Chicks New Home

The teen chicks out grew their little cottage and moved up to a townhouse with a fenced in backyard. Some of them have already started roosting on the roosting poles under a hanging heat light while the others snuggle down together under a heat light we hung close to the ground. I close them up at night and during the day they are loving running around and scratching up their backyard. I have a door I can go into the backyard and a door where I can go inside the roosting house. The cottage had a very very small door that I had to crawl in to feed and water them. This is much nicer for them and easier for me! Betty Boop also hatched out another little chick so we are up to 28 now. I took it to my neighbors to put with her babies till its big enough for the townhouse and brought the one she had been keeping for me and put it with the teenagers. Its kinda small around them but they don't seem to bother it. All of them are growing so fast that they soon will be able to move in with the big chickens. The rabbits are getting a new house built. Its so big I call it the hotel. It has a rabbit house on each end with a big cage area inbetween the houses to run around in. It has a divider that I can close in the center to keep them apart or open it so they can have the whole area to run around together. Flower should have babies the 2nd week of January so the hotel will soon have a no vacancy sign out front. We are looking at 2 doe goats so we can still have milk when we dry diva off. Haven't decided if we are going to take them or look around somemore. We will have to build a house for them so Diva or Nitro won't have to give up theirs. Always some building project going on here. I really really want to start my kitchen in January too. Hope your projects for the New Year are good ones and get finished without any headaches!

Norm

Norm has arrived at Judy's! He was able to get there in time to celebrate Christmas with her. Go check out what he has been up to with Judy. http://judypatooote.blogspot.com/ thanks again Judy for letting Norm visit and don't your friends and family tease you too much!

Hidden Haven Babies

Remember my little baby chicks?














Well, they are teenagers now. William and Wayne are building a small chicken pen with a roosting house for them. They are in Bud's summer home right now that I covered in plastic and put in a heat light. They are getting big enough they are wanting to roost instead of sleeping all bunched together. Hopefully tomorrow they will be in their new home. They will stay there for a few weeks till they are big enough to live with the big chickens.














This is Gertrude when she was a baby and when she is now a teenager. She meets me every morning and pecks my hands if I don't fill the feeder fast enough. She jumps on my shoulder and tries to peck my hair. We had 27 chicks hatch out and we still have 27 chicks running around. Betty Boop and Blondie are sitting on 6 eggs right now but I think they won't hatch. The poor girls won't let me take the eggs so will wait a little longer before cleaning out their nests. Am going to take my duck eggs to the neighbors so she can put them in her incubators to hatch. Thumper and Flower should have baby bunnies soon. Nitro and Diva will hopefully have babies in May. Hidden Haven is having a baby boom!

Say a Prayer

Reading one of my favorite blogs this morning and was saddened to read about the death of one of her friends daughters. Please read the link below and say a prayer for this family. How blessed this family was to have Katie in their lives and she to have had their love.
http://lottakids1961.blogspot.com/2006/12/asking-for-your-help.html

So What

Seems like there are more and more people complaining that Christmas really isn't Jesus birthday so we shouldn't say he is the reason for the season. Not his actual birthday? SO WHAT! We have picked a day to honor his birth. All over the world for that one day there is a sense of peace, love and hope. We share the story of Christ birth. The miracle that took place so very long ago no matter what the actual date. We seem to slow down from our busy crazy life and take time to give thanks for Christ's birth. It doesn't matter if we have the date right or not. It matters that we remember that holy night the angels came to announce the newborn king. Don't stop keeping Jesus as the reason of the season because its not his actual birthday. Sing those wonderful Christmas carols. Read the miracle story of Christs birth. Pray for peace goodwill to all men. I am sure Jesus doesn't mind what day we celebrate his birth as long as we just don't forget his love and many blessings he has given us.
From all the critters, Ms. Diva, William and myself ....
MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Showdown at the Homestead Corral

We noticed Diva and Nitro were acting a little different. We decided it might just be "the time" so took the camera and went out to see. Even though Diva had been a mommy she had never did the act before. She had always went the artificial route. Diva didn't know what Nitro wanted to do even though she knew she wanted what Nitro had. It was a game of hot and cold going on out there. Diva would not stand still for Nitro and he was stressing out trying to get to her. I thought I could hold her so handed the camera to William and tried to help Nitro out by holding Diva. That didn't work too well and Nitro got even more eager. He then decided that there was too many males in the area and decided that William needed to go. Headbutting didn't work so he stood on his hind legs and let William know he was the king of that corral. William and I went outside the pen and nature finally took its course about a half hour later. Hopefully we will see babies in 5 months. Congratulations Nitro and Diva!!

Merry Christmas

From diva
whiskers and dimples

and Bud the iguana. Nitro and the rest of Hidden Haven will send their Christmas wishes tomorrow.

Santa's Missing Raindeer Found!

Santa was worried about making his deliveries on Christmas Eve since he was missing a couple of his raindeer. Not to worry. Everything is back on track since we have found Santa's missing raindeer!

Mr. And Mrs.Willow Run Tome Nitro

The groom is waiting for the bride


The wedding ceremony The marriage kiss

Diva wanted to skip the reception and go straight to the honeymoon but Nitro was more interested in the oats, carrots, alfalfa and goat pellets being served.

No More Miss Diva

After tomorrow there will no longer be a Miss Diva at Hidden Haven.











Miss Diva is going to be a Mrs. Diva!!!!
We are going after her "husband" Nitro tomorrow. Wayne is putting the finishing touches on the honeymoon cottage today. My sweet little diva will no longer want to hang around me all day and cry Momma when I go inside. She will be enjoying her new husband and honeymoon cottage. I will be looking forward to 5 months down the road of having 2 or 3 little diva's or nitro's coming into the world. Don't you think she makes a lovely bride?!

The Gifts

The Christmas Gifts

Sweet Mary leaned against the hay
Beside his manger bed
Strong Joseph kept his silent watch
And praying bent his head
The night wind ceased its sighing
But softly whispering said
PEACE
The light burst forth from heaven
And swept away the night
The startled shepherds knelt
And saw the vision burning bright
Heard the message of salvation
Knew the meaning of the light
HOPE
The angels o'er Judeah's plains
Set all the earth to singing
The weary world rejoiced to rise
And set the bells to ringing
Responding to the gift of Life
The Christ to us came bringing
JOY
These gifts from God we pray for all
As Jesus's birth draws near
May you receive
His Peace,
His Hope
The message of good cheer
From heaven itself, the gift sublime
That sweetly crowns the year
MERRY CHRISTMAS

Norm is Ready to Travel On

Norm made it back from Scotland but with all the travel to different states and countries he had to stop home to have a little surgery and rest. He will be leaving tomorrow for Judy's ( http://judypatooote.blogspot.com/ ) and will get back on his travel plan. If he was scheduled to come to visit with you he will still be coming. We are just behind schedule. If your house isn't on his travel plan and you would like him to visit just let me know. He left home last Feb and has been all over the USA plus several countries already and still has many miles to go before coming home for good. Thank you very much to all that opened your homes to Norm. I read his journal and am jealous! My husband ask if I couldn't replace Norm with a 6'2" grayhaired man. We enjoyed the little souvenirs he brought back and have tucked them away till he is home for good then will share everything along with his journal here. So Judy rest up girlfriend and be ready to paint the town with Norm as he ready to party!!!

A Prayer for Lisa ( Oceandreamer)

Lisa said goodbye to her mother yesterday. Although her mother is on a wonderful new journey Lisa and her brothers are going through a very sad time. Lisa, I personally know the heartache of saying goodbye to a mother. The hurt will never leave you but neither will the memories. Cherish them and your mother will always be right there with you anytime you need her. I ask each of you that read this post to keep Lisa and her brothers in your thoughts and prayers.

Mother
Mother, at the end of life's road, you will see a light, you've made your passage, through God's tunnel so bright. Today we see a silhouette from the sky, with cloud formations to our naked eye. Mother, we don't know what's ahead for you up there, but we know it's with angels that care. Mother, we loved you so very much, you were gentle and kind with each endearing touch. You gave to your family from your loving heart, giving us guidance right from the start. The days ahead for us will be gray with gloom, but we'll know you'll be near, with the first Spring flowers that bloom. Mother, you have passed on to another plateau, but it's hard for the family, for us, to let go. God chose you this time, to pass through the light, the family will carry your love day and night. Mother, you made us believe in respect and compassion, we'll live by these rules to your satisfaction. It's never goodbye, Mother so dear, you'll live in our hearts, and always be near. Mother, you're with Father now, in a place of peace, your days here on Earth, have now come to a cease. The journey through may be winding and step, but you now are at rest, in your final sleep. Someday Mother, we will meet again, when we pass through, to our life's end.
by diana kierce

Miss Diva Christmas Greeting

Miss Diva has been upset that I have been busy getting ready for Christmas, sending cards (even though they have her photo on the front), wrapping gifts, etc. She wanted to get into the action. She wanted everyone to know she wishes them a Merry Christmas filled with love, magic and peace. So from Miss Diva to you please click on her Christmas card.

http://www.imagecyte.com/animations/carol.html

Ornament Swap

I received my package from Carmen ( http://prettylady21.blogspot.com/ ) and am I one lucky lady!! Thank you so much for a wonderful package full of snowmen! Snowmen are my favorite things to collect and decorate with during the winter months. I just love snowmen!! Carmen gave me a snowman with jingle bells for my door. A snowman on skis ( I just adore him) and a country cloth snowman that is my favorite! She didn't stop there though. She sent me a snowman ornament, snowman tea towel and a snowman apron. I got snowman writing paper and a metal snowman bag filled with candy. Thank you so much Carmen for taking so much time and care in my package! I love everything and am so happy I have found a new friend! Also thank you Kathleen for getting this swap together.
I just noticed I took a photo of the back of the metal bag. The front has a sweet snowman on it.

Dear Santa

Instead of stopping by my home this year would you do a few favors for me instead? I have been very blessed this year with family, friends and home so want my Christmas treats to go to some very special people.
Could you stop by Marci's and leave her the secret list of all the new babies being born to her friends and family in 2007 so she will know in advance how many to knit for and how many she will get to cuddle and love?
Flossy has had a rough few months with her stepdaughters accident so a nice relaxing weekend with her husband would put a smile on her face.
Lisa over at Crazy Cow Farms is so thankful her husband is doing so well on the new meds that she hasn't ask for anything. I know that in your magic bag you could find a nice used pickup to leave in her driveway Christmas morn.
Kali is a very special friend so I would love it if you could stuff her stocking with lovely material and vintage cookbooks.
Mary is like a daughter to me Santa and I would really really like for her to have a nice new BIG dishwasher under her Christmas tree. I promise you she will use it everyday!
Jeanne is always doing for others. Making sure her friends and family needs come before hers. Could you give her free international calling for a year so she could talk to her children anytime and for as long as she likes? I would really appreciate it if you could.
Donna shares her blessings with us everyday Santa. Could you see if you have lots of crochet thread, cookbooks, old family movies and some really good reading books for her?
Nicole is so busy baking, decorating cakes, painting, and crafting that I think a weekend at a spa complete with a massage would make a perfect stocking stuffer for her!
Judy is waiting patiently for Norm the Gnome to show up. Is there anyway you could track him down and stick him in her stocking? I miss the little guy myself.
Could you please fill Patty's stocking with lots of chocolates and cappuccano? I enjoy reading her Morning Rambles.
Oh and Santa could you drop off all the episodes of I Love Lucy at Connies? If you have time could you leave her a supply of nice hot piazzas too?
Bossy Bee is in need of a housekeeper Santa. I know she has had a few naughty days this year but I promise to make her behave at least till Christmas day if you will also leave her a years supply of toilet paper.
Lisa over at handofenchantment is very sad right now Santa. Her mom is very ill and she and her brothers have to make some tough decisions in the next few weeks. Could you give Lisa lots of love and peace to carry her through the rough days ahead? Thank you Santa!
Lee-Ann has her home all decorated and waiting for your arrival. All you need to do to make her Christmas perfect is leave a friendly village soup terrine under her tree. She would give you the biggest hug and kiss!
My friend Pea is having trouble with her internet service Santa. How about we just get her a whole new service that's faster and better?
Rosemary is one of the most busiest people I know. She would love to have a long weekend with her hubby without any interruptions or trips.
Santa I have a very special request to ask you for Patricia and Homemaker Ang. Is there anyway you could get the stork to deliver a bundle of joy to their homes sometime in 2007? You would sure put a lot of smiles on a lot of faces!
Miss Robyn has had a stressful year Santa. Could we give her a worry free 2007?
There isn't too much you have to do for Lady Laurie. They are almost finished rebuilding their home. Could you make the rest of the building go fast and smooth? Help her get back into her home fast? Santa you are such a wonderful guy for helping me out with my wishes!
Here's another easy one for you Santa. Give Tee a mother in law free year. I think you understand how precious a gift that would be.
Santa could you find a way for Cora, Sandy and I to get together one day? It would be so nice to meet with my special friends. But till then could you leave a nice big gift basket of Miss Diva's soaps under their tree?
Santa I am so blessed with all the blog neighbors. I would like for you to listen to their heart and pick the one most important thing they are in need of at Christmas and deliver it from me. They are always here when I need them Santa. Each one is very special to me and I want their Christmas to be as special as they are. Thank you so much for reading my letter and thank you Santa for putting the magic into the Christmas Holiday.
Hugs and Kisses you Jolly Ole Man!
Peggy
P.S. Santa would you stop by Philips on your way from the North Pole? Under his tree I would love for him to have a very special someone to share his life and dreams. He is a very special friend and I know he is on your nice list. Thanks again Santa and I am sure I will be adding to my letter again if you don't mind.
P.P. S. Santa could you fill peppylady's stocking with English chocolates? She never gets to eat many as her hubby and sons love them too. thanks!

Christmas Weekend Slide Show

Family Christmas Weekend

I drove to Lexington, NC ( 2 hrs away) on Friday where my daughter in law Sharon hopped into the van to drive me the rest of the way (4 hrs) while my stepson Ray and grandson Wayne followed in their car. It was nice not having to drive and just enjoy the scenery. Megan and family were all ready for us with the house all decorated and food enough for the whole neighborhood! We did a little last minute shopping and came back to a huge pot of homemade chili cooked by my son in law Brian. He was in Iraq and Ray was on the road last year so they were excited to start this years celebration. Melody and her family came for supper. She is always the one to get all the childhood stories going. We had fun laughing and remembering things till they left to pick up my grandson Woody who had his first ever school dance. The rest of us snacked on all the wonderful desserts and hot chocolate till bedtime. Bright and early the next morning Megan, Sharon and I started cooking a big country breakfast that the men were suppose to cook. Maggie and her family along with Melody and hers showed up and so did the girls cousin that lives across the road from Megan. Another morning of food, stories and laughter with a few can we open presents now thrown in by the kids. After breakfast we made a convoy with Brian leading us to the tree farm to choose a tree and cut it down. Each child picked out a tree and then everyone voted on the best one. That was the tree we would cut and bring back to make homemade decorations for. Well Raigun's favorite color is orange and she found a orange (dead) tree that she really really wanted so Uncle Brian came to her rescue and cut it down to decorate for the birds. Then some of the grandkids wanted a Charlie Brown tree to put in their rooms at home so we had to find little trees that met their requirements. Megan and Brian also had to cut a tree for their church. The back of Brians truck was loaded with trees and the convoy started back home. The grandchildren started making ornaments while we fixed a quick lunch. After lunch they decorated the tree while started cooking our Christmas dinner for the evening. It was Ray's birthday so of course we had to stop and sing happy birthday and eat some good chocolate cake! With the tree decorated it was finally time to open presents. The kids presents were in the den so that room was packed with excited children wanting to dive into presents. Maggie handed out a present to each one and the fun was on! Paper was flying everywhere! Each child magically got exactly what they had been wanting forever! Justine got the army men he had been dreaming of of with a few extra tanks and a missile shooting truck thrown in. Raigun got cat books, stuffed kittens, rubber boots that she just really really needed. Julie got a barbie house and barbie van along with the Junie B Jones books she really really wanted. Zack got enough camping gear to be able to live outdoors and never come inside. Think that smile is still on his face. Gabby got her barbie house with lots of furniture and a barbie car. She was ready to stop unwrapping and just play with that. Quintin got the horseshoes he had been dying for along with movies from the 80's that he just had to see. Hope got her set of books by Picket along with lots of monkey stuff so she was one happy lady. Kristine was in heaven with her monkey jewelry, vintage books and games. PopPop and Grandma are now Woody's favorite people since he got his disco ball and lava lamp he had been dreaming of for his 70's style bedroom. Wayne was ready to go out in the freezing cold to set up his new tent and try out his canvas canteen. These were just the presents from William and I. The paper was flying so fast I couldn't tell you what else they got from everyone else but I do know that there were lots of happy kids in that den that night! With the kids all settled down with their gifts the adults (acting like kids) moved to the livingroom to open their gifts. Megan said it was about time she got a sesame street game and I didn't have to throw that one in the fire! She loved her walnut jewelry box I had a friend make for her and the handmade jewelry. Brian was happy with his handcrank radio and flashlight and his memory blanket. Maggie loved her pillows (thank you Lisa(oceandreamer) and her vintage oriental pictures. Brannon laughed at his Elvis gift (running joke with he and I) and was pleased with his Irish book and memory blanket. Melody loved the photo of Nannie (my mother) in a dress and the dress I had made just like it for her along with her birdhouse stuff for her kitchen. Joseph was very happy with his bibbed overalls and memory blanket. Ray loved his handcranked radio and flashlight, teeshirt and fishing reel windchime. Sharon seemed to be the happiest of all with her handpainted pendant of her dog Taz. Don't think she even remembers opening other presents after that one. Those are the gifts we gave them and I was so busy opening all my many gifts that I didn't see what they got from everyone else! Needless to say our handmade or secondhand gift rule was a success. With gifts out of the way it was time for a wonderful Christmas ham dinner. The counters were loaded with food and we were ready to make it disappear. We ate so much we decided to hold dessert until after the hayride caroling. With a mini flashlight and song sheets in everyone's hand we hop on the trailer that Megan decorated with lights and garland. Brian and Brannon were inside the nice warm truck while the rest of us dressed in long johns, warm clothes, hats, scarves and gloves were snuggling together while singing to stay warm. In the country the houses are far apart but we sang the whole time as it seemed to keep us from freezing. Several families came out on their porches while we stopped to "sing" a carol or two for them. A couple hours later we were ready for hot chocolate and dessert in front of the fire! Then it was time for stockings! Everyone seemed to be happy with the items that filled up their stocking and was ready to settle down to watch the Christmas Story movie before turning in for the night. It was a late night but more memories were made and lots stories and laughs shared. Bright and early Sunday morning everyone packed their cars and started their journey home. Another successful family Christmas weekend was over. Plans were started for next years weekend, goodbyes were said and it was back home for this tired but happy grandma. I will make a slideshow of the photos to share with everyone tomorrow as I am waiting for some from the tree outing. I had forgotten my camera and Sharon is sending me some that she took.

I am Back!

Just got home a little while ago. Have lots of photos and stories to share. We had a wonderful Christmas weekend! Have to unload the van and give Miss Diva some atttention so will post later.