This time last year!

We were covered in a blanket of snow and I have to cancel my trip to Vienna.......this year, there is still no mud, it's hardly rained and it's still comparatively warm for this time of year!

day two of battery hen rescue

Day two and although we were told they wouldnt know how to roost wouldnt know where to lay eggs, eat pellets or climb the ramp they have done all of this by day two - and seem to be relishing it!

They are also getting on surprisingly well with the other hens!

The Ex-Battery Hen Diary

Today we picked up four ex-battery hens that would have otherwise been assigned to the pie factory as their egg laying potential had waned.

I thought I was prepared emotionally to see these poor, cruelly treated creatures but what I saw made me cry. They were bald, scruffy, and either shocked or euphoric - I dont know.

The hens are now in bed after a day of scratching around for the first time and will sleep on straw fro the first time.......

RSPCA Photography Awards

Alan won a commended award for his photo of a fox cub at the RSPCA Photography awards.

The 1st October - the hottest on record!

What an absolutely gorgeous day, and as it turns out it really was a record breaker. 29.5 in Gravesend, Kent and about 28 here in sunny Guildford!!!

Oktoberfest 2011

I honestly cant recall having this much fun, I can hardly speak, I ache all over but had the best time......ever! The Germans certainly know how to have a good time!

Brodie - the grown up!

At two years old Brodie now has to go into the big boys classes with mature 3 and 4 year olds. Post Grad at Windsor and yet again he was placed. I am so proud, only 5th (VHC) but at least not last and not chucked out - he continues to amaze me!

The Hottest and most uncomfortable day of the year!

Totally unbearable - humidity must be up in the 80%'s!

Purple Emperor!

Spotted in the garden today, the illusive and pretty rare Purple Emperor!

Buff Orpingtons

After sadly losing Padme and Leia to old age we needed a couple more chooks to keep the numbers up. I had my heart set on a Legbar but as none were of sexable age I nearly walked away - then I spotted these two Buff Orpingtons - beautiful pair, really friendly already and not a lot of squabbling from the Sussex and Cuckoo!!! They are Buffy and Willow as in Buffy the Vampire Slayer!