Wednesday, February 22, 2006

Around our homeplace (Cliff taking care of honey-dos)

When you place a cabin in the woods, you soon find out that others inhabited the woods before you.  And they're intent on making the cabin their own.

I've mentioned having a mouse problem out there; I keep mouse poison out, but of course there's always a new rodent finding his way in.  Some of you have suggested a cat for the cabin:  Well, there's no electricity there, so there'd be no way to keep water thawed.  Besides, in winter I don't go back there once a month, sometimes.  That would be one lonely, thirsty cat.  The cabin is at least 1/4 mile from the house, and I don't think many cats would want to be so isolated (or thirsty or cold).

A couple of months ago on a routine check of the cabin, I noticed evidence that a bird had been inside it!  Now Cliff had put screening at the top, between the roof and the walls, to keep out mosquitoes; and I couldn't figure out how on earth birds were getting in.  On inspection, however, I found three holes on three different sides of the cabin, perfectly round holes that obviously had been formed by pecking!

So today we went back to remedy the situation,and almost got the job done.  Thank goodness for Cliff's cordless drill.

We took Sadie back there with us, although I was somewhat afraid to turn her loose, knowing Buddy was running free.  But I did.  Twice Buddy came running by, and Sadie followed him into the woods in hot pursuit; but both times, my dog finally returned to me, without her friend.  I was very worried, though.  Buddy knows no boundaries, and I was afraid he'd lead Sadie away so far she'd never find us.

Back at the barn, Blue's hooves were getting long, and we were afraid they'd split if we didn't do something.  I hated to call the farrier for a trim ($45) when it won't be long till I want my horse shod ($90).  So Cliff took off some of the extra growth and filed the edges till they were smooth.

I had intended to ride the horse awhile today, but it's just a bit chilly to suit me.  Maybe tomorrow.

11 comments:

Anonymous said...

we lived on a farm when I was a child.  Ihave wonderful memories of my time there!
Becky

Anonymous said...

neat photo's!.. that last picture almost looks like Blue is about to nip Cliff on the butt! hehehe..

Anonymous said...

I'll tell ya that Cliff is one handy man!!  Buddy looks skinny...

Anonymous said...

Looks like you had a great day today and got some major jobs done.... Your Cliff sure is a handy man to have around isn't he... :) Sandra

Anonymous said...

Those pictures were neat. Thanks for sharing. Cliff is sure handy to have around the place. Helen

Anonymous said...

Nice pics! That Cliff is quite the guy, huh? rich

Anonymous said...

Handy husbands are sure nice to have around...Hugs...Ora

Anonymous said...

Happy Trails!  Anne  ps.........tell Rachel that I spelled it right THIS time!

Anonymous said...

Sadie looks happy running around, I hope you get a chance to ride tomorrow.

Anonymous said...

Hi there.  Popping in to say hi and see how all is going.  Cliff was nice to get your cabin and your horse taken care of.  You all are doing good with your walking if you are losing and getting cholesterol down.  I hear oatmeal is good for that too.  
I need to walk desperately.  I went for a walk a couple of days ago, with Tugie and we enjoyed it.  It's just been so cold and rainy and icky.
Love the pic of Sadie "in your lap".  She is so sweet.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you are getting things done!!! Can I borrow Cliff? LOL....pet Sadie for me!!! http://journals.aol.com/shayshaydc/Golfaholic
Sharon:)