tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12093733438146518982024-02-19T04:06:42.869-05:00Bottle Tree FarmA girl, her husband, two indoor "farm" cats, chickens, rabbits, and honey bees taking a stab at urban farming. And, if that isn't enough, she going to throw in some handmade and vintage sparkle!Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.comBlogger212125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-85379188841869048552016-12-22T17:48:00.000-05:002016-12-22T17:48:19.313-05:00Handmade by Bottle Tree FarmSeveral months ago I fell in love with paper crafting and card making, but I quickly learned how expensive it can get to feed my new found hunger. So I decided to make some cards to sell to offset some of the cost. I sold a few cards, and after the fact realized I had not marked them in any way as handmade or with my farm name. Even a few friends pointed it out. "You really should put your name on the back of those cards so people will know who made them." Oops! <br />
<br />
I started looking and found cute "handmade by" stamps, but I couldn't decide what I would do about my farm name because it's long! I didn't want to hand write it each time because my handwriting is atrocious. I looked at custom stamp options and didn't really want to spend that money yet on a custom stamp. I thought about alphabet stamps, but when I priced alphabet stamp sets, I couldn't justify buying more than one set and dedicating them only to assembling a custom stamp. And, I really didn't want to assemble my farm name every time I made a card. <br />
<br />
I was in Michael's one day and saw these babies in the bargain bins.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisiB_3jcT9qxkC7JBEHfcN_AN4KOprLmW6f5vVKlc7jCviiQ5UGEGtcdvu758HwHFTVzYyOXACScPRNCwKyBv4hNsCMLZbJXs1u0rECo5UXtY53w-OO3O3tyhDBfw7IsCfLFsmTUI3rP0/s1600/IMG_2338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisiB_3jcT9qxkC7JBEHfcN_AN4KOprLmW6f5vVKlc7jCviiQ5UGEGtcdvu758HwHFTVzYyOXACScPRNCwKyBv4hNsCMLZbJXs1u0rECo5UXtY53w-OO3O3tyhDBfw7IsCfLFsmTUI3rP0/s320/IMG_2338.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm_1c-NBclrkh_46XfX4YafvmiKbi-EK2tcMEGR0cylrGP8TrPz3hOJhyphenhyphenrEAIkfIPMbER-CpjP41jdEN6xPpKVA3BW_C3EYLkyiXSBTq8laxAZ09Xd8s32-yPvqBgxd1-VpcWJ7N9ajM/s1600/IMG_2339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm_1c-NBclrkh_46XfX4YafvmiKbi-EK2tcMEGR0cylrGP8TrPz3hOJhyphenhyphenrEAIkfIPMbER-CpjP41jdEN6xPpKVA3BW_C3EYLkyiXSBTq8laxAZ09Xd8s32-yPvqBgxd1-VpcWJ7N9ajM/s320/IMG_2339.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
At $1.25 a set, I didn't feel like I could go wrong, and at that price I could buy the four sets I needed to make a custom stamp. I lined them up and used some shipping tape to hold them together. I just folded over the edge of the tape on each end. I'm pleased that for around $5, I have a custom handmade stamp.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ik4mO1bpaFhczTazaD9oiSmRiDTuJpXCWLsITnzRbT7Bkd0Eu83x4qIWITpu-YZnziSBrrkWqeMvrmdP41X5iBY67yqcTdKGeZxwzZoQkXkp65rIP9DanpYaboAXMlUDTJ5qZfkgQ7w/s1600/IMG_2340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ik4mO1bpaFhczTazaD9oiSmRiDTuJpXCWLsITnzRbT7Bkd0Eu83x4qIWITpu-YZnziSBrrkWqeMvrmdP41X5iBY67yqcTdKGeZxwzZoQkXkp65rIP9DanpYaboAXMlUDTJ5qZfkgQ7w/s320/IMG_2340.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYch0oo1cS4n8EM40hAO8nAwnqLBfNbiw5MCjewWLLQ_yxeb8f0larbiTdBjNkYUtIjSszI5i25VFwc4ctZj0YdiQKIUdQGIFyi15483HC3d_Eyw-vXy5E5u7Ro6gbxErebs8zArscKA/s1600/IMG_2342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYch0oo1cS4n8EM40hAO8nAwnqLBfNbiw5MCjewWLLQ_yxeb8f0larbiTdBjNkYUtIjSszI5i25VFwc4ctZj0YdiQKIUdQGIFyi15483HC3d_Eyw-vXy5E5u7Ro6gbxErebs8zArscKA/s320/IMG_2342.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_esRkYRCACjtTmLALijzs8jH8_zSzZPLOEGH7Di4F7XGZKMksleWtPrQRqteV_57qOCgR7bHRbYbq64Ggp9Ri_KcTYcsJO-ppQgYFLhWsaN5g-5gSdoIZpzlp0MAhSRKkKnRfX1Xu7c/s1600/IMG_2343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8_esRkYRCACjtTmLALijzs8jH8_zSzZPLOEGH7Di4F7XGZKMksleWtPrQRqteV_57qOCgR7bHRbYbq64Ggp9Ri_KcTYcsJO-ppQgYFLhWsaN5g-5gSdoIZpzlp0MAhSRKkKnRfX1Xu7c/s320/IMG_2343.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The blocks do wiggle a little bit and I have to make sure I apply even pressure, so I may eventually glue them together. But overall I love the way the letters don't exactly line up, giving it a truly hand-stamped look. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxuJ18tFZ9DODlRtqkkkV_yAbEXVvMS1JsTSq_nsbCiJOnveXzd8a4y4lhB1XT6kHjUW5G-2yUZqD7d176u8x4EFFsDTpits2-wHSQxPeJwFgHoNSKYrNy9y3CIrUOc_P_lRFi2Jd-Bk/s1600/handmade+stamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxuJ18tFZ9DODlRtqkkkV_yAbEXVvMS1JsTSq_nsbCiJOnveXzd8a4y4lhB1XT6kHjUW5G-2yUZqD7d176u8x4EFFsDTpits2-wHSQxPeJwFgHoNSKYrNy9y3CIrUOc_P_lRFi2Jd-Bk/s320/handmade+stamp.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I eventually bought a 5th set so I would have at least one "e" as I used all of the "e" stamps in the first four sets for my custom stamp. Now, I have a pretty good collection of extras for stamping projects, and I've already used them a few times.<br />
<br />
I love the typed look on this card.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbsUY-IPYdCyhiCZ124HT4hCkIoriYgDvoXnUAkvKTMKO2__Q0Tpy3Tl5XFYPbN50gVrGNKAVpAS6G0WPx_Lz0cuGsj4Xu7DFNeKz9_2eylL92WfIW7fy_uGssyrPxHG-WeApDrZgQ7k/s1600/Key+to+my+Heart+card.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbsUY-IPYdCyhiCZ124HT4hCkIoriYgDvoXnUAkvKTMKO2__Q0Tpy3Tl5XFYPbN50gVrGNKAVpAS6G0WPx_Lz0cuGsj4Xu7DFNeKz9_2eylL92WfIW7fy_uGssyrPxHG-WeApDrZgQ7k/s320/Key+to+my+Heart+card.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
And, they fit perfectly in the boxes of this crossword paper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4ZkjHgcYkY1pn0RUTrMwL8mIu4ZUTlUacom3UFmLWJxHxxomcNa6OWlia92xHj5wsfPrEntnSLnjA68DPMiJIl1YSAlOnpmSs7EXkIf4I2aILB-BQZOTiVs7MPPcxtxLpwTBQAjpPAg/s1600/Crossword+Love+card.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4ZkjHgcYkY1pn0RUTrMwL8mIu4ZUTlUacom3UFmLWJxHxxomcNa6OWlia92xHj5wsfPrEntnSLnjA68DPMiJIl1YSAlOnpmSs7EXkIf4I2aILB-BQZOTiVs7MPPcxtxLpwTBQAjpPAg/s320/Crossword+Love+card.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I would say these little sets of $1.25 alphabet stamps get my "stamp" of approval.<br />
<br />
Happy stamping,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-76415677287695835422016-12-18T10:00:00.001-05:002016-12-18T10:00:03.532-05:00Winter Renewal (and Farm Chores)If there is one thing farmers know about, it's planning their lives around the seasons. I love reading The Pioneer Lady books by Jane Watson Hopping. She writes of her community and growing up on a farm with her family. In her world, winter was a time for regeneration and rest. The final harvest before the first snowfall marked the end of the growing season and the beginning of slower days. That doesn't mean they didn't still have work to do, but the chores weren't as pressing or as numerous, and there was a little extra time in the day to socialize and reconnect with each other. I sometimes long for a long snow-filled winter where growing vegetable is near to impossible. In the south, they say we have two weather conditions, hot and hotter. Because of this, we can grow year round, and it's hard to justify not growing at least a few things when the weather works in your favor. Winter greens do quite well in our climate and with hoop houses, we can even extend the growing season for many warm weather vegetables. The first freeze last week finally killed off my eggplant, pepper and basil plants. Eggplants, peppers and basil in December! I do try to cut back in the winter and follow the lead of Mrs. Hopping, but that doesn't mean I still don't have chores, just as they did. <br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMSVd7oq5uZ8d6PrYGr9M7ZEmuEQtF1OOPsLhYnsy2BRjSvQZLLBB9tQlRU1TdbF3TvqX1WbXET596tgsElejkW2eyOsx2TuooXhBoXjDQ632KA8yrGS8iCmNDWzGPXYSlE1rR13fi-E/s1600/IMG_2634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmMSVd7oq5uZ8d6PrYGr9M7ZEmuEQtF1OOPsLhYnsy2BRjSvQZLLBB9tQlRU1TdbF3TvqX1WbXET596tgsElejkW2eyOsx2TuooXhBoXjDQ632KA8yrGS8iCmNDWzGPXYSlE1rR13fi-E/s320/IMG_2634.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I am in no way a large scale farmer, but my set-up is enough that I recognize the seasons and the activities and chores that come with each one. What farm chores do I do this time of year you may ask? I still plant winter vegetables, just not as many as in the summer. I like to plant plenty of greens because they can be shared with my rabbits and chickens. I clean out all of the garden beds, including weeds and the veggie plants themselves. I top all of my beds with manure so it can break down over the winter and regenerate my soil (I'm behind in this chore so I really need to get it done!). I then top all of my beds with wood mulch (Once again, behind!). In January I start to think about seed propagation and the varieties I want to grow in the new year. In most years, a seed order is placed. I plan the layout of each bed, rotating veggies from the year before to other beds to help control soil diseases. Any maintenance that needs to be done around the farm is completed. And, if I have a large project planned, it gets done this time of year as well. My ultimate goal is to prep and get everything ready for the spring and summer, but most importantly, it's to relax a little. </div>
<div>
<br />
Nature takes this time to renew itself; we should do the same. <br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Candace <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
</div>
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-49931004810717378722016-11-06T19:06:00.000-05:002016-11-06T19:06:29.029-05:00Move Along Tree Rats, There's Nothing to Eat Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGvXUiudVqVwJkQEh8il8ZjJ7gVdoeFs_mR8RnpnAkOq453XBt4ev41ufQPKgtsK7Yo62uQJGyVX8ZHu9NxFqC5jA3fX2YJ6Xf8Iz7LeKZ8G9cxJi1RvH9w7G4YZq5OeJDJGK3-gOjbhs/s1600/IMG_2474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGvXUiudVqVwJkQEh8il8ZjJ7gVdoeFs_mR8RnpnAkOq453XBt4ev41ufQPKgtsK7Yo62uQJGyVX8ZHu9NxFqC5jA3fX2YJ6Xf8Iz7LeKZ8G9cxJi1RvH9w7G4YZq5OeJDJGK3-gOjbhs/s320/IMG_2474.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We took this peach tree down a few weeks ago. It was a hard decision because that tree has seen the full transition of
my yard to a farm. It's a symbol of my origins as a gardener, really
one of the first things I planted when we moved here. I remember thinking how cool it was that we would be growing and enjoying our own peaches. I mean, after all, we live in Georgia, the Peach State, and I grew up stopping at roadside peach stands each summer to buy the juicy sweet fruit. I even worked at a peach farm one summer in high school. For years this tree produced magnificently, but the only creatures enjoying the bounty were the tree rats, a.k.a. squirrels. They even have their own squirrel highway, down the limb of a huge oak tree, across the branches of the loropetalum, and straight into the peach tree. Well, they are in for a rude awakening come next summer. I can hardly wait to see their looks of disappointment. Of all the years we had the tree, we only got one decent harvest, which was during the Year of the Squirrel Slayer. You can read about him <a href="http://bottletreefarm.blogspot.com/2011/07/waste-not-want-not.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Then, the next year, the peach borers moved in. If the peaches managed to make it to a ripe stage before the
squirrels got them, the peach borers were ready and waiting for their
chance. If you don't know it already, it's REALLY hard to grow peaches organically. I live just across the state line from South Carolina, which is the 2nd largest producer of peaches after California. One would think if there were organic peaches to be found, they would be found 30 minutes or so from my house. But, I only know of one organic peach farm in these parts. <br />
<br />
I finally thought to myself, "Why am I sacrificing prime real estate in my yard to a fruit tree that is giving me no return?" With limited space, I am constantly accessing what works for me and what doesn't, and the peach tree just wasn't working for me anymore. So what did I replace it with? I replaced it with a fruit that the squirrels don't bother, figs! Brown Turkey fig trees are probably the most prevalent variety found in older southern yards. My neighbor has probably a 40 year old tree hanging over the fence of his yard, the main trunk of it being in his neighbor's yard. And while I have access to that part of the tree for picking each year, it's not the same as having my own full size fig tree. Because if you ask me, figs are the best fruit on the planet, and each year I gorge myself on them. And, when I'm done gorging, I can spiced figs and fig jam. I make fig pizzas and upside down fig cakes. Fig ice cream is on my list as well. Figs, figs, figs, I love you figs. So, here is my little fig tree.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oYD2kJFLIz-jZqbLB1f93lWOjoi0mAUMexklGLtblzUbpQpH062xYFwkT5pbUGWI9TbPQr6dsAG76wb4T4_08Zp7hczfyIJVhGcSBEgfE5Wiw8vMpDSfRrX3Wdv0u5rmfpFHNlzj0-Q/s1600/IMG_2515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oYD2kJFLIz-jZqbLB1f93lWOjoi0mAUMexklGLtblzUbpQpH062xYFwkT5pbUGWI9TbPQr6dsAG76wb4T4_08Zp7hczfyIJVhGcSBEgfE5Wiw8vMpDSfRrX3Wdv0u5rmfpFHNlzj0-Q/s320/IMG_2515.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Grow little one. I expect great things from you! <br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
Candace<br />
<br />
<br />Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-63133287365741770102015-09-21T14:15:00.002-04:002015-09-22T10:43:34.277-04:00G.R.O.W. Harrisburg: Where It's Been and Where It's Going<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Since leaving my full-time job, I've tried to come up with ways to help the farm earn its keep. Because after all, chicken and rabbit feed isn't free. The chickens forage during the day, and I only feed them at night. And, I can put together a decent ration of greens and wild weeds for the rabbits most days, but it's not enough to sustain them. So, one of the ways I earn extra money is to sell eggs, honey, and garden art. The eggs I sell on our local online farmer's market called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AugustaLocallyGrown?fref=ts" target="_blank">Augusta Locally Grown</a>. One of the aspects of this organization that I love is it's a non-profit, and a portion of the seller's fee I pay goes to various programs in the area devoted to local food advocacy. Since becoming a selling farmer on this site, I've become more involved in the non-profit side as well by volunteering. And one program that really speaks to me and pulls me in as a volunteer is the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GROW-Harrisburg-758040630948277/timeline/" target="_blank">G.R.O.W. Harrisburg</a> initiative. The Harrisburg neighborhood is a stone's throw from my house, and it is full of a rich and varied history. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Harrisburg
was once a mill village in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
But, as the mills closed, the neighborhood fell into decline. And, in
recent years it has been a district riddled with crime, drugs,
prostitution, and homelessness. Drive down its streets, and you won't
fail to see a burnt out shell of a house. Enter a vacant house, and
you, more times than not, will find evidence of illegal activity.
Convenience stores and fast food restaurants mark the landscape. So, </span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">one can't help but wonder how the lack of quality healthy food plays a role in this environment. The U.S.D.A. Economic Research Service considers the Harrisburg-West End Historic District a food desert. It is considered low income and low access as the </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">annual family income is at or below 200 percent of the Federal poverty threshold for family size and the </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">p</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">ercentage
of residents live more than one mile from the nearest supermarket,
supercenter, or large grocery store. I live not five minutes from
Harrisburg, and yet, not five minutes in the other direction is a
collection of grocery stores and thriving economic development.
Harrisburg is so close, yet so far.</span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">But, in 2012, some local medical students from the Medical College of Georgia, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StLukesHarrisburg?fref=ts">St. Luke United Methodist Church</a>, and local farmers set about making a change. That change was the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Veggie-Truck/334761463302824?fref=ts">Veggie Truck Farmers Market</a>. Augusta Locally Grown was brought on-board to coordinate the farmer's market, and since that
time, a small farmer's market has grown into a multi-partner initiative
called G.R.O.W. Harrisburg. </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Its </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">goal is to help residents learn to grow, cook, and eat real food as a community. </span></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Food
is the starting point of the initiative, but one of the backbones is
community and how important it is for the health and well-being of its
residents. I look at my neighborhood as an example. One thing I love
about it is my neighbors. They are all good salt-of-the-earth kind of
people, and we help each other out. We have each other's phone numbers,
and when someone is away for a few days, we tell each other. We watch
out for each other. Many of my neighbors have lived in this
neighborhood for 40+ years, and they tell me stories about when someone
had a goat or how their family had chickens growing up. In my case,
farming and food <span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">are</span> often conversation starters with someone walking
down the street. "You're the house with the chickens, right? I can
hear your roosters crowing, and it reminds me of my grandmother's
house." or "I love your garden in your front yard. What kind of
vegetables are you growing?" or "My grand kids are visiting next week.
May I bring them over to see your animals?" So, i</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">t's
a slippery slope when neighbors no longer know each other and stop
taking care of each other. The community bond is broken and the moral
integrity follows suit. I can see through my own experiences what makes
G.R.O.W. Harrisburg so special. It's the commonality of food and how
it is connecting people, and the more neighbor connections you have, the
stronger your neighborhood. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> </span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Kim
Hines, the Executive Director of Augusta Locally Grown, sees the future
of Harrisburg, not as a food desert, but as a food destination, where
residents and outsiders come to buy local seasonal food and G.R.O.W.
Harrisburg as a starting block for micro-businesses. Changing the face
of Harrisburg from an outsider's point of view without changing its
unique identity and the diversity of its residents is paramount. With
the right education and direction, it can happen. I think of Detroit as
an example. With the crash of the car industry, Detroit became a barren
wasteland. But, local residents are taking it back through food.
PBS's Food Forward episode, "<a href="http://www.pbs.org/food/features/food-forward-pilot-urban-farming/">Urban Farming</a>," illustrates this brilliantly.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">I am<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> so happy to play a small role as a volunteer<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, <span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">and </span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">I leave you with a video that perfectly captures the initiative and its programs. </span></span></span>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /></span>
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/GG4SqdL9xfM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GG4SqdL9xfM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /></span>
</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Grow where you're planted,</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /></span>
</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times,Times New Roman,serif;"><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Candace</span>
</span></span>Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-62411734624319991652015-09-16T19:36:00.000-04:002015-09-16T19:36:24.800-04:00Take That, ---uckers!I don't think there is a garden pest I hate worse than the squash vine borer. For years I've battled them, and I've done everything imaginable to beat them. But apparently the vine borers at my house aren't reading the same literature I'm reading because they seem immune to every trick in the book. I was determined to win though, so this year I decided to experiment with row covers and hand pollination. My plan was to use the row covers and at the first sign of eggs, pull all of the summer squash plants to keep the eggs from hatching and feeding. At the least, I could break the reproduction cycle and possibly start fresh next year. No one surrounding me had a garden so I felt safe with this approach. Each morning I marched myself out to the garden, uncovered everything, hand pollinated, and then covered it again. You may think to yourself, "Why go to so much trouble? It's just squash." Well, I'm a sore loser and very stubborn. And, it is so disheartening to see beautifully healthy squash plants die before they can even produce any squash. <br />
<br />
My row covers worked, and I was victorious! I grew zucchinis organically for the first time ever. Had I known I would succeed, I would have planted yellow squash as well. Unfortunately the row cover was a cheap Ikea window panel I had on hand. Eventually the plants outgrew the area the panel could cover and I managed to rip quite a few holes in it, so I had to discard them after a few months. And, I saw a few borers on the plants after I removed the covers, so I wasn't 100% successful. But, I got squash for two months or so and I consider that a win. I'll have to do something better for next year in terms of a row cover, but I'm encouraged. <br />
<br />
And, not only did I get zucchini, but just last week I noticed these sweet babies interspersed in my butternut squash bed. It must be a volunteer from last year. It's a zucchino rampicante, also know as a trombone squash. It's supposed to be vine borer resistant, but it isn't in my garden. I'm thinking maybe a seed I planted didn't germinate until now. Who knows? I'm hoping to harvest a few of these before it gets too cold, and I think I've passed the vine borer season at this point in the year. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTh2xLclQO_0DVSe2GXevivjS8fx7I3WluN1NsxA5Jnh9DrTq73f5cAEkSF2PyaZ21QZGeR6tvMKoemRmSM4RQ_yF5ExyHDjHK6oNFuG0QWSsJIkZ00phgqbfLgmhyphenhyphen0v-LYLBsOAcNvQs/s1600/IMG_0435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTh2xLclQO_0DVSe2GXevivjS8fx7I3WluN1NsxA5Jnh9DrTq73f5cAEkSF2PyaZ21QZGeR6tvMKoemRmSM4RQ_yF5ExyHDjHK6oNFuG0QWSsJIkZ00phgqbfLgmhyphenhyphen0v-LYLBsOAcNvQs/s320/IMG_0435.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy that we were getting squash daily, I was crowing about my victory one day on Facebook. A friend of mine who produces an Earth-friendly video series for the local magazine asked if he could film a video on my battle. And, being the introvert I am, I agreed. I actually am an introvert, so this was incredibly out of character for me. Regardless, here I am in all of my glory! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KbfwUwe9hwA/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KbfwUwe9hwA?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-82657308530131189992015-09-14T15:41:00.000-04:002015-09-14T15:59:52.180-04:00The Unknown Path<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYUbOD71EhOs-0aqL6PxgDBnjRMWNSNjK3D_1g4wf6Q09A16TokwBozn_suRGBs_f1XHZksirw33SvHLpwxTCObOm0i7UdQNWkV94NdGzpzPrHeaL3bp7W2tac14Y4HV929lZnj6jPDc/s1600/IMG_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYUbOD71EhOs-0aqL6PxgDBnjRMWNSNjK3D_1g4wf6Q09A16TokwBozn_suRGBs_f1XHZksirw33SvHLpwxTCObOm0i7UdQNWkV94NdGzpzPrHeaL3bp7W2tac14Y4HV929lZnj6jPDc/s320/IMG_0428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For the last five years you've known me as The Weekend Homesteader. I worked full-time, and projects on my urban farm were completed as time allowed. But even before I started my blog, I was building a farm on a part-time hobby basis. Some raised beds were joined by edible landscaping in the forms of fruit trees, berry brambles, and fruit bushes. Next came just two chicks, which turned into upwards of 25 at one point. Angora rabbits were transitioned to meat rabbits. Along came honey bees and ducks. More and bigger animal housing and a greenhouse made an appearance. I named my farm Bottle Tree Farm and gave it a logo. All of this was done part-time while I worked to pay the mortgage. And, over the years, it changed me and fulfilled me in ways my daytime job could not.<br />
<br />
So today, I have a confession to make. About a year and a half ago, I left my job. It was the toughest and scariest decision I think I've ever made. Those who know me personally know of this decision. Some thought me foolish because I left a wonderful work environment, a steady income, and excellent benefits. Others thought me courageous because I was stepping off the deep end into the unknown. And, perhaps I was a little of both. All I knew was that I just needed a break to explore other options. I was fortunate enough to have a husband who supported my decision and a bare bones lifestyle that doesn't need six figures to keep it going. I haven't felt comfortable discussing this publicly until now as this path I'm on is unknown, and it's a path I felt was mine to walk privately for a time so I could feel my way. <br />
<br />
I knew I didn't want to walk privately forever though, as I hope my decision will inspire someone out there to take that first step to making a change from a lifestyle that doesn't suit you anymore. I'm not saying run out and quit your job tomorrow, but put a plan on paper, set some goals, and make some decisions that put you on your unknown path. You never know where it may lead you. My path may lead me back into the workforce, and I'm fine with that. But it may also lead me to places I never imagined. <br />
<br />
With that, I leave you with a favorite poem of mine by Robert Frost:<br />
<br />
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,<br />
And sorry I could not travel both<br />
And be one traveler, long I stood<br />
And looked down one as far as I could<br />
To where it bent in the undergrowth; <br />
<br />
Then took the other, as just as fair,<br />
And having perhaps the better claim<br />
Because it was grassy and wanted wear,<br />
Though as for that the passing there<br />
Had worn them really about the same,<br />
<br />
And both that morning equally lay<br />
In leaves no step had trodden black.<br />
Oh, I kept the first for another day! <br />
Yet knowing how way leads on to way<br />
I doubted if I should ever come back.<br />
<br />
I shall be telling this with a sigh<br />
Somewhere ages and ages hence:<br />
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,<br />
I took the one less traveled by,<br />
And that has made all the difference.
<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
Candace <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-89685920882414241312015-04-18T11:11:00.001-04:002015-04-18T11:11:58.549-04:00And...... We're Back To CagesAs you know I recently decided to move my does to our barn, which is really just a series of 4 enclosed stalls. You can read about it <a href="http://theweekendhomesteader.blogspot.com/2015/03/transitioning-rabbits.html" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
About two weeks ago, Bunny gave birth to eight beautiful kits, finishing out my kindling for the time being. At the time, I had 9 four week old kits with Zelda, 9 two week old kits with Mimi, and Bunny's newborn kits. One day last week something told me to go check on everyone, so I started with Bunny's stall. As you can see, she has a fabulous covered nest box with a hinged door. She built a beautiful nest and things were going swimmingly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnxHjn9lAZGB09uyGu4wILsbyIV8K41XBWN2WgZ5rxdHRbRKWl9-ZBP4YC3I-YqGbaLEucGFormimZBI_IMcAhNxPVKrt7Qnuhsk16PiEQUvcdQW1T83-3cl0WC_KW3SC2oL1uf7R5mw/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bsetup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnxHjn9lAZGB09uyGu4wILsbyIV8K41XBWN2WgZ5rxdHRbRKWl9-ZBP4YC3I-YqGbaLEucGFormimZBI_IMcAhNxPVKrt7Qnuhsk16PiEQUvcdQW1T83-3cl0WC_KW3SC2oL1uf7R5mw/s1600/150318+bunny's+setup.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When I lifted up the door, this is what I found, a big fat beautiful black rat snake.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjCmPmSYunmBin7ShBDZjjzNF0AnRjaSaoYUuZ0mBGaAia3YqgkE_QgVc3NGmuLByLCOMY1MbTtGRSGwwxcQX3nY6LW5J0XOw1fWMB_xWChlVl29zO9cuoOkqcOvGucWTNVEVuAf0Jc4/s1600/DSCN3379%5B2%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVjCmPmSYunmBin7ShBDZjjzNF0AnRjaSaoYUuZ0mBGaAia3YqgkE_QgVc3NGmuLByLCOMY1MbTtGRSGwwxcQX3nY6LW5J0XOw1fWMB_xWChlVl29zO9cuoOkqcOvGucWTNVEVuAf0Jc4/s1600/DSCN3379%5B2%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was coiled around the nest. I freaked! I ran and grabbed a rake and poked at it until it slid to the back of the nest where it is in the photo. I started frantically pulling back fur to find babies. I only found four of the eight. There were three days' old and the perfect size for snake snacking. One of them was slimy as if the snake had started eating it but spit it out. Everyone was gathered and put in a nest box and along with Bunny, put in a cage. <br />
<br />
I then went to Mimi's cage to gather her two week old kits, and they were not in their kennel. I think I almost had a heart attack. But, I pulled the kennel away from the wall and they were all piled up atop one another asleep behind the kennel. I gathered them and Mimi and also put them in a cage. At two weeks' old, they were still a great size for a snake to tackle.<br />
<br />
Even though Zelda's babies were four weeks old, I put them and Zelda in a cage as well, just to be safe.<br />
<br />
My nerves were shot by then, and even though I knew it was non-venomous, I didn't want to tackle capturing the snake by myself. Neither my husband nor my neighbor were home, so I let it hang out where it was. If I were a drinking person, a good stiff one would have been next on the agenda. <br />
<br />
I wiped off the kit that was slimy and I worried that moving Bunny and her nest would confuse her and maybe she would not know where her kits were. Fortunately I had some of her fur saved from her last litter, so I lined the nest with it and covered the kits. The next day I saw her feeding the kits so I knew she knew where they were; however, the one kit did not look like it had eaten. So I took it out of the cage along with Bunny and held her while it nursed. I did this for a few days to make sure it was eating. It is growing so I know it's being fed, but it's not growing at the rate of the other ones. Honestly I don't know if it was a runt to start with or if maybe the snake damaged it in some way, but it is active and its eyes opened on schedule. <br />
<br />
We've had several cool, rainy days lately and a few mornings ago, I went out to feed and water everyone and it was on the cage floor, out of the nest box, barely moving, likely dying from hypothermia. I brought it inside and warmed it up and put it back in the nest box. I checked on it later and it was warm and snuggled up with its litter mate. It was probably still attached to Bunny when she finished feeding and got pulled out of the box with her. I will give it credit; it's a survivor!<br />
<br />
They should hit two weeks' old in a few days, and at that point, they will start to munch on hay and get their legs under them. I'll be curious to see how it progresses from there. <br />
<br />
So, back to the snake. It hung around the stall for a while and left at some point. I'm sure it didn't go far being weighted down with rabbit kits. Non-venomous snakes serve a valuable role in our eco-system. They provide rodent control and protect their territory from venomous snakes. I would never kill a non-venomous snake. In this situation, I have only myself to blame. I set up a perfect buffet for that snake. Because my stalls are predator proof in terms of raccoons and opposums, I never imagined a snake causing havoc, even though it makes perfect sense. I know we have snakes as I see them every year and occasionally they eat some of my eggs. <br />
<br />
So for the last week, I've been very diligent about collecting eggs as soon as possible. And low and behold, I went to put up the chickens one evening and found a grey rat snake in the chicken coop. It had indulged on one of my eggs, so Nate loaded it up in the truck and took it down to the canal and released it. I hated relocating it but I also don't want it eating all of my eggs. I'm sure the black rat snake is still around so I know we still have a snake coverage.<br />
<br />
Zelda's babies just hit six weeks and have pretty good size to them now, so I plan to move them and Zelda back to one of the stalls once it stops raining non-stop. And, I'll do the same with each subsequent litter until I figure out how to snake-proof the stalls. I won't be breeding again until the fall so I have some time to work on it.<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
Candace<br />
<br />
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-51084183416568270912015-04-07T18:49:00.000-04:002015-04-07T18:52:54.720-04:00Try, Try, Try Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6W3oX32CHPPPlOd1kS9Z0AIkLYMaE8winYMyuEfn8Yh94NkXzPVtIB2d69K1TFLY7MuoUDj8IyIi6IOQqr95cThyTD8602WNo6Wd0ObquNTPPwhy7afIYoQYHs_Ny26DXh-ctARdqy5s/s1600/150405+two+hives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6W3oX32CHPPPlOd1kS9Z0AIkLYMaE8winYMyuEfn8Yh94NkXzPVtIB2d69K1TFLY7MuoUDj8IyIi6IOQqr95cThyTD8602WNo6Wd0ObquNTPPwhy7afIYoQYHs_Ny26DXh-ctARdqy5s/s1600/150405+two+hives.jpg" height="320" width="310" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
We've kept bees for several years now, but only one hive. For some reason, keeping a second successful hive eludes us. Our one hive really thrives. It is so strong that during the ice storm last year a limb fell on it and blew it apart. We found it lying on the ground in pieces with a cluster in one of the boxes. We put it back together and expected the worst. Not only did it survive, but we harvested honey all summer from it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpyeDZNXjdP9BIMfMiplsu7iAaZYwarS-V7RwbR9y95xbt39Qqf5pge9wqGTv5HZ0bXkZkHZKW-NnbFP-DuKoC6QwkDMRbhyjupa_YYOp-stpvrYpC0jpKI3-2SPtx0X8q3vv643o0V5E/s1600/140213+ice+storm+bees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpyeDZNXjdP9BIMfMiplsu7iAaZYwarS-V7RwbR9y95xbt39Qqf5pge9wqGTv5HZ0bXkZkHZKW-NnbFP-DuKoC6QwkDMRbhyjupa_YYOp-stpvrYpC0jpKI3-2SPtx0X8q3vv643o0V5E/s1600/140213+ice+storm+bees.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Apparently even an ice storm can't take down our one hive, but when we try for a second one, it fails, every time. We've bought packages of bees more than once, replaced queens, caught swarms, you name it, we've tried it with the exception of splitting our hive. So, this year I decided to try splitting our hive. Why would I keep trying to have a second hive after so many failed attempts? Well, I'm as stubborn as a mule and a sore loser. You can ask my husband. <br />
<br />
Splitting the hive means basically that. You try to divide the population and put one half in another hive. It's a man-made swarm. As the population builds up in the hive, it becomes crowded which triggers a swarm, which is a natural split. When bees swarm, the mother queen leaves with a portion of the population, and the newly emerged queen stays and takes over the hive. With it being early spring, I knew they were building up for a swarm soon so I decided to try to beat them to the punch. So a few weeks ago, a friend came over to help me.<br />
<br />
The goal is to take frames of brood that have all stages of development, eggs, larvae, and capped brood as well as cells of pollen and honey and move them to a new hive. You replace the frames you take from the original hive with empty frames so the queen has room to lay more eggs. It's great if you can find your queen in the original hive as you can make sure she stays where she is, but if you can't find your queen, you can either let each new colony make a queen, which they will naturally do in the absence of one or you can add a queen. Since I have failed so many times I decided not to spend anymore money and to let nature take its course and let each hive rear a queen if there wasn't one. A few of the frames had queen cells so we left them on the off chance that a queen wasn't present. There was capped honey already in the hive so we gave each hive a frame or two of honey to help feed them while they transitioned. We also made sure each hive had approximately the same amount of bees. Of course, the foragers that were out foraging were going to come back to the original hive. But, we were hoping any foragers that got dumped in the new hive would reorient themselves and stay with the new hive. Often beekeepers move the new hive several miles away so the foragers in the new hive have to reorient themselves, but I really didn't have the means to do that, so I took a chance.<br />
<br />
The original hive recovered quickly and even swarmed about a week ago. I imagine our original queen was left in that hive and one of the queen cells we left as a safety precaution hatched so it swarmed. I'm fine with that because it's still a really strong hive. Well, low and behold, I went out to observe yesterday and saw bees bringing in pollen on the split hive. This video shows foragers coming in and going out. It's still a weak hive as it had to rear a queen and has to build up its population, but I'm encouraged! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyeD9oKJVp-b_0B3mTtbqmkeuvepFbnQ1cUYl5A95GvTXutgfQC0bXraENSdcVIy22IfVGz6EDW0Jbits_y-A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Please wish me luck! <br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
Candace<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-79008163070285464192015-03-25T15:02:00.001-04:002015-03-25T15:22:37.784-04:00By the Phase of the MoonI seem to be writing more about the rabbits than anything else lately although I do have other things happening. I suppose the reason is because I have been giving them more attention than I normally do in terms of bettering my rabbitry and getting better breeding results. Several months ago I came across the practice of breeding by the phases of the moon. And it started with this <a href="http://riseandshinerabbitry.com/2012/03/03/breeding-rabbits-by-the-moon/" target="_blank">blog post.</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was tired of trying to get my does in the mood as they never seemed to want to lift for my bucks, no matter who I paired with whom. So, I decided to try this idea of breeding by the moon cycle. The first full moon for me at that point was February 2nd. I put Zelda in with Buck Nasty, and she immediately lifted. I've never had a doe lift so quickly. And she lifted for him several times. Today she is the mama of a beautiful litter of nine kits. Now according to legend since I bred her on the full moon, she should have more bucks than does in her litter. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlDkiZXeFeRUIgN0ZOQDyRgrEDuC-AyT3yrh1LU09TLWPSWDlhVXaR8VnfpIYGo1rv4j6HBCiq9j3aJWlitGnxUznwu6zWFOwClEM2XAdT_ADIh4Duksgs_97Qv27ytQ3RGqNyIWLRxY/s1600/150324+zelda's%2Bbabies%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVlDkiZXeFeRUIgN0ZOQDyRgrEDuC-AyT3yrh1LU09TLWPSWDlhVXaR8VnfpIYGo1rv4j6HBCiq9j3aJWlitGnxUznwu6zWFOwClEM2XAdT_ADIh4Duksgs_97Qv27ytQ3RGqNyIWLRxY/s1600/150324+zelda's%2Bbabies%2B2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The new moon was on February 18th, so I decided to breed Mimi on this day. She also immediately lifted and Jack was able to get more than one fall off. She gave birth several days ago and built one of the prettiest nests I've ever seen. Because they are tucked in the back of the dog crate I haven't counted them yet. But when I stick my hand down in the crate I can feel the warmth radiating off them and when I lift the fur, they pop up and down like popcorn kernels, so I know they are okay. Since she was bred on the new moon, she should have more does in her litter. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9eyka5FdQQwm91W-66vnyqXuOkrLuhPcX9VNBu5lSwHxKFcFIYLLgpZ__CmoHfwY8MVAVL-f-nXAjyn0TJNvJKrUWRRk5j_LrTz6gc3bIH-LcvcIYgHjINYqSaeDEf6ZeDiq0o8nJCQ/s1600/150321+mimi's%2Bnest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9eyka5FdQQwm91W-66vnyqXuOkrLuhPcX9VNBu5lSwHxKFcFIYLLgpZ__CmoHfwY8MVAVL-f-nXAjyn0TJNvJKrUWRRk5j_LrTz6gc3bIH-LcvcIYgHjINYqSaeDEf6ZeDiq0o8nJCQ/s1600/150321+mimi's%2Bnest.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My last breeding was Bunny on the full moon of March 4th. She didn't lift immediately but she did lift and she tends to be slightly stubborn so we'll see what happens with her. She is due starting next week. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I do know when I see a full moon, but other than that, I'm not one who can tell the difference between a waning or waxing moon or even know when there's a new moon, so I've been using the <a href="http://farmersalmanac.com/calendar/moon-phases/" target="_blank">Farmers' Almanac website</a> to schedule my breedings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now, if you really want to get crazy and even determine the quality of your bucks and does, you can breed based on the moon phases combined with the zodiac calendar. This <a href="https://madhatterrabbits.wordpress.com/2013/09/26/moon-phase-rabbit-breeding/" target="_blank">post</a> does a great job of explaining that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So here is to some successful breeding by the phase of the moon. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy homesteading,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Candace</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
</div>
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-32511653884628133042015-03-18T15:55:00.003-04:002015-03-18T15:55:56.834-04:00Transitioning the RabbitsFor a few years I've been curious about raising rabbits in a colony situation versus keeping them in cages. There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches, but the biggest advantage of a colony situation is that it mimics nature and this is what interests me the most. I want my animals to be the happiest they can be, and while I give each rabbit time to exercise and frolic in a run, I imagine they would be happier to be able to do that 24/7 without my moving them back and forth from an exercise run to their cage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93bzm3vkO74p5SKZLkGBgsCI_bzcx6oads19jsTnS9J0iKzXbYuNP0-Jxs-We0uDWLnQFZnUJm1ek_Cju1ZvMEhUrA5lINibZp8i5wl16jBqwrgBLo3SBK0H80mIbUow_udIW8wl-_sA/s1600/140324+animal+yard+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93bzm3vkO74p5SKZLkGBgsCI_bzcx6oads19jsTnS9J0iKzXbYuNP0-Jxs-We0uDWLnQFZnUJm1ek_Cju1ZvMEhUrA5lINibZp8i5wl16jBqwrgBLo3SBK0H80mIbUow_udIW8wl-_sA/s1600/140324+animal+yard+2.JPG" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
About a year ago, we finished what I call the barn. It's a four stall building and I reserved the first three stalls for rabbit grow-outs. When I didn't have any litters in them they sat empty, and I wondered what sense did that make? Why not let my does live in the stalls and give birth to their litters there? Their litters are going to end up there anyway. The does will naturally wean them when the time is right. Plus, if I decide to keep a doe from a litter, it already gets along with its mother and they could live together as a colony would. Since I only have three stalls at the moment, two of my rabbits are still in cages and I move them back and forth to the run as usual. Ultimately I would love a series of stalls along the back privacy fence seen in the top left of the photo. Most people who raise colonies keep their bucks separate so they can control breeding, and this is what I've decided to do as well. So in the three stalls, I have a doe, a buck and a doe. The buck can socialize through the wire with both does but he can't mate with them unless I let him.<br />
<br />
This is Jack in the middle stall. He's such a sweet and handsome boy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3ayfwcNrhyphenhyphenOtxuS6VhAmTf9Si5Y2uOnTTZtV4Oy5FXNtGoDJMr6TFI9vqtJVOp9h9rRvXGVhhjvii5kCcC1GlFhU9NTo6oq0QBtzxorrIApXXx-c8cFsM4hKPMX_8WxBR-AsSwba7Hg/s1600/150318+jack+in+stall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3ayfwcNrhyphenhyphenOtxuS6VhAmTf9Si5Y2uOnTTZtV4Oy5FXNtGoDJMr6TFI9vqtJVOp9h9rRvXGVhhjvii5kCcC1GlFhU9NTo6oq0QBtzxorrIApXXx-c8cFsM4hKPMX_8WxBR-AsSwba7Hg/s1600/150318+jack+in+stall.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Mimi is on one side of him. She is due to kindle any day now so I've given her a large dog crate stuffed with hay so she can make a nest when the time comes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg14dgUdFglU3p6NmOWTPSULFJdFKAlCt2WNNb9X5UINwr3qy-D-PyZA7SyrU_fAFgwyhkLcHyrVha3PlHTVu9v7D3e7DC3_ySeTuR5qKZwLYZr22loFvOKwtcW-Se78mhcUmUVhUcD9g/s1600/150315+mimi's%2Bsetup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg14dgUdFglU3p6NmOWTPSULFJdFKAlCt2WNNb9X5UINwr3qy-D-PyZA7SyrU_fAFgwyhkLcHyrVha3PlHTVu9v7D3e7DC3_ySeTuR5qKZwLYZr22loFvOKwtcW-Se78mhcUmUVhUcD9g/s1600/150315+mimi's%2Bsetup.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And Bunny is on the other side of Jack. You can see her peaking out of her burrow. I am pretty stoked because I was able to re-use the door of our chicken tractor to create this burrow. It still had the hinges on it and the latch so all Nate had to do is screw it to the wall. Now I can lift the top and latch it to the wall when I need to check her litter. Plus the burrow will give her an extra shady place to relax during the summer. I would love to do this to all of the stalls eventually but for now Bunny gets to test it for me. She has already moved some dirt around in there but she can't go too deep because I have chicken wire lining the ground to keep the rabbits in and predators out.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI01pOn2lRgWCgC7navzXmc1rGn3LHAQ8DZMqbOPdTKZm8iivju-nF95hjFDzU-xZKtzwY_LzdRrjOqZRQR89rWdnMHQihX3yIny8HYbOz7WgXU2UJIn60diNaguXL1MqLSuvtSnFHRs8/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bsetup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI01pOn2lRgWCgC7navzXmc1rGn3LHAQ8DZMqbOPdTKZm8iivju-nF95hjFDzU-xZKtzwY_LzdRrjOqZRQR89rWdnMHQihX3yIny8HYbOz7WgXU2UJIn60diNaguXL1MqLSuvtSnFHRs8/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bsetup.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtg264HCoWxqnjd57M3c-wde2ZWvfZYr-FfoAreP17dazDA40hQRyJ9nD7_b5lR61UKPHhQpl3JPTAux3kgJJk5bE4FUJUSg9miTGbUX6TZq15u63Ewz6RLMIenVd7ueHZTdqkwzQxGM/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blid%2Bdown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtg264HCoWxqnjd57M3c-wde2ZWvfZYr-FfoAreP17dazDA40hQRyJ9nD7_b5lR61UKPHhQpl3JPTAux3kgJJk5bE4FUJUSg9miTGbUX6TZq15u63Ewz6RLMIenVd7ueHZTdqkwzQxGM/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blid%2Bdown.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwK1ts4u5MwXhYtatplhllWWkpuN2QBXC0Q-xXeLKbw5tKj2w1IJNyKpqmY-Xyq-fejwtqih7XHGDb074Qnk-Pok7ESHin4EAgXik7wRP0oBv8BNJ51HdWvWltMcyW9vv_JHwjKzStVY/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blid%2Bup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwK1ts4u5MwXhYtatplhllWWkpuN2QBXC0Q-xXeLKbw5tKj2w1IJNyKpqmY-Xyq-fejwtqih7XHGDb074Qnk-Pok7ESHin4EAgXik7wRP0oBv8BNJ51HdWvWltMcyW9vv_JHwjKzStVY/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blid%2Bup.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN5-DRKSyPzetBNsUQQICXtCbzzTXR__AE3GLJ4czhf9XxlwHoJS25XV1EmCit7QXjIE7jOGp6tCQr75qcBlMYkCXipcrC4YsPiEPoYIfi1GBTiUdFSVInqZGwbV7QbG-M6CAfa2lvSY/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjN5-DRKSyPzetBNsUQQICXtCbzzTXR__AE3GLJ4czhf9XxlwHoJS25XV1EmCit7QXjIE7jOGp6tCQr75qcBlMYkCXipcrC4YsPiEPoYIfi1GBTiUdFSVInqZGwbV7QbG-M6CAfa2lvSY/s1600/150318+bunny's%2Bhole%2Blatch.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
They all look pretty happy, don't you thing?<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-48287662892359429262015-03-09T12:23:00.001-04:002015-03-09T12:23:48.111-04:00Getting to Know and Tweaking My GreenhouseWe installed my greenhouse a year ago, and I made mention of it <a href="http://theweekendhomesteader.blogspot.com/2014/03/ever-evolving.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Being that it is so close to spring this time of year, I really didn't have the benefit of winter weather to get to know it last year. So, this year, I've had a sharp learning curve. What I didn't realize was how drafty it is and how hard it would be to keep warm during the winter. It heats up nicely during sunny days, but at night when the temperatures plummet, the greenhouse temperature follows closely behind. So closely, in fact, that when temperatures hit lows in the teens recently, the seedlings in my greenhouse froze. Oops! Now I'm behind the eight ball with my seedlings this year, so lesson learned. So for the past month, I've done some things to monitor and control the temperature a little better and to tweak some things to make it work better for me.<br />
<br />
1. I bought an indoor/outdoor thermometer. I put the outdoor sensor in the greenhouse and the base inside. Now I can monitor the temperature from my office to get a better idea of the temperature ranges throughout the year.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEthVMmskcfOt9ZEuwCM3cIgk2rcefB-hPeFa6LPT-VVDbwYQQb1Kkh06iyRkRM6PBil3cGXzXO2Md1YhmiOMXBfNO9cnCBK7dqfNMohgdxSdkPp36w-xguRUM7lsZEtn8WeitPICgULM/s1600/thermometer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEthVMmskcfOt9ZEuwCM3cIgk2rcefB-hPeFa6LPT-VVDbwYQQb1Kkh06iyRkRM6PBil3cGXzXO2Md1YhmiOMXBfNO9cnCBK7dqfNMohgdxSdkPp36w-xguRUM7lsZEtn8WeitPICgULM/s1600/thermometer.jpg" height="320" width="258" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
2. After much nagging, pleading, threatening, blackmailing, begging and basically having a meltdown, I finally got Nate to run electricity to the greenhouse, which means I can use germination mats and eventually grow lights when I can afford them. I think the germination mat has helped tremendously, not only to keep the seed trays above freezing some nights, but to help the warm weather seeds, such as eggplants and peppers, get a jump start. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3EYcs845ZpIss14NcQTHnTfIsEh7wMybpo4OJvqsQFFu-ZKheCJQSJVCZ0HnkVROQ-8yLzsyD3o2vi8SzaKWTwebmJVBbAQmGdTelDNOVHAt6z6LE-54PGCHuBcfvqRzvwO-uokqy2E/s1600/150303+greenhouse+interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3EYcs845ZpIss14NcQTHnTfIsEh7wMybpo4OJvqsQFFu-ZKheCJQSJVCZ0HnkVROQ-8yLzsyD3o2vi8SzaKWTwebmJVBbAQmGdTelDNOVHAt6z6LE-54PGCHuBcfvqRzvwO-uokqy2E/s1600/150303+greenhouse+interior.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
3. When we installed the greenhouse, we knew we would have to add shelving. At the time we finished, we were so sick of the project that I don't think I could have gotten Nate to build shelving for a million dollars. So, I spent more money than I wanted to on pre-made shelving. What I love about the shelving is that the shelf heights are easily adjusted and I can add or take away shelves as I need them. I would not have had this feature if Nate had built them for me, so I'm happy about that. And, since they are 4' in length and 2' wide, they hold a large germination mat and 4 seed trays perfectly. However, the shelving came stock with particleboard shelves and eventually the particleboard buckles in the center from the moisture, so I knew I would have to replace them eventually. My solution is to use decking boards. Because the boards are not a true 6" in width, they don't take up the entire width of the 2' space. Our solution is to put two screws on each board to hold it securely against the next one. Now the shelves are secure and won't buckle from the moisture. I'm slowly working on replacing the particleboard as each one buckles and as the budget allows. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9DghyxtwkqQ_EeM7fMboQygAOP9VAhVJ9z7fqbwpdX7-mr2DXkQSRly5SVsWI2QwOZ_Nb62Nt2miVJDl3CGNc8LjS-4P7HbCSjdd0N18e2BqmKdPxuP9WfaHFDe2d647QwFhO4UcmZY/s1600/150303+greenhouse+shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9DghyxtwkqQ_EeM7fMboQygAOP9VAhVJ9z7fqbwpdX7-mr2DXkQSRly5SVsWI2QwOZ_Nb62Nt2miVJDl3CGNc8LjS-4P7HbCSjdd0N18e2BqmKdPxuP9WfaHFDe2d647QwFhO4UcmZY/s1600/150303+greenhouse+shelf.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
4. Another thing I've tried to do is to create thermal mass. I added mulch on the floor, and as it decomposes, it will create heat. I would also like to add some type of water container, be it just a barrel of water or even some type of hydroponic or aquaponic system. Once again, the water will heat during the day and release that heat at night, thus helping heat the greenhouse a smidge better. <br />
<br />
Maybe at some point, I'll research some type of solar heater, but for now, I'm happy just to get some baseline items out of the way. <br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-52186276004045599552015-02-26T10:24:00.002-05:002015-02-26T10:24:36.546-05:00Throw Back ThursdayThis past summer I participated in a farm tour through an amazing organization called Augusta Locally Grown. It had been raining off and on all day, and I was a mess from being rained on and from the stress of thinking we would get rained out. And, surprise, surprise, I found out once my tour started that I was going to be video-taped and interviewed. That sent my introverted self into panic mode, but everything went well, so for TBT, I thought I would share the video. Plus, I'm sharing it because I miss summer! Well, I don't miss the heat and humidity and mosquitoes, but the other stuff, the fun stuff. As you will see, I was by far the smallest farm on the tour. Grow where you're planted, right? Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://ytimg.googleusercontent.com/vi/jaYRZu_hIJw/0.jpg" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jaYRZu_hIJw?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-60894476984500461942015-02-15T09:58:00.002-05:002015-02-15T09:58:49.900-05:00Meet Feral Fawcett<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCR7Vx0HFxUPJGPtcjJrqH7GnDl8iCqWHTGYnX_GTgtPdyxfNFf2Bw3iNFlwXq6E9ccD5aAjh_yWIMK-jvWfVTj7PixV94XemsJEnZO31Vtai_BOvO3Uo0a31tlkJZ7fPplcmRYdE2rE/s1600/DSCN3132%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCCR7Vx0HFxUPJGPtcjJrqH7GnDl8iCqWHTGYnX_GTgtPdyxfNFf2Bw3iNFlwXq6E9ccD5aAjh_yWIMK-jvWfVTj7PixV94XemsJEnZO31Vtai_BOvO3Uo0a31tlkJZ7fPplcmRYdE2rE/s1600/DSCN3132%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" width="271" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
She's a Sicilian Buttercup, and she is wild! We got her from my father, who decided he wanted chickens a year or so ago. He loaded up on chickens and slowly, one by one, they were picked off by predators. A fox was the main culprit. They were truly yard birds in that they were never touched. Feral was the last one and she had been by herself for months. He asked us to take her in, so we did. When Nate caught her for the first time she started screaming bloody murder. She was not happy, and this went on for several minutes. We joke that some of our chickens are wild, but they are lap chickens compared to this girl.<br />
<br />
We kept her separated for a few days until the flock got used to seeing her and stopped lining up along the run to gawk. Then we locked her up for a day with our bantam rooster, Sir Elton, and of course, they got along swimmingly. She is just his size. The next day we let her out in the yard with everyone else, and she hung around Sir Elton all day. He gave her a tour, clucked her over for juicy tidbits, and when another hen tried to pick on her, he intervened and broke it up. All that day I saw them together. That night I thought I might have to isolate her again for her protection, but when I went to lock up everyone, she was roosting on the back of one of the other hens. I guess she decided she wasn't going to take a lower rung and went right to the top. She has transitioned amazingly well into the flock. I am shocked. <br />
<br />
So for now, all is peaceful in the yard.<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-63003487896172695052015-02-09T16:08:00.000-05:002015-02-09T16:21:36.646-05:00Band of IdiotsThis is a band of idiots! (If you click on the photo, you can see a larger version of it.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsMs_gQkIY3KbONCoqWwX4ey283wxiTehjIRSKL7M4RLYTNJkoF6dwamjlypwdj-N7CwzKOhjfWWrEwrrMlEbxM9PDvHK9-El7SsrJ5pI4kJ-IKEXOiq5HGO-hZq7qu6lIU3NOiz_5yQ/s1600/150209+band+of+idiots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsMs_gQkIY3KbONCoqWwX4ey283wxiTehjIRSKL7M4RLYTNJkoF6dwamjlypwdj-N7CwzKOhjfWWrEwrrMlEbxM9PDvHK9-El7SsrJ5pI4kJ-IKEXOiq5HGO-hZq7qu6lIU3NOiz_5yQ/s1600/150209+band+of+idiots.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This is a band of idiots because they are on the WRONG SIDE OF THE FENCE! They are looking at me like, "We can see the yard. We just can't get to it." Well, idiots, you can't get to it because there is a fence in the way.<br />
<br />
Why is there a fence in the way, you might ask? Well, the chickens have free reign along the back side of our lot and the woods behind my neighbor's house. He has a fence that keeps them out of his backyard as does the neighbor on the other side of him. So, generally they stay in the woods. But, they recently discovered the neighbor diagonally behind me does not have a fence around his backyard, so they have been going to forage in his yard. It's really not a big deal to him. He doesn't care. But I care. I care because chickens do not know boundaries, and they eventually work their way up his yard and around the fence line of the neighbor directly behind me. Once they are around the side fence line, they work their way down into his yard. They forage and have a grand time over there. It's full of untapped bugs and good eatin'. However, when they are ready to head home, they congregate at the fence, ON THE WRONG SIDE. They can't figure out that they have to work themselves backwards to get home. <br />
<br />
So, I have to work my way through Vietnam to get through the first backyard, come around the fence, and then work my way down the hill through this yard to get to them. Let me tell you pricker branches and blackberry brambles still stick in the winter. And, this yard is full of hidden holes under piles of leaves and fallen branches. I almost killed myself trying to catch them all. Rocky has nothing on me! Once caught, they were <strike>hurled</strike> gently placed over the fence and back in their own yard.<br />
<br />
This happened a few days in a row, so I've kept them locked in the animal yard since. They are pissed at me right now and stand at the fence and scream bloody murder. Oh well, Idiots, when the scratches and puncture wounds on my legs heal, I just might open the gate again.<br />
<br />
Catch your chickens like Rocky,<br />
<br />
Candace Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-56555191967836200962015-02-04T12:55:00.001-05:002015-02-04T12:55:39.473-05:00Conversations At Our House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnp_KR-hKF0oOsrwBfT-nC33r3G4t9KwXvDtkadEui6Mp59ONHjh4E-0bSJ_cG-PllEr5K7qv0Guk2pE0XIXEqsS-cKpfcpP6k1GS2gpdnTQ4u__egL32l7BJuCy8AKRp3Db10eSMzLs/s1600/Vanilli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnp_KR-hKF0oOsrwBfT-nC33r3G4t9KwXvDtkadEui6Mp59ONHjh4E-0bSJ_cG-PllEr5K7qv0Guk2pE0XIXEqsS-cKpfcpP6k1GS2gpdnTQ4u__egL32l7BJuCy8AKRp3Db10eSMzLs/s1600/Vanilli.jpg" height="320" width="308" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is Vanilli. She is our oldest and favorite bird, and we think her head looks like an eagle, so we call her our American Bald Chicken. We bought her at the flea market years ago, and we say that is why she is such a tough bird. She is street smart and has survived multiple predator attacks over the years. She is also our stand-in rooster, crowing in the early years before we had roosters.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54g1OAZRIr_wIf30a3ljEzlU7meoTnGNcanpKih_So82fxNSlS9jF3n-9nIhP_hCq3cMsmc5uofi1Ie9fBOqRYZaqMImM1ya1aZhqUKgzmoPMTIGtF4XLonVZyAwTyOwyRvgiRdEDVzE/s1600/140519+vanilli+and+chicks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh54g1OAZRIr_wIf30a3ljEzlU7meoTnGNcanpKih_So82fxNSlS9jF3n-9nIhP_hCq3cMsmc5uofi1Ie9fBOqRYZaqMImM1ya1aZhqUKgzmoPMTIGtF4XLonVZyAwTyOwyRvgiRdEDVzE/s1600/140519+vanilli+and+chicks.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She is a fabulous mother, hatching out a clutch for us each year. She teaches her chicks how to forage and is very protective.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So my husband came in this morning and asked, "How many birds do we have?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"We have 15 chickens and 4 ducks." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Well, I counted 15 chickens, but it looks like a bird was attacked. There are chicken feathers all over the ground. They look like Vanilli's, but I just saw her."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I race out to the animal yard and start counting birds. 1,2, 3....15. 1,2,3.....15. 1,2,3......15.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"We have all of the birds, and she was in the coop last night when I put everyone up, so show me what you're talking about."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG814wMki9SNKRI0hAf7kytyxJAYZBG_PxF2KXfcEZmQLQiYWk_YzxDRtOHjFc-e3VCE_q-lYeTHuG6lShn_qQQ-hFWLouEolx3-PVvfQSX6F7WKkjU_tT67u7N0yX8nif-iKDknVaaMQ/s1600/150204+vanilli+feathers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG814wMki9SNKRI0hAf7kytyxJAYZBG_PxF2KXfcEZmQLQiYWk_YzxDRtOHjFc-e3VCE_q-lYeTHuG6lShn_qQQ-hFWLouEolx3-PVvfQSX6F7WKkjU_tT67u7N0yX8nif-iKDknVaaMQ/s1600/150204+vanilli+feathers.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's hard to capture it in a photo, but it definitely looks like a crime scene.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A quick scan of Vanilli shows she is missing some feathers. So, like any good blogger, I said, "While I go get the camera, catch Vanilli and let's make sure she isn't hurt."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few minutes later, I came back out and asked, "Did you catch her?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I can't. She's running around the yard with a mouse in her beak, and everyone is chasing her."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Okay, let's keep the other chickens away from her so she will calm down and we can catch her. Plus, she can enjoy her mouse if no one is chasing her. I have a feeling she's earned it."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, we get her isolated in a protected corner and stand guard while she enjoys her breakfast. Nate picks her up at one point so we can examine her, but she was not letting that mouse go. So it came along for the ride. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqFxs3xn9n7iNQg6off9p4I-gKei_r6ZFc3LYKDCX1g8RRCiS9dZ5OCWTIh6J35R7U-meCMgylpJt0NPv71CApKO-_bc8UGXNdCSetA5i091otw5nVaMNECxny61XmlDZ6IMkjt37eQ0/s1600/150204+vanilli+w+mouse+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqFxs3xn9n7iNQg6off9p4I-gKei_r6ZFc3LYKDCX1g8RRCiS9dZ5OCWTIh6J35R7U-meCMgylpJt0NPv71CApKO-_bc8UGXNdCSetA5i091otw5nVaMNECxny61XmlDZ6IMkjt37eQ0/s1600/150204+vanilli+w+mouse+2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And, here she is swallowing it down, like a noodle. If you click on the photo, you can see the end of it hanging out of her beak.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVuUOC5ws-j1FOHKNX0xhQydT9uUlSg4CstB7VAFc8M13-VWjC8A_-b31fxybwQ6YNS8w5OW2PMVyrnvCwdJs-MKTExdNDOFSp_DdlXJLnxx2L1Nht_woRXlxEZaWnGSBRDli2ctw3L8/s1600/vanilli+eating+mouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVuUOC5ws-j1FOHKNX0xhQydT9uUlSg4CstB7VAFc8M13-VWjC8A_-b31fxybwQ6YNS8w5OW2PMVyrnvCwdJs-MKTExdNDOFSp_DdlXJLnxx2L1Nht_woRXlxEZaWnGSBRDli2ctw3L8/s1600/vanilli+eating+mouse.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thankfully, she's okay, and her feathers will grow back. I assume something attacked her at dusk last night but only managed to grab feathers. Dusk seems to be the prime time for attacks at our place. The night predators are heading out for the evening, and the birds are putting themselves up. Once they are locked in the coop, they are safe. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh, the things we do for our animals and the conversations we have! All's well that ends well though.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy homesteading, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Candace </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-1685390372100782502015-01-31T14:40:00.000-05:002015-01-31T14:44:30.967-05:00Manure, Manure, Manure, Mulch, Mulch, MulchThat's been my mantra lately, it seems.<br />
<br />
Two truckloads of manure later, and I'm finally finished spreading manure for the season. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmg-Ytbt5EDyfDE86VTCCXzwlAOeRMYVNFlx_vkjKKUElDw1sdc4vPJs3AdzwxX5M3zPVRchh47CyN_4Qi7_5_05ZYpqz4T_h0CnzNqfFhLuWxBG99B23MRqUgsHYlt8p1WoNhk-UTQBo/s1600/DSCN3097%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmg-Ytbt5EDyfDE86VTCCXzwlAOeRMYVNFlx_vkjKKUElDw1sdc4vPJs3AdzwxX5M3zPVRchh47CyN_4Qi7_5_05ZYpqz4T_h0CnzNqfFhLuWxBG99B23MRqUgsHYlt8p1WoNhk-UTQBo/s1600/DSCN3097%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It's a necessity, because this is my reality. Red Georgia clay. Do you see any good loamy soil in there? Yeah, me neither. It's a gooey mess when wet and rock hard when dry, and it's only about two inches below my soil line. Raised beds are a must so I need material to fill those beds. Enter, truckloads of manure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDzTGjKGneoKdlJgvjDQvWcjFTiCh62hCdsu_lHrrTASov8JJyqtdKgqWb75fHCU7rWRVrm2aioXlvWS_-fRP3zhwlORPXPMafIBe1UMxmeNeILzAzJwY1OyxrKXRL4aUi__zYwesS78/s1600/DSCN3046%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimDzTGjKGneoKdlJgvjDQvWcjFTiCh62hCdsu_lHrrTASov8JJyqtdKgqWb75fHCU7rWRVrm2aioXlvWS_-fRP3zhwlORPXPMafIBe1UMxmeNeILzAzJwY1OyxrKXRL4aUi__zYwesS78/s1600/DSCN3046%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And, just when I've had enough shoveling mulch, I get to tackle this. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0EuAN3Lal1hGgYDx9XTw_8t3HSun2_wRQdAIygF6hjV1gavqgaM6ZIzFPXo8l0ch1suVGIOsmF7qkRzW8aKIMzXtb8vbw9bRpoUIvRiIsjAokwNGccWMcxsruAe5Ew-l637ulW7lpkI/s1600/DSCN3086%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM0EuAN3Lal1hGgYDx9XTw_8t3HSun2_wRQdAIygF6hjV1gavqgaM6ZIzFPXo8l0ch1suVGIOsmF7qkRzW8aKIMzXtb8vbw9bRpoUIvRiIsjAokwNGccWMcxsruAe5Ew-l637ulW7lpkI/s1600/DSCN3086%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I've been complaining about needing mulch for months. I've called every tree service in town who will deliver mulch for free if they are in your neighborhood. It saves them a trip to the dump and a dump fee. They put me on a list, and I never get called. I had just mentioned to Nate that we were going to have to go to a place I know of where the mulch is free but you have to load it yourself. Neither of us were looking forward to that because it means touching it twice, to load and unload. Thankfully the utility company was taking down some trees in an easement up the street from my house that same week, and Nate asked them to drop a load in the driveway. He thought he was being really cute though and asked them to drop two loads, so double the pile in this picture and you see into my future. "I'll get her. She won't ask for any mulch for a long time." He's right!<br />
<br />
Anyway, happy pitchforking,<br />
<br />
Candace Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-77355077026491349212015-01-20T19:11:00.000-05:002015-01-21T10:05:00.436-05:00Personals: Lonely Casserole Seeking Lid<u>Casserole Personals</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
Lonely 1.5 quart Anchor Hocking Fire King Meadow Green casserole seeking completion. I've been without my lid for many years, languishing in a cabinet, unused and forgotten. I have recently acquired a new living situation where I am appreciated and loved. However, I feel incomplete. I would love to meet the lid of my life so I can fulfill my full potential. Might I add I'm curvy in all the right places. Photo attached. Serious inquiries only. I am not looking for a one-night stand with a Pyrex lid. Signed: Lonely Casserole<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhs-dionrHUk-bQb_zziBT9_IjAyQz4epYIQJap3oeqB_i2wm-F5q-EgKCoVQIQbbxOTWN6paL6PMFnewHPR8f4uEoncwkkb5wRXHfNZdalHlxjyNqvg8utzawpsGHfXUl71Hrso-M6g/s1600/DSCN3081%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhs-dionrHUk-bQb_zziBT9_IjAyQz4epYIQJap3oeqB_i2wm-F5q-EgKCoVQIQbbxOTWN6paL6PMFnewHPR8f4uEoncwkkb5wRXHfNZdalHlxjyNqvg8utzawpsGHfXUl71Hrso-M6g/s1600/DSCN3081%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Response:<br />
<br />
Dear Lonely Casserole: I saw your ad and knew I had to respond immediately. For I am a lonely Anchor Hocking Fire King 1.5 quart Meadow Green casserole lid looking for a forever match. I too have languished in a cabinet having lost my mate years ago. I long for hot nights together in the oven where we can make beautiful casseroles together. Should you desire the same, you will find me at an estate sale on XXXX Road on January 17th. You won't notice me at first, but I will be waiting on a table, a little dirty and ignored, not having received the care and treatment I've deserved. You will almost pass me by on your way out the door, but fate has other plans. Until we come together as one, Lonely Lid<br />
<br />
Y'all, we have a love match!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqMpfVSbUZyR5VM4auRkzY1Eh_kt5cppbVb2hN4V_qXzF0hGKeipv7YaqtuI_goHm6E5N9FyRBZ4jd5mmLhGiuzGs33rpjISs95SRdmJiH-49PjCJ924Spv8FqQExsdg8XeYSxDI5-QU/s1600/DSCN3082%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqMpfVSbUZyR5VM4auRkzY1Eh_kt5cppbVb2hN4V_qXzF0hGKeipv7YaqtuI_goHm6E5N9FyRBZ4jd5mmLhGiuzGs33rpjISs95SRdmJiH-49PjCJ924Spv8FqQExsdg8XeYSxDI5-QU/s1600/DSCN3082%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-46905546315231421702015-01-16T15:32:00.001-05:002015-01-16T15:32:48.810-05:00The Duck Spa<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We have a small stream running through the back section of our lot, and more times than not, it has water flowing through it. As you can see in my current header photo, the ducks love it. When we fenced off our animal yard, we had to come up with a solution to bridge the stream yet still let water flow. This was our solution.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiDTaI_vnN6WlQHD0IrUikyqyPbOkXId5ZInQtcc9DmsV65hkCTYT5ftpuebxaJGlYPpKm8lgu4PzuP6B2BLCZuzLfEGak7LQZCP8lkMPOqQcY39RJtHtRSrhNOvgzEFgsp84-1KULMw/s1600/130418+expanded+animal+yard+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBiDTaI_vnN6WlQHD0IrUikyqyPbOkXId5ZInQtcc9DmsV65hkCTYT5ftpuebxaJGlYPpKm8lgu4PzuP6B2BLCZuzLfEGak7LQZCP8lkMPOqQcY39RJtHtRSrhNOvgzEFgsp84-1KULMw/s1600/130418+expanded+animal+yard+4.JPG" height="229" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It has worked well to keep everyone on their side of the fence, for the most part. However, just on the other side of this fence is a lovely little pool of water. It's shady and inviting.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbc0mvtRh_nDnA63pSgonClM6tx63vWL-nvIqbfsrC4atRjBiDjX2gpw-kguzh9iBO9lH8LpjBtDxzLctbzdOU5NjLLIPyN8Vwi0W0GyEWk57viFfEBAj9q2n5qO_sofFpHqSCyia53dM/s1600/20150116_113655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbc0mvtRh_nDnA63pSgonClM6tx63vWL-nvIqbfsrC4atRjBiDjX2gpw-kguzh9iBO9lH8LpjBtDxzLctbzdOU5NjLLIPyN8Vwi0W0GyEWk57viFfEBAj9q2n5qO_sofFpHqSCyia53dM/s1600/20150116_113655.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It taunts the ducks, so they push aside the welded wire to partake.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiFrxivZV2HkCwp1ulpvepOTpfVTCeVpsr1KjAXj40oQbNlSAvFeAEb0-4lJUUTCHUWW9-tHVh1UGUwaIg2vviv0O2oKDgIhj-tOBgK1u-w6Pmv26s0dZ8wolsFy9dgdEuE7omQAFL3o/s1600/20150116_113642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiFrxivZV2HkCwp1ulpvepOTpfVTCeVpsr1KjAXj40oQbNlSAvFeAEb0-4lJUUTCHUWW9-tHVh1UGUwaIg2vviv0O2oKDgIhj-tOBgK1u-w6Pmv26s0dZ8wolsFy9dgdEuE7omQAFL3o/s1600/20150116_113642.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yes, we could screw down the welded wire along the bottom. But really, how can I refuse entry to the duck spa? Duckie Dale has to look handsome for the ladies. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw9pjY_MTuOWC7LJAGwANwOX6vV0lvqfkFS_Hdo0Y4DKNqNnGPr-vY11V5x9iX3Be1qi3OJA9R-va35149mzQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sometimes he takes the ladies one at a time into this private alcove, but that's a video not fit for this blog so we won't go there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy homesteading,</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Candace</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-67766162434637444072015-01-09T15:45:00.002-05:002015-01-09T15:45:35.718-05:00Feeding Rabbits Naturally<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihE8IDRzIdHLFVwPzDnQOr8cB_lxIcY1EVuMjdXNs9WLPdSxtaqvPKj8Vbn3KxXLBfa5Q5OoTycrruaFSc1D_byjDy7B8ekaFhkm78mEHLo4z57MvOHLN8Ctp5pSADkNgjTdlVeCjxmHY/s1600/140330+bun+salad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihE8IDRzIdHLFVwPzDnQOr8cB_lxIcY1EVuMjdXNs9WLPdSxtaqvPKj8Vbn3KxXLBfa5Q5OoTycrruaFSc1D_byjDy7B8ekaFhkm78mEHLo4z57MvOHLN8Ctp5pSADkNgjTdlVeCjxmHY/s1600/140330+bun+salad.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Within the last 18 months, I've transitioned my animals off commercial feed. It's full of GMOs, and I want nothing to do with them. I wrote about the chickens <a href="http://theweekendhomesteader.blogspot.com/2013/11/operation-chicken-feed.html" target="_blank">here</a>. But I have also transitioned my rabbits to a whole grain mix, forage, and hay. One of my goals this year on the homestead is to beef up my rabbit forage in the yard. There are already several native weeds and cultivated perrenial plants growing in and around my yard that the rabbits love. I just have to harvest them. Some of them are<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2383" target="_blank">Henbit</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://oak.ppws.vt.edu/scott/weed_id/lampu.htm" target="_blank">Purple Dead Nettle</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.motherearthliving.com/in-the-garden/dandelion-uses-loathed-weed-cure-all-of-lawn.aspx#axzz3OLxddLnO" target="_blank">Dandelion</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/?q=show&id=2397" target="_blank">Wild Violet</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2395" target="_blank">White Clover</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2938" target="_blank">Plantain</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2951" target="_blank">Yarrow</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://riseandshinerabbitry.com/2011/10/22/comfrey-for-rabbits/" target="_blank">Comfrey</a><br />
<br />
My rabbits also get to take advantage of my garden plants, like basil, parsley, dill, cilantro, marigolds, borage, mint, lemon balm. thyme, echinacea, fennel, various greens, and carrot tops. They get clippings from the thornless blackberry brambles and the willow and apple trees. <br />
<br />
Though these plants/weeds grow wild in my area, I don't have any in my yard, so I bought seeds this year to grow them.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2390" target="_blank">Purslane</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.garden.org/weedlibrary/index.php?q=show&id=2394" target="_blank">Sorrel</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.wolfcollege.com/stinging-nettle-harvesting-processing-and-recipes/" target="_blank">Stinging Nettle</a><br />
<br />
Whenever I get the opportunity I put my rabbits out to forage for themselves. This is my rabbit run area, and I plant it with PlotSpike Clover Blend, a deer forage. I like this blend because it does not contain any rapeseed, which is the basis for canola, another GMO product. While this photo does not show forage, the one below it is the same area once I seeded it. It was full of clover and other good weeds. Not only does letting the rabbits forage save me time, but it gives them the change to exercise and dig holes and be rabbits. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoQqyuk82HHvECbE8Bye3FXs_pK3DPFn29F6X7d50L7Dbmje5m3f1wbLMk3z-GdTyFAg0ebj9YMZXKjMKES1XgMgaJ0cdZECbGjgX-g5r6tP9YY1W_wFYdKRcpdPsmfM1NQTq57zTK9o/s1600/131221+rabbit+recess.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUoQqyuk82HHvECbE8Bye3FXs_pK3DPFn29F6X7d50L7Dbmje5m3f1wbLMk3z-GdTyFAg0ebj9YMZXKjMKES1XgMgaJ0cdZECbGjgX-g5r6tP9YY1W_wFYdKRcpdPsmfM1NQTq57zTK9o/s1600/131221+rabbit+recess.JPG" height="188" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_jiRP2gSOt4vhr73njaO0Xat1uil2K2X31Cygh9AabhyM8ZcJVZRVGk8wqFIiZs4Lfo4aMpJOVZoDq7lhHmRqgG-M4pUMBUhp5WGVrNhUvKiNWFhXnKKny-6Sdi7Bi-_0Aya9FrElGA/s1600/140523+new+baby.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq_jiRP2gSOt4vhr73njaO0Xat1uil2K2X31Cygh9AabhyM8ZcJVZRVGk8wqFIiZs4Lfo4aMpJOVZoDq7lhHmRqgG-M4pUMBUhp5WGVrNhUvKiNWFhXnKKny-6Sdi7Bi-_0Aya9FrElGA/s1600/140523+new+baby.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj97EllSEg1-cfeXUvIuK7axYbMgcaNgYsjp69UsrDib3y7TEFFPPkGZqVLp8i9jxMa216Z_jQiMMGUfSEK-pY8SzrFDexTY4v9e1KRHbw0B8GZJg12bPH9eHDiq2r9gnYycoog3f96M0/s1600/131225+sophia+in+hole.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj97EllSEg1-cfeXUvIuK7axYbMgcaNgYsjp69UsrDib3y7TEFFPPkGZqVLp8i9jxMa216Z_jQiMMGUfSEK-pY8SzrFDexTY4v9e1KRHbw0B8GZJg12bPH9eHDiq2r9gnYycoog3f96M0/s1600/131225+sophia+in+hole.JPG" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I also cut out the bottoms of some old rabbit cages and am able to move them around to different areas of my yard for additional forage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-g4Wcj01Z3ynZVaABnWSqgv7YHKb35wt5LOvPc4AX5VSdNhBBzlju8rw1aaOorPJMPvwpIKNNGA5uCO_xTXe28hyE79iAXxn5FNFzrcHHKTRLcs3jE6QNtVBnQ-mcTAFVYDBkHp2CajE/s1600/grazing+bunnies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-g4Wcj01Z3ynZVaABnWSqgv7YHKb35wt5LOvPc4AX5VSdNhBBzlju8rw1aaOorPJMPvwpIKNNGA5uCO_xTXe28hyE79iAXxn5FNFzrcHHKTRLcs3jE6QNtVBnQ-mcTAFVYDBkHp2CajE/s1600/grazing+bunnies.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One plant I really hope to get going this year is <a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/042435_Moringa_oleifera_health_benefits_herbal_medicine.html" target="_blank">Moringa</a>. It is a powerhouse of nutrients and will be an excellent protein source for the rabbits. My region is borderline on successfully growing it, so we'll see how it goes. <br />
<br />
If you want a more extensive list of rabbit safe plants, vegetables, and fruit, take a look at this one. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://riseandshinerabbitry.com/2012/02/26/safe-food-list-for-rabbits/" target="_blank">Rabbit Safe Plants, Fruits, and Vegetables</a><br />
<br />
Some of what I grow is considered medicinal so I always check this list if I'm unsure of what I'm feeding, especially with nursing does as some of these can impact milk flow. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://riseandshinerabbitry.com/2012/06/09/medicinal-herbs-for-rabbits/" target="_blank">Medicinal Herbs for Rabbits</a><br />
<br />
As always, when introducing a new food, do it gradually! Rabbits have very sensitive digestive systems and even a small amount may be too much for your rabbit. <br />
<br />
I'll leave you with some of my grow-outs munching at the bunny salad bar.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhwmZxGF3SbNj5UBdJ4_vxVBUcslYVc5FWREmJthu7-VYAg9-lXf5qQ4RnCC4GYJY5wvk6B46l6bVTpvCE3Yq95XhziZQ2TyVSPktNkm4lVjc0c63nMZcSKZqSw583-DYYQgw3eiixhY/s1600/140330+bun+salad+bar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhwmZxGF3SbNj5UBdJ4_vxVBUcslYVc5FWREmJthu7-VYAg9-lXf5qQ4RnCC4GYJY5wvk6B46l6bVTpvCE3Yq95XhziZQ2TyVSPktNkm4lVjc0c63nMZcSKZqSw583-DYYQgw3eiixhY/s1600/140330+bun+salad+bar.JPG" height="230" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-2624125443108775822015-01-07T16:15:00.001-05:002015-01-07T16:20:30.930-05:00Finding My Mojo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFnLjuwgEWGBdso3k-RD06KNaLV07fWbBYHb3Bh0cCBy0L3W1FDkWlySqKGQ6cRiJhaeHgtpBL6L8sDR1FUxP0VinWdHl0kl8o03vVfb8AZdo_QkG91QKc_VO0dX7Cv4YbQF-oOjbkUY/s1600/mojo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFnLjuwgEWGBdso3k-RD06KNaLV07fWbBYHb3Bh0cCBy0L3W1FDkWlySqKGQ6cRiJhaeHgtpBL6L8sDR1FUxP0VinWdHl0kl8o03vVfb8AZdo_QkG91QKc_VO0dX7Cv4YbQF-oOjbkUY/s1600/mojo.jpg" height="263" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Somewhere along the way last year I lost my writing mojo. It's not that I didn't have anything to write about, because I did. It's not that I didn't have the time, because I did. As a matter of fact, I probably had more time than I ever had since starting my blog. I just got involved with life and the blogging world slipped my mind day in and day out. I even stopped reading my favorite blogs. I slowly slipped out of the blogosphere in all ways until it was a blip on my radar. <br />
<br />
It wouldn't disappear totally though. That blip glowed faintly, resting quietly until I came along and gave it the energy it needed to shine again. I needed to recharge and remember why I love the blogosphere and why I started my blog. I began to wonder how Mama Pea was doing at <a href="http://ahomegrownjournal.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Home Grown Journal</a> and Leigh at <a href="http://www.5acresandadream.com/" target="_blank">Five Acres and A Dream</a>. I missed Susan's wicked sense of humor at<span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://e-i-e-i-omg-bybiddie.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">e-i-e-i-omg!</a> and Carolyn's at <a href="http://krazoacres.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Krazo Acres</a>. I missed reading about homesteads in other parts of the country and learning about how they deal with situations that would not be a part of my everyday life, like several inches of snow and a shorter growing season. I missed being motivated and inspired. I missed writing about my experiences and hoping I could provide some grain of knowledge to someone somewhere out there, and if not knowledge, at least a good laugh at my expense. <br />
<br />
Looking back I realize I have been blogging for almost five years, and I don't aim to stop yet. So, I hope some of you are still out there and are interested in reading. Because I'm interested in writing. <br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
Candace Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-50439069779886845702014-05-26T13:38:00.000-04:002014-05-26T13:38:11.734-04:00The Babies of Bottle Tree FarmThis has definitely been the year of babies on the farm! Rabbits and chicks and ducklings, oh my! <br />
<br />
In December/January, Bunny and Sophia gave us seven and eight kits respectively. I sold a few and kept one, but the rest are gracing our table. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0G2tgQyfn_w8O85JOYjL2GERnYbfWeCD6czvLZ0VdDc9rKVKSlK-ywIWHU3Bj8oahzh_GlNuCVflqZtl4qmhSMCzVKc-KCOhxDHWjQmJyx_mjshEuh29ENr8_SyMY-YwiHMAv8wuhyphenhyphen4/s1600/140112+bunnys+babies+12+days.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0G2tgQyfn_w8O85JOYjL2GERnYbfWeCD6czvLZ0VdDc9rKVKSlK-ywIWHU3Bj8oahzh_GlNuCVflqZtl4qmhSMCzVKc-KCOhxDHWjQmJyx_mjshEuh29ENr8_SyMY-YwiHMAv8wuhyphenhyphen4/s1600/140112+bunnys+babies+12+days.JPG" height="232" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLazZx1mzX1HBwrBD2Xvx-oPbw0GpejMFR5Oyyc43IA2E5qxjhR9-Kz3sQYRscsUuqiMIeLTVfksJNwd2mYOU7sVTRtIYx7OqWzzjcopaS_ahTsK05848wlPsmHz0gfLvpkRjwiC_x6N0/s1600/140125+sophia%27s+babies+11+days.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLazZx1mzX1HBwrBD2Xvx-oPbw0GpejMFR5Oyyc43IA2E5qxjhR9-Kz3sQYRscsUuqiMIeLTVfksJNwd2mYOU7sVTRtIYx7OqWzzjcopaS_ahTsK05848wlPsmHz0gfLvpkRjwiC_x6N0/s1600/140125+sophia's+babies+11+days.JPG" height="280" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I fell in love with Mimi and decided to keep her. She's only five months old, but isn't she a big girl already!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWa35duaepl1DDK-XKg5875B14DMnCHxdKN5N3srNwrsM-SJy16-JjMhVbRsDIEDI6ZxMdsc_Xa4VKQIKHVoOQgN6K4rHoHA_iWhmZTrG02gCcuni8N84Bh0p2gvshtvZiz43DtftezJM/s1600/140526+mimi.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWa35duaepl1DDK-XKg5875B14DMnCHxdKN5N3srNwrsM-SJy16-JjMhVbRsDIEDI6ZxMdsc_Xa4VKQIKHVoOQgN6K4rHoHA_iWhmZTrG02gCcuni8N84Bh0p2gvshtvZiz43DtftezJM/s1600/140526+mimi.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
In March, Belinda gave me two kits. Not the best litter in the world in terms of numbers, but they sure were cuties. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiFIga86EwyzaN1jb3x8Vt4g0dfMJF_uJ8cd_e7hddHpJKVEWIRL-H1-G1hj5zFFQgtaGzcf2y89Ui2jAdaDqyWI2E5UvLfgJQovSUsu0ZSitILVyXKJnNbnGCHLU4AxO-EJZOQR-Ij4/s1600/140416+belinda%27s+baby.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJiFIga86EwyzaN1jb3x8Vt4g0dfMJF_uJ8cd_e7hddHpJKVEWIRL-H1-G1hj5zFFQgtaGzcf2y89Ui2jAdaDqyWI2E5UvLfgJQovSUsu0ZSitILVyXKJnNbnGCHLU4AxO-EJZOQR-Ij4/s1600/140416+belinda's+baby.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Belinda's litter consisted of a buck and a doe. I sold the buck and traded the doe for this cutie patootie. She is part Silver Fox, New Zealand, and Californian, so she should be a big girl as well. I've only had her a few days, so I haven't chosen a name yet. I have some good options rolling around in my head though.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h-t9kNHq8nOyRLIRpYphExvXow4zmAdMbo0ThxbW-pVbs9TcFFy9_OQuIzt2QJYk-maYqcw83zYnKtY4pM_8Prxr9Mo_eVIW2d8S-Qoee1sEK0eQSx_C9s9uwBxEqcqfEAlLF0-4Fds/s1600/140523+new+baby.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h-t9kNHq8nOyRLIRpYphExvXow4zmAdMbo0ThxbW-pVbs9TcFFy9_OQuIzt2QJYk-maYqcw83zYnKtY4pM_8Prxr9Mo_eVIW2d8S-Qoee1sEK0eQSx_C9s9uwBxEqcqfEAlLF0-4Fds/s1600/140523+new+baby.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
A few weeks ago, Vanilli, our super mama hen, hatched out ten chicks. This is her third year hatching eggs, and she is the best! And, I have two more broody hens sitting on six eggs each. This year should be my best one yet for putting chicken in the freezer. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga4jcgvn7YkpPln9G7DVff7DqjTfEtVRR6PpwtWcg3CaEiMGTZcCBC7WpeNxWNo5V61chzn3N5n3VazzYDQ8wHtmvFwW7Ik0PNWND5XFOr_g-sLxVr8XttTEtWnR15etxTosR8JLFxggM/s1600/140519+vanilli+and+chicks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga4jcgvn7YkpPln9G7DVff7DqjTfEtVRR6PpwtWcg3CaEiMGTZcCBC7WpeNxWNo5V61chzn3N5n3VazzYDQ8wHtmvFwW7Ik0PNWND5XFOr_g-sLxVr8XttTEtWnR15etxTosR8JLFxggM/s1600/140519+vanilli+and+chicks.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We got Muscovy ducks late last year, so this is my first year of duck eggs. I was advised to let the duck eggs collect and that the ducks would know when the time is right to go broody. Well, the chickens kept trying to go broody on the duck eggs, so I thought for sure they had gotten the clock going on incubation and nothing was going to happen because they were on and off the nest. Finally Coco, my chocolate hen, decided to get in on the action and she took over. Out of 26 eggs, 13 hatched. We've lost two, so we are down to 11. I think she either stepped on them, because I saw her step on one a time or two, or our drake had something to do with their deaths. I saw him pick up one in his bill one day and shake it. I saved that one, and since then I have kept them separated. All of the ducklings are slated for processing in the fall, but things could change between now and then.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbStP87sPgK6pe8wv0JCneoS6JhZFtSxdTOKFFrchyphenhyphenvOQ_U4rMmu_ytJLU64lhGymuPIYChCEA5k9SUgJw_IVooWvBkBHbPQ2eK1saoG-ZUiOS1u3UaIzBIpfkerDvuYjSfKhdENPaWM/s1600/140516+ducklings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbStP87sPgK6pe8wv0JCneoS6JhZFtSxdTOKFFrchyphenhyphenvOQ_U4rMmu_ytJLU64lhGymuPIYChCEA5k9SUgJw_IVooWvBkBHbPQ2eK1saoG-ZUiOS1u3UaIzBIpfkerDvuYjSfKhdENPaWM/s1600/140516+ducklings.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Between rabbits, chickens and ducklings, my freezer should be overflowing. I couldn't be more proud! We don't eat meat everyday, but when we do, it's with reverence, gratitude and appreciation.<br />
<br />
As a side note, I invite you to like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bottle-Tree-Farm/185616848307907" target="_blank">Bottle Tree Farm</a> on Facebook to witness the day-to-day activities on the farm. <br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
Candace<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-32332586536891410712014-05-04T20:45:00.000-04:002014-05-04T21:09:32.768-04:00Can An Onion Do Math?Well, the I'itoi Onion can multiply. Does that count?<br />
<br />
Last fall I decided I wanted to try some type of multiplier or
walking onion. I did some research and finally decided on the I'itoi
Multiplier and the Fleener's Top Set Walking Onions. I was particularly attracted to
the I'itoi because it is on the Slow Food Ark of Taste, which has this
to say about the I'itoi:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Not
only is the taste of the I'itoi Onion bold and complex, but also is its
ambiguous history. The original US harvest of the wild I'Itoi Onion
took place on I'Itoi Mountain, which is also known as Baboquivari
Mountain. This mountain is regarded by the O'odham nation as the navel
of the world – a place where the earth opened and people emerged. The
name I'Itoi signifies the Elder Brother, who is the creator deity in
Tohono O'odham legends; consequently the onion is a sacred reminder of
the O'odham creation story. Botanical studies place the I'Itoi onion
among a very old line of clumping onions brought to the US by Jesuit
missionaries in the late 17th century, concluding that the onion is not
necessarily a US native. Regardless of the contradicting histories, the
I'Itoi Onion has a special place among Sonoran Desert culinary culture.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: blue;">The
sharp, peppery flavor of the I'Itoi is well suited to southwestern
stews and sauces, which often have robust, piquant flavors. The I'Itoi
plant grows easily and prolifically in the deserts of the American
southwest. Left in the ground during its summer dormancy, the onion
re-sprouts toward the end of the season at which point it is harvested
and replanted. The flavor of the I'Itoi Onion is </span><span style="color: blue;">garnering
interest at a small, but highly visible, commercial scale throughout
the arid southwest. The onion may provide one of the best examples of
crop survival due to the stewardship of backyard gardeners.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.slowfoodusa.org/ark-item/i-itoi-onion">http://www.slowfoodusa.org/ark-item/i-itoi-onion</a></span><br />
<br />
Sometimes the little things are what excite me, like this I'itoi Onion bulb.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sh51LD5gIDAQMHb207ffLN74Kz0yET8ltZ0-QBf7a5UIL3fF8W04jCB8-em6plRgwRX1IYdshlHwTj1lOX1BZDTHSk5bh_cMRvp0yuRPl9zkCbznEvDn2RDXLOhE_5tRA9pF-98e8Dg/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+bulb.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Sh51LD5gIDAQMHb207ffLN74Kz0yET8ltZ0-QBf7a5UIL3fF8W04jCB8-em6plRgwRX1IYdshlHwTj1lOX1BZDTHSk5bh_cMRvp0yuRPl9zkCbznEvDn2RDXLOhE_5tRA9pF-98e8Dg/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+bulb.JPG" height="277" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
One bulb multiplies to this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlobjlJT4Hy_Gpj09q9BH1RdZMHAr72iTyfVhyphenhyphen28uPavQKWpEMcCHIXxb_-RUzXLCQ01HzcSMh2h3nAg49QaXg-std82lg4cPCXEvv896jpyavGlRFOJe3eLtK_811xYBLTG9-ozsWhU/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+clump.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlobjlJT4Hy_Gpj09q9BH1RdZMHAr72iTyfVhyphenhyphen28uPavQKWpEMcCHIXxb_-RUzXLCQ01HzcSMh2h3nAg49QaXg-std82lg4cPCXEvv896jpyavGlRFOJe3eLtK_811xYBLTG9-ozsWhU/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+clump.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
And, from the 10 bulbs I planted, this is my harvest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoSDLgolgXdrYh_KKcEh46Lcv_u4Muvpd_bODruUScNKpvFdYGl7BaVfanXBzcW3AV6NmnXgiP9b3n0oWZZa7tEO1M5zZeAk4nYqnHZfl1ChLTkpUBgCnEZS5meen392OHAa0sh_m4Hys/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+harvest.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoSDLgolgXdrYh_KKcEh46Lcv_u4Muvpd_bODruUScNKpvFdYGl7BaVfanXBzcW3AV6NmnXgiP9b3n0oWZZa7tEO1M5zZeAk4nYqnHZfl1ChLTkpUBgCnEZS5meen392OHAa0sh_m4Hys/s1600/140504+iitoi+onion+harvest.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>
I would say there are approximately 20 bulbs in each clump. I think that's a pretty good return on my investment, don't you? I plan to reserve the biggest and best for replanting in the fall. I love that, if managed well, these onions will provide a sustainable way to enjoy onions year after year.<br />
<br />
I also planted the Fleener's Top Set Walking Onions, but that's another post for another day.<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
Candace<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-6392445640471348972014-03-29T17:57:00.000-04:002014-03-29T17:57:13.586-04:00Buzz, Buzz, Installing BeesWhen we first got bees several years ago, we ordered and installed two colonies. One of them left after two days! Everybody, gone! We didn't replace them and since then we've been flying solo with one hive. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUOABQjTB47j_L5b0Jj0bjeByOORZqM0ng6D8gYIa3oeSpYx_sthF2dVCB_COWPPEIWqG3PRri41kg6VLp1AoQU133XXQs4mZPYJZhmMKVieVhyphenhyphenMsIo_gLR_chHFY0TzBNvKi8b5CrQQ/s1600/140213+ice+storm+bees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNUOABQjTB47j_L5b0Jj0bjeByOORZqM0ng6D8gYIa3oeSpYx_sthF2dVCB_COWPPEIWqG3PRri41kg6VLp1AoQU133XXQs4mZPYJZhmMKVieVhyphenhyphenMsIo_gLR_chHFY0TzBNvKi8b5CrQQ/s1600/140213+ice+storm+bees.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well, one hive is great, but when an ice storm comes along and a fallen limb blows apart the only one you have, you decide a second hive might not be such a bad thing. Though this scene looked bad and we questioned whether they would survive, there was still a cluster in one of the hive boxes, so I assumed the queen was still alive. We put everything back together, fed them sugar water for a few days and watched and waited. I checked them after a week or so, and I saw capped brood, which means babies on the way and a laying queen, pollen and the start of honey. As of today, they are working like gangbusters bringing in pollen and nectar.<br />
<br />
I picked up and installed my second colony today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Zz-g8jVwo7vJGpw0fcChNCGzhXUcR1Wdv6FTMWQ-mSnq3hwEjM6Lm5lPUIfFmMQcX41dTEX4HtecmkePqLk6GAB96e2MarK5RejPHIGSuMXvDo_uEICj5MwsRtezUtyj3JPUThyphenhyphenUnsQ/s1600/140329+bee+box.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Zz-g8jVwo7vJGpw0fcChNCGzhXUcR1Wdv6FTMWQ-mSnq3hwEjM6Lm5lPUIfFmMQcX41dTEX4HtecmkePqLk6GAB96e2MarK5RejPHIGSuMXvDo_uEICj5MwsRtezUtyj3JPUThyphenhyphenUnsQ/s1600/140329+bee+box.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When you order a package of bees, this is what you get. This is 3 pounds of bees. The small rectangular box beside it is called the queen cage, and it holds the queen as well as a few of her attendants.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CFBwdtQABvHX5laBfF92ywAjTDaR1ZZM2uAQPRUSfGqXqHsxYFtOyWt9Al7V6DIvz0tT3UOIoVMK3y2u86_X79mZMZtDLqDG966_UQxcfyK9C_jdLl8vQuRyxK_PeZ-PJUtHRkA6npE/s1600/130329+queen+cage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CFBwdtQABvHX5laBfF92ywAjTDaR1ZZM2uAQPRUSfGqXqHsxYFtOyWt9Al7V6DIvz0tT3UOIoVMK3y2u86_X79mZMZtDLqDG966_UQxcfyK9C_jdLl8vQuRyxK_PeZ-PJUtHRkA6npE/s1600/130329+queen+cage.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here is a close-up of the queen cage. The white end is actually candy, and this is what she and her attendants eat while trapped in her cage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXAyIVRVakNbSWbTJQnkc5cQPRtwxZ40P3H8DnfdFbpndlIcUKnMiq75GN864dM7SeWkgRpvztLv-9beSGe8CMeov_Hi4v8izmtK4KrZgcM5jTGqKpe1cB9lp5BVeTn1MC6rjmkWm-8M/s1600/140329+cork.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXAyIVRVakNbSWbTJQnkc5cQPRtwxZ40P3H8DnfdFbpndlIcUKnMiq75GN864dM7SeWkgRpvztLv-9beSGe8CMeov_Hi4v8izmtK4KrZgcM5jTGqKpe1cB9lp5BVeTn1MC6rjmkWm-8M/s1600/140329+cork.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The end of the queen cage with the candy is capped with a small cork. The cork is removed to give the new bees access to the candy. They will eat their way through the candy to release the queen. Once the cork is removed, the queen box is suspended in the hive body where the bees will be installed. She is still protected by her cage, but she will be able to send out pheromones to establish herself as queen. At this point, she is not their queen, but by the time they get through the candy and release her, she should have sent out enough pheromones to establish herself as their new queen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvoqa62VF8ChhxTaeI6GH_koe6_ShTJvIk-BpmYaDONip8DA4PAj8S7CGbHirVyESOYsf4an3bWmx9g3mjygPzacBIQvv5hFq3i6vYpFWAJtUa58GCX38AV1M1MlAJiHI2SoFgJVOHI8/s1600/140329+brood+box.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvoqa62VF8ChhxTaeI6GH_koe6_ShTJvIk-BpmYaDONip8DA4PAj8S7CGbHirVyESOYsf4an3bWmx9g3mjygPzacBIQvv5hFq3i6vYpFWAJtUa58GCX38AV1M1MlAJiHI2SoFgJVOHI8/s1600/140329+brood+box.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
This is where the bees are going to be dumped. It's a hive body with 10 frames.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSI85tKGdL3A_QIvcblCMTF59z8A0K34KGY4VZWhVwLUvfpI7KzrYNQIyX5WAOavzAYWQBviDJBECfNkOH2gD2jNtVBeAkh6NOVlDHnBHiOZkD3Yx3yOm6lN-UBm_C5DeWIfBp4werS50/s1600/140329+pour+in+bees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSI85tKGdL3A_QIvcblCMTF59z8A0K34KGY4VZWhVwLUvfpI7KzrYNQIyX5WAOavzAYWQBviDJBECfNkOH2gD2jNtVBeAkh6NOVlDHnBHiOZkD3Yx3yOm6lN-UBm_C5DeWIfBp4werS50/s1600/140329+pour+in+bees.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The blue push pin is holding the queen cage in place. The top is pried off the package of bees and you basically shake them out of the package into the hive. Most of them come out in a large mass and they proceed to work their way down into the hive body.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTPmYvovvE6W67RExTTyKY91HVNMkEE-Xzbp-_oecSyMD73kiGPv4YOueCSW4qpGWsQs3wqz4nCaV6lC7oY22HYUr_yJbM2F4qhe6KdmkzBkLCSBfI9XmulvFG5cPJUvj9ikm8Behupg/s1600/140329+box+on+ground.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTPmYvovvE6W67RExTTyKY91HVNMkEE-Xzbp-_oecSyMD73kiGPv4YOueCSW4qpGWsQs3wqz4nCaV6lC7oY22HYUr_yJbM2F4qhe6KdmkzBkLCSBfI9XmulvFG5cPJUvj9ikm8Behupg/s1600/140329+box+on+ground.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After you've shaken out as many bees as possible, the package is placed in front of the hive to encourage the rest of the bees to migrate into the hive body.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle07xFBQ0vtP7oTLY4REGge7gf4p15IoV91h18MR9TnxPolhHK04_fl0_ThSR_o1JjNImNcubXTG-HiAusWWCuQQ1I75vRO9GzDqOex8tRjC5cER3CwkvCHCvZlY2TqSWMngbyWG_tjk/s1600/140329+installed+bees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle07xFBQ0vtP7oTLY4REGge7gf4p15IoV91h18MR9TnxPolhHK04_fl0_ThSR_o1JjNImNcubXTG-HiAusWWCuQQ1I75vRO9GzDqOex8tRjC5cER3CwkvCHCvZlY2TqSWMngbyWG_tjk/s1600/140329+installed+bees.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Finish with a nice container of sugar water to feed them since they don't have any honey or pollen collected yet. Let's hope this one stays put!<br />
<br />
Happy beekeeping,<br />
<br />
CandaceCat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-23247608308657224652014-03-28T16:28:00.000-04:002014-03-28T16:33:07.157-04:00Meet Novalee!In the span of 14 months, we had to put down all three of our cats. Anyone who has ever had to do that knows it is heart-wrenchingly painful. For us, we had barely gotten over one when we had to turn around and do it again. <br />
<br />
In November 2012, we sadly lost our 18 year old cat, Lucy. She was me personified in a cat. She was my kitty soul mate. <br />
<br />
In August 2013, we lost our outdoor cat, OP2. She came to us as a stray. Nate said he used to see her going in and out of the trashcans on the street looking for food. We had her for about 6 years. She was an excellent mouser! <br />
<br />
In January, we lost our 19 year old cat, Onyx. She was as sweet and unassuming as any cat could be, the complete opposite of Lucy. She was Nate's girl. <br />
<br />
For 20 years we have had a least one cat in our lives. <br />
<br />
The house was terribly lonely after Onyx, and the pull of having feline companionship was strong. So, I started surfing petfinder.com. This went on for at least a month, and one cat kept grabbing my attention.<br />
<br />
This past weekend, we welcomed her home. Her name is Novalee, and she is estimated to be a little over 1 year old. She is every bit the love bug, and to me, she is beautiful. It has been so long since we've had a rambunctious playful young cat in our house. We are enjoying every minute watching her play and act a fool. Based on her personality and physical characteristics, I believe she is part Maine Coon, which is my favorite breed.<br />
<br />
So, without further adieu, meet Novalee. As you can see, she has made herself right at home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSD_8GPUS9V5-g1L_P_jimejCTTHGeKdOAImy8WYuFbmpSTsxSNIqP70kzVRzmomPwy_Q7li-T2ity12QU0WVvON2vMr04bx74Q3K84EQ3slAfEufpGl4sNnkqmcbFk5MJN7F7gE0QF6Q/s1600/140325+novalee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSD_8GPUS9V5-g1L_P_jimejCTTHGeKdOAImy8WYuFbmpSTsxSNIqP70kzVRzmomPwy_Q7li-T2ity12QU0WVvON2vMr04bx74Q3K84EQ3slAfEufpGl4sNnkqmcbFk5MJN7F7gE0QF6Q/s1600/140325+novalee.JPG" height="320" width="287" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
Candace Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1209373343814651898.post-14290364445143539492014-03-24T16:50:00.000-04:002014-03-24T18:01:10.186-04:00Ever EvolvingIt seems like it has been forever and a day since I last posted. We've had some major projects happening here so I've been busier than a one-armed paper hanger lately. If I've said it once, I've said it one thousand times. I am always looking for ways to make my space more efficient. Therefore, I am always assessing whether a project done in the past works for me today, especially as I expand, and how a project on my to-do list will make things run a little more smoothly. Late winter to early spring seems to be our time for big projects. I don't have too much going in the garden and it's not 100 degrees outside.<br />
<br />
So, here is a run-down of this year's projects.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNs7kqpCIi8kjezaI03hrsMF4WCe5XA0j0qhpRXtzf93S_y6JNh5v8lDGdr-Ll12MVGm13JgJHjkAMBslwTUXbJg85SO6PmJEeQQCFS_u_CIhCaLncYNj9XpOSmNO6I1U6BN7HcteCJ_k/s1600/GA+State+Henitentiary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNs7kqpCIi8kjezaI03hrsMF4WCe5XA0j0qhpRXtzf93S_y6JNh5v8lDGdr-Ll12MVGm13JgJHjkAMBslwTUXbJg85SO6PmJEeQQCFS_u_CIhCaLncYNj9XpOSmNO6I1U6BN7HcteCJ_k/s1600/GA+State+Henitentiary.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The GA Henitentiary came down. The run portion was in prime growing territory, and since I made the decision a few years ago to move all of the animals to the back half of the yard, having animal housing here just didn't make sense anymore. Plus the termites were having a field day with it, and it was only a matter of time before it came down on its own. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDOFBKDnk9fqwPpjHdtPDL9_xjthgtN5sOv88Nm45mzsqPGsWGXwI2DBnWINBW3i__dws_goi2f5lZSij36GZAkpQAN-d1Gs0iRUSPjWP4XCdoPNNIvcfjS7Jh8nCOPwdFQ7wSB3j3KE/s1600/140320+greenhouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDOFBKDnk9fqwPpjHdtPDL9_xjthgtN5sOv88Nm45mzsqPGsWGXwI2DBnWINBW3i__dws_goi2f5lZSij36GZAkpQAN-d1Gs0iRUSPjWP4XCdoPNNIvcfjS7Jh8nCOPwdFQ7wSB3j3KE/s1600/140320+greenhouse.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
In its place went a new 10x12 greenhouse. Doing this opened up the bed where the run used to be and also freed up my smaller greenhouse, which is actually in the animal yard, for feed storage. This greenhouse was almost grounds for divorce at our house! Ha, ha! It will have to last forever because Nate will NEVER construct one for me again. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDRit-n_cvZa-wI47IpAO4XobgJVgJxt5jGRjaW3ODDCK57tDrGMCaNaqesQakdPKycXxz6ksoFSVr2yB3ivgyZDuTToN-s_-Ipio-f_PD6ufoPqlXkfjMZNldfrgc64KXgY1kr09qfU/s1600/120122+rabbitry+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVDRit-n_cvZa-wI47IpAO4XobgJVgJxt5jGRjaW3ODDCK57tDrGMCaNaqesQakdPKycXxz6ksoFSVr2yB3ivgyZDuTToN-s_-Ipio-f_PD6ufoPqlXkfjMZNldfrgc64KXgY1kr09qfU/s1600/120122+rabbitry+5.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And, as if the greenhouse wasn't a big enough chore, it was followed by another whopper. What was originally my rabbitry and then storage was converted to a four stall barn. This was my major expansion project for this year giving me greater versatility in animal housing. The raccoons had figured out that the lattice was easily ripped off and they were helping themselves to the feed, removing the lids from the containers, and making a huge mess in the process. I was limited by the henitentiary because I could only grow-out one rabbit litter at a time. Now I can breed more than one rabbit at once and not worry about grow-out space. Plus, it gives me the option for separating animals when needed. The really fun part of this was digging out all of the stalls to a foot depth, in the Georgia clay mud I might add, laying down chicken wire and stapling it around the perimeter and then back filling with mulch. The mulch has been wonderful for providing drainage. Because of the density of the clay and the high water table of this area, it was always muddy. I've noticed a huge difference now after a big rain storm. The chicken wire serves two purposes, to keep predators from digging in and baby bunnies from digging out. By the way, a stackable organizer from the Dollar Tree flipped sideways and screwed to the wall makes an excellent hay feeder.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsA0kRWieymcES2fTmz-WpREXR0sCLOoq4Ad9M2SGY5zDat9cl2yfDNoYiN3zvFlgu0-dCQboUcA6Z5baFEjhqXrUtp7rz4Oj2QdsfD_lDOiSyb-weUMqOrULCXgbbSdXgcLCd7ywTrp4/s1600/DSCN1969%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsA0kRWieymcES2fTmz-WpREXR0sCLOoq4Ad9M2SGY5zDat9cl2yfDNoYiN3zvFlgu0-dCQboUcA6Z5baFEjhqXrUtp7rz4Oj2QdsfD_lDOiSyb-weUMqOrULCXgbbSdXgcLCd7ywTrp4/s1600/DSCN1969%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwbUvJvDTP-N0ECwFuiK2ppNp01zQKIMCvZ9uxyYbZI-neo1YE7ZrYeDkLZ7wrq_e2eRJLtCXX0TC-uU9i6WL8BEZ166dP1P5W4kqtLha_xN_o2ZN4BWwkCDeH02dJDBX7PLRTSNHc1OI/s1600/DSCN1930%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwbUvJvDTP-N0ECwFuiK2ppNp01zQKIMCvZ9uxyYbZI-neo1YE7ZrYeDkLZ7wrq_e2eRJLtCXX0TC-uU9i6WL8BEZ166dP1P5W4kqtLha_xN_o2ZN4BWwkCDeH02dJDBX7PLRTSNHc1OI/s1600/DSCN1930%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5qDrOck9I8KVdTjC0_kMbR2Tmtp5tvRqc2wygPpMD-hMUd9Uu_nfmZFyxENOya17oaOE0yRmJ9vwVsnkpstk1lF4Y7p-hhsivqExjATAzYcE3fYiQsQCoM0hWZLGpLxMZjOjh_vi12E/s1600/DSCN1966%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5qDrOck9I8KVdTjC0_kMbR2Tmtp5tvRqc2wygPpMD-hMUd9Uu_nfmZFyxENOya17oaOE0yRmJ9vwVsnkpstk1lF4Y7p-hhsivqExjATAzYcE3fYiQsQCoM0hWZLGpLxMZjOjh_vi12E/s1600/DSCN1966%5B1%5D.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Since I lost my feed storage area, my old 6x8 greenhouse became my feed storage shed. Nate finished the shelving for it, and it is perfect. It sits in deep shade during the summer so with the ventilation windows and the door open during the day, I'm not too concerned about the feed getting too hot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcf4KYdcJMzcqBCEzRMfg8VCHiuWCI28VJ7rJjWbkjNAAFaj7qrLZNNvJfVeZ36Q21XORGJ_QqKASqcUJYb1QALAxt6bcJ5DNLnpzpUZOT2AG1kwzZxYNgHs-AGdw3hMLmyxN8rHScf0/s1600/140323+feed+room+right.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcf4KYdcJMzcqBCEzRMfg8VCHiuWCI28VJ7rJjWbkjNAAFaj7qrLZNNvJfVeZ36Q21XORGJ_QqKASqcUJYb1QALAxt6bcJ5DNLnpzpUZOT2AG1kwzZxYNgHs-AGdw3hMLmyxN8rHScf0/s1600/140323+feed+room+right.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwe1N-lBhmxUNuhiE-1Bc2ekiSeLHiEb-iyaUooT66n0VcXxWSDmV8Al-osIog4kN0SK2w1TYV7tdf0unkspGn2dYEybvaJe65ReqJyWJ-rZkrSiVf9iaHYs4sSScN_06hjnnI1taza6U/s1600/140323+feed+room+left.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwe1N-lBhmxUNuhiE-1Bc2ekiSeLHiEb-iyaUooT66n0VcXxWSDmV8Al-osIog4kN0SK2w1TYV7tdf0unkspGn2dYEybvaJe65ReqJyWJ-rZkrSiVf9iaHYs4sSScN_06hjnnI1taza6U/s1600/140323+feed+room+left.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And, here are a few photos of the animal yard as it is today. The rabbits are to the right. My feed storage is above that. The chicken coop is just behind the barn. I'm digging it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRHG1jwWqKD5q_SMvkUMVAiJwxcZjOFyeA69EXYqAOQLfifPj6_zYrsankMYqsFqCcBE7rUNyfPaqA3HeOs8Pqb5t_vgtj5EPb-2Qhpx7OtvKEYOv2ZhkvyywLcD8XbmSEgRwmTdv4uk/s1600/140324+animal+yard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRHG1jwWqKD5q_SMvkUMVAiJwxcZjOFyeA69EXYqAOQLfifPj6_zYrsankMYqsFqCcBE7rUNyfPaqA3HeOs8Pqb5t_vgtj5EPb-2Qhpx7OtvKEYOv2ZhkvyywLcD8XbmSEgRwmTdv4uk/s1600/140324+animal+yard.JPG" height="172" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PsAJ0kFyvqVeI6WSKzWcUcNt6O0NPGJJAm4iTLsSadnqkF5vS8HmH2qDhsaYyT0hhYQWoQpBCA7eqGpxjY1szyPXmFlXeDnLe4iT9gnjhEUu23Qw2tH1yKBbZ0_8Ht03pN7sX1JbW3U/s1600/140324+animal+yard+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PsAJ0kFyvqVeI6WSKzWcUcNt6O0NPGJJAm4iTLsSadnqkF5vS8HmH2qDhsaYyT0hhYQWoQpBCA7eqGpxjY1szyPXmFlXeDnLe4iT9gnjhEUu23Qw2tH1yKBbZ0_8Ht03pN7sX1JbW3U/s1600/140324+animal+yard+2.JPG" height="182" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Happy homesteading,<br />
<br />
<br />
Candace <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Cat Eye Cottagehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02858322427127791100noreply@blogger.com4