Friday, September 11, 2009

Animals in the Spotlight

A couple of weeks ago Kim and I decided to attend our local fair. We hadn't been in years.

Years and years.







We'd forgotten that if you're not interested in the rides (I'm not) or doing some drinking (at the fair? Ditto), then what are you left with? Let's see, the lousy and expensive food (yuck), viewing the exhibits (not too bad) and checking out the 4-H exhibits (yay!).

I loved, loved all the personalized 4-H stuff. Look at this cute sign made by the bunny's owner. You could really tell how much the kids love their animals.





The bunnies on exhibit were precious and beautiful.

















What really got our attention though were the chickens of course. There were some very pretty ones.


The roosters were crowing their little hearts out.










We saw a Barred Plymouth Rock chicken, aged 1 1/2 years so we realized that Tootsie is just about full grown.


Speaking of the chicks (how can I not???), they're making pests or is it pets of themselves; coming into the kitchen whenever they can get away with it. From what I hear it's normal behavior. Either they're just curious or very social. Whatever the reason, Chelsea is so jealous she now shows interest in any treat the chickens receive including corn on the cob and broccoli.








Tootsie is still in charge and pecks Chelsea whenever she feels the need. Chelsea has started growling when she feels threatened though and Tootsie backs off occasionally. There is definitely a duel going on.


This squirrel decided our bird house made a perfect home.




S/he has enlarged the hole on the front for easier access. I guess it loved the "porch" on the house as it was lounging on it the other evening as the sun was setting. Lucky squirrel.








I'm back at work. My flu/cold is manageable at least. Our weather has started cooling down. The asters and mums are starting to bloom. This weekend I'll get to see another couple of local garden blogger's gardens. Looking forward to that. And to visiting with them again.
I managed to pick up some plants at Edward's Nursery plant sale last week. Happy with what I chose.

That's been the excitement around here.


I'll post one pic of the morning glories which are blooming so prettily now.



10 comments:

Unknown said...

Those morning glories are beautiful. I did not make it to our county fair this year, I know there is never anything there, yet...it kinda feels like something is missing if you don't go one night...lol. Plus I always see people I know and catch up. Nice to meet you, come visit sometime.... ~Brooke
http//:creativecountrymom.blogspot.com

Bangchik and Kakdah said...

If that squirrel decided to stay much longer, it should be given a specific name... hmmm.. Love that beautiful morning glories!
~bangchik

Prairie Chicken... said...

Ok so now I totally want a bunny, the kid with the sign totally sold me.
Ummm how lucky is your squirrel? Seriously wonderful that you've welcomed him to stay..
I'm getting ready to hop into my car, cross the border and steal your chickens!

Unknown said...

What a lovely post!

I have a pet Rabbit, Murphy, who lives in my house with me and I wouldn't be without him. He has a serious attitude problem but loves his dad! I'm glad the owners pointed out the responsibilities of Rabbit keeping as so many are neglected through poor husbandry.

Your chickens look so happy outside the back door. They look extremely content and calm. Your garden appear to have calming effects on the animals in it, especially Squirrels!!

Ryan

Tatyana@MySecretGarden said...

I am glad you feel better Victoria! I like all the creatures that you showed, even a squirrel!It looks like it is having some important thoughts.

Unknown said...

Ahhhhhh the black rabbit looks like my pet rabbit growing up - appropriately named Blackie. Boy was I inventive or what? I love going to the fair just to see the animals too but like you haven't been in years. My favorite was the baby pigs when there was a litter to be found. We watched some once for an hour and I laughed til I cried they were such a hoot! Chasing each other lickedy split as fast as they could run and right over Mama who was trying to catch a little shut eye. I kid you not they were so hilarious!!!
Love the Morning Glories. Your pole on the feeder looks like it's metal but it must be wood for the squirrel to get up there. Just wondering cause ours is metal and I wanted the chipmunks to be able to climb up it. Guess the next one will be wood.

our friend Ben said...

I always love visiting the animals at fairs, too, Victoria, but it kills me to see goats and not get them, and it's all I can do not to bring home bunnies, so I try to limit my exposure! The bunny and sign were adorable. And your chickens look so healthy and happy! Like everyone, I love those gorgeous morning glories, too. Aaaahhhhh!!!!

Heather said...

We went to the Baker County fair last weekend and of course the chickens won all of our attentions too! So fun to see all the different ones there. Some of those little roosters are so tiny. Crazy. Looks like you had a good time and I love how the chicks are hanging near the door these days. Ours come up to the porch but usually don't stay too long.

garden girl said...

Oooh, the morning glories are beautiful!

You're so lucky to be able to keep chickens, and the squirrel looks very pleased with his home! Such companionable critters hanging out at your place.

I went to the fair just down the road from my Mom's when I visited last fall. I loved all the chickens, bunnies, sheep, goats, horses, cows, etc., and I really enjoyed all the textile arts on display. The smell of all that fried food hanging in the air was a bit much, but all in all, we had a very nice afternoon.

Glad you're feeling better!

danger garden said...

So good to hear that you are feeling better, and those morning glories are fabulous! A while back you were generous enough to offer datura seeds to me (on my post where I was ogling one on a street here in Portland). Well I returned to the street-side datura and was able to gather a few seeds. If you have a minute I would love to hear from you on your methods for successful germination, when do you plant, how much moisture, etc. I am very excited to give it a try and have you to thank for planting the idea in my head! My email is apikyplants@gmail.com...thank you!