Family Portrait

Ursa is from one of the most beautiful Caucasian Ovtcharka families I've seen. Here's a partial family album; all of these dogs are over 12 at the time of the pictures.

Stately Blanche, mother

Ilka, proud sister

Ursa, wanting only belly rubs

Brother Slava, the largest of the litter and one of the most beautiful

Pramarla

Pramarla the horse. This wonderful work of art was constructed by my Aunt and Uncle, Win and Doug Kraatz, in Queensland, Australia. Doesn't it make you want to hop on for a ride?

Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens

There ain't nobody here at all
We chicken's tryin' to sleep

And you butt in
And hobble, hobble hobble hobble
It's a sin
(complete lyrics at LouisJordan.com)

The Rochester crew. All of these birds originally came from a farm in Rochester, WA. They seem delighted to be together again. My hen turkey has seemed depressed for a while, and now her friends have come she's fine again. The lovely Seabrights gather 'round the water cooler like workers in an office.

The Golden Seabright cock. Isn't he a beauty? He accidentally ended up in the bird building with the big Rhode Island Reds, and isn't at all sure of why he's there.

The Ducks Learn To Fly

It started with wing flapping as they left the shelter in the morning, and getting their feet a few inches off the ground. Soon they were up on the tree stumps and cages. This flying is fun stuff!

Now I find them on the roof, or their favorite place, the top of the van. I could wish for a better favorite place. They are big birds now, and sleep outside. They haven't yet discovered the pond. I hope I'm around when they do.

The Guardians

(Nobody's mentioned to Squeak that LGD stands for Livestock Guardian Dogs)

Go Fish

Last week I bought two dozen feeder goldfish to see if fish can survive in my pond. Somehow I never really recognized how large my pond is until I released those 24 fish into it. They immediately disappeared. I didn't see them again until today.

These fish are wary; good for their survival, not so good for picture taking. They stay near the center of the pond, moving away from any activity or dog barks.

I spent quite a bit of time watching them, trying to count them. Suddenly I saw a white flash and heard a very large splash. This guy came over to sunbathe near me.

Several dragonflies did flyovers, but they aren't particularly easy to photograph either. If you look closely one is resting on the stick by the pretty blue flowers.

Experienced Farm Hands

Will Work For Room and Board
Our experienced work crew provide needed services for the busy farmer.

Work Supervision

Quality Assurance

Insect Control and Soil Aeration

Cleanup of hoof stock shelters