Sammy Has To Go!

You might remember that when I went back into the "chicken business", I acquired a free rooster. His name is Sammy- named by his former owner, and he's French; a Faverolle rooster. Exquistely gorgeous and brilliantly colored, I was so thrilled to get him! He took right off with a new flock of ladies, and as the months have passed, he's become increasingly protective and vociferous. Anyone in the vicinity will hear from him! Around here, the noise isn't such a big deal, as we have other flocks with roosters nearby.

The big problem with Sammy is that he will attack almost anyone who enters his domain. He has it in for me, since I feed, water and collect eggs every day! You would think he wouldn't bite the hand that feeds him, but he'd be more than happy to peck my legs or scratch my face. I can't go out there without a tool in my hand or someone to keep him at bay. It's rather stressful when it's time to clean the coop or do something else out in the yard.

So my "hot" rooster has to go. I am trying to trade him for a Dominique or another calmer breed. Roosters are usually a pretty common commodity around here. I have feelers out and am hoping to trade Mr. Excitement for a peaceful companion to the ladies. There are currently seven layers, and I raised eight more from chicks this Spring; 5 Americaunas and 3 Dominiques. Last week I put the chicks out in an enclosure in the chicken yard. They are doing well, and I plan to let them out with the rest of the flock next week.

Despite the rain and colder weather this week, Spring has sprung. There are plants in the greenhouse, I put down some more flats, and planted beds of lettuce, spinach and peas. There have been early greens to harvest and the perennial beds to put in order. In a week or so I'll put the potatoes in, as well.

Miss Whiskers is quite a caution. Three weeks ago  all the male suitors were hanging around, and we were pretty sure kittens were in our future. It is really funny to watch her adjust to her new status; she's filling out, sleeping and eating more, and we are hopeful that the "wild kitty" will permanently settle down.

In six weeks I'll be headed to New Orleans for the 41st American Harp Society Convention. John is helping to man the Harps International Booth. We will also take a truckload of harps from Utah to Louisiana, although we are hoping to not bring any back! I am very excited to be included and function as support staff, as well. I've never been further east than Nebraska, and I have always wanted to see New Orleans. It's really generous of our distributor to  include me, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity.

I am fortunate to have many things to focus on and do; I thrive on the variety and even the challenges of my life. It's great to have work, a home, my family and everything I am interested in. I am grateful as well for all of you who read my posts and stay in touch. Thanks again!