“Well, there’s not a lot to report this week. We’ve had one lame hen, so she’s been in the hospital wing (broody coop) having regular pedicures involving Milton fluid and antibiotic spray. She’s a bit better today, so she’s back out with the flock. Egg production is dropping rapidly with the declining day length but there are enough for the Christmas cakes!

We have a Light Sussex cockerel that could do with a new home. He’s 18-weeks-old and is a big boy. Hector treats him with complete disdain – so far.
The lure of the seed catalogues is growing strong – but my first job is to review last year. We’re definitely not growing broad beans next year! Or aubergines (although the plants were rather attractive).

Our kittens are turning into lovely young cats. However, they do seem to be able to find the muddiest parts of the garden. Cats may do a lot of grooming – but that’s AFTER they’ve wiped their paws on the duvet cover! Bertie makes an odd little chirrup – particularly when he comes in during the night, almost as if he’s sharing his adventures; Harry is more reserved and is going to be boss cat, I think. I am amazed at how bendy they are – Bertie is lying beside me as I type and he doesn’t look like he should be comfortable, but he’s sound asleep.

Anyway, must go and take the Christmas cake out of the oven – hopefully, it won’t be burnt or we’ll be sick of Christmas cake before the end of November!”