Duck Bath

First foraging foray

First the ducks came out for a swim. OK, "came" is a relative term -- I tossed the first one through the hatch door and the second raced along to see where she went!

They were enjoying a peaceful swim on their own. Sort of a "Calgon, take me away!" moment.

Then one chick was enticed through the hatch by some clover on the ramp.



Then another, then another until four or five were waddling right behind their fearless-leader-duck-friends.

Dolly Chicken stretched her legs to examine the greenery.

And while the babies were wandering, the adults had a drink at the pool!

A personal note

I haven't written in quite a while. So I'm going to break one of my blog rules and post a brief personal note as to why.

Since the beginning of 2009, the following things have happened to people close to me:

• emergency surgery, weeklong hospitalization
  
• overnight hospitalization
• extended hospitalization to adjust psych meds
• ankle reconstruction surgery and rehab
  
• late term abortion
• income reduced 20%
  
• extended unemployment requiring financial restructuring
  
• diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
• death of mother
• death of best friend
• violent, brutal murder

The psychological toll of getting through this is catching up with me. Some of these things I've had direct involvement in, others I've simply listened while friends talk. But I've needed to stay somewhat detached to help others deal with these things, and my "detach" button is just about worn out.

I don't mean to suggest to anyone that having you as my friend is a drag! I want to be supportive and I want to help. I'm just tired.

I hope to get back on the blog bus soon. There have been many adventures here at Busy Solitude over the past six months, as well, but they've taken the back seat.

Now we're moving up.

Another passing

One of the three red hens (all known as Henrietta) died yesterday. She'd seemed fine, then the next time I went into the barn she was dead.

There were no signs of foul play.

Catching up

I just upgraded my version of iPhoto, and much to my surprise this 2003 video can finally be shared! Ulani could only have been a few months old when I shot this. Such memories!

I hope to get caught up on things soon. The past month has been full of life's interventions, keeping me from posting the farm's goings-on.

Til then, enjoy this!