My birthday present this year was something I'd wanted for many years... a garden tiller. It's a refurb, true, but I love it! A front tine, so it does tend to beat the piss out of anyone behind the controls. Still, it does the job, and for the garden size we usually put in, it's a necessity. This year I extended the width of the garden by about 5 feet. That makes the overall garden about 25' x about 50' (or so, I've never measured). Not a bad sized garden considering it's all hand-tended, minimal equipment (except the tiller). I have the plants and seeds ready to go, but have been waiting for the night-time temps to cooperate. It still gets quite cool at night, close to freezing recently. So the plants are waiting. Plus, I wanted a couple back-to-back days off to get everything in at once.
However, I wanted to start prepping as soon as I could. The soil is nice and rich, if a little dry. I turned the whole thing this morning and evening. The girls have been instructed to rake out any loose vegetation. Then on Saturday, I'll turn it again and the girls will rake once more. The idea being the less wild vegetation left in the soil, the fewer weeds we'll have to fight back later in the growing season.
I discovered though that I will need to add some new tomato stakes or cages, I'm down to just a few left.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Chicken Nuggets
A few weeks ago I was in the feed store and picked up 10 bargain chicks with the intention of raising them for meat (since I can't seem to get any Cornish Rock chicks). They were crammed tightly into the carrier-box and I set it on the counter in the house on the way to the brooder. Aydi came into the kitchen and announced that she wanted "that" as she pointed to the box. So I asked her what she thought "that" was, to which she casually replied, "chicken nuggets!" I, of course, roared with laughter then pulled the box down for her to see what was in it as I agreed with her, "you are absolutely right!!"
My Sick Boss
What is it about some people that think they are invincible?! Everything started with the first day of the pay week, Sunday. My boss switched days with the other manager so he could visit his grandmother. All fine there, no big deal. However, Monday he came in looking poorly and mentioned he didn't feel well. He allowed me to check his face later in the day (we didn't have a thermometer, but I'm a mom for heavens sake!), his skin was hot and flushed. Finally, when the other manager came in, the two of us made him leave and head home. A health store is no place for a sick person to be lingering! Some of our customers are elderly, some may have compromised immune systems, they do not need to be exposed like that. So we made him go home. Then yesterday he switched with me so he could sleep in a bit. He wound up calling the other manager in to work for him that evening though. I was scheduled to open this morning again, so he came in around mid-afternoon. He seemed alright at first, then he ate something and turned ghostly white. I told him to go home again, saying he could come in later tonight. He wound up calling the other manager to come in again this evening. He's supposed to work again tomorrow, we will see.
Him being sick is not a problem, it happens to everyone eventually. The problem is that he is salaried and has always been the 'bridge' between the hourly associates. No one is permitted to have overtime. I'm not sure that is going to be possible this week, though we can certainly try. For instance, I was alone today from the time I came in until I had to leave... read that as, I was not able to take a lunch break. That means that as of today, I am currently approximately 30 minutes into 'overtime'. That doesn't even take into account that I might have to work again tomorrow... on my day off! What is going to happen if I do have to work? The second manager doesn't have any extra time either. And he really shouldn't be trying to work doubles immediately after having spent the past 4 days sick. :/
Him being sick is not a problem, it happens to everyone eventually. The problem is that he is salaried and has always been the 'bridge' between the hourly associates. No one is permitted to have overtime. I'm not sure that is going to be possible this week, though we can certainly try. For instance, I was alone today from the time I came in until I had to leave... read that as, I was not able to take a lunch break. That means that as of today, I am currently approximately 30 minutes into 'overtime'. That doesn't even take into account that I might have to work again tomorrow... on my day off! What is going to happen if I do have to work? The second manager doesn't have any extra time either. And he really shouldn't be trying to work doubles immediately after having spent the past 4 days sick. :/
Goslings!
Out of 14 eggs set a little over a month ago, 9 beautiful babies hatched! It was a fun few days. The eggs were due to hatch last Monday. However, it was not until Tuesday that we noticed two of the eggs moving and could hear the first of the peeps from within the eggs. On Wednesday, several of the eggs had cracks in them. Wednesday evening a couple of the babies had 'pipped' through (broken a hole in the shell). Thursday morning the first gosling was born, he literally popped out the eggshell, we were lucky enough to be there to see it. Later that morning I received a call that a second had broken through. That evening I was greeted by 6 wet baby geese. Later that night a 7th came out. The final 2 were born the next morning and afternoon. A total of 9 goslings from 14 eggs. After they had dried, I moved them to a brooder and left the remaining 7 eggs in the incubator an additional 3 days (just in case). At that point I removed the 5 eggs that did not hatch (too old, not viable, or just plain didn't hatch). There are still 3 eggs in the incubator due to hatch next week. Also, the hen is also sitting on a few eggs, though I'm not sure how many she has.
I certainly am enjoying the new babies though! And while I could sex them, I honestly don't care how many are hens and how many ganders. I just love them all!
I certainly am enjoying the new babies though! And while I could sex them, I honestly don't care how many are hens and how many ganders. I just love them all!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Strength
I'm stronger than I had thought. I can haul and sling 50 lb sacks of feed up and down our yard easily enough. Who else is there to do it for me?! Dragging stack cages up and down, no problem. Moving fencing wire, driving in fence posts, tilling our large garden, mowing the yard. All done by myself without assistance.
Today, I had to move a couple 100 lb sacks of feed, from the rear of the van to the barn. Traditionally I would use a cart to do this, I've never been able to handle those alone. That's a lot of weight to lift and carry!! However, when I saw a neighbor hauling one of them down (Ari thought it was the rabbit feed she was trying to get, but it was actually the whole corn) I took and changed with him and carried it down myself. No big deal really, the guy helped a lot getting it shifted over to my shoulder. However, when I went up to get the sweet feed, I had thought I'd purchased a 50 lb sack and it turned out to also be a 100 lb sack! Without help, I didn't know what to do, but thought I'd try getting it down by myself. I managed with very little strain to shift it up to my shoulder, shut the door of the van, and proceeded to haul it down the 150 feet to the barn unaided! I was also able to control it's downward movement into the proper bin with great control (I didn't just drop it in like many would have, I needed it to fit a certain way!).
I am quite pleased with myself for being able to do that. It was the first time I had really tried, in the past I had always struggled with the higher weight feed sacks. Even David was surprised and said I may even be stronger than he is now! (of course, I'm also a lot more physically active than he tends to be as well)
Today, I had to move a couple 100 lb sacks of feed, from the rear of the van to the barn. Traditionally I would use a cart to do this, I've never been able to handle those alone. That's a lot of weight to lift and carry!! However, when I saw a neighbor hauling one of them down (Ari thought it was the rabbit feed she was trying to get, but it was actually the whole corn) I took and changed with him and carried it down myself. No big deal really, the guy helped a lot getting it shifted over to my shoulder. However, when I went up to get the sweet feed, I had thought I'd purchased a 50 lb sack and it turned out to also be a 100 lb sack! Without help, I didn't know what to do, but thought I'd try getting it down by myself. I managed with very little strain to shift it up to my shoulder, shut the door of the van, and proceeded to haul it down the 150 feet to the barn unaided! I was also able to control it's downward movement into the proper bin with great control (I didn't just drop it in like many would have, I needed it to fit a certain way!).
I am quite pleased with myself for being able to do that. It was the first time I had really tried, in the past I had always struggled with the higher weight feed sacks. Even David was surprised and said I may even be stronger than he is now! (of course, I'm also a lot more physically active than he tends to be as well)
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The Shoplifter
My new job is now a month old. I've found that it's something I genuinely enjoy. However, today was an unusual and interesting day. Today we had our first verified shoplifter. Unfortunately, there's not much we can do about it though, except record and recall, so if he tries to return again, he'll be watched very carefully.
The young man had been purchasing and returning several items over the last few days. So his face was easily recognizable and we have his information recorded from the numerous returns. He'd already been put on the 'non returnable' list because of his tendency to buy expensive products and then return them a day later. Today he came in and said he was just wanting to pass some time in the store. he seemed anxious, but I attributed that to his having to wait for someone else. He then proceeded to a section and stood there for some time, I saw him opening a few packages to read the insert. He refused assistance from both myself and my manager. I was a little suspicious about him opening boxes, but as I saw him returning things to their boxes, I didn't worry overly much, other than to mention it to the manager. The young man had set down his water and refused my assistance a second time. Then he suddenly decided to leave the store and left his water bottle behind. Because I was suspicious of his whole demeanor, I suggested my manager check the area I had seen the man standing by and opening boxes. Sure enough, he found an empty carton tucked up behind a few of the other items on that shelf.
To say my manager was upset with the person would be a mild comparison. It would be closer to describing him as livid. I have to agree though, just how stupid did that young man take us to be?! Does he think he wouldn't be caught?!?! Apparently he does though. The interesting thing is that because of the excessive number of returns, we have his name and contact information. If he's bold enough to return to the store, the plan is to ask him specifically about the item that turned up missing. Because while we cannot outright accuse him, in the event he became voilent, we can watch him like a hawk and let him know that we know he stole the item. The idea being not only to embarrass him and essentially call him out on it, but to let him know that we are aware that he stole the item and won't put up with it from him. Next time he comes in, he will be stuck to closer than if he were our best friend.
The young man had been purchasing and returning several items over the last few days. So his face was easily recognizable and we have his information recorded from the numerous returns. He'd already been put on the 'non returnable' list because of his tendency to buy expensive products and then return them a day later. Today he came in and said he was just wanting to pass some time in the store. he seemed anxious, but I attributed that to his having to wait for someone else. He then proceeded to a section and stood there for some time, I saw him opening a few packages to read the insert. He refused assistance from both myself and my manager. I was a little suspicious about him opening boxes, but as I saw him returning things to their boxes, I didn't worry overly much, other than to mention it to the manager. The young man had set down his water and refused my assistance a second time. Then he suddenly decided to leave the store and left his water bottle behind. Because I was suspicious of his whole demeanor, I suggested my manager check the area I had seen the man standing by and opening boxes. Sure enough, he found an empty carton tucked up behind a few of the other items on that shelf.
To say my manager was upset with the person would be a mild comparison. It would be closer to describing him as livid. I have to agree though, just how stupid did that young man take us to be?! Does he think he wouldn't be caught?!?! Apparently he does though. The interesting thing is that because of the excessive number of returns, we have his name and contact information. If he's bold enough to return to the store, the plan is to ask him specifically about the item that turned up missing. Because while we cannot outright accuse him, in the event he became voilent, we can watch him like a hawk and let him know that we know he stole the item. The idea being not only to embarrass him and essentially call him out on it, but to let him know that we are aware that he stole the item and won't put up with it from him. Next time he comes in, he will be stuck to closer than if he were our best friend.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
On Breastfeeding
Yes, I am going to type it here, because for once I don't have to hold back the truth I feel. Young mothers everywhere who were told they had to switch their baby to formula or who had been shamed out of doing what's best for your child by breastfeeding a minimum of 12-24 months (as recommended by the Pediatrics assoc. folk), you are wrong. For all those who tell me their body just wouldn't make any milk, you are wrong. You created your own problem, you succumbed to other people telling you what your body was NOT capable of doing.
I read an article today that was rather acerbic in regards to society and it's effect on breastfeeding women. As a mother of 4 successfully extended-breastfed children, I can say I would never have it any other way! Everything I list here is the absolute truth, google it if you want!
1. Mammals have been producing milk to support their infants for many millenia, why would that suddenly change in less than a century?! Humans ARE mammals.
2. Breastfed children have superior brain function. Just ask my 2 straight-A kids. (because breastmilk contains HUMAN proteins that support brain growth)
3. Colostrum (the first milk that comes in after birth) is absolutely essential to seal the intestine and provide immunity to the newborn. Breastmilk also supports healthy immune function. It is true that breastfed babies have fewer ear infections and less incidence of colic.
4. Ladies, let's face reality, no matter what you do, your breasts will not look 20 forever. Why not trade in for something everlasting?
5. Yes, breastfeeding will hurt initially. It is not instinctive anymore. And with prior generations having started this whole mess in the first place, you can expect it to be hard to find support. DON'T GIVE UP!! Get help with technique, and get your SO on board for exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months, anything less will ultimately result in early weaning.
6. Resist the temptation, don't even bring formula into your home. If you give yourself no other options, your body will adjust.
7. When your baby cries, check the diaper first, then offer a breast! They don't cry to annoy, there is nearly always a reason.
8. Remember that every drop of milk you put in your baby's mouth that is not produced by you will be that much less milk your body will produce! Yep!! You read that right, the body WILL adjust to your baby's needs, and that includes decreasing supply and eventually drying up if you offer your baby anything other than your milk from your body (or pump it out).
9. Remember that baby is the most efficient 'machine' at getting the milk out, pump if you have to, but don't use it as a substitute.
10. Do NOT give a baby a pacifier or bottle before they are 6 weeks of age! It can and may cause confusion. After 6 weeks I've rarely had a problem getting a baby to accept a bottle. Pacifiers are tougher, but be persistent and consistent if that's what you want. Waiting until 8 or 10 weeks is even better.
Finally, the 3 best reasons to breastfeed your infant:
- Always available
- Always the right temperature
- The cat can't get it!!!
Also remember that 50 years of research can NEVER replace 50 million years of evolution!
Cuddle your nurslings and rejoice in the fact that NO ONE else in the entire world can give your baby what you can! And remember they aren't little for long. You'll be proud you hung in there when they are older.
I read an article today that was rather acerbic in regards to society and it's effect on breastfeeding women. As a mother of 4 successfully extended-breastfed children, I can say I would never have it any other way! Everything I list here is the absolute truth, google it if you want!
1. Mammals have been producing milk to support their infants for many millenia, why would that suddenly change in less than a century?! Humans ARE mammals.
2. Breastfed children have superior brain function. Just ask my 2 straight-A kids. (because breastmilk contains HUMAN proteins that support brain growth)
3. Colostrum (the first milk that comes in after birth) is absolutely essential to seal the intestine and provide immunity to the newborn. Breastmilk also supports healthy immune function. It is true that breastfed babies have fewer ear infections and less incidence of colic.
4. Ladies, let's face reality, no matter what you do, your breasts will not look 20 forever. Why not trade in for something everlasting?
5. Yes, breastfeeding will hurt initially. It is not instinctive anymore. And with prior generations having started this whole mess in the first place, you can expect it to be hard to find support. DON'T GIVE UP!! Get help with technique, and get your SO on board for exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months, anything less will ultimately result in early weaning.
6. Resist the temptation, don't even bring formula into your home. If you give yourself no other options, your body will adjust.
7. When your baby cries, check the diaper first, then offer a breast! They don't cry to annoy, there is nearly always a reason.
8. Remember that every drop of milk you put in your baby's mouth that is not produced by you will be that much less milk your body will produce! Yep!! You read that right, the body WILL adjust to your baby's needs, and that includes decreasing supply and eventually drying up if you offer your baby anything other than your milk from your body (or pump it out).
9. Remember that baby is the most efficient 'machine' at getting the milk out, pump if you have to, but don't use it as a substitute.
10. Do NOT give a baby a pacifier or bottle before they are 6 weeks of age! It can and may cause confusion. After 6 weeks I've rarely had a problem getting a baby to accept a bottle. Pacifiers are tougher, but be persistent and consistent if that's what you want. Waiting until 8 or 10 weeks is even better.
Finally, the 3 best reasons to breastfeed your infant:
- Always available
- Always the right temperature
- The cat can't get it!!!
Also remember that 50 years of research can NEVER replace 50 million years of evolution!
Cuddle your nurslings and rejoice in the fact that NO ONE else in the entire world can give your baby what you can! And remember they aren't little for long. You'll be proud you hung in there when they are older.
Feed Troubles
I had begun shopping for feed intermittently at a different supply store, a TSC that had opened up about 15-20 minutes away. I did a feed price comparison to my mill, and they were just $.50 higher than the mill on their rabbit chow and similarly compared with all the other feeds I buy. Now granted, the rabbit feed from the store was a smaller pellet, but the pellet was not as nicely green or obviously fresh as the mill feed. The rabbits did alright with it however, so I was prepared to accept the difference and switch fully to the other feed taking travel costs into account. However (isn't there always a down side to everything these days?!) when I got to the feed store the other day, I was utterly dismayed to discover there had been a significant price increase.
The rabbit feed that had been $10.49 suddenly appeared beneath a price tag showing it as $13.89!!! More than a $3 jump in price! I was flabbergasted (how often does one get to use THAT word in conversation! LOL), I even had an employee verify with the manager that it was accurate. She confirmed the substantial rise in price. I warned her that she would probably lose a significant portion of her business because of increases like that and suggested she pass along my complaints to higher-ups in the company. The thing about stores like those is the employees, even the management, has almost no control over anything in the store, they're just puppets.
So I put all the feed back in it's proper place and headed down to the mill instead... where I was informed they're prices had NOT increased even a single cent! LOL I proceeded to purchase my regular feed. I suppose I'll never get everything I want, however I will continue to search for the best deals.
The rabbit feed that had been $10.49 suddenly appeared beneath a price tag showing it as $13.89!!! More than a $3 jump in price! I was flabbergasted (how often does one get to use THAT word in conversation! LOL), I even had an employee verify with the manager that it was accurate. She confirmed the substantial rise in price. I warned her that she would probably lose a significant portion of her business because of increases like that and suggested she pass along my complaints to higher-ups in the company. The thing about stores like those is the employees, even the management, has almost no control over anything in the store, they're just puppets.
So I put all the feed back in it's proper place and headed down to the mill instead... where I was informed they're prices had NOT increased even a single cent! LOL I proceeded to purchase my regular feed. I suppose I'll never get everything I want, however I will continue to search for the best deals.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
