The Grind

I can't believe how long it has been since I last blogged. It's like I dropped off the face of the earth or something!

And honestly, it sort of felt like I did, for a while.

My new jobs are fabulous. I have a great team of people in CT 4-H, and we are putting together a really engaging, forward-thinking program on youth development and organic gardening. CT Audubon is awesome because it gives me opportunities to spend time in nature, to learn more about ecology, to identify flora and fauna, and have the opportunity to educate others.

School has been challenging and stressful, but at the same time, I have learned so much, made new friends, and found new inspiration in learning science and ecology. My last classes are this semester.

Meanwhile, Fiance and I have been planning a wedding. This can be anxiety-provoking, but it has had many fun moments. Come next Friday, it's all over!

We had a year in poultry to always remember. Raccoons killed 17 of our 18 chickens. Our five laying adult hens who were deeply loved, and 12 of our 13 five week old chicks. The remaining survivor, Marsala, wasn't quite the same after that. She eventually died, several weeks later, of unknown causes.

We were immediately gifted by friends and family with about 45 more chicks when the news was announced. It was such a blessing to know that we had so many people who cared and sympathized with us.

Then we had a coccidiosis outbreak, in which eight chicks succumbed to the disease.

We found homes for many, and kept our favorites. We also hatched 22 more chicks using an incubator. It was a magical experience to see them fight their way through the eggshell, and then flop around in wet, alien bodies until they finally dried out and fluffed up. These guys have homes to go to, too.

Ducks also joined our flock. Bourbon, Beignet, and Belle, have entertained us for hours, from playtime in the shower to antics in the backyard. Ducks have turned out to be a fantastic addition.

Then there's Scarlet, the satin angora rabbit. She's absolutely gorgeous, and she's kinder and tamer than the rascally Blackula and Wicket. Unfortunately, earlier this summer, Blackula died during the heat wave that hit. Wicket has received some special treatment since the loss of his brother.

As you can see, it's been a bit of a rollercoaster this summer. With new jobs, changing classes and papers, sick animals, raccoon raids, and wedding planning, I have not had the time nor energy to post.

I hope to post regularly again, soon.

I know you'll forgive me. ;)