ATTACK.
We had our first attack on the chickens last night. Honestly, I can't believe that it hasn't happened before - as the ladies have grown fond of wandering through the woods during the day, scratching under leaves and dead trees for bugs. There have been several close calls, mostly with hawks, but last night was the first actual attack. We were listening to election results on the radio in our room, and there was a terrible squawking from outside. A possum had crawled up through the chicken wire on the bottom of the coop and had a tight hold of Ellen. Jesse was able to shove the possum out with a tobacco stick and then kill it. (Sorry for the violence, folks, but that's how this farming life goes. If we had let it live, it just would keep coming back for more....and we love our chickens.) After a midnight coop repairing session, we went back to sleep. Ellen was very battered and bloody, and I felt pretty certain he wouldn't make it through the night.I can truly say that I have never been so happy to be startled awake at dawn by Ellen's squeaky crow. He looks a little rough, but I think he will be just fine. I am so proud of him - he clearly jumped down from his perch to protect the other chickens. What a hero! Here's an old picture of the handsome man....although he has a little less feathers this morning after last nights adventure.-Hannah.
DINOSAURS.
I know Jesse has made very clear his feelings regarding turkeys...but taking care of these guys over the past week has me wanting some. I mean....they are insane looking. They make alien noises. They look like dinosaurs. I love them.- Hannah.
FIRST EGG.
Ira got his first egg from his chickens yesterday, and Opal found a place for him to keep it. I just really love this picture.- Hannah.
GOODBYE GLADDIE.
You guys. Moving is the worst. But I can see the light at the end of the tunnel....we are so close! Wednesday is the big day! Besides the stress and frustration that comes with packing boxes and realizing you have way too much stuff - there are also the goodbyes. We are starting to have to say our goodbyes - to this little town we have grown to love, to dear friends who enriched our lives, to our bountiful garden still full of food, and also to some of our animals. The rabbits have found a home with Jacob and Carolyn, and yesterday, Gladdie went to another farm family who required her mousing services. We let her spend the day outside, stalking chickens and having adventures. It was hard to say goodbye (I am an unapologetic crazy cat lady) but I know she will be loved. Thank you, Gladdie - for ridding our house of mice, for being an excellent alarm clock each morning, and warming my lap every day. We'll miss you!- Hannah. 