picture perfect

Yesterday was perfect for picture taking at Big Bug Creek.

Today is busy with company coming and important paperwork that needs attention.

Tomorrow should be a good day for blogging.

roasted rooster (includes gross factor)

We put it off as long as possible, neither of us savoring the task, but life with two roosters in one coop had reached a point of no return. So, this past weekend, the number one task on the to-do list: butcher Rooster Senior.


On our cross country trek this past summer we spent a night at our friend's, Kathy and Dave Miller, in Nebraska. Knowing we were new to chickening, Dave offered to butcher one of their chickens and give Jay some pointers. With Dave's lesson and some help from Youtube, Jay boldly, or perhaps more accurately, reluctantly, set out to butcher his first fowl.

Lily, having endured multiple unprovoked attacks by Roster Senior,
seemed to enjoy the process of roster slaying.

Our goal, along with a more peaceful coop, was to learn "how to" so that we have that homesteading experience. Being the first time, it was a rather long process and eventually Jay had me fetch a stool (I was the gopher) so he could sit and skin.

Lily, keeps a close eye as the process moves from tree to table.

I did the majority of the photographs in black and white thinking it would diminish the gross factor, but couldn't resist this color shot of the skinned bird as there were surprisingly interesting colors exposed.

Youtube is so handy for "how to" videos including how to butcher a chicken.

While the sun was setting Jay took photos and I broiled the breast meat for a very lovely looking roasted rooster dinner. Unfortunately the meal looked much more appetizing than it tasted and we learned yet one more lesson on butchering that day.

line dance

happy february 14

the gift

This is one of several gifts I was given last week as Tracy sorted through his stash of treasures. It's current state is rather sad but it's potential is inspiring. I can't wait to see what I do with it. Any suggestions?

new view

After putting away the Hanukkah lights and hanukia I needed a new theme for my kitchen window sill. I started with three dollars worth of ivy because green makes me happy.


Inspired by an article I read online I found some nice stones to bring a nature feel and added them to the votive candles that were a carry over from Hanukkah. Voila! A peaceful, light and life look for my dish washing viewing pleasure.

eagles soar at pastor's school

I'm still working on this....
hope to put our own drum music with it
but wanted to share the pictures today.

This digital slideshow personalized with Smilebox