Dog Trot Farm

IN THE BEGINNING

2012-01-29T19:59:00.010-05:00

In the beginning there was a little banty hen named Josephine. Josephine was a very determined little hen, her goal in life was to become a mother. Julie, the kind hearted hen keeper took pity upon Josephine and decided to grant her wish, three weeks later two little chicks were hatched out...
Little Gwendolyn soon became the apple of her mother's eye...
the older ladies in the coop learned to tolerate the chicks presence...day by day they watched little Gwendolyn and her sister grow...all remained calm in the hen house...that is until today...why Gladys cocked her head in confusion...the kind hearted hen keeper gasped in disbelief...the "croaking" noise grabbed Henny's attention...Pearly May's eyes glazed over...and Phoebe was ready to draw blood...you see today is the day that Gwendolyn found her voice... I on the other hand remain speechless... Proud papa Don Juan puffed out his chest, fluffed up his tail feathers and announced to the world that his son shall be named Ramon... and there will be no "crowing" over it...Good Sunday everyone...

TOMORROW IS ANOTHER DAY

2012-01-28T16:58:00.008-05:00

I left my apron strings idle this morning...I do have a fondness for aprons, in my small collection I have a reproduction of Tasha Tudor's apron. When I wear this apron I imagine working side by side with Tasha, not cooking, but rather outside in the yard dipping candles in the old cast iron cauldron. In my prairie apron, I am visiting the Ingalls family in Walnut Grove. My fifties apron with ruffles and tulle, I am hosting a cocktail party, serving such drinks as Martini's, Gimlets, and Manhattans. The apron with the silk screened squirrel came from Amy of Verde Farm. I picture Amy and myself out gathering eggs and offering a morning treat to her wonderful menagerie of animals. Nope, no aprons today...

For today the temperature reached forty degrees by mid morning. My chickens were begging to come out, but knowing danger was lurking...I take no chances...no, there will be no chicken dinner for Mr. Fox today...just as the days are becoming longer... egg production is increasing...

and speaking of increasing...I have no issue keeping track of my daily Weight Watcher points...this little calculator makes it quite easy to stay on track...and I have no problem drinking the 6 to 8 bottles of water...room temperature... that appears to be the key....however, the 10,000 steps...I hiked around our wooded trail not once but twice...but as you can see I did not reach my goal...tonight my pedometer reading... 6534...all I can say is... tomorrow is another day...

TEN THOUSAND STEPS A DAY~

2012-01-25T17:34:00.004-05:00

Wednesday morning, my first weigh in at Weight Watchers. Drum roll please... I am three and a half pounds lighter. Weight Watchers is now based on a daily food point system, each individual is accessed and given a number according to age, height and weight. My magical number is twenty-six, meaning a point value is given to each meal and snack throughout the day totaling no more than twenty-six points. Keeping hydrated (six bottles of water daily) and walking 10,000 steps a day is key... with any additional exercise a plus...

I have given myself three months to reach my goal weight. Weight Watchers considers losing one to two pounds per week being right on track. I have pounds to lose with miles to cover, but I am focused on completing this goal. If you too are trying to lose a few pounds and have advice or tips to offer, I would be more than happy to hear from you!

REALIZATION~

2012-01-23T17:35:00.007-05:00

I have come to the realization that life is short and winter is long...sharing is not in a squirrel's repertoire...hoarding shows can be addictive...keeping up with highlights in one's hair is imperative to mental well being...
it is better to stick to what one knows when cooking a pot roast...always allow your husband to make the gravy... three hearts are the only valentine's decorations I own...
my joy of rug hooking has been misplaced...if you find it kindly return to owner... I have will power...no pie...no cookie...no brownie has passed these lips... it is early in the Weight Watcher's game plan...I'm giving it my all...two days till weigh in...ugh...old blind dogs can still maintain some form of naughtiness...be still my heart...the face of a guilty dog...my hens are spoiled...very spoiled...their preference...to be hand fed...

after dropping a log on my ankle...I realized... I swear like a sailor...hats off to the Pats ...and I do not...repeat...do not care for Newt....goodnight from Dog Trot Farm...

JUST AN ORDINARY DAY~

2012-01-22T20:09:00.009-05:00

This morning as I opened the old wooden door, sunshine flooded in... winter has settled herself in nicely...the temperature is brisk, the snow light and fluffy...thankfully today we will see the sun...My hens...are more than ready for an outing...feathers need to be aired...egos addressed...speaking of egos, can ya guess who has the largest? yup...right on the money...Mr. Don Juan...such a looker... his women swoon at the sight of him...secretly...I know his heart belongs to Josephine... when I mentioned a photo opportunity....Henny and Beatrix were more than willing to oblige... sorry girls...sorry Gladys...this is more of what I was thinking... Portland Head Light... majestic against the shimmering Atlantic ocean...inland "we" have received more snow than those along the coast...once home the wide open trail was calling to me... "Julie, get your butt moving" two sets of long johns later I was out the door... snowshoes ready and waiting...warm chocolate chip cookies...and the scent of farmhouse white bread floating in the air...I did not partake...why you ask? Weight Watchers...May the force be with me...more on that subject tomorrow...Goodnight...

DAFFODILS

2012-01-18T21:41:00.003-05:00

Daffodils... a bit of warmth and sunshine on a cold winter's day...

The color of springtime is in the flowers, the color of winter is in the imagination. ~Terri Guillemets~

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

2012-01-17T16:42:00.005-05:00

Note the fire truck...

I know the above photo doesn't look like much, however it is evidence to my story. Yesterday I met my mom, who is spending a couple of days off the Island to run errands and doctors' appointments. With ample time between appointments my mom decided it might be a good opportunity to have a much needed hair cut. The salon we opted for was new to us, however, the stylists were friendly and a twenty minute wait was doable. Also, the salon offered a nice selection of what I refer to as "trash" reading material. Who knew the "in" color for spring is mint green. Off in the distance I overheard the stylist talking with my mom, asking her what she was looking for in a hair cut and also stating she would be happy to color her hair. I heard my mom answer "not today." The next thing I knew an extremely loud fire alarm was screeching. We all looked at one another...I grabbed my mom...pulled the salon cape off and we along with everyone else promptly headed out the door...the entire strip mall was being evacuated...45 minutes later...no fire was discovered... we were back in business. Now, I have to admit I am one of those people who have wondered what one would do if in the middle of having your hair dyed or highlighted (as in my case) and a fire alarm sounded. Would your hair over process and fall out? How about being in the middle of a yearly physical, your legs propped in stirrups, your dress, a paper johnny and you need to evacuate. You're on the eight floor- do you grab your clothes or just run holding your paper johnny closed...Ya, I know my mind can conjure up some strange, but valid scenarios... come on, I can't be the only one.

JANUARY, IT'S A BLAST

2012-01-15T18:10:00.010-05:00

January...winter's blast is in full swing here in New England...this morning's temperature...a big fat zero...long johns and wool socks become a girl's best friend... early morning finds everyone in the hen house huddled together. I am of the belief that a heat lamp is beneficial to a hen's well being during the long cold winter months...along with warm oatmeal and Bag Balm. Oatmeal to warm the crop and Bag Balm to aid in frostbite. Phoebe..adorned in her winter coat...some girls need a little time to themselves regardless the temperature...

others dare not venture outdoors... Don Juan keeps a tight rein on his women...The Don is patiently waiting for his true love Josephine to return from maternity leave...she remains safely tucked in a cage in the coop with her babes... deer grace our field traveling on ice crusted snow...

the egret points south...

there is vacancy in the old birdhouse...heat not included...snow on the pumpkin...Enough fluff here's the real scoop...it is damn cold here...I need to get outside and move...as in exercise...dust off my snow shoes...I find, just as Randy in the movie A Christmas Story...when layered up in clothing it is most difficult to move...in the woods I might fall...the wolves might devour me...they wouldn't need to eat again till spring...I need Weight Watchers...I want to look like Kate Winslet...I love Kate Winslet...I have a very bad habit...television...I don't actually watch it...it's my background noise...I hear bits and pieces...some so shocking that I actually do watch with my mouth hanging wide open...truly....where do they find these people...a women who is addicted to eating her dearly departed husband's ashes...another who sniffs gasoline and carries it with her where ever she goes...one lady consumes rocks...rocks...and another dryer lint...why in the world would you admit to something such as this...and yes, I know who Snookie is...shameful...Martha has been cancelled...and they have gone and brought back Fear Factor...I really need to get out of the house more...stay tuned...Goodnight from Dog Trot Farm...Oh and I desperately need a pedicure...I ripped a hole in my sheet last night...

THE TASHA TUDOR MUSEUM

2012-01-13T16:27:00.005-05:00

How delighted I was to have received the Tasha Tudor Museum Newsletter in the mail yesterday. Long ago, I discovered this lovely women and her world. Not only was it her art work that drew me to her, but more importantly her lifestyle. When I stumbled over the words "from the time Tasha Tudor was a little girl she new exactly what she wanted: to live on a secluded farm where she could surround herself with gardens, a household menagerie of pets, barnyard animals and art" I knew I had found a kindred spirit.
How I wished to step inside Tasha's private world. The Corgies, Minou the one eyed cat, Hannah and Pegler Tasha's African gray parrots, the nubian goats. Many a time I was tempted to sign up for Tasha's garden tours offered at her beloved Corgi Cottage. I was always hesitant, I am realistic enough to realize that even perfect worlds have their flaws. After Tasha Tudor passed away, there was a rift among her four children. Money, possessions, and even her ashes were fought over. (finally resolved) I am glad I did not go on that tour, but prefer to remember Tasha through her many books. The Tasha Tudor Museum is alive and well located at the Jeremiah Beal House in West Brattleboro, Vermont. Recently I discovered a blog titled "An Historical Lady" Mary Spencer and her husband Adam are living history reenactors and have been invited by Amy Tudor to present their program at the Tasha Tudor Museum this summer. I do hope to attend, how lovely it would be to meet Mary andAdam, to admire all the hard work the Tudor Family and friends have done to create such a museum honoring this incredible women we know as Tasha Tudor...

snow...Snow...SNOW

2012-01-12T17:01:00.004-05:00

snow...Snow...SNOW...it's a snowy day here in Maine...winter weather arrived early this morning...schools and businesses closed... a good day to spend some time in the kitchen...homemade bread...warm chocolate chip cookies... comfort food...macaroni and cheese... a big old pot of hot chocolate...a comfy chair by the wood stove...a favorite book...
The animals here at Dog Trot Farm are snuggled in too. Emma Lou tucked nicely in her little bed against the old brick chimney...a red bulb hangs in the coop...chickens delight in a treat of warm pasta...Winslow Homer prefers to romp and play while patiently waiting for his mommy to find her snowshoes...Mommy prefers a nap...winter...like it or not it's presence has arrived....

HERE'S YOUR SIGN

2012-01-08T19:01:00.008-05:00

Last week was nothing but a "gosh darn" bust... my "to do" list remained idle...my body felt off... tired...weak...all I wanted to do was sleep...and guess what? I listened to my body, I slept. No walks, no household organization, no baking...I do not deny the laundry did mount and dust bunnies grew. I did however muster enough energy to make my dental appointment. I knew if I cancelled, odds were I would not be rescheduled for months. After a clean bill of health, no cavities, the word ORTHODONTIST was mentioned. It appears my lower teeth are spreading, spreading? Age related I'm told, now I ask you is there anything beneficial to the aging process? oh... right "WISDOM" Lord have mercy. Yesterday, being a beautiful sunny day I was more than ready for an outing. I am one for taking the "road less travelled" especially a dirt road, preferably out in the middle of nowhere. We found ourselves travelling down this road enjoying the scenery out in the middle of nowhere... Honestly, I saw no "DEAD END" sign...but I did notice this sign looming in the foreground. Yes indeed it caught my attention: NO TRESPASSING:

PLEASE WE DO NOT WANT TO APPEAR UNFRIENDLY; BUT LIVESTOCK IS LOOSE AND GUARD DOGS ARE ON DUTY, THEY ARE NOT FRIENDLY. DO NOT ENTER! INVITED GUESTS REMAIN IN YOUR CAR WITH THE WINDOWS UP UNTIL WE HAVE DOGS UNDER

CONTROL. ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK" Well you can't get your point across much clearer than this. I had the feeling that beyond this point was book material for Maine horror author Steven King... Cujo, Carrie, Salem's Lot...I know if you are familiar with any of Mr. Kings books you get my drift...

In a prior post, I admitted how intimidated I was by my new Canon Rebel, nothing has changed I'm still intimidated. I also mentioned a Christmas gift which was given to me by my son Tristan in order to keep me on the" straight and narrow"- a Magellan GPS.My son suggested it might be a good idea to actually take the GPS out of the box...point well taken...I'll add it to my "to do" list.Continuing on to more familiar territory, Hancock Pond...to the family camp...Typically by January the pond is dotted with ice shacks...fishermen... snowmobiles....skaters... cross country skiers...add a thermos of hot chocolate...you have the perfect family outing...But the weather has been warm, the snow covered ice is not thick enough for these winter activities...the sound of ice snapping and buckling under one's feet can cause even the strongest of hearts to skip a beat...The pond was quiet...not a sound to be heard...we checked on camp and found it to be in good order...Just waiting for our return...next time with hot chocolate in hand...

A WINTER DELIGHT~

2012-01-04T20:10:00.003-05:00

"FLOWERS ARE LOVE'S TRUEST LANGUAGE." ~PARK BENJAMIN

On a harsh winter's day nothing warms the heart, my heart, more than a bouquet of flowers...especially when given "just because" by someone who loves you Flowers...a little bit of sunshine to brighten one's day...

LESSONS LEARNED THE HARD WAY

2012-01-03T18:07:00.005-05:00

Lessons learned from Christmas past...

The month of December was nothing short of a blur...It all began with the annual hunt for the perfect Christmas tree...just so you know there is an unspoken rule in our home that I choose the Christmas tree....(Advice from the late Tasha Tudor) In my opinion this once a year event should not be hurried but savored. I enjoy walking up and down each row of scented balsam... breathing deeply the cold winter air ...the earth blanketed in a sea of white. My husband is in charge of the tape measure and hand saw....this Christmas however, my husband found the perfect tree...I was in charge of the tape measure... there was no sea of white...December became the month of shopping...wrapping...baking...visiting...there was no time to do anything else. Typically we enjoy attending a Christmas concert or play...local craft fairs and touring historic homes decked out in their holiday finest...we watch the old Christmas movies...It's A Wonderful Life being our personal favorite...There is Christmas Eve service to attend and an evening meal to cook and it would not be Christmas without the local tour of holiday lights....Let me state right here right now I did not rush the seasons, no sireeeee... I enjoyed Autumn, Halloween and Thanksgiving...I put a smile on my face and gave them my full attention...Christmas decorations did not appear nor did my beloved Christmas tree (which remained unadorned till the second week of December)...I'm returning to my old ways, ways that work for me...2012 Christmas shopping has begun...Christmas Eve dinner will be made in the crock pot... beef stew and biscuits....I have 11 months to put my hands on It's A Wonderful Life...the dvd that simply vanished... wrapping presents on Christmas Eve...sinful...addressing Christmas cards in July while sitting at the beach....a grand idea...Next Christmas I'll be back to my old ways....this" enjoy the moment" is for the birds....if I am to be stressed out it is going to be on my terms...and the search for the perfect Christmas tree...I realize I don't mind carring the tape measure after all!

NEW BEGINNINGS

2011-12-31T14:50:00.006-05:00

The Old Homestead...

The New Year is rapidly approaching. Once again it is time to take stock of our lives, reflect on the past and ponder goals for the future. In other words, "keep putting one foot in front of the other." We purge our homes attempting to put our "house" in order. Ring out the old, Ring in the new, January is the month of "new beginnings." It is also the time to gather together our holiday finest, dismantle the Christmas tree, the bangles, bobbles and sparklie things which are now carefully wrapped in tissue, placed in their proper boxes and returned to the darkness of the attic.

I will miss the brightness that only Christmas lights can offer and also the fragrance of Balsam in the house. I do admit I miss seeing the snow. The above photo of our home was taken back in October. What snow we did receive has since been washed away.... This Christmas season was a bit off, I can't pinpoint as to the reason why. I dedicated myself to each season. I did not rush Halloween nor Thanksgiving. I did not take one Christmas decoration out of storage until December, nor did I shop. December blew in like a whirlwind, ultimately I came to the conclusion I function much more efficiently when prepared and are things are accomplished a head time. 2012 is now on our doorstep...I wish you all a Happy New Year...my this new year bring you joy and happiness and all that is good in the world...

INTIMIDATION

2011-12-30T17:02:00.005-05:00

I am quite certain it is painfully obvious that I am not tech savvy. My blog is a "Plain Jane" compared to most, attempts have been made to rectify this, however the end result is never pretty. I wipe my brow and breathe a sign of relief when I manage to return my blog back to it's original format. That being said, I have learned to leave well enough alone. Sometimes less is more. This is where intimidation comes in. Completely surprised was I when I open this amazing Christmas gift from my Dear Husband. Stunned, I opened the box and realized a Canon Rebel was staring me in the face along with two additional lenses. "Take it out of the box honey." Nope, don't want to touch it, thought I- intimidation had set in. Oh Lord, how in the world am I ever going to learn how to use this amazing camera. Well, it may be a slow process, but I am determined to conquer it. I mean I received the camera last Sunday and today (Friday) I have actually removed it from it's box, charged the battery, placed the battery and chip in their proper location and have even formatted the camera.Who said old dogs can't learn new tricks. Stay tuned...

PRISCILLA, THE NEW GIRL IN TOWN

2011-12-29T17:52:00.006-05:00

As you may recall I celebrated my birthday a week prior to Christmas. It was one of those birthdays you'd rather not talk about or admit to. I have a feeling my sister in-law, Jovan sensed this. I am very fortunate to have a sister in-law that I just adore. Many times I have jokingly announced to my family that I would trade my brother in before Jovan. Unfortunately for me my brother and Jovan now reside full time in the Panhandle of Florida. Nevertheless, on my birthday a package arrived. I tore into the box with great anticipation, you see Jovan sends wonderful, thoughtful gifts. Well, upon opening my gift I felt a big old smile creeping across my face. The thought "but what is it" did enter my mind. Low and behold it was the reincarnation of my most beloved departed hen Iris...in the form of a rubber hen purse... Yup, I've got me a big old chicken purse....don't ya just love her? I do...well you see this purse was intended as a gag gift. I say who needs a Coach purse when you can own rubber...I took my chicken purse, headed to the big city (Portland), and met up in the Old Port, which is know for it's famous boutiques and shops, okay the ritzy part of town. My new purse got many a stare and I actually had a shop owner inquire as to where I had discovered this delightful rubber hen ( My Pet Chicken). The owner wanted to purchase some for her shop! Well, I have gone and started a trend... thanks to Jovan and she wanted me to keep Priscilla under raps....that's correct I named her Priscilla...I think my sweet Iris would approve...So my friends, if any of you venture to Maine and see a lady with a big old chicken purse hung over her arm...come right over and introduce yourself, we chicken keepers are just plain good folks...Tomorrow the Christmas gifts...

THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

2011-12-28T17:30:00.007-05:00

In the blink of an eye Christmas has come and gone. It was a beautiful day, one shared with loved ones and thoughts of those who are no longer with us and dearly missed. The Christmas dinner, roast beast and twice baked potatoes were cooked to perfection. My dear husband's popovers, popped and then some. The chocolate cream pie and Christmas cake were delectable too. Both of which I did not make, dare I admit both were store bought. This Christmas I did not tie on my apron strings, no peanut butter balls, thumb print cookies, no fudge nor whoopie pies, no peanut brittle or pumpkin pie. I admit the one cookie I did miss was the sugar cookie, but my waistline did not.

The Christmas spirit still burns bright here at Dog Trot Farm. The snow may have vanished with today's temperature (which by the way neared fifty), but the gift of giving still remains. In today's world their are so many in need, we hear such heart warming stories of those who are not only generous with their money and time but opt to remain anonymous. We here at Dog Trot choose to help our local animal shelters, every bag and or can of food, toy, bed, is greatly appreciated, it does a heart good to help those in need.Speaking of giving, I received such wonderful, thoughtful Christmas presents. Tomorrow more on those, but let me just say, one gift reduced me to tears, another has caused complete intimidation, while another will keep me on the straight and narrow... A world of advice, if you own a little banty hen, who desperately desires to become a mother, no matter her commitment, no matter her plea, take those eggs away. Winter is no time for a hen to hatch chicks...Oh, I do love the sound of peeping chicks in the house and Winslow Homer has certainly enjoyed bunk mates, but lord have mercy the chicken dust, well it's like a dust bowl around here and I am no fan of dusting. Now and again Miss Josephine enjoys an outing to the coop to stretch her legs, scratch around a bit, ruffle her feathers, (even mother hens require a break from their little ones) Loretta (The Don's second main squeeze) becomes quite jealous as she soon realizes Don Juan has not forgotten his "Josephine"(Don Juan is under the impression that Josephine has come for a conjugal visit) When her presence is noticed The Don is off to do his business, Loretta pouts in the corner, while Josephine is ready to return to her babes...Have ya noticed the days are getting longer?

Good night....

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T18:30:00.002-05:00

From all of us here at Dog Trot Farm we wish you a Merry Christmas...

THANK YOU, DEAR FRIEND~

2011-12-19T19:55:00.003-05:00

Friday, I returned home from a hectic day of last minute Christmas shopping and the never ending running of errands. As I pulled into the driveway, I noticed a package making itself right at home on my back porch. How wonderful to receive a package and how exciting to see the return address, Bakersfield California. My package was from Kim, proprietor of the blog "My Field Of Dreams". Many of my readers are familiar with Kim, but if you are not do yourself a favor and check out her blog. Kim is a very talented and generous lady- just look at the wonderful items she made for me. A primitive wooden chick, a cross stitched Merry Christmas ornament/tuck both crafted by Kim. Two fragrant votive candles, a tea towel, and a handmade red work stitchery pillow. This little pillow is so sweet, it depicts a small girl feeding her chickens...

I have never traveled to California, it is sad but true. I am one of those people who are quite content in their own backyard, but California is on my "bucket list." I am determined that one day I will meet Kim and her lovely family and walk her "Field Of Dreams." Perhaps I could persuade her to travel to Maine, we do need to compare chicken notes....So once again thank you dear friend, my door is always open...

WINSLOW PICKS A WINNER

2011-12-18T17:42:00.003-05:00

By the light of the Christmas tree forty names were written down on slips of paper and placed in a bowl, my cereal bowl.

Winslow Homer was front and center and did the honors...so without further ado... we would like to congratulate KATHY...she is our lucky winner.Kathy, please E-mail me with your address and the Vera Bradly purse will be on it's way. Thank you all for playing, Winslow and I wish we could send everyone a prize. He and I both agree it is better to give then receive so we shall have another giveaway next month...to welcome in the New Year! Thank you all for the wonderful birthday wishes, I had a lovely day, tomorrrow I will share. Goodnight...

GIVEAWAY REMINDER

2011-12-17T19:36:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is the day...Winslow Homer and I would like to remind everyone that tomorrow, my birthday, Winslow will be "pawing" the winner of the Vera Bradley "hipster" purse. If you have not entered please do, Winslow and I would love to hear from you.

A BIT OF ADVICE~

2011-12-12T18:44:00.002-05:00

Get that smirk of your face...

Here's the situation...lately I find myself unable to sleep...well, let me rephrase that...I do eventually fall asleep...it does not come easy...but it is safe to say by 2:00 AM I have arrived in slumber land. I am sure the brightness of the winter moon does not help nor Winslow Homer's late night barking episodes, also figure in the role that hormones play in a menopausal women... along with trying to perfect one's holiday season...I dare say sleep does not come easy...Now getting back to the above photo...I have uttered not a word about this morning's dilemma...you see I LOCKED myself out of the house...all I can say is thank goodness I was not in my nightgown...yes, I have been know to deliver breakfast to the girls in my nightie...out the door I went with hot oatmeal and raisins in hand and as soon as the door closed behind me I realized what I had done... No fear I thought... a spare key is hidden in the coop...hidden alright...dare I say I never found that darn key...notice the above guilty faces...beaks mum...no help whatsoever...I do believe three rather naughty hens hid the key...in spite...due to the fact that Josephine and her two babes are residing indoors and they are not...So here is a bit of advice...never hide a house key in a hen coop...do hide one in an obvious location like a window box...I am so grateful my husband had the sense of mind to do so...just another day at Dog Trot Farm...goodnight.

GIVEAWAY

2011-12-11T09:17:00.003-05:00

'Tis the season for giving...

and in honor of the season I am giving away this Vera Bradley "hipster" purse. All you need to do is leave me a comment. Next Sunday, on my birthday, Winslow Homer will "paw" the winner. Have a wonderful day, winter has arrived here in New England. Blessings to all.

DECEMBER WE WELCOME YOU...

2011-12-02T18:26:00.002-05:00

The month of December... it's that magical time of year...where greens are hung and Christmas decorations brought out of storage...it is time once again to prepare for the Christmas season..

November and December... my two favorite months. November...the "button up" month. Where hearth and home come alive with warmth and candlelight. Days are short... the landscape now takes on a certain starkness...geese "honk" their final goodbyes...what did not get accomplished on the "to do" list will now wait till spring...December...the "feel good" month...where it is better to give than receive...we enjoy giving to needy animal shelters...food...toys...and small monetary donations...it does a heart good...I would like to thank each and everyone of my blog readers for the well wishes in regards to my parents. Both are still on the mend and improving. I am grateful for family members and the wonderful Island community. Farm news...Josephine is residing indoors with her chicks...she is a wonderful and very protective mother. The fox has found the hen yard once again, however, this day no hens were taken. There is still life in my old dog Winslow Homer and dear Emma has turned 21. Tomorrow we are off to the Shaker's Christmas Fair, but tonight we shall finish watching Little Women. Have a wonderful weekend everyone...goodnight from Dog Trot Farm...

2011-11-23T18:38:00.007-05:00

In the quiet of the night it came...

heavy wet snow...winter has arrived in New England...I am thankful the power remained on...there was much to get accomplished this day...the pies came together... apple and pumpkin... cranberry bread...made with locally grown organic Maine cranberries...and of course it just would not be Thanksgiving without my mother's recipe for cranberry relish...cranberries..walnuts...marmalade...sugar and lemon juice...delicious!Out in the coop...Little Josephine is a wonderful mother...she and her babe are safely enclosed in a cage tucked under the nesting boxes...the heat lamp is working overtime keeping them warm and snug...just a "wisp" of a thing this new babe...this is my first go around with egg hatching...Josephine left the nest on Sunday morning and joined the other chickens in the coop yard...I had intentions of removing the eggs...but she had been so committed I decided to give her another few days...and Tuesday morning we were in for yet another surprise...we here at Dog Trot Farm have been twice blessed...this little babe is the spitting image of his proud papa... I bet I can guess what you all are thinking...COCK-A-DOODLE-DO...Happy Turkey Day !

THE OLD PINE TABLE

2011-11-22T16:46:00.003-05:00

"For simple grace and dignity it is unsurpassed, this old pine table that is ours for awhile.

"Children growing up around it, that each generation nurtures the next in the home."

I recently came across those words which promptly brought to mind the story of the old pine table that now graces our home. In 1966, my husband and his family moved from suburbia to the country, to a "big old farm house." Needing a table to accommodate her large family (six children) my mother in-law commissioned local craftsman Austin Alden (who by the way is a direct descendant of the famed Pilgrim John Alden) to build a farm table, six side chairs, a lady's chair for the Mrs and a larger version to accommodate my 6 foot 4 father in-law. Mr Alden was reluctant, being elderly and ready to hang up his hand tools, but finally agreed ( I do believe it was the twinkle in my mother in-law's "blueberry blue" eyes that won him over). The pine table was built and soon ensconced in the old farmhouse. The six resident hound dogs found the table as an out of the way escape, TK the cat would jump on the table using it as a spring board to get to the safety of a nearby hutch. Over the years it has served the family well, the table has been part of celebrations, holidays, weddings, the birth of grandchildren and great grandchildren. There have been many happy times as well as sad. With the passing of my mother in-law last December it was agreed among the family that the old pine table would come to live with us. This Thanksgiving there will be memories shared of loved ones no longer with us, of the many blessings we are grateful for, and of future generations yet to be. The old pine table will serve us well...

NOW WHAT?

2011-11-21T20:41:00.006-05:00

Lord have mercy...there's a ruckus going on in the coop this evening...I grabbed Winslow Homer's leash and we headed out to investigate...a fox... squirrel... chipmunk...raccoon?With the recent loss of Iris and Charlotte I'm still on the edgy side...I find myself becoming a mother hen...a worry wart.. but...with my presence things in the coop began to settle down... I happened to glance over at Don Juan...I do believe I saw a twinkle in his eye... Miss Josephine was all aglow...and then there is was... the soft little noise...we... the girls and I all turned our heads in unison... under the warmth of Josephine's breast...a teeny... tiny... baby chick briefly appeared...and so the circle of life continues here at Dog Trot Farm...more tomorrow...this old hen needs to hit the nest...goodnight...

MY BIRTHDAY BOY

2011-11-20T16:24:00.002-05:00

Today...against many odds...Winslow Homer is turning eleven...

Our birthday boy is in good spirits and is enjoying life...Many days it was touch and go...but we have persevered... I am grateful for each and everyday I have with Winslow...My parents have arrived safely home to the island and have promised to behave themselves...today...life is good!

GOODBYE DEAR GIRL

2011-11-19T18:13:00.004-05:00

Friends...thank you for your kind comments and concerns in regard to my parents well being. After a tense week both are finally on the mend. Anxious to return to their own home and Island community...Sunday...they will sail down the bay...home at last...

After the death of Iris my Buff, her sister Charlotte became quite despondent. Charlotte's appearance seemed to change overnight. Her crop and wattle went from bright red to white...she suddenly began to move and take on the appearance of an old hen...Sadly this afternoon Charlotte passed away...she was laid to rest in the perennial garden next to Iris...sometimes...a broken heart is just to difficult to overcome....even for chickens...goodbye my sweet girl...

~NO VACANCY~

2011-11-16T18:54:00.003-05:00

When life becomes stressful... I let my mind wander... I focus on a warm summer's day back in August, the scent of suntan lotion in the air and the cold Atlantic ocean lapping at my toes...I soon find myself centered once again...Long story short...My dad underwent back surgery yesterday....at 84 years young, he is in amazing condition, walking daily and a lifetime of playing tennis certainly has paid off. His surgeon is amazed at his resilience and promptly labeled him a "tough old bird." My mother on the other hand is just as tough and let me say as "stubborn" as they come. You see the day prior, my 82 year old mother was in the woods (alone) gathering pine boughs and red berries to fill her window boxes...her feet became entangled in some form of a vine and she fell. On the morning of surgery, I picked my parents up at the ferry terminal...we soon arrived at the hospital... my dad was admitted...the surgeon joined us and explained the procedure...my mother asked if he would mind looking at her foot and wrist....long story short... x-rays showed a broken wrist and a badly sprained ankle...the doctor was amazed she was able to walk...everyone in the office had to get a look at it. Tonight, thankfully we are all safely gathered under one roof...my mother sporting a splint on her wrist and an ice pack on her badly swollen ankle....my dad sporting an incision that has already begun to heal... So...I am happy to say the inn is full... all the beds are taken here at Dog Trot Farm...and I am grateful for all my blessings...Goodnight...

SHORT NOVEMBER DAYS~

2011-11-11T18:05:00.013-05:00

"November comes

and November goes,

with the last red berries

and the first white snow.

With night coming early,

and dawn coming late,

and ice in the bucket

and frost at the gate.

The fire burns,

and the kettles sing,

and earth sinks to rest

until next spring.

~Elizabeth Coatsworth

The month of November...where shadows are cast in early afternoon... primitive lighting adds ambiance to the country home...

battery operated candles have become my favorite primitive decorating accessory...seeing I almost burnt my house down last week...here's a tip never burn cheap candles...I found out the hard way...the dehydrator is humming along...the fragrance of oranges and apples fill the air...once dried this fruit will be used in swags and potpourri... Pamela, proprietor of the blog "Our Pioneer Homestead" offered her blog readers suggestions in primitive decorating along with directions for primitive craft ideas. Below is one of Pam's projects, a Hanging Colonial Candle Dipper. I made two, one to hang and dry herbs (sage and mint from my garden drying for Thanksgiving) the other to hang candles. ( Where are the candles you ask? I am still in the process of making them) The Laura Ingalls School Slate...Pam mentioned that she had difficulty locating slates and improvised with a frame from the dollar store. I on the other hand had no difficulty locating a slate, but finding plain old white chalk was near impossible. Yes, there is an abundance of colored chalk and sidewalk chalk...I asked my friend to swipe (okay borrow) a piece of chalk from her daughter's classroom ( she volunteers)...nope no chalk...no chalk in a classroom...I ask you what is this world coming to?... Needless to say I am pleased with the way my slate turned out...engraved on the front top of the frame is Laura's initials and age and below the date...There are many more craft ideas offered by Pam also for the month of December she will be offering primitive Christmas ideas...Thank you Pam, I am so happy I discovered your blog, you are one talented lady and very generous with your ideas...

This is where Winslow Homer spends his November days, warm and toasty in front of the wood stove...what's that you say? another stick of wood...Have a great weekend everyone...

A DON AND HIS LADIES

2011-11-10T19:36:00.003-05:00

Don Juan is a lover...he adores his harem of three...with Josephine broody and on the nest...his harem is reduced to two...Don Juan has no interest whatsoever in any of the larger gals...he prefers his ladies on the petite side...

This is Phoebe...she is a big old gal and may I say proud of it...she has absolutely no fondness for Don Juan and his rowdy activities...when his fits of passion rise Phoebe is quick to intervene...she jumps on his back...grabs his comb...pulls him of the lady that he is attempting to service and promptly chases him off into the darkness of the coop... In other words, she has no tolerance nor appreciates any "hanky panky" going on in the hen yard...This Don does not give up so easily...he dusts himself off...shakes his feathers out and prepares himself for another day...or at least another attempt at romance...one does need to live up to their name and reputation...

CHICKEN MUSINGS

2011-11-09T17:08:00.006-05:00

~ Musings on chicken keeping~

1. If you are searching for some good old fashioned wholesome entertainment... where language or adult content is of no concern...pop a bag of popcorn...grab your favorite lawn chair...and watch the shenanigans unfold...believe me when I say there is a "Lucy and Ethel" in every flock.

2. Chickens love the gift of gab...no girlfriends around...pull up a chicken...she's happy to lend an ear...

3. Need a patch of lawn mowed or maybe a flower garden weeded...chickens delight in this activity...just remember to purchase replacement plants as chickens do get carried away...a bath is usually involved...and let me just say you have not lived until you watch a chicken bathe...dirt flies...chickens roll while purring with delight...yes, you read that correctly chickens do in deed purr...

4. Now there is chicken keeping and keeping chickens...there is a difference...my friend keeps chickens...she is a true farmer...her chickens remain nameless...they are given adequate feed and water and if one dies...oh well...her chickens remain quite healthy and are fine egg layers...

Mine on the other hand have been pampered...okay spoiled... fed organically...treats of blueberries and other delights keep my grocery bill on the high side...I admit one of the draws to keeping chickens is naming them...chickens are the ideal candidate for using "old" names...I just know there is an Auntie Em or maybe a Delores or a Blanche in my future...Yes, there is heartache...chickens do die...but the delights far out way the sadness... This day Charlotte is still with us but grieving, I fear for the worst...and my Josephine has gone broody...This is my first experience with a broody hen...I kept removing her from the nest box, however, her persistence won me over...four tiny eggs remain underneath her warm body...I do believe a little joy and excitement is needed in this hen house...and Josephine just may be the girl to do it...

SWEET IRIS~

2011-11-08T16:52:00.003-05:00

Dear Iris,

You are gone, truly gone. I had hoped you might be off on a little vacation, maybe discovered true love in a neighboring hen yard, or had decided to roost in a nearby tree. But alas it was not to be. It took me four days of searching, but finely I stumbled upon the crime scene. Your golden feathers lay scattered about, proof you put up a valiant fight, the enemy... a fox. The hen yard is not the same without you. I fear dear Charlotte will not get over your absence, she remains in the corner of the hen yard, patiently waiting your return. All hope is gone, it is not meant to be. Such is the life of a chicken keeper, a sad chicken keeper. Goodbye my sweet girl.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN~

2011-10-31T20:31:00.001-04:00

Despite the snow they came...goblins in all shapes and sizes... the words "Trick or Treat" filled the evening air...

A house is never still in darkness to those who listen intently; there is a whispering in the distant chambers, an unearthly hand presses the snib of the window, the latch rises. Ghosts were created when the first man awoke in the night. ~J.M. BARRIE~

OCTOBER'S GOLD

2011-10-30T13:39:00.013-04:00

Yesterday at this time the air was heavy with moisture... a palpable sense of urgency was blowing in the wind...an impending snowstorm would soon be on our doorstep...lawn mowers and snow blowers could be heard in unison. Winter decides to arrive a bit early this year...October's gold will soon be nothing more than a faint memory...leaves will be covered in white...

Regardless of the weather preparations for Halloween are being finalized...a wreath finds it's place on the back door...A welcome mat is ready to greet witches..ghosts and goblins..a candle burning to light the way...bags of treats are filled...In the darkness of the night snow came...not a lot, but enough to cause disruptions...young trees snapped under the weight of heavy wet snow...homes found themselves without electricity...cancellations are many...I decide it is a good day to remain indoors... a perfect opportunity to begin a new book... resume work on a stitchery project.. bake a loaf of bread...regardless it will be a good day snow and all...

IN THE DARK OF THE NIGHT~

2011-10-27T21:10:00.002-04:00

He said, COME SEE but she said I DON'T WANT TO... oh just come and have a LOOK SEE, there it was... softy falling in the DARKNESS of the night... SNOW...

A GLIMMER IN THE NIGHT

2011-10-26T21:30:00.000-04:00

My candle was nearly burnt out, when,

by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open.

~Mary Shelley~

THIS DAY~

2011-10-25T19:36:00.006-04:00

My head remained a bit to long on the pillow this morning...not only did this throw my day off...Emma Lou let it be known she would like her breakfast sooner rather than later...Winslow Homer was patiently waiting to go out to do his business and the chickens, simply fed up with Don Juan and his repetitive announcement of daylight. Finally out the door Winslow and I enjoyed our morning walk through the woods. Leaves were softly falling with the color of fall blanketing the trail below. The woods were silent with the exception of squirrels scouring about.

Once back home my kitchen was soon filled with the aroma of cranberry banana bread. The recipe I use is from Janet, proprietor of the blog Old Crow Primitives. This recipe has become a favorite, the bread is moist and the cranberries offer the perfect tartness. YUMMY. By now I am sure you have come to the conclusion that Fall is my favorite season. Black, orange and teal are my favorite colors. I am very fond of pumpkins in any shape and form, so when I came upon this lovely pumpkin girl I knew she needed to come live with us here at Dog Trot Farm.The Jack-O-Lantern below found his way home with me many years ago. When I unpack my holiday decorations, no matter the season, I feel as though I am reconnecting with old friends, do you ever feel this was too?Now, I have seen Christmas commercials on television, I have even heard Christmas music playing in the background of certain stores. I admit instead of putting me in the buying mode, it has the opposite effect. Please, let me digest my Thanksgiving meal before the buying frenzy begins.With that being said, I vow to enjoy Autumn, in it's entirety. There will be popcorn balls and candy apples, Halloween, pumpkin pie and candy corn...The crunching of leaves under my feet.These are the days that I have been waiting for...tonight I shall set the alarm clock...I don't want to waste one precious moment of this glorious season by over sleeping. Did I mention there are snow showers in the forecast?

BANTAMS

2011-10-23T18:55:00.006-04:00

The last remaining flower in my perennial bed is a fall blooming Anemone. Mythology tells us the anemone sprang up from the blood of Aphrodite's slain lover Adonis. The name "windflower" signifies that the wind blows the petals open and eventually blows the dead petals away. The anemone is a wonderful flower for the fall garden.

My little banty rooster has been a wonderful addition to my flock. I, who was dead set against keeping a rooster, will now eat crow. Oh, he is a looker alright and his Cock- A- Doodle-doo has been practiced to perfection. Banty's enjoy small social groups, one rooster to three hens. Don Juan keeps a protective watch over his ladies making sure their feathers remain intact. Speaking of feathers, there is a new trend in my area anyway, where rooster feathers are in demand. It seems for $35.00 you can have a feather woven into your hair. I happened to notice a sign with the words "get feathered" I had no idea what it meant. You might have guessed by now I am not very trendy. Well, it appears rooster feathers are the new hot "it" item. Let me just say the only ones sporting feathers here at Dog Trot Farm will be my chickens.Loretta is a Mille Fluer, a very sweet and social gal.Josephine is a lilac colored Cochin and is very lady like.Annabelle, a Japanese bantam is the smallest of my bantams. She also happens to be Don Juan's favorite. Bantams lay the sweetest little eggs, three bantam eggs are equivalent to one hen's egg. I have read that bantams can also be raised as meat birds and make a mean chicken cacciatore. Bantams are friendly little birds and quite entertaining, they scurry about the coop yard but know enough to stay out of the way of the older hens making sure no toes are stepped on.Don Juan..guardian of Dog Trot Farm...and proud feather

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED

2011-10-22T23:13:00.000-04:00

Fall in New England is a magical time...

A time when days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop...we soon discover nature's bounty by driving back roads...the road less traveled. Farm stands dot the countryside...pumpkins glow in brilliant shades of orange and green...some speckled..some striped...

gourds discovered in many shapes and sizes...October is the month for pumpkins..some will find their way into a pie plate while others carved into spooky creatures announcing Halloween's arrival...On this day we find the countryside ablaze with color.. fields of gold.. sugar maple.. beech and oak trees provide a kaleidoscope of color. Their brilliance reflected in a pond below... clouds billow in and soon the rain begins to fall... we drive higher into the hills...in the blink of an eye the clouds simply float away...

and the reflection appears once again...this day has become cold...we decide it is time...the kindling is brought in and soon the flame is burning bright...there is warmth and the fragrance of cinnamon and clove fills the air...yes..it is Fall in New England...such a lovely time of year...my favorite time of year...

OCTOBER DAYS

2011-10-20T18:24:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Mom...

I am blessed with the most wonderful mother. She and my dad gave my brother and me a wonderful childhood, one filled with many cherished memories. Today this most incredible lady turns 82." Age is just a number"...and my mother is a perfect example of this saying. Mom stays involved with many island activities, whether it be volunteering at the church gift shop, historical society, or heading up a weekly bridge game,

she stays busy. Not only does she find time for these activities, but has been employed for the last 32 years as a rural route mail carrier. I think she would agree with me when I say the key to a long and happy life is to remain a life long learner, surround yourself with people you love and care about and give back to your community. It also helps to have a husband who is willing to vacuum daily, fold the laundry and wash dishes. My parents make the perfect team...Happy Birthday mom, we love you...

Fall is here... the weather today cold and rainy. The foliage has not been as spectacular as in previous years and much of the foliage has fallen from the trees. October means popcorn balls, candy apples, pumpkin bread, apple cake and tonight the first wood stove fire of the season. The fragrance of cinnamon and spices once again simmer in the old black cast iron pot.

Sunday DH and I took a drive to New Hampshire, while in North Conway we noticed there was snow on the summit of Mt. Washington. Mt. Washington allegedly is known as having the world's worst weather. We have driven up the auto road many times which is an experience in itself. On my "Bucket List" is to travel to the summit via snow cat during the winter months. It is a day trip and one that would offer wonderful photo opportunities...

Honestly there is not a pumpkin that I have not fallen for...I just love these warts...

I do believe there is a bit of a witch in me...

EARLY MORNING

2011-10-12T20:10:00.004-04:00

Early morning walks...you never know who you might bump into...and if you were wondering...NO...there is no deer hunting here at Dog Trot Farm...

LESSONS LEARNED

2011-10-11T16:02:00.007-04:00

Life with a blind dog...from my experience it is harder on me than Winslow Homer...What I have learned is never rearrange your furniture... with the holidays in sight this could be a challenge. It is difficult enough to watch your dog bump and bang into everyday items ...let alone a Christmas tree trimmed with treasured ornaments. Never ever leave your barn boots in front of the door...spread eagle are the words that come to mind...Winslow not me. This is not the time to adopt or foster a new pet...unfamiliar scents can cause a BIG ruckus...when friends or family visit let them call your dog's name and let your pet be the first to approach... The leash is now their friend...both inside and out...so when your husband offers to take the dog out while he closes the chickens in for the night...returns to his nice comfy reclining leather chair...and minutes later his wife hears a distinct yelp and soon asks "where is WINSLOW HOMER?" and he replies "oh my GOD I forgot Winslow"...darkness is fast approaching and I hear the words "I need help"... in my mind I am thinking..."I'll have to call everyone in the neighborhood... rustle up a search party...and then I hear the words "I've found him." I mumble a little prayer, thank you Jesus...
On this beautiful Fall day... I grab the leash... Winslow and I are off...I enjoy the sights..he the sounds...

"October gave a party;

The leaves by hundreds came,

The Chestnuts, Oaks, and Maples,

And leaves of every name.

The sunshine spread a carpet,
And everything was grand,

Miss Weather led the dancing,

Professor Wind the band."

George Cooper, October Party

DEAR MOTHER NATURE...

2011-10-10T18:22:00.011-04:00

Dear Mother Nature... I do believe it is the month of October...the month which I have longed for...you know the one where we gather pumpkins and gourds...take our sweaters out of storage and anticipate hayrides followed by a mug of hot mulled cider...it is not the month for lemonade...shorts and tee shirts.

October...the month were we don hiking boots and enjoy early morning walks...finding the trail now covered with a bed of newly fallen leaves...it is not the month for flip flops...October... where vibrant hardy Mums fill greenhouses...

soon finding their way into yards everywhere...October...is the month for bittersweet...and cornstalks...chestnuts and acorns...stacking fire wood...it is not the month for air conditioning and suntan lotion...

So...Mother Nature if you would please send the October that I have been longing for...Thank you...Julie of Dog Trot Farm...

GOOD SUNDAY

2011-10-09T15:05:00.006-04:00

Good Sunday...In the early morning hours... when darkness begins to fade and dawn is fast approaching... the rooster begins to crow... it is time for my feet to hit the floor. This day will be warm and inviting... temperatures will reach the mid eighties... regardless of this beautiful Autumn day... crunch time is here... time to put one's nose to the grindstone and complete the remainder of the outside chores. Winslow...ever present by my side...is still adapting to his blindness...as am I. I do think I miss his eye sight more than he. The chipmunk population here at Dog Trot Farm has become quite bold... acquiring side by side dining accommodations with the chickens...and the squirrels...brazen in their attitude...boastful in their chatter... the cornstalks have been stripped of their corn...which I was hoping to dry and dip in scented wax...only the cobs remain tossed about helter skelter in the yard...and finally...the demise of another hen...Fern..a Silver Wyandotte...I neither heard nor witnessed anything out of the ordinary...but unfortunately later in the day discovered a yard full of feathers and a corpse laying at the edge of the woods...my guess... a dog. Let me just say chicken keeping is not for the faint of heart...and to top it off the older girls...my two year olds... are still on strike...no eggs...NADA...but my lovely dainty banty's...each produce one or more eggs a day...I hope you all are taking advantage of this beautiful day whether it be...apple picking...a hayride, or constructing a scarecrow. These days will be memories before we realize it...I shall salute this day with a cold glass of apple cider...right after I finish painting the house...cheers!!

~A TRIBUTE TO NANCY~

2011-10-03T15:27:00.006-04:00

A tribute... There are people who walk in and out of our lives, some we struggle to recall and others who leave an indelible imprint. Such is that of a women named Nancy. Nancy with her then three year son Ben became part of my daycare and preschool family. I soon discovered first hand how Nancy could light up a room with her smile and magnetic personality. In 2003, Nancy was diagnosed with Stage 4 Inflammatory Breast Cancer, a rare cancer with a grim outlook. She was told to get her affairs in order. As a newly divorced single parent with a young eight year old son giving up was not in the cards. She became a mighty warrior...a pink warrior... her goal, to see her son graduate from high school. Oh how this courageous women fought...for eight years she battled this horrid disease... but never once did I hear her complain. Sadly... Nancy passed away last Thursday. I do know the world is a better place for having her in it and she will be forever missed. Her beloved son Ben is now a junior in high school. Wednesday, I will go to pay my respects and say goodbye to this dear friend.

OCTOBER'S BEAUTY

2011-10-01T20:56:00.003-04:00

October... "Just before the death of flowers,
And before they are buried in snow,
There comes a festive season
When nature is all aglow."

Author Unknown

AUTUMN'S GIFT

2011-09-28T20:00:00.014-04:00

I am not the least bit sad to see summer fade...I welcome all that Autumn has to offer... with it's brilliant shades of color and crisp cool air it makes me come alive...feel energized...ready to tackle the last few chores on summer "to do" list... I begin my day with Jack...holder of morning cereal...

one can never have enough Jack-O-Lanterns...

they find their way to Dog Trot Farm in all shapes and sizes...large..small..happy..spooky.. none are ever turned away...

along with black glittered owls...and owls with soft downy feathers... witches boots that jingle in the dead of night... blackbirds...crows...ravens...all find a home here... the harvesting of squash and pumpkins is in full swing...there are many shapes and sizes to choose from... and the colors..from pale to vibrant...I'll take one of each please!!! I hope you too are taking advantage of these brilliant Fall days...whether it be stuffing a scarecrow... heading to an apple orchard... a pumpkin field... seize the day...you won't regret it~

AUTUMN SUNSHINE

2011-09-27T18:49:00.025-04:00

"I cannot endure to waste anything as precious as Autumn sunshine by staying in the house. So I spend almost all daylight hours in the open air". ~Nathanial Hawthorne.~ How true these words ring...The rhythm of the season has begun...leaves are beginning to change color...temperatures now dip...crops are being harvested...apples and pumpkins dot the landscape... football season is in full swing...it's perfect weather for early morning walks...and painting one's house... and for sheets flapping in the breeze...winter..spring..summer or fall..only line dried sheets for me...the sweet fragrance of sunshine... the grand finale in the garden is now in full swing...asters... nasturtium and butterfly bush... pumpkins...gourds...squash...

here's a peek as to what is happening inside Dog Trot Farm...Halloween...the decorations are finding their way out of the attic...on to wall boxes and shelves...I discovered this battery operated candle at Micheal's for $5.66...now last year when taking decorations from the attic... unbeknown to me... a BAT found it's way out. In the middle of the night I awoke to a strange noise... and yes... discovered the BAT sleeping on my pillow. This time around I stood guard with a broom while my DH passed the boxes down. As I previously stated... and I will state it again... I do realize how beneficial bats are...one or two in the attic...okay...but I do not want to share my bed with one!!! decorations over curtain valences...and on window sills...

ahoy mate... boo... This is a new apple...new to me anyway...it is called Ginger Gold...it is an early season apple... accompanied by a new to me apple crisp recipe...oh my...DELICIOUS...with a scoop of french vanilla ice cream...pure HEAVEN!!! How I love this time of year...I do hope you love it too!

A DAY TO ENJOY

2011-09-18T19:35:00.005-04:00

Sunday morning finds my husband out of bed at the crack of dawn and on the road to Denmark, Maine. With days noticeably shorter and evening temperatures now dipping into the thirties it is prudent to get camp "buttoned up" for the winter. The raft is pulled ashore and secured, water pump removed from the well house and most importantly...on this day a new shingled roof for the bunk house...reinforcements are called in... thank you Tristan and Maxwell, along with an SOS to me for lunch..Hello... I am busy here...nevertheless, I pack up Winslow Homer...and pick up a "Maine" lunch...Italian sandwiches...potato chips... and for dessert..what else but the traditional whoopie pie...now if you are not from these parts you probably have never heard of an Italian sandwich...no... it is not a hoagie...gyro...or sub...
the original Italian sandwich... begins with a Botto's Bakery roll...ham..cheese..tomatoes.. dill pickles..green peppers...onions..and black olives..salt..pepper and olive oil...if you ever find yourself in Maine...give this tasty sandwich a try...as we natives tend to say... it is "wicked good." On the return drive home changes in the foliage are becoming more apparent... the familiar scent of woodsmoke hung low in the air...soon it will be time to attend the Fryeburg Fair...the last fair of the season...the one with the huge fowl exibit... and speaking of fowl...the girls are not laying...no eggs...zip..zippo..nada...catapillars have invaded our fruit trees...those ugly nests that appear this time of year... once hatched the caterpillars can devour a tree in no time at all...lucky me... now I am sporting the bright red tell tale sign of this infamous caterpillar...the rash runs along my arms...and itch...oh man does it ever...

finally...you all offered your opinion and I listened...the shrubs are gone...no more...and I like it...their demise has given the exterior of the house a more primitive feel...I am going to live with it for a bit...my dream would be a picket fence enclosing an herb and kitchen garden...I love to dream...especially when I can make my dreams come true...

AUTUMN SPLENDOR

2011-09-16T19:03:00.010-04:00

Autumn...dear Autumn...how I love thee...days with warmth...and skies of blue...fields now scattered with the glow of goldenrod... the brown faces of sunflowers cast up towards the sun...morning songbirds have vacated, left behind are the birds of black... the faint hoot of an owl
is heard deep in the wood...squirrels are busily stockpiling their winter fare...

flowers are bidding a fond farewell...

their brilliance fades with each passing day...

their job is complete...

the torch has been passed...it is now the season of "pumpkin moonshine" and all things that go bump in the night...

SEPTEMBER DAYS

2011-09-14T20:00:00.007-04:00

My "to do list" remains quite lengthy...but with September days such as these....warm and humid....my inner voice commands me to drop everything...chores will eventually be accomplished...but the beauty of this September day will disappear all to soon....I decide to listen to my inner voice and take advantage...I head to the beach.... it is quiet here now...summer tourists have departed...the wind blows a salty breeze....the surf pounds.... the cry of the ever present sea gull echos in the air...

September will blend into October...Fall tourists... who are also known as" leaf peepers" will soon invade our fine State....the beach will regain it's solitude...and once again the gulls will be it's caretaker....all to soon my footprints will be washed away....

but this day will remain a pleasant memory...which I will fondly recall on a cold winter's day...

ALL IN A DAY....

2011-09-12T18:31:00.002-04:00

Make Hay While The Sun Shines... Crops are being reaped....Fall is on it's way....

GOD BLESS AMERICA

2011-09-10T22:05:00.001-04:00

WE WILL NEVER FORGET.... FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS....

"WILLA"

2011-09-08T17:51:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a sad day here at Dog Trot Farm....Willa... a two year old Barred Rock... one of my original ten hens... passed away.... When a hen dies....one of the most difficult questions is why?....How can a healthy hen go to death's door in such a brief period of time. A case of here one minute and gone the next. Willa exhibited no external symptoms until her last few moments...She was a well loved hen...side kick to Gladys... bearer of beautiful eggs....and quite a looker....Willa was buried in the flower garden along side her sister's... Pip and Georgia...she will be missed.

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR...

2011-09-07T10:39:00.006-04:00

Halloween....over the years Halloween has evolved into my favorite holiday. Halloween encompasses many of my favorite things ....owls..crows..pumpkins..gourds..gnarled old trees..corn stalks..bittersweet...and old tombstones...below is a casting taken from an original headstone.... I discovered and purchased this at a local craft fair...she is the guardian angel to Dog Trot Farm... This summer I purchased four small castings also taken from an old headstone. My husband will inform you when we visit a historic home .... I am drawn to the kitchen...the family library...books tell a lot about a person....and most importantly the family cemetery...I find the designs and symbols found primarily on the old stones so very fascinating...

If you are a fan of Halloween as I am...hurry over to your local Dollar Store....I discovered these black silhouette cut outs...they are very similar to those which Martha Stewart Living offers...just a whole lot cheaper.... for your selection there are mice..bats..crows..spiders..cats...now I say for a dollar a piece how can you go wrong...

Also discovered.... pumpkins...of various colors...white...brown...orange...tan...

and teal...my personal favorite...Now I have no intention of rushing the season....I am intending to enjoy each and every day... a minute at a time... for there are apples to pick and pies to make...pumpkins to gather and scarecrows to design....and leaves....oh... the leaves to rake...

like I said a minute at a time....

Delicious Autumn! my very soul is wedded to it, and If I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive Autumns. ~George Elliott~

MY WORLD

2011-09-06T17:46:00.020-04:00

"Home, the spot of earth supremely blest, A dearer, sweeter spot than all the rest."~Robert Montgonery~
"There is nothing like staying at home for real comfort." ~Jane Austen~

GOODBYE SUMMER

2011-09-04T16:39:00.010-04:00

Goodbye summer....I will miss you....those lazy days....of quiet beaches....

filled with warm salty breezes....

pounding surf.... the comfort of my blue beach chair....

kicking off flip flops....

and feeling the warm sand between my toes....

goodbye summer.... you will be missed....till we meet once again....

PASSPORT INTO HISTORY

2011-08-28T12:27:00.007-04:00

It's a howling and it's a blowing.... the rain drops they are a falling ....the girls are not happy....no outdoor play today....and with the added bonus of being stuck inside the coop with Don Juan... certainly not their idea of how to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.... Yesterday was more of the same for them.... I pulled out this passport....a passport into historical New England.... beaks went out of joint....another case of a long day in the coop....If you enjoy New England history....including visiting some of the oldest homes and gardens in New England...from Maine to Rhode Island this passport is ideal. For $55.00 dollars...two adults...can enjoy what Historical New England has to offer for one year....also you can revisit any of the listed homes multiple times... Saturday found DH and myself here at the Sarah Orne Jewett home located in South Berwick Maine. Jewett was an American author and short story writer. You may be familiar with two of her most popular works "The Country of Pointed Firs" and "A Country Doctor," the latter being based on her doctor father and his many house calls which Sarah often accompanied him on. This Georgian style home was built in 1776 and over looks the town's central square. The home is filled with many of the Jewett's personal belongings and Sarah's bedroom is found exactly how she left it. Her writing pen can be found located in a cup adhered to the bedroom wall... close at hand for scribbling down those late night ideas... her bifocals hanging off a mirror....and her initials which Sarah etched in a bedroom window pane. Sarah enjoyed flowers and especially her flower gardens...

"Late in the evening, when the room had grown too hot and tiresome with it's flaring light and noise of voices, I stole out alone into the darkness of the summer's night, down the long garden-walk I slowly went; A little wind was stirring in the trees; I only saw the whitest of flowers and I was sorry that the earlier hours of that fair evening had been so ill spent, Because, I said, I am content with these Dear friends of mine who only speak to me with their delicious fragrance, and who tell to me their gracious welcome silently...

The leaves that touch my hand with dew are wet; I find the tall white lilies I love well
I linger as I pass the Mignonette, and what surprise could dearer be than this;

To find my sweet rose waiting with a kiss..."

Flowers In The Dark....~Sarah Orne Jewett~

TURF TO SURF

2011-08-27T20:26:00.014-04:00

Today was one of those days.... if you listened very closely.... you could hear the corn growing...honestly....corn stalks snap as their root's grow deep inside the earth....and golden tassels head toward the sun.... most of the perennials here at Dog Trot Farm have begun to fade and die away....however....the exception being the trusty Rudbeckia....my thought is....when in doubt plant Rudbeckia....

Cone flowers....

and Bee Balm....have lost their zesty appeal....

Gladys....enjoying the quiet of the day....

while Iris works on her beauty rest....

I headed to the rocky coast....where the air is fragrant with the sweet scent of sea salt.... colorful beach roses dot the scenery....

the cry of a gull....

along with the sound of the pounding surf....

and in the distance.... the sight of the majestic Nubble Light....from "turf to surf" Maine is a most wonderful place... Tonight....all cozy....in the safety of our homes.... we wait and watch for Irene...stay safe dear friends....Goodnight from Dog Trot Farm....

~FRIDAY~

2011-08-26T20:24:00.011-04:00

Two visits to the veterinary in one day is not Winslow Homer's idea of enjoyment... however...an adjustment was warranted in regards to his insulin dosage... along with an additional antibiotic.. and then we were sprung and out of there...back to the safety of Dog Trot Farm....home to Winslow's favorite chicken treats....and the little brown chipmunk who now wonders why Winslow Homer no longer puts him in his place....
home is where flowers bloom....and birds sing.... the sun shines....and the air is thick with humidity....a warm summer breeze blows...

the quiet of the day is deafening....and then.... low and behold there it was...not the familiar sound of the usual neighborhood lawn mower....but the sound of generators....preparations all through the neighborhood were being made...and on top of one's list is making sure one's generator is in tip top shape....Irene beware.... we New Englanders are prepared...

now...as I have previously mentioned my vegetable gardens were a huge disappointment....no zucchini...tomatoes....or summer squash...no peppers....beets...or carrots....however I did manage to grow two lovely heads of dill....

a lovely Cinderella pumpkin....

and one cantaloupe...that's it...that's the extent of my vegetable garden....The peeps.... Loretta and her sister's are alive and well and thriving....they have now been integrated into the existing flock of girls and are adjusting quite nicely...Don Juan, their mighty protector....loves his girl's....oh how he loves his girl's.... and if you asked them...I'm sure they would say he loves them a little to much....

but my he is a manly man....Have a great weekend everyone....if Irene is heading your way please take the proper precautions and stay safe!!

THANK YOU

2011-08-25T19:48:00.006-04:00

A most sincere thank you to all who left such heartwarming comments in regard to Winslow Homer... his blindness is an adjustment for all of us here at Dog Trot Farm....ever undaunted....we will persevere....Winslow....who's duty it once was to keep the "girls" in check...now...it is they who appear to be protecting him....there is no other option but for us to move forward....we opted to make a sad situation into a learning experience....So...now let us talk about "IRENE" this monster of a hurricane that is threatening so many of us....first priority for me was to head to the berry fields....
Realizing that the raspberries were in their prime....but not knowing what conditions the berry fields might be in....if or when Irene strikes....I headed out bright and early....I took my husband along as well....I mean....hey....he was working at home today....and four hands are better than two....I must tell you the raspberries were just beautiful...large and juicy....the setting... just lovely....and best of all it was just DH and myself picking...together we picked a little under nine pounds of berries in forty-five minutes....I love to berry pick and I must confess I did get a little carried away. $42.00 was my tab....ouch....but we came home and made jam .... put some in the freezer for a cold winter's day....and shared with friends.... Irene.... we here at Dog Trot Farm are ready for you....the generator is in place....extra batteries...gas and water have been purchased....Winslow is stocked up on chicken treats.... reading material is on hand....the girls and Don Juan will be snuggled nicely in their coop....
This lady was part of the welcoming committee this morning...a very grand lady indeed....Irene....I do believe that would be a most appropriate name....goodnight Irene...

~IN MEMORY OF NINI~

2011-08-22T16:01:00.004-04:00

In memory of "Nini," wife, mother, sister, grandmother, friend and mother in-law. Death is nothing at all. It does not count. I have only slipped away into the next room.
Nothing has happened. Everything remains exactly as it was. I am I, and you are you, and the old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged. Whatever we were to each other, that we are still. Call me by the old familiar name. Speak of me in the easy way which you always used. Put no differences into your tone. Wear no formed air of solemnity or sorrow. Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes we enjoyed together. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word that it always was. Let it be spoken without any effort, without the ghost of a shadow upon it. Life means all that it meant. There is an absolute unbroken continuity. What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just 'round the corner. All is well.

Passage taken from Rosamunde Pilcher's book "September"

MY SWEET BOY

2011-08-19T22:37:00.002-04:00

Call it what you will....I call it motherly intuition...I knew something was wrong....very wrong....I just did not want to admit it....A call to the vet was made and my suspicions were confirmed....my sweet little boy....Winslow Homer....is now blind... He will adapt....I will adapt....we will adapt....One blind dog....one twenty year old cat and a rooster who is attempting to "service" all thirteen of my "girl's." If I could get my hands on a Valium I do believe I would take it. Prayers kindly accepted, thank you.

WEDNESDAY'S WOES....

2011-08-17T09:11:00.004-04:00

Wednesday's woes....My e-mail no longer functions, my blog list has vanished. I called my tech guru for help (thank you Eve of Sunny Side Up I don't know what I would do without you} Eve discovered a partial list of the blogs I follow, but please bare with me while I find the rest of you! Thank you all so much for the advice on the rhododendrons. When our home was first built it's original color was a weathered grey stain with blue trim, the bright colored rhododendrons accented the house nicely. Now that Dog Trot Farm is barn red, no so much. I do however, enjoy the "tucked in" feeling that my now large rhododendrons offer. I do need to put some serious thought into what I am going to replace them with (weeping pea?). Many of the "weeping" varieties of trees do not tolerate wind, so I need to take this into consideration as well as the southerly exposure. Thank you all again, I am open to any and all ideas, Julie of Dog Trot Farm.

DOWN ON THE FARM

2011-08-15T17:33:00.005-04:00

Mr. Don Juan is living up to his name.... Gladys is not the least bit impressed and wants nothing to do with him....

and Iris....well....she just wants a little peace and quiet....

the vegetable gardens.... a huge disappointment....oh... I did harvest peas for the fourth of July....then things pretty much went down hill....no eggplant....broccolli....beets....or tomatoes...that's right no tomatoes, how can you not have tomatoes? I am stumped as to the cause....The good news is I did discover a cantaloupe (key word a )....a pumpkin.... butternut squash and cucumbers....so much for this growing season....even the basil bolted.... my green thumb.... wilted....the truth is I am ready for Fall...it seems the older I become the less I enjoy summer.... I knew this to be true when I saw Halloween decorations this morning in Michaels ....yup I'm ready....bring on the orange and black.... Finally, dear bloggers I am in need of your advice. I am of the mindset to remove the rhododendrons which are located in the front of our home. I would like to replace them with Tree Hydrangeas, but am still on the fence about this....measure twice cut once thinking....once cut there is no going back....

Winslow Homer appears to be pondering the situation, how about you, what do you think?

A PLATE FULL OF COOKIES

2011-08-10T18:19:00.006-04:00

The rain has found us here in Southern Maine....beaches are empty....tourists have made their way to the Maine Mall....back to school shopping is in full swing...the entrance to the infamous Christmas Tree Shop backed up...what do I do on this cold wet rainy day you ask?....why I bake chocolate chip cookies....Toll House of course...A request from both my husband and younger son had been made. Like many of you it has been to darn hot and humid to turn on the oven...today...however....I had no excuse....and after discovering this cut glass cake dish from Goodwill for $2.99 and and another for $1.99...oh so pretty I just couldn't pass them up...Okay... I had a hunch the above mentioned cookies would look quite pretty piled high on the cake plates..they won't last long.... so honey pour the milk!

HISTORIC NEW ENGLAND- PART TWO

2011-08-07T18:30:00.020-04:00

Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House.... perched on a rock ledge overlooking Gloucester Harbor in Massachusetts stands the majestic Beauport. Built in 1907, Beauport was the summer home to Henry Davis Sleeper, one of America's first professional interior designers. Mr. Sleeper, however, had no formal training. When Sleeper, along with his mother moved into Beauport it held twenty-six rooms.

Right from the "get go" you realize Beauport is no ordinary home. This home is filled with mystery as well as whimsy, nooks and crannies are filled from top to bottom with his diverse collections. Beauport is home to "ten thousand" objects, each room is designed as a stage set and every inch of space has a purpose. Sleeper was a pioneer in recycling....especially wooden doors, glass, and pine paneling which has been re purposed in this home. Doorways are filled with blown and pressed amber glass lit from behind by sunlight dancing off mirrors. There are secret passage ways....built to delight as well as frighten guests, Mr. Sleeper enjoyed keeping his guests on their toes...This man was a Thomas Jefferson, certainly a man ahead of his time...This home tour is like any other....a one hour tour is just not sufficient enough to absorb all that Beauport has to offer....I hope to return for the "nooks and crannies" behind the scene tour later in the summer....I highly recommend visiting this home....it is filled with primitives, hooked rugs, depression and sandwich glass, books, paintings, wooden ware, red ware, textiles, if you can think of it you will discover it here.

a dove cote built into the cedar roof....

love it.... windows made with a lead design which matched and highlighted interior wallpaper....

English influence found everywhere...

exterior carvings found under the eaves throughout the exterior of the home... among the ferns....

hollyhocks....

and phlox....

front side of the home facing the Atlantic ocean....

garden whimsy everywhere....

Mr Sleeper neglected nothing....upon completion Beauport was home to forty-eight rooms....if you find yourself in this area....along the picturesque coast of Gloucester....stop and have a "look see" and then grab yourself a lobster roll, you'll be glad you did.....

I'M READY ARE YOU?

2011-08-05T16:35:00.004-04:00

Autumn.... I'm ready...bring on those warm days and cool nights....let me throw open my curtains and pull up the shades....open the windows.... air out the house....I'm ready for pumpkins and cornstalks....and scarecrows too....For crows and crickets.... and migrating geese.... country fairs with apples and cider and dough boys too.... for falling leaves and cool morning walks.... I'm so ready....are you? just not quite ready to finish these boys up.... why....it's still to darn hot!

MACKWORTH ISLAND WALKING SALAD

2011-08-03T18:54:00.003-04:00

An apple a day keeps the doctor away...so says the old adage... after the night I endured....all I need to say are the words gastric-intestinal....I would gladly consume an apple a day to keep myself healthy. While reading the newspaper this evening I stumbled upon not only a recipe, but what I think is a great idea too....and yes it calls for an apple.

Vesta Rand's Mackworth Island Walking Salad
One apple, cored, I might use a Cortland or Macintosh
Peanut Butter
Fruit- Sweetened dried cranberries or cherries
Pecans, walnuts or almonds, chopped
Flax seeds ground
How easy is this, core an apple, mix the above ingredients together and stuff. Wrap apple in wax paper, tin foil or plastic wrap. Now you have a perfect walking or cycling pick-me-up.

If one has a peanut allergy Vesta suggests using cream cheese or lemon hummus with sweet dried fruit or savory ingredients with olives, celery, and crumbled turkey bacon.
I myself would need to add a few chocolate chips, raisins and possibly a bit of granola.

With Maine apple season fast approaching, I definitely am going to give this recipe a try! How about you?

JUST ONE OF THOSE MORNINGS...

2011-08-02T18:48:00.003-04:00

This is the path I take advantage of most days of the week for either walking or cycling...today I chose my bicycle...it is a bit of a hill and dale ride.... about ten miles round trip...and takes me about an hour to complete. The path is somewhat secluded, encompassing woods, farmland, and a river. This morning the sun was shining and the temperature hovered in the low eighties....lovely...but as I began traveling along I soon discovered how unpleasant this trip would soon become... the air was thick with humidity....I found myself stopping several times just to catch my breath.... something which I seldom do. Typically this is a most enjoyable ride...but not today....no sir-ee... as I looked about the sights in front of me....encouraging myself to continue on.... I came upon this... that was all I needed to see....it was an omen....a perfect excuse for me to turn around and head home...
tomorrow....I think I'll take the day off...

COLLECTING...

2011-08-01T19:05:00.004-04:00

One of the items I enjoy collecting is Salmon Falls Pottery. Fortunately for me the shop and studio is located just up the road a piece from the Historic Hamilton House. Located in Dover, New Hampshire, off the beaten path, Salmon Falls makes it home in a former train engine house. Salmon Falls Pottery was founded by Andy Cochran in 1986 and has grown into the business you find today. Each item is handmade, it's shape, size, and design reflected by each of the individual potters. This pottery is lead free and microwavable. I confess I have collected a lot of seconds over the years, but one would never know. At one point the pottery published a news letter, included discount coupons and operated a seconds outlet, however, due to economic times, both no longer exist. So, if you reside close by and looking for something new to collect I highly recommend this beautiful pottery. And yes, I can always find room for one more piece!

HISTORIC NEW ENGLAND

2011-07-30T19:21:00.010-04:00

I love objects with a history, antiques, folk art, textiles, but most importantly I love old houses...I find warped pine floors.... bubbled paned glass windows....and huge fireplaces most enchanting....call me crazy but my dream is to one day own and reside in an old house... The majestic Hamilton House found perched on the banks of the Salmon Falls River in South Berwick, Maine is one of the most beautiful settings found untouched by the modern world. You will be welcomed by the fragrant air.... a perk from the colonial flower gardens, and birdsong echoing off in the distance...

located down a dirt road tucked behind stately trees this Georgian mansion rests. Jonathan Hamilton, first to acquire this property around 1785 built this home, out buildings, and warehouses, raised food, built ships, cut wood and created gardens. Grist and sawmills operated upstream... the Salmon Falls river was once a bustling port with ocean going vessels...

The Hamilton House changed hands over the years, falling into disrepair...the last owners, Bostonians, Emily and Elise Tyson, mother and stepdaughter and friends to neighboring American writer Sarah Orne Jewett purchased the then dilapidated home in 1898 for use as their summer home... with time and money the house regained it's former glory. Hamilton House holds many of the Tyson's furnishings, personal possessions and some of the most impressive wall murals painted by artist George Porter Fernald.

In 1949, upon the death of Emily, Elise Tyson Vaughn bequeathed the house, gardens, out buildings, and surrounding fields to Historic New England, now know as SPNEA, the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities. The one drawback to visiting historical homes, ABSOLUTELY NO PHOTOGRAPHY UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES and HANDS OFF! Once, while visiting Historic Deerfield I forgot myself and allowed my finger's to touch a hooked rug, subsequently I was reprimanded quite sternly, an incident my husband will never let me forget. Now, to keep myself out of trouble I keep my hands in my pockets.... what can I say I'm a tactile type of gal....

Next stop, down the road a piece The Elliot Tractor and Engine show...and that is all I'm going to say about that! Have a great Monday everyone.

EVENING RAIN

2011-07-29T20:34:00.003-04:00

How wonderful is the sweet sound of rain.... I am quite certain there will be fairies dancing and flowers rejoicing in the darkness of this night...
Garden fairies come at dawn,
Bless the flowers then they're gone.
~Author Unknown~

THRIFTING

2011-07-27T19:20:00.012-04:00

Okay, I confess I have a thing for shoes...the funkier the better...so when I spied these sandals..and my friend announced "oh.. they look like you"... well...I just knew they were destined to come home with me... and did I mention they were on sale! I admit I am still a novice when it comes to thrifting...and to be honest I don't usually discover many good finds...however...at Goodwill...my little five year old friend pointed out this cutting board with a rooster motif...I had walked right past it.... however....Elizabeth...promptly pointed it out to me saying"I knew you would like it Miss Julie".... Elizabeth...a darling blond cherub has been thrifting since the day she was born...this kid knows her stuff...and she knows I have a fowl addiction going on... BTW the cutting board was priced at $1.99

next... an old metal frog .99

wooden candle holder $1.99

this colorful colander was headed for a church yard sale...the asking price .25 cents...
it seem to call to me.... not being primitive in style.... but daises are my favorite flowers and teal my favorite color...I knew it would be right at home in my kitchen...

another weakness I admit to is pocket books....not Coach nor Dooney and Burke...but Vera Bradley...Vera's colorful bags put a smile on my face and just plain make me feel happy....

also.... this happens to be the first article of clothing I have ever purchased from Goodwill.... well.... that is for myself anyway....I do buy my scarecrows clothing there... a brand new Jones of New York long sleeve sail shirt....teal in color and priced.... $2.99 and finally.... this happens to be Winslow Homer's weakness... chicken treats....99% dehydrated chicken...this is a secret that Winslow (who is also known as "chicken dog") and I keep from Gladys and the girls....

could that be why I catch the girls giving Winslow the "Evil Eye"? That's it from Dog Trot Farm...

Happy thrifting everyone!

QUALITY TV?.....

2011-07-24T19:38:00.007-04:00

What I have discovered...while lazing in the backyard.... watching clouds float by....

and hens going about their daily business...

this is far more entertaining...

than anything I could find on television...

due to the hot and humid weather spending time indoors became a necessity...I quickly discovered finding quality television was almost non existent...what I did discover... reality TV shows... with just about any theme you can imagine...there are hoarders...how one gets to a point in their life where living among garbage and rodents being acceptable is beyond me...bridezillas...I truly felt embarrassed for these women....tiny tot beauty queens...stories of grotesquely obese people who are living their life confined to a bed...celebrities and their rehab dramas...you have pickers and pawn shop owners...Alaskan fisherman and ice road truckers...the later of which I found somewhat entertaining..and then there is sixteen and pregnant...all of which made me feel like the photo pictured below... What I did discover is 40 year old reruns of All In The Family...Little House on the Prairie...I Love Lucy and the Walton's..was and still is far superior than anything I can find on today's television...I ask you...are these reality shows quality entertainment?...not in my opinion...good night John Boy...

THE DAYS ARE GETTING SHORTER....

2011-07-23T17:54:00.016-04:00

Like many of you, we here at Dog Trot Farm have been enduring a heatwave. Here in Maine a heatwave may last a few days to a week, but it is usually short lived. I have to admit a southern lady I would not make. My hat goes off to you ladies... how is it you endure months of heat and humidity and show no visible signs of discomfort...well...it is beyond my comprehension. I perspire, sweat, my clothes wrinkle, and my hair has a mind of it's own. Southern ladies appear perfectly coiffed, not a hair out of place, nor sweat on the brow and never seem to complain. So I ask... spill the beans will ya ladies... let the rest of us gals in on your secret... Speaking of heat... I decided to try an experiment one of which we've all seen or heard of... frying an egg on sun soaked pavement.... no this is not my brain on drugs...

This is my brain in hot... humid... weather....scrambled...

This heat and humidity has provoked my flower gardens into reaching their prime a bit early

And speaking of heat... Winslow Homer received a haircut...well....okay....a shave....Winslow's grooming had taken a back seat due to a newly discovered medical condition...a collapsible trachea....this added to his prior medical conditions... grooming became low on the priority list... he is a wee bit embarrassed over this new look....and yes... there were a few snickers from the gals at the veterinary ....but he quickly forgave them...one needs a strong personality to carry off this look...especially when you sport a stripe running down your back...

little man... you have a face only a mother could love....stripe and all....

Gladys....she and the girls are staying cool...watermelon has become a favorite summer treat... dust baths in freshly misted soil ... refreshing water jugs frequently all of which are a priority in hot weather... Don Juan...well...I have to admit he has captured my heart... is on his way to perfecting his crow...
and slowly gaining the attention from the rest of the girls... his presence is known...

I do hope you are all well... staying cool and enjoying the summer...and let me just say 35 minutes of daylight gone!

SUMMER HEAT

2011-07-21T21:55:00.004-04:00

These are the kind of days we New Englander's cherish...a little sun...a little fun...Wish you all were here...
Cheers...

FRESH STRAWBERRY MUFFINS

2011-07-13T19:53:00.005-04:00

Simple strawberry muffins...nothing fancy...plain and simple......tender and moist...with just a hint of cinnamon... and husband approved!...

Fresh Strawberry Muffins:

1/2 cup butter softened

3/4 cup sugar

1 egg-thank you Iris

2 cups flour-I use King Arthur

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup milk

1/2 tsp vanilla-I used homemade

1 1/2 cups chopped strawberries

3 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp cinnamon

Cream butter and sugar, add egg and mix well.

Sift flour, baking powder and salt in a small bowl. Add flour mixture and milk alternately to butter mixture, add vanilla and gently stir in strawberries. Spoon batter into muffin tin. Combine sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over muffins.

Bake for 20-25 minutes. Makes one dozen.

ENJOY!

SUMMERTIME...

2011-07-12T19:54:00.009-04:00

Good morning sunshine....bright and early...at first light...I am awakened by a low croaking sound which over time develops into a full blown cock-a-doodle-doo. It is now official...I cannot deny it any longer- there is a rooster residing here at Dog Trot Farm. The former Josephine is now officially... Don Juan...his name is a perfect fit...and what a handsome boy he is...I am not sure if this is his forever home...but for now...he is behaving himself quite nicely. I... having no prior experience with roosters....will give him the benefit of the doubt...however my "girls" have voiced their opinion and want it to be known they are not wearing "saddles" if you get my drift...Don Juan you have been properly warned...I am happy to report strawberry season has arrived here in Maine...and yesterday... yes... it just so happened to be the hottest...most humid... day of the summer.... 96 degrees...friends and I ventured to the strawberry fields...this particular field is located along the rocky coast...hence... a wonderful cool southerly breeze was blowing and the smell of salt to the air...picking conditions were perfect...

today...being the second hottest day of the summer... 93 degrees...I dusted off my canning kettle and made jam...

tomorrow...strawberry muffins...just look at these paper liners... then it was off to the backyard for a tall ice cold glass of lemonade...

notice the little honeybee on my glass...

I put my feet up...and was enjoying the rest of the afternoon... until I noticed my girls rearranging the vegetable garden...peas happen to be their personal favorite... tonight... replanting and watering by the light of the moon....stay cool my friends...'tis summertime after all...

SUMMER TIME...

2011-07-06T12:21:00.009-04:00

We're having a heat wave...a tropical heat wave....the lazy... hazy days of summer have arrived... flowers appear to bow in the noon day sun...the air thick with humidity and the fragrance of sweet peonies ...'tis...summer time...there are strawberries to pick and jam to make... tall glasses of ice cold lemonade now quench our thirst... roasting marshmallows by the camp fire...simple summer pleasures...

there are weeds to pull and flowers to deadhead...but these are the chores we have been patiently waiting for...we realize just how quickly the summer months pass by...

the tourist have found their way to Maine... also known as Vacationland...Below...my bantams...Loretta...Josephine...Buttercup....and Annabelle...now reside in the coop...but still in the confines of their cage...the girls are still in the getting acquainted mode...a bit of juggling takes place to insure everyone's safety....during the day... while the older hens free range in the yard the younger "peeps" have the coop yard to themselves...a whole new world of discovery has opened up... bugs to chase... dust baths to enjoy....along with perfecting one's flying technique... While the girls were still residing in the house...unbeknown to me...Lida Louise was capable of flying...flying out of the cage that is...now please believe me when I say I do not take this lightly...Here's the scenario...arrived home from running errands...checked on the girls...gave Winslow Homer a pat on the head and gathered laundry to hang out on the clothesline...ten minutes later... walked through the door to find Winslow Homer standing proudly... wagging his tail....yes...sadly... you guessed it... my sweet Lida Louise was clenched firmly in his mouth...I couldn't get angry at Winslow...he was acting on what comes naturally...It was my fault... I should have realized my "peeps" were capable of flying...all I can say is thank goodness my husband was home... mowing the lawn...I ran out the door like a crazy women....Needless to say Lida Louise was buried in the garden next to my girls Pip and Georgia...

and this beautiful girl...my Josephine... has decided to add crowing to her list of tricks...just another day here at Dog Trot Farm...

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!

2011-07-04T21:34:00.002-04:00

From the fogged in rocky coast of Maine... I wish you all a Happy Independence Day...

God Bless America...

WHEN NOTHING GOES RIGHT...

2011-06-26T19:38:00.017-04:00

WHEN NOTHING GOES RIGHT, TURN LEFT... author unknown... lets just say...for the past few weeks the sun has remained hidden ...the weather has been rainy... wet and cold...certainly not the summer weather we have been anticipating....okay...dreaming of...I dare not put my MUCK boots away...the hens door yard has become nothing but mud...a dust bath remains a distant memory for them...there are insects living the good life in the vegetable garden...weeds have grown as tall as sunflowers....ants have invaded my kitchen...and now... to top it all off... the days are becoming shorter...Feeling the need to raise my spirits...I walk...Fives days a week... rain...snow...or sleet... a remedy to maintain my sanity....I walk...seven miles and climbing... an hour and a half...it is pure enjoyment with a little entertainment thrown in... Accompanying me is my friend "Becky" also known as my "partner in crime." We laugh and laugh... till we cry...I do realize it is just a matter of time before this soon to be middle aged women has to invest in Depends... if you get my drift....but laughing is so good for the soul...and such a good way to start the day. Becky and I have decided to branch out...see the new wheels...a bike rack went on my Outback and we were good to go...We made our first grand attempt on a fourteen mile ride....the wind was blowing in our hair...well...not really as we did don "brain buckets" everything was going along smoothly... that was... until back in the distance I heard "my pedal fell off"....needless to say we ended up walking that morning... along with me making a mental note to "always check over and tighten up any screws or bolts on a newly purchased bicycle..and to definitely invest in Depends... So there you have it...my cup over flows... flowers will grow.. weeds pulled... the sun will return...

and the chore list will get tackled...

there will be peas for the fourth!

and I will get caught up with everyone soon...have a great week and don't forget to laugh!!

AND THEN THERE WERE EIGHT...

2011-06-16T18:09:00.013-04:00

It is with sadness that I announce the time has come for Fern and Phoebe to be relocated... their malicious behavior can no longer be tolerated. Every course of action has been attempted and failed miserably... Iris remains their main target...Fern and Phoebe are a bonded pair and as such will go together to live on a dairy farm down the road. Their pampered life... as they know it is OVER... Since this fiasco began I have discovered what a special hen Iris is...during the day she cautiously roams the yard along side the other hens...life remains normal until one or both of the Wynadottes decide it's time to jump on her back...pull her feathers...with this type of behavior Iris has become reluctant to enter the coop...hence laying has become a problem...Iris realizes the odds of being chased out of the coop and nest box are great...but my girl will not be held back and has become quite resourceful...she has learned to come to the back door...knock with her beak...I inturn open the back door...Iris walks in and enters her cage...

I believe she realizes this is a safe and secure environment in which to lay... I open the cage door...

out she hops...
proudly leaving her treasure behind...

I have learned to never under estimate the intelligence of a hen...

Now...it is true my house is beginning to smell like a barn...not only is it time for Iris to move back to the coop with her sisters...it is time for my little "peeps" to move out too. My once tiny five "peeps" have grown into four rowdy teenagers. Yes...four...more on that tomorrow... The gardens are beginning to flourish...there are days of summer like weather and days of cold wet weather...the wood stove is still in use...taking the chill off in the evenings...

such is the weather in Maine...I do hope summer has come to your neck of the woods!!

KEEPER OF THE HOME

2011-06-14T16:23:00.002-04:00

I am a housewife...a keeper of the home...a job that I enjoy and am proud of...I have worked outside the home and have also owned a childcare and preschool business. After falling ill a few years ago I was forced to give up my business and concentrate on becoming well...(viral meningitis and encephalitis) The role I now hold is housewife...yes... I am a mother too... but my sons are now grown ...So... while recently filling out a medical questionnaire the question before me was "occupation"... I was hesitant to write the word HOUSEWIFE. Then I recalled reading a quote by the late Tasha Tudor... a women whom I greatly admire. " I enjoy doing housework, ironing, washing, cooking, dish washing. Whenever I get one of those questionnaires and they ask what your profession, I always put down housewife. It's an admirable profession, why apologize for it. You aren't stupid because you're a housewife when you're stirring the jam you can always read Shakespeare." Amen... Thank you dear Tasha for your words of wisdom...

A PERFECT DAY AND A PERFECT RECIPE

2011-06-07T13:11:00.009-04:00

Today...the sun is shining ...a gentle breeze is in the air...the fragrant scent of flowers surround me as I work in the garden...it is a perfect day...the sky is blue and the yard has now come alive with birdsong and color...the Hawthorne trees are in bloom...one in magenta... and another in white...both of which are favored by the birds... the Clematis is making it's late spring appearance...

as is the Columbine...

the rhododendrons are in full bloom...filled with bumblebees busily going about their business...tomorrow the heat and humidity arrive...summer is on our doorstep...in a few weeks it will be berry picking season...strawberries sweet and tender...so with that in mind I offer you Martha Stewart's recipe for Strawberry Cake...it's flavor...like a big old sugar cookie...enhanced by sweet strawberries...a perfect springtime recipe...

Martha's Strawberry Cake-Makes One 10-Inch Cake

6Tablespoons Butter Softened, Plus More For Pie Plate

1 1/2 Cups All-Purpose Flour

1 1/2 Teaspoons Baking Powder

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

1 Cup plus 2 Tablespoons Sugar

1 Large Egg

1/2 Cup Milk

1 Teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

1 Pound Strawberries, Hulled and Halved

Preheat oven to 350. Butter 10 inch pie plate or cake pan, sift four, baking powder and salt together into a medium bowl.

Blend softened butter and one cup sugar in a bowl, blend about three minutes, then mix egg, milk, and vanilla.

Gradually mix in the flour mixture. Transfer batter to buttered pie or cake pan. Arrange strawberries on the top of batter, with cut sides facing down, sprinkle remaining sugar over top.

Bake cake for ten minutes at 350, then reduce temperature to 325. Bake until cake is golden brown and firm to touch, about one hour. Let cool on a wire rack. Cake can be stored at room temperature loosely covered for up to two days.

Enjoy!!!!

THE "TO DO" LIST...

2011-06-06T17:34:00.011-04:00

Summertime and the living is easy.... for Winslow Homer that is...our summertime to do list here at Dog Trot Farm is quite lengthy...there is a chimney to clean and wood to stack...carpets to steam...a pine floor to be laid... and a new kitchen window to install... there is trim to paint and a porch too...let alone vegetable and flower gardens to tend...sometimes the days just don't seem long enough... and now there are issues with my girls. Since the death of Pip the hierarchy in the coop has changed... changed for the worse that is...this lovely lady...

and her twin sister....who were once meek and mild...

have become down right evil...

the target of this behavior is Iris...my sweet... lovable buff...whether it be in the coop or in the yard it makes no difference Iris is their target. I removed Iris from the coop thinking she could possibly be ill...but after two weeks of living apart... there is no evidence of illness... she is accepted by the other hens...her appetite is fine as is her laying...so with reluctance...I have no choice but to give Fern and Phoebe away. It is either a new home or off with their heads and into the stew pot!
Below is my treasure... an old zinc tub. My husband was my walking campion on the day I happened to spy it...well off the trail and in the bushes..."I suppose you want me to go get it" "why yes" I said. DH pulled it out and I said "oh... look it has drainage holes...I already had a vision for it's purpose..."no...those are not drainage holes...those are bullet holes." Needless to say my husband carried the old zinc tub two miles back to the car... with no complaints... and by evening I had found the perfect location...... one person's trash is another person's treasure...

and to show my thanks...I made his favorite summertime cake...Martha Stewart's Strawberry Sugar Cake.

topped off with a "dopple" of whipped cream....thanks honey, you're the best...!

A DAY IN THE LIFE....

2011-05-31T19:07:00.007-04:00

This morning I had a follow up appointment with my neurologist...it is a love hate relationship...he believes my migraines are triggered by hormones and menopause...I just want a medication that will offer relief...enduring a migraine for a month at a time is not easy...I finally was given a round of steroids... which fortunately for me broke the migraine...After my appointment...I headed out for my morning walk...I have been walking two to four miles four times a week and tomorrow am incorporating biking into my routine. This morning the sun was shining... and there was a lovely southerly breeze...

keeping the black flies at bay...

the tide was high and the air pungent with salt... mingled with the scent of wild flowers...

a perfect location for a morning walk...

and when the scenery is as beautiful as this... it's easy to walk off one's frustration...

temporarily anyway!

SO.....

2011-05-30T07:56:00.002-04:00

So... I said to my husband "honey...gulp... my cell phone is not working" his reply "charge it and if it is still not working in the morning I'll take it in on my way home from work." I dare not tell him it went through the wash...how naive could I be thinking the cell phone company would not be able to detect my phone had been wet. Long story short...my husband walked through the door that afternoon with a new cell phone in his hand and a smile on his face...."it appeared your phone had somehow gotten wet"...so I confessed my story....got a replacement phone for free...had I known about the rice trick I certainly would have given it a try...cause I felt really...really...stupid...that is untill my husband said "have you seen my company gas card?" and then I didn't feel so bad....Have a great day everyone!

JUST ONE OF THOSE DAYS

2011-05-29T07:23:00.003-04:00

Have you ever had one of those days... you're feet hit the floor bright and early...you're full of energy... ready to tackle the day...you peruse your to do list...well... you attempt to peruse your to do list... first you must locate your glasses...then your car keys...but before you can leave to run your errands....you want to get the laundry hung out on the line... the sun is going to shine... after two weeks of wet... rainy... weather... now while you're hanging the laundry... you mentally remind yourself not to forget your cell phone....and as you are hanging your jeans on the clothesline you notice something in the back pocket of your jeans...and to your dismay... there it is your cell phone...your heart sinks... you wonder how you're going to explain this one to your husband... just one of those days... where you realize you probably would have been better off by staying in bed and pulling the covers over your head...

MOUTH WATERING BANANA BREAD

2011-05-27T08:01:00.009-04:00

Banana bread... my opinion is you either love it or hate it... I happen to love it. I have a tried and true recipe that I make... however... my recipe calls for shortening and after I had mashed the bananas realized I had none on hand. So...being resourceful I GOOGLED banana bread and found this recipe from the FOOD NETWORK. This recipe produced the best dang banana bread I have ever tasted...I confess I have made it twice this week...

Recipe:

1 cup white sugar

1 stick butter room temperature

2 large eggs

3 ripe bananas

1 tablespoon milk

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup mini chocolate chips-optional*

preheat oven 325

Cream butter and sugar in mixing bowl till light and fluffy, add eggs one at a time beating well after each egg. In another bowl mash banana and add milk and cinnamon.

Mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt, add to the egg and sugar mixture till four disappears. Next add banana mixture and beat lightly then if you so desire the mini morsels.

Bake in a well greased and floured bread pan. I have used 1 large loaf pan and have also used 3 small loaf pans as I enjoying sharing with friends and family. Bake 1 hour 10 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.

*I use McCormick Cinnamon Spice grinder and Toll House chocolate mini morsels

My banana bread was done after 1 hour...I would suggest testing it at 1 hour and if you need the ten minutes go from there.

I devoured my slice warm with a tall glass of cold milk...YUMMY!!!!!

So.... if you have old bananas on hand give this recipe a try...you won't be sorry!

YARD SALE

2011-05-26T18:42:00.009-04:00

Last Saturday a yard sale was held on our street. It took place at the home of a neighbor... Mr. Maye... who passed away last month at the age of 98. I fondly recall Mr. Maye and his late wife Vira... coming to pick apples at my father in-law's orchard. In thanks... Mrs. Maye would gift my in-law's a jar of apple jelly or a hot apple pie. The Mayes were a sweet couple and I thought it would be nice to own something of theirs to remember them by. My first find... an old zinc wash tub...it is my opinion that you can never own to many old wash tubs.... a lovely old tole tray...

be still my heart...not one... but two tablecloths that Mrs. Maye made back in the sixties...

and in lovely condition...

a crocheted table runner...also hand crafted by Mrs. Maye...

a second tole tray...

an old candle mold...

and the grand $3.00 purchase...a cement hen...this baby weighs at least fifty pounds...she proudly resided on the Maye's front doorstep since the seventies... and now she proudly resides on mine!

APPLE BLOSSOM TIME

2011-05-25T19:37:00.004-04:00

I sit in the shadow of apple-boughs, In the fragrant orchard close, and around me floats the scented air,

With it's wave-like tidal flows, I close my eyes in dreamy bliss,

And call no king my peer;

For is not this the rare, sweet time,

The blossoming time of year?

~Horatio Alger~

STRAWBERRY PECAN BREAD

2011-05-16T15:21:00.004-04:00

What does one do on a cold...wet...gray...May day in New England?...you give a new recipe a try...this recipe comes from Jayme... of the blog "The Coop Keeper"... Jayme's tweaked version of Strawberry Pecan Bread... unfortunately for me it is a bit to early for strawberry season here in Maine..and if the weather trend continues...meaning... cold and rainy... who knows when the berry fields will be ready...I happened to have these strawberries on hand...not local... when I saw Jayme's recipe post. Then blogger took the post away before I captured the recipe... (due to blogger issues) but luckily for me... the original post returned...

This recipe delivers a delicious moist bread....three small loaves and one large. As suggested by Jayme I added four cups of berries in place of the original two which the original recipe called for...however...I had no strawberry extract on hand...need to put this item on my grocery list...I found this to be a perfect bread to accompany strawberry cream cheese with diced berries on top...Thank you for sharing this recipe "Coop Keeper" it is the perfect afternoon snack for a cold... dreary...wet New England day...so if you have strawberries on hand I suggest you give Jayme...The Coop Keeper a visit and I promise you won't be disappointed!!

AND THE RAIN BEGAN....

2011-05-15T16:55:00.012-04:00

Friday... being one of those days...weather wise..that New Englanders patiently wait for...sunny... cool... breezy.... and knowing the weather forecast calls for rain...rain...for the next five to seven days...everyone in the neighborhood had their main focus directed towards the care of their yard. I being no exception... The rich color... emerald green... is all abound... fluffy daffodils with their sweet fragrance still delights one's senses...the weather warm enough to don shorts...and a gardening hat was well in need... Friday morning...prior to gardening ...I went to a tag sale hosted by Tiff of the blog Folded Gingham...two perfect garden containers were just sitting waiting for my arrival ...a galvanized tool box like carrier...which for now I have placed my $1.18 Wal- Mart Stock flowers in...I do recall when Tiff did a post on this find and I thought to myself why can't I find treasures such as this? Lucky me...she was willing to part with it... secondly... a perfect little red wooden bucket which I quickly filled with Alyssum...a perfect little white lacy flower which dresses the bucket up quite nicely...and by the way just the right touch needed for the front door step...thank you Tiff... I love my finds.

Okay...after this post I promise to get off my Wal-Mart soap box...but if you reside in New England... you know and live with the evil dreaded "Black Flies" ... a tiny gnat which can drive a sane man crazy... they fly in your ears...up your nose...in your mouth...give a red welt which eventually itches to no end...but there is a new weapon in town...a product by OFF...I was skeptical...but for $8.50 I was willing to give it a try...Clip it to your clothing...turn the fan on...and it really did keep the bug population away...now mosquitoes season has not hit yet...but... I hold out hope this little battery powered machine will help keep the insects at bay...it runs for twelve hours...comes with batteries and a refill insecticide package...

Now... If you have a diabetic dog such as Winslow Homer...let me just say...100 syringes for $12.58 Wal-Mart...we had been purchasing them 2/$1.00... finally...my gardening side kick... Iris...a Buff Orpington...buffs are some of the sweetest chickens you will ever meet...friendly...talkative...and a pro at weeding...if you do not keep chickens...you just don't know what your'e missing...

finally...thank you to all who commented on my prior post...as most of you know there was an issue with Blogger which appears to have been resolved...however... when the post was reposted...the comments were lost....have a great week everyone...someone send me some sunshine!!!

TIGHTENING UP

2011-05-11T18:42:00.000-04:00

First... let me say I do shop locally...small town hardware stores...mom and pop businesses...farmer's market... feed store...but with the cost of items skyrocketing... I do admit...yes I do...I shop Walmart...As most of you realize with illness comes the high cost of medical expenses...Winslow Homer as most of you know was diagnosed six months ago with diabetes...our first purchase of insulin $52.00 dollars...second bottle two months later increased to $62.00...on a whim my husband stopped by the Walmart Pharmacy and inquired as to their cost...$27.00! I confess I am a Walmart consumer...I hold my head high......Yes...today while at Walmart I happened to walk by the garden center...and the most wonderful fragrance was floating through the air...I recognized this lovely scent as Stock....a garden plant favorite and one that can be hard to find...if you have never made a place in your flower bed for this lovely fragrant flower I would suggest you do...and of course Sweet William too...and again the price was right... My new purchases will not be planted in the garden as of yet... as we here at Dog Trot Farm are still having a wood fire at night...just enough warmth to take the chill off...

The "peeps" Loretta is growing...forging ahead into that awkward adolescent phase...her feathers are filling in and her feet...I have never seen so many feathers on a girl's toes...

the nursery is always in motion... grand attempts at lift offs...and chest bumps...I must admit the chest bumps have me worried... in the past I had never noticed this type of behavior...ROOSTER...is this ROOSTER behavior? anyone...suggestions...? Introducing... Buttercup...a porcelain feather footed Cochin Bantam...a sweet little girl who likes to be held...and quietly endures a bath when needed...

Loretta...Buttercup...and Annabelle...a yellow Japanese Bantam...

and there you have it...I have publicly admitted I am a proud Walmart shopper...I clip coupons...and carry my reusable bags...in this economy it pays to find a bargain...goodnight from all of us here at Dog Trot Farm...sweet dreams...

MY TUESDAY IN PICTURES

2011-05-10T20:24:00.016-04:00

Fern...first in line for breakfast...yogurt and raisins... a scene from my morning two mile trek...the calender may say spring has arrived...however...hoods were up and gloves were on...

a friendly discovery...I do believe Mr. Gnome is still in hibernation... lilacs... patiently waiting for warm sunny weather... can there be anything as lovely as a warm spring day... windows open... the heavenly fragrance of the sweet lilac drifting in...I think not...

crab apple in bud...

a pansy face...one of the first flowers on vibrant display in our neck of the woods...you either love them or hate them...I love them...especially in shades of tangerine...

a quick stop to "the farm" one of my favorite places to visit...there are always so many friendly faces to see...

the greeter...

the new kid in town...

and I am at a loss of words over this Tom Turkey...just look at that face...quite freaky...I mean please someone tell me what is all that skin for...
On another note... I would like to thank everyone who took the time to comment on the loss of our girl Pip...looking back...I now realize the tension in the hen house... which I felt was due to the arrival of spring scents...skunks...owls...hawks...and now the dreaded fox....was actually due to Pip's health...I am quite sure the girls understood there was something not quite right with Pip much sooner than I did...Tension has eased and things have returned to normal...whatever normal can be in a coop full of women...My little "peeps" are growing in leaps and bounds and Winslow Homer...is holding his own...he is being a naughty little boy rolling in all kinds of nasty stuff...if you get my drift...but he is enjoying life...and I am just happy he is still here with us...life is good...

SADNESS IN THE HEN HOUSE

2011-05-07T13:19:00.006-04:00

Today is a day of sadness... Today we buried our sweet Pip...our blue egg laying Ameraucana hen...It is never easy to lose a pet...whether it be dog..cat...or farm animal... today... in my case a pet chicken...Sweet Pip...also know as Pip-A-Roo died late this morning in the company of Winslow Homer. Yesterday morning Pip appeared fine...later in the day however, I went to let the girls out for an afternoon romp and noticed Pip remained in the nesting box making odd sounds...At first I thought she was in the process of egg laying..( my girls do make odd sounds during their egg laying)...so I gave her some privacy and went out into the yard. Slowly she made an appearance but remained in the coop run and just sat. It was then that I realized something was drastically wrong. Her breathing was labored and the muff on her face was clearly "pecked off". I cleaned my girl up and brought her into the house to the chicken infirmary. Winslow stayed by her cage keeping a watchful eye on her. I administered drops of water via a syringe and began to massage her crop... I could not feel anything hard or out of the ordinary. I then gave her a couple of drops of mineral oil massaging once again...I firmly believe there was something blocking her airway and I nor DH could dislodge it...I had purchased their organic feed earlier in the week and the feed store did not have the usual mash... just pellets...so I opted for pellets...my girls have never consumed pellet grain before...I am wondering if Pip somehow got a pellet lodged in her airway...my hens noticed Pip's odd behavior before I and began pecking at her. Chickens can be cruel...even highly pampered chickens such as mine. I feel terribly guilty... I was unable to help her in her time of need. Pip is now buried in the flower garden...beside my dear hen named Georgia. We will miss Pip dearly here at Dog Trot Farm... she was a very sweet girl, would come when I called her name and "scooch down" to be picked up. She was the very first girl to lay an egg in the flower box and also on the outdoor grill. Dear Pip...please know that you were loved.... a favorite here at Dog Trot Farm...and thank you for all the wonderful blue eggs and all the surprise egg findings...we will miss you...and Winslow Homer too...

BECAUSE YOU ASKED...

2011-05-05T19:10:00.002-04:00

"THE BOMB"
First let me say I have learned there are many names and variations to this recipe, however, in our family we refer to it as the "BOMB"and is made as follows:

1- chocolate cake prepared according to the directions on the box.

2- packages instant chocolate pudding, also prepared according to the directions on the box.

1- large container Cool Whip

3 to 4 Heath Bar Candy Bars or you can use the Heath Bar Bits

Directions:
Prepare and bake cake according to the directions on the box, let cool and then cut into large cubes.
Make pudding according to the directions on the box.
Place Heath Bar Candy bars in a plastic bag and pound with a mallet or buy the Heath Bar Bits.

In a large glass bowl layer chocolate cake, pudding, cool whip and Heath Bar Bits, repeat. Be sure the last layer is cool whip and then candy. Refrigerate overnight. Easy and delicious!!!