Miscellaneous News

As we approach the last day of 2009, the days are slowly beginning to lengthen. The chickens continue to lay regularly (rumors have it that others have stopped for the season) and their geographical horizons have recently expanded. At the generosity of a neighbor, Six Chickens were offered access to a portion of his property. (Not sure why he so politely declines the offer for surplus eggs...) This new acreage equates to welcome green land underneath the apple trees where the chickens are now able to peck, scratch, and graze at will. The fence that divides our properties was quickly equipped with a hinged trap door for easy access. Since the birds have annihilated every blade of greenery and miraculously landscaped the agressive bamboo within the confines of their Yard, they love this new world. A big thank you to Steve! (Are you sure you don't want any eggs?)

On Another Note:

Santa brought an egg scale that has been in my family since 1935. Although it's missing a ring and a hook I hope to soon hunt replacements in the plethora of antique stores in our very own egg capital, Petaluma. All Six Chickens' eggs have weighed in well over large grade; some would even qualify as jumbo because they don't seat flush in reclycled egg cartons. I have learned that "The scale complies with the egg Grading Law of the State of California, Viz., Minimum weights of 1 7/12 oz. each (19 oz. per doz.), for medium and 1 5/6 oz. each (22 oz. per doz.) for large. Due to the fact that many eggs in each grade weigh more than the minimum requirements, the average will automatically be according to law." (One can imagine back in the day, chickens were smaller than they are today.)


Related and Fun reading:

http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/ask/2009/09/questions-for-orlean.html

In closing:

Here's wishing you and yours a very happy, healthy, and prosperous 2010.

Warm regards,
Meatball, PeeWee, CutiePie, Giant, Big Sister, Little Sister

P.S. It has been suggested that Giant be entered in the County Fair this summer. The mere thought of violating her currently happy, cage-free life is not under consideration.