Ridley January 23, 2009

    
Jan. 22, 2009–Ridley
     The new duck arrived.  I named him Ridley, as the call about the duck came just moments before we settled in to watch a Ridley Scott film.  He is a lovely male Rouen– with a gorgeous green head and orange feet.   Wildlife Rescue saved him after someone noticed him in  drainage ditch.  [...]

The Big Chill January 18, 2009

Jan. 17, 2008–The Big Chill
     Our province is in the grips of a very deep freeze.  Temperatures are in the -20 degree C, with windchills in the -30’s.  It is wretched.  We have filled the stalls with bedding to keep the animals warm, are giving extra hay and grain.  I boil the barn kettle several times [...]

Beloved Battery Hens January 15, 2009

Jan. 14, 2009– Beloved Battery Hens
     True to my word, rather than being annoyed at Duckie’s explosive, yet chronic temper,  I am observing him as merely a caricature of Donald Duck, and laughing silently at him.  I’m not sure if he intuits this, or if he hates me more than usual, but today he was downright [...]

The Duckman January 13, 2009

Jan. 13, 2008– The Duckman
     I am reluctant to admit this, but despite wishful thinking, Duckie (the duckling saved from a roadside) resembles nothing of Jon Cryer’s character in Pretty in Pink.   The truth is, this duck isn’t funny or quirky or endearing.  He’s a bit of a jerk. 
     We generally have a pretty peaceful [...]