Found 80 hits.

Traveling With Chickens – HenBlog – Monday, September 3, 2007

Have you ever taken a road trip with your chickens? I don’t mean boxing them up in cardboard carriers and taking them to shows; I’m talking about traveling with them as you would with your dog in the car. On Friday, I bedded a large wire dog crate with fragrant timothy hay, secured it in the back of my car (a small SUV), and put in Marge and Eleanor. They pecked at the hay and settled in. We drove down the highway for an hour. The hens looked around, craned their necks at the sights, and moved about in the...

Dangerous Heat – HenBlog – Wednesday, July 7, 2010

...temperature gauge, thinking it’d go down now that the car wasn’t baking on pavement. I got on the Bronx-Queens Expressway. Overheated vehicles were in the breakdown lane, their owners squinting in the sun, waiting for help. My car’s outside thermometer read 109 (Fahrenheit, that’s 42.7 C.) I did not want to be in one of those stalled cars. It’s never relaxing driving out of NYC, but this time it was scary. Far out of the city, in Connecticut, the thermometer remained in the triple digits. I knew things were bad when I saw ten tractor trailers, pulled off and parked...

Lily’s Birthday – HenBlog – Tuesday, April 1, 2014

...animals, but many of us are specialized! I also suspect that my biggest objection to dogs is the lack of training and bad owner behavior I see everywhere! I have had one heart cat, who crawled into my lap at PetCo and came home with me, to the displeasure of my sweetheart -- who pointed out, rightly, that we already had two perfectly good cats. True, but neither of them was a lap cat, and both were lovely but aloof. I wanted a lap cat. After three days, he relented (what was he going to do, anyway -- take her...

Selecting The School Visit Hen – HenBlog – Wednesday, May 15, 2013

...this is a chicken. One of my hens does meet my strict criteria for selecting a school visit hen: Amber. She is beautiful and calm. Although she is a Buff Orpington, she never goes broody, so is always in a good mood. As soon as she gets into the crate in the car she settles down for the ride. She waits quietly in the hallway before class. Today she met one hundred kindergartners, who all took turns petting her gently while she sat patiently on my lap. I don’t have a photo of this because schools have policies about publishing...

Animals IN Nursing Homes – HenBlog – Tuesday, October 21, 2014

...of her employees to “llama school.” This is the designated handler,   but anyone can pet Travis.   Not all of the residents can go outside. No problem. Travis comes in.   Animals bring the unexpected into a place where life is regimented by meal times, therapy sessions and visiting hours. My photographs failed to capture the sheer craziness and joy of the animals in this building. Not only was Travis plodding on his camel-feet down the carpet, but there was this young dog in training learning to work with his occupational therapy owner:   Along with Ellen’s two goldens,...

Sand in the Coop Run – HenBlog – Friday, June 20, 2014

...I scrape off the farm equipment after a bout of bush hogging. My car's "trunk" is at waist height, so I can somewhat "lift" the bags, then hold them very close to me, abdomen-height, and carry them to the chicken yard. Of course the dangerous part is to be careful not to drop them on one of the ladies. When I am at the big box store and have the energy I add a couple bags to my purchase, but I must have someone load it for me. As long as it's not lower than my waist, I can handle...

End of Fall Color – HenBlog – Thursday, October 28, 2010

My grandfather was a trucker. He told me of driving trucks with solid rubber tires, of hauling logs on roads in Maine, when he’d shift with both hands and steer with his knees, and of doing long-distance runs to Canada with an auto-transport truck (with my mother and grandmother enjoying the ride from the top car!) He always said that the most dangerous conditions weren’t ice or snow, but wet leaves. They’re treacherously slippery and you can’t see the edge of the road. But, I love it when the leaves come down and narrow my already narrow street. When it...

Cuckoo Marans Egg – HenBlog – Thursday, March 19, 2015

...Wolfe Way to go Veronica! I wonder what tomorrow will bring? Rachel I just picked up my new chicks for this year and one Cuckoo Maran was ordered in the hopes of dark brown eggs. We will see. Friendly and docile traits are more of what I was interested in. Carol Caldwell I have eight bantams and all their eggs last year were white. My silver laced wyndotte, Sparkle, was my best layer last year but her eggs were the smallest, narrowest and were white. This year her eggs are much bigger but to my surprise they are also darker....

Agatha’s Turn – HenBlog – Wednesday, January 11, 2012

...and greatest, of the Bantam White Leghorns. Then came Betsy, Eggers and Coco. Betsy is the only one left. I’ve decided to retire her because during the last school visit she just wasn’t enjoying herself. It might have been because she was starting to molt, which will make anyone, literally, prickly. But, I could tell it was more than that. How can I tell if a chicken is “happy?” What is happy for a chicken anyway? Who knows? A chicken’s mind is not a human’s mind. There are biological similarities. There are differences. I can’t read her thoughts, but I...

Caper Goes to the Vet – HenBlog – Thursday, May 13, 2010

...knee. No wonder Caper has been ouchy! The diagnosis doesn’t change how I care for Caper – this will take time (and maybe a few aspirin) to heal. But, I am relieved to know what the problem is and to be reassured that I’m taking care of him as best I can. In order to give a correct dose of aspirin, Caper needed to be weighed. Dr. Sarah picked Caper up and put him on the scale. Caper, being a goat, even a gimpy one, immediately hopped off. Instead of having to wrestle him still, I pulled out my target...

On The Road – HenBlog – Thursday, March 11, 2010

...more eggs all the time! I guess I'm now in the egg business. Todd Terry Golson Oh, no, Donna! My hens travel in a wire dog crate (the banties in a guinea pig cage.) No chickens riding shotgun!! Donna I need a bigger car! She was so content sitting there on her pink egg I didn't think she would mind..now I know better..time to scan the want ads for a carrier..I saw some at the pet store..too much..almost $60.00 for a 24" one...I am too cheap for that.... Sharon I have yet to read, Tillie Lays An Egg, so I...

Independence Day – HenBlog – Thursday, July 3, 2014

Jane from Hawaii Agree - I am grateful too! Laura A Happy 4th! How do you think Tonka would do in a parade? Maybe you'll ride next year? Terry Golson Before riding in a parade, he'd need a lot of road work, which I'd rather not do, as so many people in cars don't know how to drive past horses :( In any event, he wouldn't like the muskets going off. fay (AK) what a perfect small town parade loved the old car what is it? an thank you for your statement of freedom for ALL !! Robin That is...

A California Visit – HenBlog – Wednesday, December 5, 2012

...kept chickens was tempting. I had always wanted to feed a carrot to a friendly llama. I wanted to meet the other Temecula librarians who were all Tillie Lays an Egg and HenCam fans. Donna said that she’d take me to a winery. I’m not a big drinker. I still might have said no, but then Donna offered to take me there on horseback. I couldn’t possibly refuse. (In the above photo her husband is leading their colt on the winery trail. I’m riding Gus.) I love the internet. Who, you might ask, was taking care of the animals back...

Today’s Happy Photo – The Vintage Hen – Monday, July 8, 2013

...this picture is just wonderful! Calendar material perhaps? Thank you for sharing Terry. Nicolo Aww! How sweet of them to arrange a nice treat for you on a tough day! They take such good care of you! ;) Nicolo Sounds like her career is just beginning! Mae could be the first ever F1 hen! Laguna, Grand Prix, get ready! Christine O. Your girls are lucky to have such an attentive nurse trying to pull them through this. I am sending all kinds of get well thoughts their way because they give me so many happy moments. My happy moment happened...

Everything’s Bigger In Texas – The Vintage Hen – Wednesday, April 3, 2013

...someone’s estate. There were plenty of things to fit a chicken-themed decor. These windmill weights were the real deal. Remember the fake that I saw at Brimfield? (There were plenty of repros and fakes at Round Top, too. Buyer beware!) Not everything was made of metal. This vintage incubator would make a cute end table. It reminded me of the chicks back home. These industrial scrubbers would have made the perfect gift for Pip and Caper. It’s shedding season and wouldn’t these make great scratching posts? Too bad they didn’t fit into my carryon luggage. I did find something to...

Chicken Tote Giveaway! – The Vintage Hen – Sunday, July 8, 2012

...work during the week. My book, iPad, camera etc for weekend trips. Deanna This bag is SUPER cute! Once my 31 girls start laying (they are 4 weeks old now).. I can carry cartons on eggs in the tote! caitlinvb I would come up with excuses to carry that bag - chicken treats, groceries, the kids' bathing suits... you name it! sarah a would put chickken food in it and a love chicken so a would hafe it for my coletion sorry about my english a em from belguim The Kitchen Witch Being that I start teaching a Kindergarten class...

CGPS – HenBlog – Friday, August 23, 2013

...suddenly all the hens were on the car... and they never forgot the car. They now stand and poop (Dad is not a happy camper) all over the one car in search of dead bugs when it's left out in the open. ;) Bobbie That is just hilarious! Dianne CGPS- too funny. My girls CGPS is locked on the area under the bird feeder. They run there first thing looking for spilled seed. Mikayla My hen knows where we store our feed. It under the porch in a big sealed container. She stands on top of it and waits for...

Treating Candy’s Ears – HenBlog – Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Dr. Meade used the process of elimination to come up with a diagnosis of a fungal infection on Candy’s ears. He took a skin scraping, looked under the microscope, and didn’t see mites or lice. But, the white, dry, lumpy skin on her ears sure looked like an external issue. There wasn’t a test for fungus, but that was the logical conclusion and to go ahead and treat for it. If it didn’t clear it up, then there were some serious systemic issues, perhaps an auto-immune disease. Fortunately, the daily ear washings (with a special disinfectant) and applications of fungicide...

At the Fryeburg Fair – HenBlog – Monday, October 4, 2010

karin helfmann What great pics! I am in the market for a bunny after watching your dust bath video---seems like the perfect addition to our menagerie...the fair looks like so much fun! Terry Golson As much as I love Candy, I'd recommend a bun with upright ears so that they stay clean and can help with temperature regulation. The ears hanging against the sides of the bunny don't act as blood coolers like they should in the winter. And, they get dirty and need extra care. Linda Symons Thank you so much for the great pictures and the narrative about...

A Bountiful Harvest – HenBlog – Friday, October 29, 2010

La'Nelle How I wish we had a Pip and Caper! Although, I do think we have the next best thing. We raised a week-old fawn this year that was rescued from dogs that had killed her sibling. China is now five months old and living outside although she still has her bottles, apples and carrots every morning and evening. She's just begun to eat acorns and it's so funny to see the acorn go into the front of her mouth, munch--munch--munch, then half a shell shoots out one side of her mouth and the other half out the opposite side!...

Blog Tour Stop #4! – HenBlog – Monday, March 17, 2014

...of her fantastic day in the magical greenhouse. The next day, Beatrix accompanied me to another event at the Concord Bookshop. Beatrix did not need to lay an egg. She was calm and content and regally greeted all.   Almost 50 people turned up. I talked for a bit.   Then I fed them some recipes from my book. Pickled Beets and Eggs. Hard-cooked Eggs with Seasoned Salts, and Orange-Almond Pound Cake. I’ll be doing similar programs at the Toadstool Bookshop in Milford, NH, and Porter Square Books in Cambridge, MA. I don’t know which hen will be coming to...

Bird Flu and Backyard Hens – HenBlog – Thursday, March 5, 2015

Bird flu. We knew that it’d get here eventually, and after years of watching and testing, and feeling relief that it wasn’t yet on this continent, we’re now seeing cases in the Northwest. There are many iterations of bird flu (also known as avian Influenza or AI). They’re all highly infectious viral diseases, which means that they spread rapidly from bird to bird. Bird flu is most often spread from migratory wildfowl to domestic flocks, but can also travel via manure on boots and in car treads. Chickens exposed to avian influenza suffer from respiratory disease. Some AI is low...

Happy Birthday, Scooter! – HenBlog – Wednesday, January 8, 2014

...get so discouraged by people who assume they can let their dogs off leash in public places, just because *their* dog is ok. Those leash laws also protect their dog from MY dog, but only as long as they keep their dog away from us. I can't do much if their dog is jumping all over us. But he's a GOOD dog. Grrr. Lily is lucky to have understanding and caring people around her. Rob Happy Birthday ! This had an unexpected ending. Terry Golson I changed the title so that I everyone would know. Don't want you all to...

Blueberry Clafoutis – The Vintage Hen – Friday, October 4, 2013

Now that the Ladies are laying, there are cartons of small pullet eggs in the fridge. I also have blueberries in the freezer. Time to bake! Thursday mornings I go to a writing workshop. We need sweets while we work. This week, I brought a blueberry clafoutis.   It’s so easy to make that I was able to get it in the oven before I had my morning coffee. Yes, that easy. Foolproof. It was cooling when I took it in the car with me at 9 am. Here is the recipe: Blueberry Clafoutis 1 teaspoon sugar 3 large eggs...

Scooter’s Birthday – HenBlog – Monday, January 9, 2012

...always liked having smart animals and Lily is a genius dog. She is fun to train. But, after a few years of having her, I knew that she could use a dog friend. I couldn’t get another dog with emotional baggage, so I needed a pup. Also, I prefered a smaller dog so that both could fit into my car. On Petfinder I came across what looked like a corgi-mix who had just given birth to three pups. The puppies and mama were in a loving foster home. I picked that cute one in the middle. Scooter turned into a...

A Second Cochlear Implant – HenBlog – Tuesday, February 28, 2012

...to hear from you soon! Melissa in Texas Best of luck today. Will be sending positive thoughts your way for a speedy recovery! Sara Best wishes for much success and a speedy recovery! Jen Sending you all good juju for your surgery and speedy recovery..... Diane from monterey,ca i wish you all the best today and hope for a comfortble recovery... Shelley God bless you with all success. Please take care of your neck, pinched nerves can cause big time trouble. A chiropractor might be a good idea. Laura A My thoughts are with you. How wonderful to be able...

Apple Picking – The Vintage Hen – Monday, September 16, 2013

...  There’s a map to tell you where the different apples are, but the trees don’t have signs. You’re told to “taste your way through.” We did.     There are apples for eating out of hand,     and apples for baking.     But, despite all of the tasting, after loading up the car, we had one more stop. I came home with 3 bags full of apples (and a small bag of a half-dozen donuts.) I’ve already made two big pots of applesauce; containers are in the freezer. Today is Steve’s birthday. I’m baking him a pie....

Happy Father’s Day – The Vintage Hen – Saturday, June 16, 2012

Greetings to all of you with fathers who have held you while standing amidst the chickens, and to those of you who are the men that did the holding. Thank-yous to fathers who have built coops, to those who have bought chicken feed, and to dads who have driven a hundred miles with chickens in the back of the car to go to a 4-H fair. Happy Father’s Day to dads who have never held a hen, but have held a child and crowed “cock-a-doodle-doo” while reading a story. Much appreciation to all dads who have enabled their children, one...

How Loud Are Hens? – HenBlog – Tuesday, June 26, 2012

...website late yesterday afternoon. I have enjoyed reading about and watching your chickens. My grandfather had chickens that ran loose on the farm and an area where they could roost and lay eggs. It wasnt unusual to find a hen laying eggs in an unapproved spot. There were always at least two roosters. I truly miss those days of going to retrieve the eggs and sometimes being chased by the moma when we tried to catch the chicks. Terry Golson Glad to have you here, Debi. There are lots of HenCam viewers like you who get their "chicken fix" here....

A Life Transformed – HenBlog – Tuesday, December 17, 2013

...a courageous Lady you are. I cried joyous tears for you the whole time I was reading. Wishing you every day, new discoveries, laughter and surprises with your FABULOUS technicolor sound... :o) Terry Golson Not too old. Most of the implant recipients at Lahey are in your age range. Find a good implant center and get another opinion. Jill Crowley Hi Terry, this was a very interesting, informative and inspirational read. I have noticed that conversations with you, while always delightful, have become easier and more relaxed in the last few years. I'm so glad you can now enjoy all...

The Clown Car – HenBlog – Tuesday, May 28, 2013

...box as her favorite nap spot. jennifer bevins That's what I call moral support. I'm always looking for a good laugh! Thanks Terry, hope I face a dilemma like this one day. Bea Gibson The weather has been so depressing but this photo made me laugh out loud! I so miss our farmette and the laughs the animals always brought to the day. I've seen Siouxsie climb into the box with other chickens but I thought that was just her clueless way. Thanks for the laugh! KathyG So funny! and I think the occasional lone egg I find on the...

Rainy Day Blahs – HenBlog – Wednesday, November 14, 2012

...face looking back at me asking WHAT?! That picture is full of disapproval! Thanks for the beautiful pictures. A beautiful sunset does put everything in perspective, doesn't it? Donna Our school secretary and myself pinched Candy's cheeks on the screen this morning. We feel so much better now! Thank you! Carol Caldwell Your posts are art! So beautiful and poetic as someone has already said. You have such a talent for this and are so cheering to us all. I loved all the photos and they way they express just one rainy day but really so much more too. Suzanne...

The Buffs’ New Home – HenBlog – Friday, April 26, 2013

Almost exactly two years ago I got a box of chicks in the mail. Happy Birthday, girls! Of those chicks, three were Buff Orpingtons. All of the chicks were named after Gems and these three became Amber, Beryl and Topaz. Amber is my ideal hen. She is friendly, calm and beautiful. During the season, she lays an egg about every other day. I take her to meet classrooms full of children who pet her. Beryl and Topaz are also beautiful. But they are also broody. All the time. This is what they look like if you deign to remove them...

My Beautiful Horse – The Vintage Hen – Monday, January 26, 2015

I know that I haven’t posted much about Tonka recently, but I’ve been thinking big thoughts about horses, relationships and training, and I’ve needed to let my ponderings stew and become coherent before committing them to words on this blog. At the end of October I moved Tonka to a stable a half-hour drive from my home. It’s well worth the time spent in the car. Tonka is now getting hay four times a day, which keeps his belly full, which is essential for both health and mental well-being. He is turned out all day in a paddock with one...

Tillie Takes New York – HenBlog – Thursday, April 1, 2010

On Monday morning, we packed the car, put Coco in her travel crate, bedded with fresh, pretty yellow straw (Martha Stewart-worthy) and headed to NYC. It rained and rained, but Coco, as always, enjoyed the drive. Five long hours later, we pulled up at the hip, gorgeous, SoHo Grand Hotel. I got out and explained to the doorman that we had a chicken to unload. It turns out that the doorman volunteers at an elementary school and was delighted to usher in a picture book star. He, and the rest of the staff took very good care of us. Coco...

Happiness at the Zoo – HenBlog – Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Last week I attended ClickerExpo, which is a conference all about positive reinforcement training. Most of the people who go are dog trainers. It’s great to go to a conference where dogs are welcome! (I fell in love with this Bull Terrier.) I went to seminars that help me be a more nuanced trainer, and I got to talk, non-stop, with like-minded people. At ClickerExpo, along with the dog people, there were also horse trainers, like me, and zoo keepers, too. One day at lunch I sat next to a man who, for the last 17 years, has cared for...

Pumpkin Season – The Vintage Hen – Thursday, October 16, 2014

...the large pumpkins .... the ones people often use for carving for Halloween. Or, are you talking about the smaller ones ... the ones called pie pumpkins? Terry Golson Yep. The pumpkins that you see on camera are the ones grown for carving. Very thick skins. Charlie D. OK. I've always hesitated at putting a whole pumpkin in their yard since I didn't think they could peck through the skin ... always thought I'd have to cut it in half or something. Think I'll buy them one and see what happens. If nothing else, it 'should' keep them busy for...

Scooter and I Graduate – HenBlog – Sunday, January 18, 2015

...am also trying to teach her how to spin on cue. But, I lack skills -- major skills! :-) MicheleB A www cute photos Lesley S Amazing! Late-bloomers are all the more precious. Especially when you know all the work it took to help him be so successful. Terry Golson Doesn't sound to me like you lack skills. Karen Pryor wrote a clicker training for cats book. Start there. Terry Golson If it weren't for you and the other founding members of ARFF (an agility dog club) I would never have started this journey. In fact, I think you're the...

Chicken Breeds – HenBlog – Tuesday, December 1, 2009

...legs, yellow legs, white legs. Their combs can be flat or spiked, or not there at all. Chickens can have big poufs of feathers on their heads, or have naked necks. You can also select hens by the color of egg they lay. I like to keep a blue-egg laying breed in my flock, just to have that egg in the carton. But once people get chickens, what they notice is their temperaments. I’ve heard, “I don’t like Americanas, they’re too aloof,” and “I love my Orpingtons, such gentle birds!” My own personal favorites are the basic big brown layers....

Happy Halloween – HenBlog – Friday, October 30, 2009

I’m not into horror movies, ghouls or scary things, but I do love Halloween. I can’t get enough of pumpkins (the head in this photos is a ghost pumpkin – it’s naturally white), piles of orange leaves, acorns plunking the roof of my car, and little children in adorable outfits. My 12 year-old son is at the tail end of being able to dress up and go trick-or-treating. He always comes up with his own ideas, and they’re always…um…interesting. This year’s costume requires several bags of Wonder Bread. (A product, that in itself, is quite scary!) I’m not exactly sure...

Lily Saves the Day – HenBlog – Wednesday, September 2, 2009

...was no more. A sad day and a lesson learned - take heed for your dog is loyal and protective! Carolyn Make your own dog (or cat or people) biscuits. Recipes available from kingarthurflour.com (The Baker's Catalogue)or epicurious.com (Gourmet, December 2005). Bone shaped cutters are readily available in a variety of sizes at kitchen-ware stores. Terry Golson The Comtesse- yes! one learns to trust one’s dog. AND the more you listen to them, the more they’ll tell you! Terry Golson Jenny- the trick to a good farm dog is to have one that is alert and intelligent, but that is...

Egg Colors – HenBlog – Thursday, May 17, 2007

...eggs. White Leghorns lay white eggs and we’ve always described hers as such. But now we have two new White Leghorns, Egger and Betsy Ross. They lay little eggs, too. Theirs, though are truly white. Here is a photo for comparison. The egg on the left is Betsy’s. The one in the middle is Snowball’s, and the one on the right is from one of our large brown hens. So, yet again, Snowball proves that she is a little different. She doesn’t even lay eggs the right color for her breed. The Name The Chicken Contest continues! I think that...

Dog Training – HenBlog – Friday, February 8, 2008

...house manners and is easy to get along with, I’ve decided to do some training with him. I’ve put off training Scooter – sheer laziness on my part – but it’s time. I like training animals. I believe in manners (kids, adults, animals all need them), and the only way to get a dog to be polite is to train it. Safety is an issue – I want the dog to come when called, stay in the car until given an “ok,” and be gentle when taking treats. And then there are the silly pet tricks. They’re so fun! But...

What I Can Hear Now – HenBlog – Tuesday, September 20, 2011

...went in. How great to read that you can hear such subtle sounds. I mean... That's just fantastic! I'm smiling from ear to ear. Wendy Can you hear a cat purr yet? I thought it was amazing that your brain would let you hear one of Babbs's chicks tapping inside the egg but not Midge's outboard motor purring! Terry Golson I haven't been near to a purring cat. Must go back and visit with Midge. I'm sure he'd like my quiet, calm lap what with all the kitten chaos at your house. Penelope This is wonderful! I have a friend...

My Favorite Smell – HenBlog – Wednesday, September 29, 2010

...Denise - I love my goats, but I sure miss horse smell! Nothing like it. Isn't it something how smells can trigger memories. Not all of my barn memories are good, but the smell of hay always makes me smile. Mine weren't wrapped up in family memories (no one cared about animals but me) so I can only imagine if hay reminds you of a loved person. Judy This reminds me of the aroma of the big feed store where my family purchased not only cracked corn, mash and oyster shell bits for the chickens but where Mom took her...

Back Home From a Long Road Trip – HenBlog – Monday, August 2, 2010

I put 1,000 miles on my car last week. A good chunk of the traveling entailed taking boys to and fro summer programs. In other words, hauling laundry. But, 466 miles were logged taking the chickens to the set of an Animal Planet show. Philomena and Agnes rode in one crate, and Coco in another. They like road trips. They thought that the other chickens at the hotel were quite beautiful. I can’t tell you about the filming until the show airs sometime this fall. Suffice it to say that I was upstaged by my chickens. I’m getting quite used...

Year End Accounting – HenBlog – Tuesday, January 4, 2011

...want! The hens have more than paid back the cost of their feed (layer crumble at 11.50 a bag) and their treats. I made enough profit to buy a laptop computer last year. I try to have a few pullets over winter for good egg supply. They get "gifts" of cabbages and whole grain breads from the store discount shelf. Also, occasionally the store will supply huge boxes of greens for free. In summer I grow greens of all sorts and cabbages, sunflowers and calendula flowers for the hens...and all the tomatoes they can eat. This year, I hope to...

This Saturday On Animal Planet… – HenBlog – Monday, January 10, 2011

...appropriate relationships with your dogs can improve everyone’s lives (animals and their owners alike.) So, I packed up my car with three of my animals and drove to Long Island for the taping. I’m not supposed to tell you who I brought, but I bet you can guess. The episode The Castle Goes to the Dogs airs on Saturday, January 15 at 8 pm on Animal Planet. Check their site for listings – it goes into immediate and frequent re-runs. (There wasn’t a make-up or hairstylist on site. I haven’t seen the show, but I’m already obsessing about my hair!)...

On The Road With The Hens – HenBlog – Friday, July 23, 2010

...Sunday. Then I’m going to give myself a manicure. Right before I leave. Think it will last? It’s going to be an exhausting week. After the taping, I’ll drive five hours back home. Then, on Thursday I drive four plus hours down to NYC to pick up our oldest son from a pre-college program in Brooklyn. Two days later, we pick up our other son from boy scout camp in New Hampshire (note that it’s the exact opposite direction.) I can’t blog or respond to emails from the car, so don’t worry if you don’t hear from me until August!...

Broody Coop – HenBlog – Friday, April 8, 2011

lauren scheuer Woo hoo! That was so fun... You're right -- Lily's on a UPS-spotting MISSION at all times! Can't wait to see how you paint the coop. Elizabeth Beller Inspiring endeavor ladies... care to come down to my place and outfit our Barn-Playhouse-turned-Chicken-Coop with roosting bars and nesting boxes?? Very impressive, and aren't you lucky to have your trusty pups at your side as help mates. Even if they are there just for moral support. :) Good luck with your chicks! Ken Fun! Lilly must believe those brown trucks are people and Scooter eaters! ;-) Once the broody stage...

Thank Yous – HenBlog – Sunday, May 1, 2011

...has continued with email. I haven’t seen Emily much. She lives several states away, and has a crazy-busy life of a college professor and mother. She’s also been battling cancer. “Going to war” against cancer is a cliche, but in Em’s case, she and her entire family donned virtual suits of armor and fought through chemo, radiation and a bone marrow transplant. She won against a rare cancer that is usually the victor. So, there I was on Friday, on a gloriously sunny day, with the wind blowing the blossoms off of trees, at a farm in Connecticut, visiting with...

Lily is 13 – HenBlog – Friday, April 1, 2016

...day, gone in two...so goes the life...all we can do is take care of those we have been blessed with, Lily is a joy and you are doing well by her, take care:) Ken Great post. I almost cried. Marilyn Senterfitt I teared up a bit because it was a reminder of how my rat terrier, who turned 12 in December and is now totally blind, has been such a great companion with all his quirks. Waldo still greets us with great joy...especially if we return with a take out box! He continues to protect the backyard from all intruders....

Worms – HenBlog – Thursday, January 21, 2010

...of my readers want to comment? I'd worry that you'd have garlic eggs. Go with the DE. In my experience, it works. It seems that it "never rains but it pours" in California. Poor llama. What do you give a llama for treats? I imagine a soggy llama would have a soggy llama smell.... Wendy A very timely post - just picked up my wormer for the hens today. In England we can buy layer's pellets that have a wormer already in them, made by a company called `Marriage's' - so much easier than mixing the powder in and you're...

Previous Appearances – April 11, 2009

Northshire Book Store is an amazing indie bookstore in the gorgeous town of Manchester Center, Vermont. Make a day trip of it! This event is the day before Easter, so it’s the perfect time to enjoy a story about a chicken and her eggs. Tillie likes to travel in the car, and although it’s a long drive, we’ll both be there....

Fashion Tips For Animal Owners – HenBlog – Wednesday, November 18, 2009

...I'm wearing black (which is most days to work), you can rely on Zoe sitting on me, leaving her white fur everywhere. Whenever I am wearing a lighter colour, either Zak decides to sit on me, or both of them go and get properly covered in mud or sand and then leave all that dirt on me. It's like birds. When I had a white car, all the birds with the dark poo decided my car made a great target. Now I have a dark red car, the birds with the white poo love my car most. Why??? :-) Terry...

A Good Farm Dog – HenBlog – Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Diana Plainville, CT. I have an outdoor cat that does an amazing job....Does that count? lol Katrina I've never had a dog but I have 2 cats that are reliable mousers.They eat whatever eats our carrots.They also go into our neighbours shed and catch mice and he is OK with that. ;) Terry Golson It does count! Terry Golson Cats are so useful that way. Sadly, what with the fisher cats and coyotes, farm cats around here have risky lives and need to be kept in the house at night. Marie We don't have dogs anymore, but we have a...

Dr. Sarah Stops By – HenBlog – Friday, May 10, 2013

Yesterday Dr. Sarah came to give the goats their annual shots. Hello Boys, said Dr. Sarah. Pip smiled. Caper wagged his tail. The Goat Maid said, Dr. Sarah, please be honest with me. Do you think that the goats are overweight? Dr. Sarah felt behind Pip’s elbows. I can feel a rib, she said. Dr. Sarah felt along Caper’s back. I can feel the hipbone, she said. She felt Pip’s belly. He does still have a thick winter coat, she said, and stood up. These goats are not fat, said Dr. Sarah. Pip looked at Caper. That’s what I told...

Black Gnat Season – HenBlog – Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Candace He looks so very handsome. Rebecca I could use one of those myself here in TN. Black gnats always biting my ears. Judy I love Tonka's new crocheted cap. I saw them in the Vermont Horse Store from your earlier blog, and couldn't for the life of me envision how they would look a real horse. Now I know. Very Nice. You can tell I know absolutely nothing about horses, so I really enjoy your Tonka tales! jean teri - try plain vanilla - but real vanilla on him. works wonders on wisconsin gnats Marie I think he looks...

Rooster Puppets Giveaway! – HenBlog – Monday, April 16, 2012

...angst maybe. hahaha Shelley Having a summer day camp for kids with disabilities. They will be riding, grooming and other stable chores, feeding/caring for chickens, collecting eggs so they can participate in the weekly farmer's market, crafts and working on social skills. Spruce Point Farm Camp in LaGrange, KY Bet they would sell alot of eggs using the puppets! Gayla We're a bunch of chicken lovers, too! My kids have named them all and have been able to identify the chickens by touch while they (the kids) were blindfolded. At almost 50 years of age I'm starting a new career...

Chickens and Dogs – HenBlog – Wednesday, May 28, 2014

...trained in so-called natural horsemanship – more on that another day!) A better way to train a dog to leave the chickens alone is to reward him for the behavior that you want. Imagine what the perfect scenario is – perhaps your dog lying quietly while the hens mill around. Then, train for that. What’s the first step? Reward for when your dog (on a leash, so he can only do the right thing) is calmly looking at the chickens. If your dog can only be calm from fifty feet away on the porch, then start there. Slowly, day after...

I Have A New Camera – HenBlog – Sunday, June 26, 2011

...my iPhone and an old Coolpix. Both limited my already limited skills. I’m delighted to let you know that I have a new camera. It focuses with alacrity. It can handle background light. It zooms. It flashes. It can do this. Note the insect! And it can do this. Capers eyes are squeezed shut! And look how Pip is airborne! (Despite the belly. He’s defying the laws of physics!) Agatha is delighted. She already loves to pose for the camera. Now if I could just get Agatha out of the way so I can take pictures of the other girls…...

Rose Tomato – HenBlog – Friday, August 3, 2012

...While the creepy crawly thing was the most interesting insect I've ever seen, I read that it can decimate tomato plants :( I do, however, have a whole bunch of pickling cukes coming all at once! Carol Caldwell Here in England we have had the wettest summer on record, with very little sun at all. It has rained through April, May, June, July and now continues in August. I have three huge tomato plants and before I have had a single tomato, all the plants have blight. This will be the first year we have no tomato's at all. However...

“How To Raise Chickens” Book Giveaway – HenBlog – Monday, April 15, 2013

...Joanna B. I like Barred Rock; Rowan says "a broody Buff Orpington!" She finds the broody phenomenon hilarious - she has the luxury of not having to care for one! Mrs.F Cream Crested Legbars JoAnn Hite Barred Rock, I think they are just beautiful! Karen B. I have several breeds but my favourite is probably my little Barred Rock, Blossom. She's a sweetie! Carol B My first breed, Barred Plymouth Rocks! Carrie The majority of my flock is Welsummers. I love them! They are a very easy going breed. I love their dark eggs also. Karen Light brahmas. Great disposition....

Chicken Chore Clothes – The Vintage Hen – Monday, July 15, 2013

George McRae I do not miss that at all. I have a vivid memory of my mother sitting on the sofa in our house in Lexington one horrifically humid night crying her eyes out at how disgusted she was with the walls and linoleum floors literally dripping wet. My heart broke for her. i used to sleep on said kitchen linoleum floor with our cat to try and find some/ any comfort in the New England summer. Today in El Cerrito California, our typical July morning is 59 degrees and overcast with the marine layer. A cold dry wind off...

Hidden In Plain Sight – HenBlog – Thursday, September 5, 2013

...suckers. At least the chickens were willing to help clean that up.   I’ve more work to do before I’ve got the squash bug infestation under control. I’ve learned my lesson that you can only ignore a garden for so long until the neglect catches up with you. But, with gardening, a failure in one corner doesn’t mean a failure everywhere. Last night friends came for Rosh Hashanah dinner. Side-dishes included honeyed carrots, tomato, cucumber and basil salad, chard with a dressing of lemon juice and toasted mustard and coriander seeds, and rice with minced herbs. All from the garden....

Mothers and Daughters (and chickens and a goat) – The Vintage Hen – Saturday, May 10, 2014

I love this photograph of three generations of women and daughters. This family portrait was not a spontaneous snap shot. All of the women are wearing their finest clothes, embellished with lace, bows and jewelry. And yet, they pose with animals under their care – chickens and goats. (Notice the goat cart that the youngest is perched on!) These animals were symbolic of the realm of women’s work, and also a sign that there was abundance and productivity on the farm. Look closely at their smiling faces filled with pride and love of family. I wish the same for you...

Misty’s Disappearing Act – HenBlog – Friday, August 7, 2015

...the stinging,biting,itching,buzzing and allergies goingon. my favorite, fervent prayer is for an early frost and i start indulging in that along about april. i always say that the only thing that makes summer endurable is the eating - i do love sweet corn. i'll bet the hens do, too. do you raise any of that - have never heard you mention it - the goats would enjoy it, too do be cautious until frost happens . take care! Terry Golson Thank you everyone, for your concern. I called my doctor, who agreed with you and has prescribed and epi pen....

Thinking About Pie – HenBlog – Thursday, November 10, 2011

...of the meal, the mother rolled it all up in the tablecloth and tossed it out! Easy, yes, but not exactly a way to create fond family memories. To this day my friend can't bear to eat with plastic utensils! Terry Golson I have a cranberry nut pie in my Farmstead Egg Cookbook. Great combination. I'm using cranberries from Great Brook as well! The just went into a banana-cranberry-walnut loaf. Terry Golson I might make fewer than that, about 18. Still a lot. Pies are easy. It's cakes that I find the chore. Carol Caldwell After all this time, I...

Vintage Cat Photo – The Vintage Hen – Tuesday, March 25, 2014

...our home for almost 40 years. My husband was never a cat lover until he gave in to our daughter's wishes for a kitten. Guess who loves cats now. Terry Golson I had cats growing up (before allergies kicked in) and yes, it was my dad who said he didn't like any animals who ended up doting on the cats the most. Kit in CA Total cat lover here! Just going to check on 7 feral cats that live in the neighborhood...they are healthy & are part of a TN&R group so thankfully no kittens. These cats are friends with...

Cure for the Common Cold – HenBlog – Wednesday, April 6, 2016

...it and enjoy my "girls"all the more when i get home. Feel better Terry and thanks for all the great posts!! :) Terry Golson Nothing worse than being sick while away from home. I'll be taking a llama training/care course in September! Not because I'm getting llamas, but because working with other species is enlightening about one's own. Are your llamas pasture pets? Guard llamas? Jean R Animals seem to be intuitively tuned to our health and moods. And we have to work so hard to be better attuned to them. Thanks for all the awareness that you pass along...

A Scary Day – HenBlog – Friday, August 14, 2015

...Caper; there always are lots of plants in places they should not be, "planted" by the birds! I move as many as I can, but goat candy would be a better solution. I'm glad Pip has recovered. He is looking quite handsome in that last image. Shannon I'm so glad Pip is okay, and I also feel bad for the tree guys. How awful they must have felt knowing they gave them something toxic, thinking it was just a treat. Marcella Sometimes I was worried about what Caper and Pip ate: green tomatoes, raw beans and christmas tree branches. It...

A Cautionary Tale – HenBlog – Monday, August 11, 2014

...you do!! Heather Helen Golly! Glad he's okay. And so glad we are reading a cautionary tale, not a tragedy. Here's my cautionary tale: I've always heard that cats can be left alone for a few days with food and water. But... We were remodeling our house in Massachusetts, doing a complete tearout. We got a phone call that required an instant emergency trip to Maine so we left the cat with kibble and water in several bowls, enough for two weeks, at least. When we returned five days later, kitty insisted she was staaaaaarving! No food in any bowl....

Thanks for the Carrots! – HenBlog – Thursday, June 19, 2014

...out... on my days off if I am home I open the door to the kennel and let him have free run of the yard Jonathan also for being intact he is gentle and has no aggression like I have heard they could have For the record, Phoebe is trying to convey that she is a big-boned neanderthal rabbit breed and that she still has winter fur. (Right Terry?) Carolyn Will Phoebe share her carrots with Tonka? Terry Golson Yes, I've insisted. Robin Off topic, but I was laughing so much. One of your goat boys appeared to be trying...

An Odd Harvest – HenBlog – Monday, August 9, 2010

...in the past years! Terry Golson I love tomatilla salsa! Terry Golson When I was about 5 years old, and not allowed any pets, I kept a tomato horn worm! In a shoe box! Can't stand them, now. Even the chickens say they're too big and ugly to fuss with. Terry Golson Isn't it wonderful when kids eat cherry tomatoes like candy? Donna How funny! They are truly a disgusting looking thing! Terry, I could not have pets either..do you think we are on to something? Let's see...3 cats, 1 llama, 3 horses, assorted parakeets and 1 cockatiel, and 40...

Shedding Season – HenBlog – Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Lynda in Michigan Fur lined nests. Lucky birds. Kit from VA I figured goats would ask people to be groomed by their owners. Our tools and fingers can get places their teeth or hooves, or another's goat's can't get at, and also massage them at the same time. I am sure the goats and more than a few horses love to be massaged and groom. And will even recognize and act with excitement or fall asleep while you are doing it, Terry. Bobbie What a coincidence! I would use a tool just like that one to brush my cat! I...

Book Giveaway! – The Vintage Hen – Tuesday, September 17, 2013

...Price 'Like' ed Hencam on FB (can't believe I hadn't already...) Pat D. I vote for the Dog cover, even though they are all great! I just love the goggles on the dog! That would be something I would do, if I had lived back then! Ha! Laura A. Of course, I like the big hen!!! Rebecca My favorite is the dog cover. It has a sense of playfulness and mischief.....makes you want to see more of what is inside the book. Donna I already LIKE you on FB...I love VINTAGE FARM ANIMALS! I think a picture of Pasco the...

Bainbridge Farm Goods Giveaway! – The Vintage Hen – Wednesday, September 12, 2012

...kitchen Christine O. Nope, can answer my own question because that is Buffy in the "ladies" pictures. Terry Golson It is, and she looks terribly scruffy! She's molting, and because she is old the molt takes forever. Melissa Alexander I would love to have Goats at Play. We'll be getting 2 boy Nigerian Dwarfs this spring from a local dairy. Terry Golson yay for boy goats! Are you getting them for the laughs? To clear a pasture? Have fun! Anabel Shared on FB and voted and will keep voting. These signs are great. I particularly like this one: http://www.etsy.com/listing/90043023/fresh-eggs-aluminum-outdoor-sign Julia...

How Many Hens? – HenBlog – Monday, July 30, 2012

...response to mine. Do you really use the okra? Terry Golson So happy that you made the pudding! Terry Golson The girls are sensitive to weather. A lot of people in the states, where it's been brutally hot, have also seen their egg count go down. Carole I too have found eight to be a nice number. I like your plastic cartons, where do you purchase them? In the fridge I use plastic four lock cartons, with the oldest eggs in the carton on top and new eggs go into the carton below. Thanks for all the info that you...

Egger's Good Day – HenBlog – Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Hylla Evans Yes, please come read to the interns at the farm institute school, www.greenstringinstitute.org . We can supply your choice of actresses to play Tillie. We can even set up a casting couch for you to audition them ;-) Follow it with great dinner, then maybe a day teaching at Ramekin's in Sonoma to adults. Eggs eggs eggs. Terry Golson So tempting! Especially since it is snowing right now. Would LOVE to travel out your way. Rebecca Boyce Would you be interested in coming for a visit in Florida? I teach Kindergarten in a town called Bradenton just south...

Working From Home – HenBlog – Monday, April 5, 2010

Angela Mesquita Ah ... what fun life... God bless you for taking such good care of animals. I laughed a lot reading this story. bunnylady Glad u were home and saw it happen and got too him so quickly!! I all ways worry about my bunny kids doing something like that with their toys when I am away. I was @ work yesterday when we had a 7.2 earthquake here. I called my roomie and he said the bunny kids were a little freaked but ok. The cats though had total disappeared. They showed up when I got home thankfully....