Fairwell Apple

Our favourite chicken "Apple" lost her battle this morning. Aaaahh a chook has made me sob, laugh and has helped me to convince Michael that chickens are a good addition to our family. Apple defied death 2 years ago when she ripped her crest off and underwent surgery to stick it back on. She also stood her ground when bailed up by the dogs in the backyard at Chadstone by jumping at Zucchini she saved herself. Apple would come to the window to say hello when ever free ranging the backyard. She would also peck at any pesky noses hunting her through the chicken wire and reminder a pointer or two that she owned this bit of the yard. Thanks for the eggs! Thanks for the laughs. Sorry we couldn't help you get better. Enjoy the fields of Narnia where I imagine that there are tonnes of you favourite food.....

WORMS!!!

Sick Apple

Apple is not well. She is currently sitting in the guinea pig hutch recovering. No water or food will pass her beak unless I syring feed her (more like shove it down her throat and force her crop to fill up). Not sure how she will be and have braced the children for the event of her dying. Day 4 today she is still alert and better than day 2 when I had asked Michael to put her down (he decided to wait- thank goodness). Cross fingers that she is better soon....

Tragic Death Hits Household

Sunday ended sadly when Matilda's guinea pig Charlott Rose was savaged to death by a local Jack Russell off its lead. Matilda and Felix were heart broken and openly cried about the situation. Being a guinea pig with a particularly fun character, Charotte was very vocal and loved to "popcorn" around. Michael dug a grave in the front garden and we took it in turns saying some last goodbye messages and lay her to rest with a stick of celery and a carrot.
"my heart is broken and is hurting so much"
Felix cried.

Matilda woke this morning to crying "I want to hold my guinea"

Children show such raw emotion and I am proud that they express their sorrow so openly.

Thank you Charlotte fo being a faithful, fun-filled and loving friend to Matilda.

Spring time view from dining room

GeoTagged, [S37.78416, W144.99081]

The garden is alive! All our bareroot fruit trees have sprung into life. Although the deck is looking a little shabby the chook run and vegie patch are neat and productive. I wonder if I can convince Michael to do the sand pit this weekend?