The Coop

 So, my garage was getting awfully smelly with 6 chickens living in a box.  Paul was busy, so I decided to build the coop.  My goal was to use all recycled materials and not spend a dime.  I came pretty close to meeting my goal, but by the time I got to the door and the roof, I was burned out. Paul came to my rescue (cue rescue hero music).  He had to buy a few 2 X 2s, a few more screws and a lock and a hinge, but that is all. 

 I found what I assumed are eggs on this little branch in my yard.  Does anyone know what they are?

Syrelle rescued this little lizard from the paws of our cat who spends his days chasing down and munching on these desert treats.To build the coop I used a couple of old pallets that have been hanging around our backyard for a few years along with the lumber leftover from the pergola we tore down when we built our addition. One thing Paul wished I would have used is a level:).

 Paul scrounged up some chicken wire and walla!  A home from our chicks.  Let's just say that carpentry isn't my forte, but I got familiar with the saw and the drill.

 My first attempt at square foot gardening has proven successful so far.  Some of my seeds haven't sprouted but that's normal right?    For the plants that need more room to grow such as watermelon and squash I planted up on the hill in 5 gallon buckets with holes drilled in the bottom.  That way I could contain the good soil and some of the water.  We'll see how they do.  Every year it is an experiment.  To me though, there are few things more rewarding that eating out of your own garden.

 I tried to re purpose these leftover tiles from our roof into planter boxes.  I used gorilla glue and then mortar to be extra secure.  They fell apart when I tried to move them. :( Waste of time.

My girls are getting ready for their spring dance recital.  Their studio is putting on "Snow White".

Cecelia is a bluebird and Syrelle is one of the forest animals...more specifically a rabbit. Aren't they cute? I can't wait for their recital.

Our first harvest from the garden....a radish!

Since it is Mother's Day, I have to say that I am so blessed to have an abosolutely amazing mother whom I owe everything to.  She is so giving of herself and she is so much fun to be around.  I miss her terribly.  I also have to say that I am a very blessed mother myself  to have such wonderful children and such an amazing husband who is cooking dinner for me as we speak. :)