations for Christmas and with 4 days to spare. Yahoo! I can't recall at present ever being ready this early before. Might have in past years, as I always sought to be done early in the month of December. My success this year is probably due to the scaling back and simplifying of our idea of what Christmas should be about. For the past several weeks I have felt freedom from the preconceived notions of past expectations and what is being pushed by the media. To hear other people talk about their shopping excursions, baking, decorating, etc. only fueled my resolve to kept it simple this year. A challenge for myself on several occasions, as I would think of a particular decor item not being displayed or activity engaged in. Then the old "I need to get that put up" feeling would creep into my thinking quicker than a heartbeat. I am glad to say that I resisted each temptation and told myself "enough is enough". Reminding myself that what goes up, has to come down later. I did not want to create more work for myself than the enjoyment of the idea would bring.

A room by room clean-a-thon freshened the house today. From end to end and side to side, every room received what it needed. Working for 15 minutes and then resting for 15 minutes helped me to accomplish the tasks at hand and allow me to stretch my energies so that playing through out the day could also be accomplished. After all this is suppose to be one of my off days. Something cold to drink and catching up on my emails was a large portion of play time for me. Reading a favorite blog was a special treat as well. The fact that I have had the house to myself for 48 hours since Friday morning was a plus in getting everything finalized. No one was under foot, not even Tigger, our cat. Lon and Jason both have been on duty, due to each of them working an extra shift on each other's scheduled day.

Christmas shopping was completed and all packages were wrapped last evening. The tree now sports a fluffy skirt of colorful packages. Grocery shopping for the house and our Christmas dinner was also completed yesterday as well. It helped to have leftovers in the fridge to eat for my dinners these two days, instead of having to cook. Another blessing towards getting done what I needed to. So here I sit with all in readiness to start the count down to Christmas next week. Tomorrow we will have our Christmas musical at church and all that will be left is to enjoy Mom & Dad's visit. They arrive tomorrow afternoon to spend the week with us and other than some cooking for our Christmas dinner, I have no other plans than to relax and chat.

In the midst of cleaning this afternoon there arose such a cladder that I had to spring to my feet to see what was the matter. No, it was not a jolly figure dancing on my roof. It was not even someone come to spread good cheer. But destruction instead! Instantly, I recognized the distress call from one or more of our girls. Quick movement down the front steps revealed the visitor was not at all welcomed and was intent on some Christmas dinner for itself.

A small Marsh Hawk had one of our chicken in a tissy and pinned behind the azalea bushes out front. As I called to her if flew to a nearby tree, intent on trying to recapture it's meal. That is until I made a ruckus myself, convincing it to move on to find other hunting grounds. Capturing the frighten hen was of little trouble, as she collapsed behind a bush and allowed me to pick her up. Missing and ruffled feathers off her back and wings spoke of a struggle to get free. Whether they were removed by the hawk or the tangle of limbs under the bushes, it remains to be seen. She did receive an injury to her right eye, that was bleeding. But for now it is hard to tell whether she has any internal injuries that I can't see. Placing all the girls back into their play yard for safe keeping for the rest of the day, hopefully will persuade the chicken thief to look else where for a free meal. Upon inspection tonight as I closed up their coop, she was sitting quietly with the injured eye closed, which for now is a good sign. Earlier she was only laying on the ground not moving, but now she was up on the roost for bedtime. Tomorrow morning her activity will let us know if she will recover or not.

All the warm, wet weather of the past week has been unseasonably for this time of year. A trend that does not lend itself to keeping the Christmas ideal of frosty window panes, carolling in the snow, heavy coats, scarves and mittens, Christmas sweaters, mugs of hot chocolate and stockings hung by the fire. All may change tomorrow if the weather forecasters are correct in calling for a big dip in our temperatures, with highs in the 40's and lows in the 20's. The change will require a flip not only of the outside thermostat, but the inside one as well. For we have been having temperatures in the 70's for several days now. A chance to cuddle up in front of the fireplace may be in our future after all.

I'm ready, all set and waiting to go.

Deborah

Cold is on the Way!

The skies one morning recently looked as if they might give way to some stormy weather. Looking out the window at the break of dawn told me that it was going to be a cold day, just like the weather people predicted. We have been experiencing some freezing temperatures for over a week now. The day time temps would not be so bad without the chilling winds blowing in your face and seeping through our clothes. Lows at night have caused us to cover the garden more than once in an effort to save the rest of our fall harvest. Dipping down into the low 20's caused the few tomatoes on the vines to freeze. Some of the less than hardy plants in the flower beds succumbed as well. Winter is not officially here till the 21st. of December, but one look at the landscape around the house would speak of something different. Fluffy white clouds I love to see in the season to come, as they hold the possibility of snow. Not that we get it very often in our neck of the woods. But the grey skies are not so pleasant to look at in winter. Devoid of color they lead to a gloominess that matches the flatness of the world around us and I get tired of so quickly. So accustomed to color through out the rest of the year we seem to walk around in shock. So I have decided that making, finding, enjoying the list of Fall Favorites should be repeated this winter season as well. I plan to start compiling the new list and will post it a few days before December 21st, so look for it. In the mean time start your own list and let me know in the comment area, what you will be looking forward to, as all creation goes into hibernation. We can compare notes, inspire each other and look for the blessings in this season of life as well.

It is surprising to me that the chickens are still eager to get out of the pen for some foraging with the COLD winds blowing these last few days. Feathers are easily ruffled with each blast of air, their little yellow legs exposed with out warm coverings. Makes me shiver just looking at them and the trek across the yard in the cold doesn't help. Egg production has dropped a little as the daylight hours have dwindled with the setting of the sun coming earlier with each passing day. I too hate to loose the evening hours to darkness. After all these years, you would think I would have come to grips with darkness falling at 5 - 5:30 this time of the year. The girls may be suffering from diminished light or as the poultry books have stated, they maybe getting ready to molt. Not that their feathers are worn or anything, but dropping them at this time of the year doesn't sound like good planning on their part. I haven't seen any stray feathers floating around though. Could be because of the strong winds or the fact that they are looking for what few bugs that are still above ground, deeper in the woods that separate us from our neighbor. We have had as low a count as 6 eggs one day, averaging around 9-11. Every so often that will kick back into gear and our egg basket will be filled with 12.

The gas logs in the fireplace are lit every morning to chase away the cold and warm our toes as we shuffle into the kitchen for some hot tea. Lon has joined me in my delight for the beverage and to the amazement of friends, has stopped drinking coffee all together. We frequently encourage the other in another cup throughout the day. Green tea is a given, along with a box of "Apple Cinnamon" and "Constant Comment", we have been going through quite a number of boxes. Supplies are getting low and I have the desire to order some favorites from the "Republic of Tea" company, like "Blackberry Sage", "Cinnamon Plum" and "Pomegranate Green" tea I am out of right now. Though with the start of December I always pull out my Christmas favorites to enjoy, so I can probably hold off on that order till some time in January. That is when I will really need a lift to my spirits in endless days of grey.

Reading has been come the norm for our evenings here, as we have fully forgotten about t.v. viewing. Watching an occasional movie is the only change we have made. Acquiring an old VHS player has pleased Leah as well and we have enjoyed some old Disney films I had purchased for my future grandchildren before DVD's took over. "Aladin' seems to be her favorite so far and has been watch by us all more times that I care to count. All the dancing and singing really captures her attention. I am sure as the days go by, Lon and I will find ourselves also engrossed in an some old VHS tape from our collection. Maybe we will make Friday nites our Movie and homemade popcorn date night.

It won't be too long before the garden will be closed for the winter. Our time will be spent instead with seed catalogs and making plans for our Spring garden. But that is another 2 seasons away, so for now I will focus on the highlight of next week. . . Thanksgiving. Turkey, dressing, veggies, salads, cranberry sauce and the favorite desserts of yester year. Then before I can catch my breath it will be time to decorate the tree and add the trimmings that turn our home into a Christmas celebration.

Enjoy the time as you have it, it is a gift.

Deborah

September Notes 2008

Monday, September 1, 2008
Labor Day

For most people this was a holiday, for us we the day became it’s title. We worked in the garden, cut down some limbs, built a compost bin, picked muscadines, cleaned out a few flower beds, put leaf net on pool and split a little firewood. Whew ! ! ! With all this activity our barbeque dinner came in handy as we collapsed at the end of the day.

Our winter greens are up and some showing is being seen in the spinach and Swiss chard beds. The peanuts are looking thicker and taller since the extra water was given to the garden. The okra is nearly head high and still cranking out tender pods which I am packaging for the freezer. We still have the Kale and Rutabagas to plant along with transplanting some spring onions to winter over. I still want to plant some winter squashes but have only found butternut seeds so far.

The crabapples are getting a darker red and so far the deer either have not found them or don’t like the taste. Which I find hard to believe since they liked all of our other apples this year. Jason’s fig bush is loosing more fruit to the birds and ants than we hope to harvest ourselves. Fingers are staying crossed that we may finally get to taste both of these fruits.

Clara is looking better every day and has become quite spoiled with the extra attention she has been getting in the form of tasty treats. Extra protein helps with the healing of her wound and I have taken a few of the “girls” eggs to boil up some for her.

Which after the rest got a taste of she had to practically get in my lap for her generous share. Egg production is up to 7 a day, which nets us a dozen plus every 2 days. I will definitely be able to have a small income off the extras when they get larger and when getting a dozen a day will be the norm. Which will be good to help buy feed with. Right now they are foraging for most of their food needs and the bags we bought over a month ago still has plenty in them. Come winter when the bugs go into hiding and the natural greens are dormant they will eat more purchased grains I am sure.

Deborah



Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Farm Animal?

Outside play was a highlight for Leah except when her PAPA started cutting grass. She does not like the loud sounds that the mower makes and is the only thing that will persuade her to go inside, for a short while at least. Her new companion of play is a doll she has started carrying around the yard with her. Dolly slides down the slide, rides in the stroller and gets to swing with her 2 year old mother in the front yard.

Leah is becoming more comfortable with the surroundings around our home, which is great on one hand but makes us uncomfortable when she does her magic trick and disappears into thin air. Little legs can move oh so fast when motivated by curiosity.

During one search she had “followed the leader” with the chickens rambling about and had discovered a nook tucked under the large azaleas in the front yard. Close to where they had decided to rest for awhile in the shade. Grinning from ear to ear, she sat quietly while I searched and called out her name.

Nana could not get upset for she remembered her fun times of pretend in the “houses” of green of her own childhood. Such fond memories of innocent play. Self play is important in every child’s development and pretend play fuels their creative side to imagine beyond the obvious.

The real surprise of the day was the new “farm animal” that crossed paths with our little hobby farm. Lon was going down to put grass clippings in the compost bin when he spied a moving log. At second glance it’s true identity was revealed. A very large green iguana was moving rather quickly for it’s size across the front yard towards the lake. We could not believe our eyes! From it’s size it looked to be an expensive pet store specimen or from the Amazon jungle. The thought crossed this girl’s mind to try and catch it for the person who lost it. But with second thought I realized I had nothing to keep this 5 foot lizard in and it might not let go of me if I did catch it. It lumbered off towards the swampy end of the lake and left us wondering how long had it been around the house. Whether it could have been what attacked and killed our chickens recently, and guilty of stealing the meat out of the trap we set for the villain that did.

I know that I have been wanting a diverse farm to enjoy the fruit and labor from. But I think I will draw the line in lizards with the little chameleons and pine lizards that play peek-a-boo among my flowerbeds.

I really felt the part of a farmer’s wife after completing the activities of the day, while sitting down to a scrambled egg sandwich courtesy of the girls and hot coffee for dinner this evening. What could be simpler or more satisfying than to graze from the goodness of your own flock.

Deborah



Thursday, September 4,2008
ERRAND DAY

Early morning risings are cutting into my sleeping time. For this girl needs her full night’s sleep in order to be “bright eyed and bushy tailed” for the next day. Sipping coffee on the porch this morning was the needed wake-up call to my body to get in gear for the day. Thursdays have typically been my grocery buying day and I try to run all my errands in the same trip to save time and gas.

Lon was agreeable to go with me for part of my rounds, with eating out breakfast tucked into the trip. He had a couple of stops he wanted to make himself, so after all was said, we decided to get it all done together. After letting the chickens out in the pen with fresh water and feed we were off to get as much done as quickly as we could. Leaving the house well before Jason got home from the station after 8am.

Back home by lunchtime we settled in for a quick nap to refresh our sagging bodies which did not last as long as we had hoped. It seems we both see several things at any given time to be done and sleeping away daylight hours doesn’t feel quite right.

Grocery shopping was a breeze today, my list was shortened to only 2 departments, dairy and produce. I have issued a challenge to myself and my family regarding our grocery buying for the month of September. The goal is to eat out of our full pantry and stuffed freezer for the next month, planning our meals from what we have already purchased. With no buying except for dairy, fresh produce and a weekly loaf of bread for Leah. As I plan to bake all of the bread we will need on a weekly basis. This will be an interesting experiment for us and an opportunity to simplify our eating habits more towards a healthier direction.

One of the books I had placed a hold on at the Library came in and I picked it up today. Reading just the first few pages out loud to Lon this afternoon and we both heard the sanity in the writing. The author echoed the same sentiments we have read from other Christian authors and we ourselves have felt strongly about. I can’t help but believe that we may be at a point in our lives that we are ready to embrace the knowledge and make it a real part of our lives and health. To eat as close to how God created our food sources has to be the ultimate way to eat. For He has packed each of them with all the nutrition we will need to lead healthy lives, productive for His purposes. I have always believed that every vitamin, mineral, nutrient that our bodies need to live and heal its self is present in the natural world God has given us.

Man in his quest for more has sacrificed his health for happiness. It is evident that happiness is fleeting for all of mankind in a mad rush to acquire more at the expense of their families, health, time and ideals for their lives. Living instead a hollow image of what they could be.
Lots of information to be reasoned over, decisions to be discussed and commitments to be made before any one of us can be able to stand and declare enough is enough. I confess it is something that I believe we can no longer ignore and live long lives freed from the diseases of the modern century. I for one am ready for a healthy change. It won’t be easy to ignore ingrained habits of 50 years or more. But that does not mean it can’t be done. It will just take a focused commitment one day at a time.

The Chicken Coop got a new look today as the hospital cage was removed and the natural carpeting fluffed and sanitized. Extra bedding was added to the nesting boxes which I am sure the girls will love on their little behinds at laying time. They can thank their Papa for that bit of housekeeping. Now we can step inside without the fear of bringing a piece of them home with us if you know what I mean.

A wonderful surprise greeted me right before I left for the evening. We had been watching some fat lime green and yellow worms munch on the pot of parsley by the backdoor. Only to disappear before I could place them in protective custody and watch them spin their magic. Or else they may be the appetizer the chickens were looking for. Lon had spot a chrysalis just yesterday on one of the porch post and low and behold it burst forth right before my eyes. I scooped it up to keep it from being eaten and called Lon to come see our new livestock. It was such a thrill to have it crawl over my hands as it prepared to take flight. I guess now we can add home-grown black swallowtails to our list of farm produce. Such joy in simple pleasures, thank you Lord.

Dinner out with my “circle of friends” was a refreshing break in my day today. They never fail to make me laugh, think about new things, we share our lives and enjoy the friendship we have still managed to hold on to despite that we are now located in 4 different churches, when at one time we were all together in one. Choosing my dinner was colored by the reading I did earlier and to look honestly at the menu left me with few options to dine on. I chose the salad bar as my choice as the restaurant has always had a great many items on it to choose from. It was both healthy and filling, leaving me with room for my nightly glass of milk before bed.

A habit I never want to abandon, one that has carried me all of these years since my childhood into sweet sleep. A fact that I am often teased about by my family. One that my mother has commented on in the past. . . “I got her off the bottle as a baby but never off her milk.” Giving my granny cause to come to my aid and state to leave me alone, it was good for me. And through the years it has been stated by the advertising media that “YES, it does a body good !” So to all who question or snicker I am a living testimony that milk does a body good and the heart also. Sweet dreams yall!

Deborah



Friday, September 5, 2008
Wonders never cease

Poor planning had me going back out today to finish up some birthday shopping for family. Stopping long enough to add the first from my FALL pleasure list to my day. Bright sunny yellow Chrysanthemums x 2 for our porches, purchased at a good price at a local grocery store near our house. To give the place a lift to the changing light of day now occurring on the horizons. A sight that makes me smile every time I look at them and that I will add to my flower beds when spent for next year's beauty too.

When what to my wondering eyes should I see but a brownish gray spotted lump in the road in front of our mailbox. Upon refocusing I saw what looked like a saw-whet owl sprawled out on the pavement. Immediately I was afraid it had been hit or would be if left where it laid. Where was my camera? On my desk at home, where else! Opening the door to get out of my car and gather our mail was enough to cause it to decide it had all the sunning it needed for one day and flew gracefully up into the trees across the road. Relief that it was not hurt turned into wonder at the sight of a night creature parading itself out in the daylight. A rare blessing indeed.




Calling Lon to share the news, I told him I had no idea that we would see so many different animals when we began Heartland Farm. But in all honesty I believe the Lord knows my Heart for this Farm and continues to give me the desires of it in the little blessings of newly hatched butterflies, wayward lizards and sunbathing owls. Just for my enjoyment because He loves me so.

Deborah

Looking Back To 3 Days in August:

Tuesday, August 19,2008

Multiplication

My days always start good when I can get some quiet time in on the front porch and today was no different. It is the place I love to spend with God as I read over His word and put some inspirational words to the pages of my journal. He shows me so many wonders at the break of day when my heart and mind are rested from a night’s sleep. A cup of warmth to sip and I am ready to be a student at His feet. To say that it is still amazing to me when shown a new concept or truth after all these days is not hard. I still stand amazed in His presence.

I hope to be able to share what I am shown and still learning with others who are seeking Him as well. One tells one, who tells one and so it goes till the truth has multiplied to many. All from a source of one on one with the Lord. Hopefully the pages I write in some way will reach those also who I may never get to speak to face to face.

Leah is at present my most eager student to pass my knowledge and wisdom to. Sitting together this morning on the porch reading and watching the birds eating just a couple of feet from us is thrilling to her and blesses my soul. I hope she grows up with a love for God and an appreciation for His creation. Walking in the steps of her Nana as I try to reveal God’s love for us and my love for the outdoors. Reminds me of a little song Daddy taught me that my grandmother used to sing to him.

“Little Feet Be Careful”
Little feet be careful
Where you take me to
Anything for Jesus
Only let me do.

Multiplication came early this morning as the girls started laying early and by 10 am had given us 3 eggs. A record set for such an early delivery. I guess they are getting in the swing of things and taking careful notes of how it is to be done. Lon was surprised and thrill at the news when Leah and I called to say “guess what?” But we were even more astonished when about lunchtime I heard a cackle from a different hen and upon checking on her discovered she had blessed us with an egg as well. 4 count them FOUR eggs in one day and by lunchtime! I had already let the girls out to roam the yard for morning munchies. Little miss found her way back to the coop to drop off her gift while playing in the yard. We had not expected her to lay yet as there are others who look more mature than her. Guess she knew better than we did.

At this rate I will be able to stop buying store eggs and rely on “fresh from the farm” yummy organic ones instead. They are small in size, but for beginner eggs they are delicious. With a few more months under their wings I know the girls will produce regular size eggs. Soon I will be able to share their bounty with friends and family. Some have offered to pay for the fresh eggs, knowing the healthy goodness of range-free eggs. To turn a small profit would help off set the price of feed and treats we buy for them. Maybe even build a small “nest egg” for some more hens next year or a dairy goat for the homestead living we are trying to live out in our little neck of the woods.


They are coming to be one of the best birthday presents I have ever received, even if I did have to ask for them. I love to watch them scratch around the leaves and do their waddle dance when they run across the yard. Seeing them in the yard causes a quietness to flow over my being, making me smile just at the sight of them. They have a language all their own but will share a type of purring with me when I sit near by them. Gathering one or two into my lap to stroke their feathers and sing a little song that only they understand.

Deborah




Sunday, August 24, 2008

Life and Death

Life for one of our own began 27 years ago today in a hospital that used to stand nearby before it was removed.

A place where both of my sons were born. Does the fact that it no longer stands erase the fact that they were born there? I think not, even though there is no physical structure to point to and say that is where I was born. The footprints you leave in the lives of others is evidence enough that you had a beginning somewhere, even if the actual building is no longer standing. That particular hospital had a lot of firsts for our young family, along with the births of our offspring, it was the place where I started my nursing profession. But that is another story for another day.

Brian was born on this date of August 24th and has been my baby for all of his 27 years. There is something to be said of being the baby of the family. You get to benefit from the learning curve of the first born. Each child holds a different yet at the same time, the same place in a Mother’s heart. Always will. It is surprising to think that he has reached the age that he is. Time passes both slow and fast depending on who is doing the looking. I am sure that for Brian, he probably thought his adult years would never come as a teenager. Now he is a daddy to a sweet little girl, named Leah. With the years passing from our youth comes the added responsibility of adult and parenthood. A fact not deeply considered during the “I love girls/boys” stage of youth. It seems to be reserved for the “latter” years, when one often thinks that life really gets serious.

For me he has stayed in the youthful range for a very long time. Do you ever get to the point where you see them in a way otherwise than how you remember them being ? I was reminded of how much of his future lies before him yesterday at his birthday dinner, at the tender age of 27. Even though he bemoaned the fact that he is now in his “late twenties”. Oh to be at that stage of life and have the wisdom I’ve had to learned through my own 52 years.

Life never stands still that’s for sure, so you better have your moving shoes on. Though at times it feels ever so good to kick them off after a long day of working around the home front. Or when the tiny blades of newborn grass emerge in the spring. Just begging for someone to wiggle their toes in the soft green of new growth. Leah has finally come to terms with the green carpet in our yard and readily runs around in it barefoot. Something she highly detested at the start of Summer. All that outdoor playing has toughen up her tootsies so that now she enjoys the feel of nature under her feet.

Death came calling last Friday as I went out to check on my girls that morning. Only to discover that one of our Light Brahmas had died just inside the door. Looking as if she had just sat down and died, almost like she was waiting on some one to come and rescue her from a natural fact of life. Everything and everyone will die at some point. It is a law of God that is not skipped over like hopping over mud puddles. It was sad to see another one die and not know what had happen or why.

The first pullet we lost was due to a dog attack while the girls were enjoying being out of their exercise yard this past Memorial day. Happening so fast we were at a lost as to where to start looking for the survivors. Round them up Jason and I tried, finding most, but eventually waiting for the rest of them to come home on their own at dusk. Finally the stragglers came and glad I was for their inborn instinct to “come home to roost“. Just like each weary member of a family does when away on adventure or at the end of a work day. We too look forward to coming home to “roost” for the night. HOME is such a comforting word, it speaks of a place of rest, refuge and refreshment for the soul.

But to discover another one dead on Saturday morning in their play yard was a heart blow to these new chicken farmers. “Bertha“ , our largest Orphington was laying dead by the fencing inside the play yard with obvious destruction to her lifeless frame. Question flew out of our mouths quicker than we could take in the whole scene. It goes without description that something had played a part with her death. But was it before or after her untimely departure? The fencing looking secure which only lead us to conclude that she had probably died of natural causes as well. But the nagging thought remained, 2 chickens in 2 days?

Do we have an unseen culprit lurking in the hen house? Some disease of sort that is snuffing out the lives of our unsuspecting fowl? I pray not, but that it is only a sequence of events that happened close together. One that serves to teach us the facts of life and death, a natural function of life on any farm.

A different sort of death came about at the working of our own hands Saturday, as we cut down a large maple tree that had graced our yard with beautiful fall leaves since we built the house 24 years ago. But had grown up too close to the power lines necessary for our connection with the power grid we so readily rely on. I will miss the touch of color it gave to the yard but accept the fact that our tiny orchard will benefit from the additional sunlight that will be available now that it’s lofty shade has been removed. Leah on the other hand gave much heart felt dismay at “it’s falling down”. On some level it made her sad at the destruction of it. Probably due to the shock of seeing one fall during a severe storm last month right before the nose of the car she and her mom was traveling in.

To see life through the eyes of a child is a great gift, which we all possessed at one time. A place before we became to old to get down to the level of an innocent heart of a two year old. Oh, how they must bless the heart of God.

“Let the little children come unto Me, and do not forbid
them, for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14

Life will continue despite the two ladies missing in the hen house as the girls have stepped up once again and blessed us with 6 eggs on this Sunday. New fruit trees will be planted in the empty space of the Maple, to bring forth fruit in due season for our family to enjoy. And birthdays will continue to roll around like the hands on a clock, to remind us of the goodness of years passed and the joyful anticipation of ones yet to be lived.

Added: Before going to bed I went out to check on the girls and found another Orphington dead just inside the gate. That makes 3 chickens in 3 consecutive days very hard to grasp. Obviously we have some form of a night time bandit feasting on our chickens. Makes for a sick stomach to go to bed on.

Deborah

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Size

Does size matter in the large scope of things? Some one argue the fact the bigger the better, where others would counter that sweet things come in small packages. It is apparent that it depends on what you are referring to. As is most issues in life.

The small holes around the gate to the chicken yard were evidently large enough to allow a villain in to do it’s dirty work last Sunday evening. A defect that will have to be remedied today. The lost of the future layers we had hoped to have laying soon is a dark cloud in our eyes right now.

Not only did we loose 3 girls but we discovered another White Rock that had an injury from yesterday. One that caught the attention of the rest of the gang, who were picking it into a bloody mess. Clara Belle had a nasty wound from her right ear and down across her white cheek. She was happy it seemed to be rescue from the bad manners of the others, but not too happy being isolated in our sunroom until we could arrange better living quarters for her hospital room. From what I’ve read I believe she will recover if we can keep it from getting infected. Hopefully it will not cause a hearing loss or disfigure her sweet face.

Holes big or small can create their own set of problems if not addressed and size does matter in these kinds of things.

Small verses Large is another issue of size to consider. No, I am not talking about weight or clothing size or any other debated subject in the life of humans

Though in the life of chickens they will always give you what they can. For almost 3 weeks we have been getting small eggs from the girls at an ever increasing rate, presently up to 6 a day. What they lack on size they make up in flavor with those rich golden-orange yolks. Even in the midst of tragedy the past weekend someone laid a surprise for us yesterday. As Lon reached in to gather the morning eggs, he could not believe what his hand rested upon in one of the nesting boxes. For there lay a full size egg, revealing that one of the girls is coming into her maturity. The consensus is that it is “Girlie Girl”, one of our Rhode Island Reds. She was the first one to give us the “baby” eggs as we call them, back on the 6th of August.

As excited as we were about the new discovery, we still ate the “baby” eggs for breakfast yesterday. Even though Lon thought we should celebrate it’s arrival by putting it in the pan.

Deborah