Greetings Readers!
Am in Vienna at the mo and thought I would make a quick entry.
The wedding last weekend was wonderful. I was made to feel very welcome. V & F had a lovely time and the sun shone (and rain held off) until the evening. Lovely bunch of people, dancing, great food and hunky men in kilts everywhere! *wink* I digress. I will post pictures when I get a chance as they are still on the camera. (Not of the men in kilts)!!
We drove back on Tuesday and had to stop off at the airport to pick up my car. 9 hour drive in total. Vile. The girls were fine all week, but didn't lay too well for next door. I think they got 6 eggs in total. They are away this week, so we are looking after the bantams for them. Day 1 yesterday and we got a full house. 3 eggs! Looks like dad might get pickled bantam eggs for Christmas afterall.
There, have mentioned it. Christmas. Can't wait, hee hee. The present buying has started as you know I like to be organised. I know it is August, but I got in from work last night and the fire was lit! *Shock*. It was quite cold, but who would have thought the fire would be roaring in August?? Nice though.
Managed to get a few brooches sewn for the Craft fayre, that I still haven't paid for or arranged. *rolls eyes* Will get it done next week.
Major trauma. I was in Berlin and a car hit the wall behind the house and crashed along the side of the fence. About 40 ft of fencing needs to be replaced, but the driver will be paying for that!! Jase had to deal with it all, getting quotes etc. He sent me a text to say 'the chickens are distressed'. No wonder when the fence was right next to their coop. They wouldn't come out for a while.
Winifred is fine, still not laying, but pottering around as normal. Cornelia is threadbare and looking really scruffy. She is moulting big time, but her new feathers are coming through already. Elsbeth, Pru and Agnes are all ok. Laying on a regular basis. I think they are looking forward to being let loose on the veggie garden in a couple of months. I usually let them dig over the raised beds when most of the crops have finished. Jase and next door very kindly put up some netting, so the girls can free range after the fence incident. There was a 30cm gap were the fence was shunted and they aren't 'road savvy'. At least they can free range now.
Off out for Schnitzel and low cal chips in a bit, so will sign out now.
Have a lovely evening!
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Can you see in the dark?
Am going to Scotland for a couple of days tomorrow, Jase's Sister's wedding! Looking forward to it! The flights look terrible and I am worried I won't get a seat! The joys of stand by travel. Am thinking of going on the 7am flight, but that means getting up at 3.45 in the morning! Not a prospect I am looking forward to.
Winifred took a turn for the worst yesterday, so I popped her in a cat box and left her in the lounge overnight to stay warm and relaxed. I left the tv on so she had some company as I had to go to work. Am I mad? Probably.
I got back this morning and she seems fine again. Her crop is not as big and not full of fluid, so that is a good sign. A word of warning. Wear old clothes when trying to get natural yoghurt into a chicken's beak. She managed to fling it everywhere with her head shaking!!!! She is running around with the others, so fingers crossed, she will be ok. Next door have 'yoghurt dosage instructions' for the next few days.
A quick picture of my first carrots (I say first, but I have pulled the odd sneaky one, here and there). I have no patience.
My parsnips are coming on really well. First time I have grown them successfully. Need some sunshine now, to ripen the tomatoes and blueberries. The blueberries are now netted which looks awful, but does the job nicely. Mr Blackbird won't be getting any this year!
I spoke to the Craft Fayre person yesterday and will arrange a visit with my 'stock' (!) next week. He seemed really keen on what I was selling, as it was different. Lets hope it is of suitable quality!
Better go and pack I suppose.
Have a good weekend everyone.
C x x
Winifred took a turn for the worst yesterday, so I popped her in a cat box and left her in the lounge overnight to stay warm and relaxed. I left the tv on so she had some company as I had to go to work. Am I mad? Probably.
I got back this morning and she seems fine again. Her crop is not as big and not full of fluid, so that is a good sign. A word of warning. Wear old clothes when trying to get natural yoghurt into a chicken's beak. She managed to fling it everywhere with her head shaking!!!! She is running around with the others, so fingers crossed, she will be ok. Next door have 'yoghurt dosage instructions' for the next few days.
A quick picture of my first carrots (I say first, but I have pulled the odd sneaky one, here and there). I have no patience.
My parsnips are coming on really well. First time I have grown them successfully. Need some sunshine now, to ripen the tomatoes and blueberries. The blueberries are now netted which looks awful, but does the job nicely. Mr Blackbird won't be getting any this year!
I spoke to the Craft Fayre person yesterday and will arrange a visit with my 'stock' (!) next week. He seemed really keen on what I was selling, as it was different. Lets hope it is of suitable quality!
Better go and pack I suppose.
Have a good weekend everyone.
C x x
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Back to normal
Just a quickie to update you all. Winifred was no better the following morning, so I took her to see the vet. She was very good and he agreed with the sour crop diagnosis. A quick antibiotic and 'tummy churning' jab and we came home. I continued feeding her with Rachel's Organic natural yoghurt (only the best, she won't do 'own brand'). The vet gave me some injections to give her at home and she is looking good!
She hasn't laid but I am glad that she is back to normal again and taking a break. Happy and content, bright red comb and still in top hen position :0)
Back to work on Monday, but have been busy all week. Haven't actually done anything on my list, but nothing new there. I have made several pin cushions for the Christmas Fayre (which I still don't know if I am doing).
and a close up......
My August roster is already out and it is quite good trip/money wise. Shame I won't be home much. Guess that goes with the job though. At least I have a couple of trips to do some Christmas shopping. Yes, I did just say that.
We popped to Basingstoke yesterday to get a new pair of shoes for work and a shirt for J's sister's wedding at the weekend. Picked up a Christmas pressie for Mum. I like to start early. What do you mean, too early?? It will be here sooner than you think!! Mark my words.
Right, have to get a wiggle on and give the girls their evening pellet porridge. Winifred has been getting extra portions of porridge with additions (antibiotic powder and yoghurt) and is quite content when I grab her and secretly feed her.
Will leave you with another picture of Winnie, complete with yoghurt on her wattles!
Bye!
C x x
She hasn't laid but I am glad that she is back to normal again and taking a break. Happy and content, bright red comb and still in top hen position :0)
Back to work on Monday, but have been busy all week. Haven't actually done anything on my list, but nothing new there. I have made several pin cushions for the Christmas Fayre (which I still don't know if I am doing).
and a close up......
My August roster is already out and it is quite good trip/money wise. Shame I won't be home much. Guess that goes with the job though. At least I have a couple of trips to do some Christmas shopping. Yes, I did just say that.
We popped to Basingstoke yesterday to get a new pair of shoes for work and a shirt for J's sister's wedding at the weekend. Picked up a Christmas pressie for Mum. I like to start early. What do you mean, too early?? It will be here sooner than you think!! Mark my words.
Right, have to get a wiggle on and give the girls their evening pellet porridge. Winifred has been getting extra portions of porridge with additions (antibiotic powder and yoghurt) and is quite content when I grab her and secretly feed her.
Will leave you with another picture of Winnie, complete with yoghurt on her wattles!
Bye!
C x x
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Natural remedies
I know it isn't right to have favourites, but I have. Winifred isn't too well today. I noticed that she had a huge crop this morning. (For those of you who don't keep hens, the crop is where they store food all day, and digest it over night - the crop should be empty in the morning). She is withdrawn and listless, not interested in food and generally looking sad.
After my hen course today, I popped her in a cat basket to take a better look and brought her indoors, so I could keep an eye on her. Her crop is huge and squishy - sour crop - yeast infection. I have given her some natural yoghurt and apple cider vinegar in her water. It should restore the balance of good bacteria in her crop. She is having a nap in the kitchen as I type. If she is no better tomorrow, then she can visit Uncle Grant at the Vet surgery.
I have my part time week now. Not back to the joys of Terminal 5 until the 20th July. Jase has 2 more zaps to go and is then finished with radiotherapy. No more traveling to Guildford for treatment everyday. Will be a relief that is all over.
Last week, we went to Hampton Court Flower Show. It was the RHS members day, so less crowded than normal. I took my camera, but between the constant rain showers and threats of thunder and lightning, I didn't take many pictures.
The best thing about Hampton Court -
Lots of fantastic stalls inside, Country cottage type bits and bobs, throws, jams and quilts. My kind of place.
The one garden I loved for it's unusual planting was the 'Hanging Bra-skets and pant planters'!! -
The strawberry pants were hysterical!
If Mum said it once she said it 10 times. "It looks like its brightening up over there". Believe me, It didn't brighten up. The heavens opened at every opportunity. We took our roll along trolley with us, the must have accessory for Hampton Court. How else do you drag your plants around, whilst grazing ankles and tripping up unsuspecting visitors?? We are not going with Mum and Dad next year. It is sunny when they don't come with us!
Jase is asleep on the sofa, snoring away. Columbo on the TV. I thought I would write a quick update before heading back to the hospital wing in the kitchen.
Cornelia is still broody. Her chest looks red raw where she insists on pulling feathers out, to line her nest. A spot of savlon seems to help. She might not be laying at the moment, but she is adorable when you see her all fluffed up, growling. She isn't aggressive as some broodies can be. I lift her off the nest every couple of hours to give the others a chance to lay. Even though they have 2 eglus to lay in, they all like to lay where Cornelia is sitting!! Daft chickens.
The back garden is growing like mad. It looks relatively neat and tidy until you get close and see the amount of weeds that have taken hold.
I will get to grips with the weeding this week. I have too. The buttercups are everywhere and need pulling. I picked up a few echinacea plants called 'Baby Swan' that look like inside out daisies. I have planted them in the front, just to get them in the ground, but think I will move them later.
Been busy making things for the Weyhill Christmas Fayre, but haven't been over there yet to see if they will even let me have a stall. Must do that this week too. Am sewing scottie dogs to use as pin cushions, but need to go into Town to get stuffing for them. Stuffing? If that the right word? You know what I mean.
Had a log delivery and they are all neatly stacked and ready for winter. One more load and then I will be happy. Horrible job, stacking logs. With Jase tired due to the radiotheraoy and my back, we aren't that chirpy whilst stacking. He loads onto the wheelbarrow and brings them round the back and I climb into the log store and stack. It works well and means we are still speaking!
The peas, courgettes, carrots and beans are doing well. Even pulled a few carrots for dinner yesterday. Very sweet and satisfying, having finally grown carrots that are a decent size. The wood pigeons have pinched the red and blackcurrants and the raspberries aren't fairing too well against ariel attacks. Will definitely net them next year. The blueberries are covered so should be able to eat those before they are scoffed.
Better get back to Winifred and try to get her to eat more yoghurt. Poor girl. She really doesn't look well. Fingers crossed she will be ok.
TTFN
C x x x
After my hen course today, I popped her in a cat basket to take a better look and brought her indoors, so I could keep an eye on her. Her crop is huge and squishy - sour crop - yeast infection. I have given her some natural yoghurt and apple cider vinegar in her water. It should restore the balance of good bacteria in her crop. She is having a nap in the kitchen as I type. If she is no better tomorrow, then she can visit Uncle Grant at the Vet surgery.
I have my part time week now. Not back to the joys of Terminal 5 until the 20th July. Jase has 2 more zaps to go and is then finished with radiotherapy. No more traveling to Guildford for treatment everyday. Will be a relief that is all over.
Last week, we went to Hampton Court Flower Show. It was the RHS members day, so less crowded than normal. I took my camera, but between the constant rain showers and threats of thunder and lightning, I didn't take many pictures.
The best thing about Hampton Court -
Lots of fantastic stalls inside, Country cottage type bits and bobs, throws, jams and quilts. My kind of place.
The one garden I loved for it's unusual planting was the 'Hanging Bra-skets and pant planters'!! -
The strawberry pants were hysterical!
If Mum said it once she said it 10 times. "It looks like its brightening up over there". Believe me, It didn't brighten up. The heavens opened at every opportunity. We took our roll along trolley with us, the must have accessory for Hampton Court. How else do you drag your plants around, whilst grazing ankles and tripping up unsuspecting visitors?? We are not going with Mum and Dad next year. It is sunny when they don't come with us!
Jase is asleep on the sofa, snoring away. Columbo on the TV. I thought I would write a quick update before heading back to the hospital wing in the kitchen.
Cornelia is still broody. Her chest looks red raw where she insists on pulling feathers out, to line her nest. A spot of savlon seems to help. She might not be laying at the moment, but she is adorable when you see her all fluffed up, growling. She isn't aggressive as some broodies can be. I lift her off the nest every couple of hours to give the others a chance to lay. Even though they have 2 eglus to lay in, they all like to lay where Cornelia is sitting!! Daft chickens.
The back garden is growing like mad. It looks relatively neat and tidy until you get close and see the amount of weeds that have taken hold.
I will get to grips with the weeding this week. I have too. The buttercups are everywhere and need pulling. I picked up a few echinacea plants called 'Baby Swan' that look like inside out daisies. I have planted them in the front, just to get them in the ground, but think I will move them later.
Been busy making things for the Weyhill Christmas Fayre, but haven't been over there yet to see if they will even let me have a stall. Must do that this week too. Am sewing scottie dogs to use as pin cushions, but need to go into Town to get stuffing for them. Stuffing? If that the right word? You know what I mean.
Had a log delivery and they are all neatly stacked and ready for winter. One more load and then I will be happy. Horrible job, stacking logs. With Jase tired due to the radiotheraoy and my back, we aren't that chirpy whilst stacking. He loads onto the wheelbarrow and brings them round the back and I climb into the log store and stack. It works well and means we are still speaking!
The peas, courgettes, carrots and beans are doing well. Even pulled a few carrots for dinner yesterday. Very sweet and satisfying, having finally grown carrots that are a decent size. The wood pigeons have pinched the red and blackcurrants and the raspberries aren't fairing too well against ariel attacks. Will definitely net them next year. The blueberries are covered so should be able to eat those before they are scoffed.
Better get back to Winifred and try to get her to eat more yoghurt. Poor girl. She really doesn't look well. Fingers crossed she will be ok.
TTFN
C x x x
Monday, June 29, 2009
Splinters everywhere....
Evening All!
We went on a train ride yesterday. The Watercress line offers trips out and a Sunday lunch along the way! It was a Christmas present from my Uncle for Mum, Dad, Jase and I.
I wasn't too sure at first, but we had a nice day. It was stinking hot all day and has been getting hotter all week. Expecting 30c+ tomorrow. Glad I am off and can wear shorts all day!
I have been busy today! I donned my carpenter's shorts (he didn't mind)! and decided to visit Wickes and get some wood for a raised planter for the patio. I can link it up to the watering system and make this a dedicated salad planter.
My wood working skills are not the best, but I do have a rather impressive blister on my palm now though. The splinters or 'skelfs' as Jase would say, are out and have been treated with tea tree oil!! Decided to use screws rather than my usual 'hammer and nails, give it a whack' approach!
Looks good in green! -
Was on a roll, so made a window box for the utility room window.
The carrot and onion bed are doing well. The tomatoes are on the left, broad beans taking over at the back.
Jase is feeling the effects of the radiotherapy now and is getting tired. Only 11 zaps to go though!
Work is getting everyone down, with constant talk of cost savings and working for nothing. I won't go into details here, but it is driving me nuts and I am glad to be away from it for a few days. My roster for July is good with several night stops which means less trips down the motorway!
My next project is lip balm, so have been 'brewing' calendula oil for a week now. Need to strain it through muslin and mix with bees wax and a few other choice ingredients. Doesn't look nice does it? Gorgeous colour though.
Heading off to the garden centre tomorrow to get some compost and a few herb plants, as my other window box dried up and all the herbs died. Might see if they have any perennials for the back garden too. The willow fence is looking a tad bare. Might even treat the girls to some dried meal worms. They are laying really well with 4-5 eggs a day. Although with the heat, they aren't too happy, spending most of the day sleeping under the shade of the privet hedge. Would it be too much to give them a sun umbrella? Probably.
We went on a train ride yesterday. The Watercress line offers trips out and a Sunday lunch along the way! It was a Christmas present from my Uncle for Mum, Dad, Jase and I.
I wasn't too sure at first, but we had a nice day. It was stinking hot all day and has been getting hotter all week. Expecting 30c+ tomorrow. Glad I am off and can wear shorts all day!
I have been busy today! I donned my carpenter's shorts (he didn't mind)! and decided to visit Wickes and get some wood for a raised planter for the patio. I can link it up to the watering system and make this a dedicated salad planter.
My wood working skills are not the best, but I do have a rather impressive blister on my palm now though. The splinters or 'skelfs' as Jase would say, are out and have been treated with tea tree oil!! Decided to use screws rather than my usual 'hammer and nails, give it a whack' approach!
Looks good in green! -
Was on a roll, so made a window box for the utility room window.
The carrot and onion bed are doing well. The tomatoes are on the left, broad beans taking over at the back.
Jase is feeling the effects of the radiotherapy now and is getting tired. Only 11 zaps to go though!
Work is getting everyone down, with constant talk of cost savings and working for nothing. I won't go into details here, but it is driving me nuts and I am glad to be away from it for a few days. My roster for July is good with several night stops which means less trips down the motorway!
My next project is lip balm, so have been 'brewing' calendula oil for a week now. Need to strain it through muslin and mix with bees wax and a few other choice ingredients. Doesn't look nice does it? Gorgeous colour though.
Heading off to the garden centre tomorrow to get some compost and a few herb plants, as my other window box dried up and all the herbs died. Might see if they have any perennials for the back garden too. The willow fence is looking a tad bare. Might even treat the girls to some dried meal worms. They are laying really well with 4-5 eggs a day. Although with the heat, they aren't too happy, spending most of the day sleeping under the shade of the privet hedge. Would it be too much to give them a sun umbrella? Probably.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Don't know my right from left....
Ok, some time to blog!
I have finally finished the wedding favours. They are wrapped, posted and have arrived safely! I think. Slight damage to the box, but haven't had a screaming bride-to-be calling yet!
And wrapped up! -
As I mentioned before, Jase started radiotherapy last week and has had 10 'zaps' so far. 15 more to go. He is doing well and isn't too tired, but has the odd day where he feels whacked. They did advise him that the treatment might be tiring. I am secretly hoping that he will also gain super powers as is so often the case with radiation.
The strawberry cage is producing fruit! Here is our first harvest. Modest to say the least, but it is their first year in situ. Next year i will be jammin' for England!!
I am going to attempt my first craft fair this year The Fairground near me always hosts a Christmas fair in November and I am going to attend this year. That is, if they will let me!! I have to show them my wares to see if they are up to scratch. Blimmin' cheek really as I am paying for a stall!! If the timing is right, I will also do the local school Christmas fayre. I've been told it is full of 'Yummy Mummies' with more money than sense! "Anything with a gingham ribbon will fly off the stall" according to my source! Sounds like the kind of thing I buy!
Have already started making lavender bags using lovely fabrics from ebay. 40 down and lots more to go. Will post pictures soon. The jars and bottles have arrived -
On Saturday I braved the new Ikea in Southampton. A glutton for punishment. In fairness it wasn't too vile, but after nearly 2 hours sat on the motorway, stuck in traffic, I was desperate for meatballs and chips. Just to up my blood sugar level you understand. Picked up enough candles to last a lifetime. We should be self sufficient in candle light for several months. £45 total for a trip to Ikea is unheard of. Although a few metres of gorgeous fabric were purchased.
I am now back at work for 5 days, awful there and backs and no night stops. July is a much better roster, so looking forward to shopping my way around Europe. A quick Glasgow and back today (was up at 3.30am) but still feeling remarkably awake.
My new trial contact lenses arrived, so I thought I would wear them to work today. They were fine in the house but my vision rapidly deteriorated by the time i hit the motorway. Foggy eyes and 'surprise' road works, with cones everywhere, are not a good combination. Turns out I had them in the wrong eyes. I worry about me sometimes.
The girls are laying really well. We gave Mum and Dad 5 boxes yesterday. Next door got a box today too. 4-5 eggs a day and no sign of slowing down. Have just jinxed them now! I do wish they would take a break sometimes.
Time to sat nightie night.
Hope you all have a good week. The temperature is set to soar this weekend. Oh, and in answer to your question Chickenlover, my legs are still gloriously brown!
C x x x
I have finally finished the wedding favours. They are wrapped, posted and have arrived safely! I think. Slight damage to the box, but haven't had a screaming bride-to-be calling yet!
And wrapped up! -
As I mentioned before, Jase started radiotherapy last week and has had 10 'zaps' so far. 15 more to go. He is doing well and isn't too tired, but has the odd day where he feels whacked. They did advise him that the treatment might be tiring. I am secretly hoping that he will also gain super powers as is so often the case with radiation.
The strawberry cage is producing fruit! Here is our first harvest. Modest to say the least, but it is their first year in situ. Next year i will be jammin' for England!!
I am going to attempt my first craft fair this year The Fairground near me always hosts a Christmas fair in November and I am going to attend this year. That is, if they will let me!! I have to show them my wares to see if they are up to scratch. Blimmin' cheek really as I am paying for a stall!! If the timing is right, I will also do the local school Christmas fayre. I've been told it is full of 'Yummy Mummies' with more money than sense! "Anything with a gingham ribbon will fly off the stall" according to my source! Sounds like the kind of thing I buy!
Have already started making lavender bags using lovely fabrics from ebay. 40 down and lots more to go. Will post pictures soon. The jars and bottles have arrived -
On Saturday I braved the new Ikea in Southampton. A glutton for punishment. In fairness it wasn't too vile, but after nearly 2 hours sat on the motorway, stuck in traffic, I was desperate for meatballs and chips. Just to up my blood sugar level you understand. Picked up enough candles to last a lifetime. We should be self sufficient in candle light for several months. £45 total for a trip to Ikea is unheard of. Although a few metres of gorgeous fabric were purchased.
I am now back at work for 5 days, awful there and backs and no night stops. July is a much better roster, so looking forward to shopping my way around Europe. A quick Glasgow and back today (was up at 3.30am) but still feeling remarkably awake.
My new trial contact lenses arrived, so I thought I would wear them to work today. They were fine in the house but my vision rapidly deteriorated by the time i hit the motorway. Foggy eyes and 'surprise' road works, with cones everywhere, are not a good combination. Turns out I had them in the wrong eyes. I worry about me sometimes.
The girls are laying really well. We gave Mum and Dad 5 boxes yesterday. Next door got a box today too. 4-5 eggs a day and no sign of slowing down. Have just jinxed them now! I do wish they would take a break sometimes.
Time to sat nightie night.
Hope you all have a good week. The temperature is set to soar this weekend. Oh, and in answer to your question Chickenlover, my legs are still gloriously brown!
C x x x
Monday, June 22, 2009
A quickie!
Have been off for nearly 2 weeks, so no excuse. Just busy pottering around, getting stuff done as always.
Back to work tomorrow, which I am looking forward to. *cough* However, July roster is so much better than June's.
Will update you all on the goings on soon, I promise.
Jase started his radiotherapy last week and all is going well. He is tired but managing ok. At least he is off work and can do some jobs around the house *wink*
Will leave you with a little picture of some strawberry jam I made. Easiest jam in the world! Tastes good too!
Speak soon!
C x x
Back to work tomorrow, which I am looking forward to. *cough* However, July roster is so much better than June's.
Will update you all on the goings on soon, I promise.
Jase started his radiotherapy last week and all is going well. He is tired but managing ok. At least he is off work and can do some jobs around the house *wink*
Will leave you with a little picture of some strawberry jam I made. Easiest jam in the world! Tastes good too!
Speak soon!
C x x
Friday, June 05, 2009
Spotted in public.
Ok, finally a couple of days off and time to update you all.
It has been fantastic weather since we got back from holiday. Today it changed though and I had to wear jeans. Most upset as my legs are never this brown and I wanted to show them off! Hee hee.
There is a local craft centre down the road that I visited today. Looking for a Father's day pressie for Dad. The centre was featured on Village Voices last year (you remember the one with me on - shudder). Managed to get him a hand made 'scientific' pencil, made from laburnum. The Lady that works there was so excited that I came into the shop. She screeched "it's the Chicken Man", as I walked in. Celebrity. Apparently. Lots of people have been coming to the craft centre asking about chicken courses, so I said I would drop off my details next week.
I did ask her about the Christmas fayre that the centre holds every year. It is open to anyone with 'craft type things' to sell. Local people only. Might be another chance for me to sell some bits and bobs as I am only a few miles down the lane.
I then went into Stockbridge to get the raffia that I need to wrap the wedding favours. Simple white tissue paper and a raffia bow. Bought a couple of packs as it is nice stuff and will come in handy for something I'm sure.
I popped into the Garden Inn, my favourite shop, and was very restrained. To be honest I was chomping at the bit to get everything in the shop, but luckily the Lady who works there distracted me by asking how the courses were going and what I was up to, not that I was acting suspiciously!
Came home via Waitrose, with a boot full of food (well, boot, front and rear seats - it is a Mini after all) and a very long till receipt. It is never a quick, cheap shop, is it?
Finished off the first batch of elderflower cordial.
You can tell summer has arrived at last. The utility room smells heavenly. I made about a litre of the golden stuff and it is decanted into sterile bottles ready for later in the year. A second bowl is brewing nicely. Will probably make another couple of batches next week.
The Girls were honoured earlier in the week. We put up the netting and allowed them to free range on the lawn.
Elsbeth and Winifred fascinated by a bucket of water. Agnes just amazed that she is allowed so close to the 'top' hens!
"You keep a lookout and I'll try and grab the geraniums"
We harvested our first lettuce this week. We splurged on a new Barbeque as had friends staying for the weekend and our old one was beyond cleaning. *Top tip, when you have used the barbie, clean it and put it away for the winter! Life forms grow on barbeque grills if they are dirty* Local sausages from the Butcher and home grown salad. Lovely.
I have been quite concerned about Cornelia all week as she hasn't been eating much and her crop is practically empty at night. Checked again yesterday and she was bulging with food *smiles*. She hasn't laid in weeks due to being broody, but we finally got a lovely dark egg from her this morning. She was happily scratching at the grass all day, picking up bugs and tasty morsels.
They all look so healthy and content. The lawn is not faring so well.
Time to say goodnight. I am so hungry and need to make a cake for Mum and Dad visiting tomorrow.
TTFN.
C x x
It has been fantastic weather since we got back from holiday. Today it changed though and I had to wear jeans. Most upset as my legs are never this brown and I wanted to show them off! Hee hee.
There is a local craft centre down the road that I visited today. Looking for a Father's day pressie for Dad. The centre was featured on Village Voices last year (you remember the one with me on - shudder). Managed to get him a hand made 'scientific' pencil, made from laburnum. The Lady that works there was so excited that I came into the shop. She screeched "it's the Chicken Man", as I walked in. Celebrity. Apparently. Lots of people have been coming to the craft centre asking about chicken courses, so I said I would drop off my details next week.
I did ask her about the Christmas fayre that the centre holds every year. It is open to anyone with 'craft type things' to sell. Local people only. Might be another chance for me to sell some bits and bobs as I am only a few miles down the lane.
I then went into Stockbridge to get the raffia that I need to wrap the wedding favours. Simple white tissue paper and a raffia bow. Bought a couple of packs as it is nice stuff and will come in handy for something I'm sure.
I popped into the Garden Inn, my favourite shop, and was very restrained. To be honest I was chomping at the bit to get everything in the shop, but luckily the Lady who works there distracted me by asking how the courses were going and what I was up to, not that I was acting suspiciously!
Came home via Waitrose, with a boot full of food (well, boot, front and rear seats - it is a Mini after all) and a very long till receipt. It is never a quick, cheap shop, is it?
Finished off the first batch of elderflower cordial.
You can tell summer has arrived at last. The utility room smells heavenly. I made about a litre of the golden stuff and it is decanted into sterile bottles ready for later in the year. A second bowl is brewing nicely. Will probably make another couple of batches next week.
The Girls were honoured earlier in the week. We put up the netting and allowed them to free range on the lawn.
Elsbeth and Winifred fascinated by a bucket of water. Agnes just amazed that she is allowed so close to the 'top' hens!
"You keep a lookout and I'll try and grab the geraniums"
We harvested our first lettuce this week. We splurged on a new Barbeque as had friends staying for the weekend and our old one was beyond cleaning. *Top tip, when you have used the barbie, clean it and put it away for the winter! Life forms grow on barbeque grills if they are dirty* Local sausages from the Butcher and home grown salad. Lovely.
I have been quite concerned about Cornelia all week as she hasn't been eating much and her crop is practically empty at night. Checked again yesterday and she was bulging with food *smiles*. She hasn't laid in weeks due to being broody, but we finally got a lovely dark egg from her this morning. She was happily scratching at the grass all day, picking up bugs and tasty morsels.
They all look so healthy and content. The lawn is not faring so well.
Time to say goodnight. I am so hungry and need to make a cake for Mum and Dad visiting tomorrow.
TTFN.
C x x
Friday, May 29, 2009
A pot addiction?
Good evening everyone. I am back from holiday and am sorry I haven't been blogging of late!
The holiday was wonderful. Lots of prawns and garlic, lying by the pool relaxing. Doing very little. Read a few books and got a tan. Was so relaxed that I caught a cold on my last day and am still suffering a bit. We got back on Sunday morning at 3am! Have been off all week sick. Never mind, I am sure work coped without me.
We did manage to visit the pottery place that we went to last year. I made a few *cough* purchases!
I have explained about my terracotta pots addiction before. They were really cheap and I plan to use them at the Christmas fayre later in the year.
I got some lovely presents for my birthday. A water butt for the shed, (only I could get excited by that), several books , a pastry brush, jelly mould, pot brush, lip balm kit, t-shirts and a selection of 'old time' sweets like cola cubes, flying saucers and sherbet dipdabs!! The range of chicken related cards was amazing!!!
The veggies have come on leaps and bounds in the week we were away.
The broad beans are in flower -
The potatoes are doing ok -
....and the potato bags -
I have been feeling ok in the day, but come 7pm I was feeling bad again. Popping paracetamol every 4 hours helped! I went into Marlborough to get some more fabric to make a few more cushions yesterday. They had sold out of the fabric I wanted! I did pick up a few nice pieces though!!
Will use this to make hearts for the hot water bottles I plan to sell.
Too nice and soft to refuse! I am a nightmare in fabric shop and feel like a child in a sweet shop. My friend Kate did warn me, but I didn't believe her!!
As 'my' fabric was sold out, I bought another one and made a few cushions.
They have pride of place in the spare room, as we have friends staying this weekend.
Have just finished baking a victoria sandwich and 40+ oatie biscuits. As the weather is so good, we will probably do a Barbeque tomorrow. Need to head out early and get supplies. Potato salad is a must for outdoor dining. Will make a batch in the morning.
Next door did a marvelous job at looking after the chickens. They didn't get many eggs all week, but judging by the amount of mixed corn that has vanished from the tin, I am not surprised. They got 2 eggs a day, most days. We got 4 the day we turned. The Girls obviously knew we were due back! Cornelia was a full blown broody hen the day we left, but snapped out of it according to the text message I got. She was so funny, sat fluffed up on the nest. I dragged her out and she just sat on the bark, squawking again. She still isn't laying though. 15 days now!
Right, time for bed. Will have to get up early to get everything ready. Promise I will be back soon. My roster for June is the worst I have ever had. No nightstops, only day trips, so I will be around more!
Night night
C x x
The holiday was wonderful. Lots of prawns and garlic, lying by the pool relaxing. Doing very little. Read a few books and got a tan. Was so relaxed that I caught a cold on my last day and am still suffering a bit. We got back on Sunday morning at 3am! Have been off all week sick. Never mind, I am sure work coped without me.
We did manage to visit the pottery place that we went to last year. I made a few *cough* purchases!
I have explained about my terracotta pots addiction before. They were really cheap and I plan to use them at the Christmas fayre later in the year.
I got some lovely presents for my birthday. A water butt for the shed, (only I could get excited by that), several books , a pastry brush, jelly mould, pot brush, lip balm kit, t-shirts and a selection of 'old time' sweets like cola cubes, flying saucers and sherbet dipdabs!! The range of chicken related cards was amazing!!!
The veggies have come on leaps and bounds in the week we were away.
The broad beans are in flower -
The potatoes are doing ok -
....and the potato bags -
I have been feeling ok in the day, but come 7pm I was feeling bad again. Popping paracetamol every 4 hours helped! I went into Marlborough to get some more fabric to make a few more cushions yesterday. They had sold out of the fabric I wanted! I did pick up a few nice pieces though!!
Will use this to make hearts for the hot water bottles I plan to sell.
Too nice and soft to refuse! I am a nightmare in fabric shop and feel like a child in a sweet shop. My friend Kate did warn me, but I didn't believe her!!
As 'my' fabric was sold out, I bought another one and made a few cushions.
They have pride of place in the spare room, as we have friends staying this weekend.
Have just finished baking a victoria sandwich and 40+ oatie biscuits. As the weather is so good, we will probably do a Barbeque tomorrow. Need to head out early and get supplies. Potato salad is a must for outdoor dining. Will make a batch in the morning.
Next door did a marvelous job at looking after the chickens. They didn't get many eggs all week, but judging by the amount of mixed corn that has vanished from the tin, I am not surprised. They got 2 eggs a day, most days. We got 4 the day we turned. The Girls obviously knew we were due back! Cornelia was a full blown broody hen the day we left, but snapped out of it according to the text message I got. She was so funny, sat fluffed up on the nest. I dragged her out and she just sat on the bark, squawking again. She still isn't laying though. 15 days now!
Right, time for bed. Will have to get up early to get everything ready. Promise I will be back soon. My roster for June is the worst I have ever had. No nightstops, only day trips, so I will be around more!
Night night
C x x
Friday, May 15, 2009
See you soon.......
Sorry I haven't been around much lately. Loads done in the garden and busy with work and other projects!
This is only a flying visit as I am off on holiday tomorrow! YAY!! A week in a villa in Portugal. Can't wait. We did think of just taking one case but have settled on two as far too much stuff to take with us. Jase has packed some of my birthday presents as I will be 21 again next week *wink*.
I have left next door in charge of the chickens. They will have a job on their hands as Cornelia went broody yesterday! She has been squawking like a banshee all day and fluffed up, strutting around every time I kicked her off the nest. I hope she has snapped out of it by the time I get home.
The rabbit has not been spotted in the veggie garden for weeks now, but we have another couple of enemies. The first is a mole, which despite having literally acres of fields around here, has decided to ran sack my veggie garden. Birds are the other enemy. They have pulled up all of my pea seedlings which were doing so well. It can be soul destroying, but there is nothing I can do until I get back from holiday.
Bags are packed, passports, tickets and money sorted. leaving at the crack of dawn tomorrow, so will say goodbye now. Promise to be back soon and keep you all up to date with the garden, the girls and any other rambling that gets a mention!
Have a good week.
C x x
This is only a flying visit as I am off on holiday tomorrow! YAY!! A week in a villa in Portugal. Can't wait. We did think of just taking one case but have settled on two as far too much stuff to take with us. Jase has packed some of my birthday presents as I will be 21 again next week *wink*.
I have left next door in charge of the chickens. They will have a job on their hands as Cornelia went broody yesterday! She has been squawking like a banshee all day and fluffed up, strutting around every time I kicked her off the nest. I hope she has snapped out of it by the time I get home.
The rabbit has not been spotted in the veggie garden for weeks now, but we have another couple of enemies. The first is a mole, which despite having literally acres of fields around here, has decided to ran sack my veggie garden. Birds are the other enemy. They have pulled up all of my pea seedlings which were doing so well. It can be soul destroying, but there is nothing I can do until I get back from holiday.
Bags are packed, passports, tickets and money sorted. leaving at the crack of dawn tomorrow, so will say goodbye now. Promise to be back soon and keep you all up to date with the garden, the girls and any other rambling that gets a mention!
Have a good week.
C x x
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