Welcome to Big Carms Farm

Kosmo & Sookie

2012-01-16T11:29:00.000-06:00

Don't let the sweetness fool you.....these two are partners in crime!!!! What a great mug shot HA.

Maggie May - forever in our hearts

2012-01-11T21:40:00.001-06:00

Who would have thought that 4 months would make such an impact on our lives. I know that in the short time you were with us; you had the best life. Tonight was horrible knowing we lost you due to a speeding driver. Things won't be the same on the farm without you and you will be forever in our hearts.

Help Animals with just a click of the mouse

2012-01-09T08:27:00.000-06:00

Everyone can help animals with just a click of your mouse. Click on the link below, and simply click the purple box "Click Here To Help". Your click helps feed animals.

http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=3&ThirdPartyClicks=EPA_022410_t

Dutchess of Yorkie

2011-11-12T10:42:00.000-06:00

Move over royal couple, make way for the Duchess of Yorkie! She's about 7 weeks old and weighing a mere 2.5lbs. But don't let her littleness fool you, she can keep up with Kosmo and give him a run for his money. Welcome to the family, Sookie!

Enjoying a good book

2011-10-14T10:10:00.000-05:00

Who didn't love story time as a child? Well the newest member of the farm was part of story time last night. I walked in to see Maggie enjoying a story being read out loud.

This is the Thanks I get????

2011-09-21T18:09:00.001-05:00

Dear Rescued, Foster Dog,

You're brought in out from the heat, no food or water and giving a nice place to sleep, food to eat and love. Is this the way you thank us?

You eat our couch? And why for the love of dog slobber, won't you stay inside the fenced yard? Why must you continue to show us that - yeah you know how to get out?

Yeah, I'm talking to you. Would you please stop this behavior?
Thank you,
Foster Parents

Kosmo in the House

2011-09-21T05:46:00.007-05:00

Getting a new pet doesn't fill the hole in ones heart from the loss of a pet; however getting a new pet helps the healing. The Johnson's have a new member of the family - Kosmo. He's about 8 weeks, full of energy (short bursts at a time) and has woken up the house!

Did you hear that???

Laughter Needed

2011-09-14T15:03:00.003-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nGeKSiCQkPw

Mom's Most Beloved Lilli

2011-09-13T18:22:00.004-05:00

Heartbreaking news again today from the Johnson's house. Mom had to part with her beloved Lilli. What a horrible thing to go through to lose 2 beloved pets within a few days. Our hearts, and prayers to you.

Beloved Leapold

2011-09-11T12:52:00.003-05:00

A dog with his opinion, he was one to always express it. He was my dad's buddy and sidekick and the Johnson's house won't be the same without him.

A few more of Spooky

2011-08-09T11:08:00.005-05:00

WE WILL MISS YOU SPOOKY

2011-08-09T05:49:00.010-05:00

I'm sad to say this morning the farm lost Spooky. I don't know her actual age (possibly close to 18) since I found her many years ago tied to a fence with 2 choices, train tracks or busy road. I gave her a 3rd choice - life. After bringing her back from extreme conditions, Spooky earned her name by doing spooky things due to her being deaf. With her loud meows and sky blue eyes you couldn't help but love Spooky.

You will be forever in our hearts!

Caption Needed......send me yours today

2011-07-25T12:08:00.002-05:00

I have a great picture of two of my boys and I can't think of a great caption for the picture.....send me your thoughts.

Pierre & Simon

Dog Show in town = new toys

2011-07-23T19:27:00.002-05:00

Went to the dog show on Friday, so much fun. Bought the kiddos new toys, Sully didn't want his picture taken and Scarlet was shaking her hind end so much her picture is blurry.

Hey when you're excitied, it's hard to be still even for a picture.

Calling Out Tom Cruise..you've been replaced

2011-07-19T08:36:00.002-05:00

Have You Ever.....

2011-07-14T11:31:00.001-05:00

Have you ever looked out your kitchen window to see a cow loose in your yard???

I know someone who did today!!! haha Thanks for the laugh this morning MR!!

A Girl and her Horse

2011-07-10T20:11:00.000-05:00

A girl and her horse.....it's a beautiful thing!

libby & jerry

Long Overdue

2011-07-10T20:09:00.001-05:00

Long overdue posting. Much like this long overdue dinner.

Happy Friday

2011-03-18T15:00:00.001-05:00

TGIF, hope you're able to get outside, enjoy the sunshine and maybe even get by the pool....or your water bucket.

Hank Jr.

When Animals Attack in Vermont

2011-03-16T11:52:00.002-05:00

I just saw a report that caught my interest to read and with a caption like "Squirrel attacking residents of VT. neighborhood" who could pass this up.

It's reported by the Bennington Banner:

"Bennington, Vt. - A Vermont neighborhood is being stalked by a renegade gray squirrel.

Several people in Bennington say they've been attacked by a squirrel over the last few weeks.

Kevin McDonald tells the Bennington Banner he was shoveling snow when the squirrel jumped onto him. He says he threw the animal off, but it twice jumped back onto him. A game warden says there have been other reports, too.

One woman is being treated for exposure to rabies, but Vermont Public Health Veterinarian Robert Johnson says there's never been a case of a squirrel passing rabies to a human.

Johnson says it's possible the squirrel was raised as a pet and lost its fear of humans. He says the squirrel might go ballistic when it encounters people it doesn't recognize."

You know it's bad when the squirrels are attacking people!!!!!!!!!!

Sad Moment on the Farm

2011-03-10T12:53:00.005-06:00

I woke up this morning and wasn't greeted at the front door by Chick-Chick my Front Porch Chicken, I knew something was wrong. My dear little chicken was gone, the only trace of her was feathers all over my porch. Chick-Chick will always be remembered at the farm as the chicken, near death, nursed back to health, funny, friendly and my little shadow. She will be missed.

I don't ever wish harm upon an animal; but to the creature that took Chick-Chick, I hope you choked!!!!!!!!!

There Are No Dumb Questions

2011-03-07T13:36:00.004-06:00

Is there a such thing as no dumb questions? I've taken this phrase so many ways but never the way I took it over the weekend when I was asked a question. First I must say, I understand what one person is knowledgeable about, doesn't mean another person is.

"Do hens nurse their chicks?"

Yes, this was the question that was asked. I repeat - "Do hens nurse their chicks?"

I quickly realized the person that asked me this was serious, which then I had to quickly wipe the "WTH" look off my face and answer (seriously).

"No"

I sat waiting for the next question, when the person simply said "oh" and didn't ask for an explanation.

Front Porch Chicken

2011-02-19T20:29:00.005-06:00

Have I caught your attention yet? I know I'm long overdue for an entry and what an entry to come back on. Front Porch Chicken, I'm not talking about friends bbq(ing) chicken on the pit. I guess I need to start at the begining of this story.

Part 1-

I believe this story takes place back in December (way before the artic blast made it's way to Texas). Typical day, out feeding the critters and watching all the chickens run to the gate to greet me as they see me walking up with the blue feed bucket. I've learned that if I throw a handful of feed over to the side, the mob runs to the feed allowing me enough time to get in the gate. As I stand watching the chickens run from one spot of feed to another; maybe thinking a different spot offers something different to eat, I notice one of the younger pullets getting pushed around. This little gal is barely standing and is trying to get to food but is being pushed around by the older hens and the other pullets. I grab her up and decide to take her away and see if she'll make it a few days alone with her own food or if she's just not going to make it.

For a month plus this chicken is living in a pet taxi on a bed of hay with her own water and food - posh life I'm talking about. I notice that she's eating but she's not gaining any weight (must be nice right?) and see what I think is some type of tumor on her neck. I later found out that she has a digestive problem - new food, add some grit problem solved. The artic blast hits and it's colder than, well you know and we decide to bring her in the house (pet taxi of course not having her run loose). Needless to say this chicken becomes very healthy, very alert to people and just waiting for the right weather to put her back with the others.

Part 2-

February 12, 2011 - the day the sun came out and it was a beautiful day. We let the chickens out of the pen to get out and stretch their legs. This is the perfect time to bring the chicken back with the others and they'll never know. For those who don't know, once you remove a chicken from the group if you just return it to the pen, the others will pick on it not remembering it was part of their group in the begining. With all of the chickens out running the property, they won't notice a "new" chicken coming in.

Towards the evening, I decide to go out feed the critters and try to get the chickens all in the pen together again. I start walking toward the pen carrying the blue feed bucket and they all start running towards me. (Note this is the only time I totally feel like a rock star) Feed in pen - Chickens in pen. Wait! On the other side of the property I see the "new" chicken looking at me as if to say "I don't go in there". I start walking to her, she starts walking me to and then it happens. Our Great Dane comes running like a Throughbred horse and runs right over the chicken. I hear this sound that I never knew chickens could make and see her limping as fast as she can to the corner of the house.

I walk over to her and notice her leg is sprang. Great!!! What does this mean you ask?

It means the chicken is back on my front porch living the posh life again. She is eager to greet us when we come home and at night she roosts in the window looking into the living room.

Lurve.....in the new year

2011-01-04T20:04:00.004-06:00

"Love, trew love" - quote from Princess Bride

love comes in many forms and this love story comes in a form of a cat name Simon and my husband, Mike. Simon came to us on Christmas Eve from GIHS (another adoptation).

Mike fell in love with Simon when he went to pick up the rabbits, Luna & Oliver. I feel Simon knew Mike "saved" him and has returned his love to Mike in many different ways. He curls up with Mike on the couch, when it's time for bed, and occasional sneezes in Mike's face. Simon is a plain looking cat, nothing fancy about his markings; white with gray tabby spots here and there.

It was one day (believe it might have been Christmas Day), I looked over and saw Simon with his Mike and noticed two of his markings came together to show his love in a special way.

Simon "hearts" Mike - and that's something you can't make up

Did Anyone Lose a Cat?

2010-12-23T11:48:00.003-06:00

Hoppy Holidays

2010-12-21T12:38:00.004-06:00

Meet Luna & Oliver, the newest members of the farm. Luna (white) & Oliver (brown) are from the Galveston Island Humane Society (http://www.galvestonhumane.org/ )and are now at their forever home. This make 3 rabbits we're were able to bring to the farm from GIHS. They are currently in the pen letting everyone on the farm time to come up for a meet and greet before we let them have the run of 1.5 acres.

Break Time

2010-11-30T19:19:00.001-06:00

Gabby Dee Ann & Jocee Hayes Scruggs

Gabby & Jocee Round #1

2010-11-30T19:04:00.002-06:00

Jocee & Gabby Round #2

2010-11-30T18:53:00.002-06:00

Get Out and Vote

2010-11-04T09:22:00.003-05:00

During election time, there's a lot of behind the scenes people that work very hard to help get the word out about their candidate. These people aren't in the spotlight, they are the ones that do everything and anything in their power to get the votes for their guy or gal.

Here's a big THANK YOU to all of those who worked their "tails" off!!!

Italian from Latin: a goddess

2010-10-20T08:42:00.005-05:00

Diva - [dee-vuh, -vah] noun - prima donna.

Sophia-Sookie Johnson vs Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra

Diva - is there really anything else to say?

Dogs can be Thankful

2010-10-20T08:33:00.001-05:00

The Wooden Spool

2010-09-28T18:27:00.006-05:00

The wooden spool, used to transport wire or cable to places. Once the wire or cable no longer needs the wooden spool, what's it to do?

Sad, lonely wooden spool. You can come to the farm and see how you like it here.

You have a forever home at the farm according to Nadean

It's Friday

2010-09-10T06:36:00.000-05:00

Smile it's Friday.

A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

2010-09-09T14:31:00.002-05:00

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Thought for the week

2010-08-15T12:40:00.000-05:00

If you eat, you're involved in agriculture.

"To Do" List - be attacked by Mockingbird CHECK

2010-08-11T10:31:00.002-05:00

How was your day? Mine began with finding a baby bird in the street being soaked by a sprinkler. Quick thinking, get bird out of street, get box, shred newspaper, place baby bird in box.

I go back and check on the little fellow and it's gone. I check the grounds, and notice it's across the street next to the curb. I walk over and pick up the little fellow and place it in the grass. Next thing I know, I'm being attacked from above by a Momma Mockingbird.

This wasn't on my "To Do" List today!!

It's a 2fer for the year

2010-07-19T20:31:00.003-05:00

If you heard a blood curling scream coming from the Manvel area sometime in the 7 o'clock hour on the evening of July 19, 2010; that was me!

It was a normal evening after work. At home, outside tending to the critters. Walking to the chicken pen to gather eggs when all of the sudden, a 5 1/2 foot chicken snake sits quietly behind the laying boxes. I scream and dang near injuried myself trying to get away. Kristen told me she could hear my scream from inside the house; Mike was walking to the gate and witness me running out of the chicken pen. If you remember we had a 3 1/2 foot chicken snake not that long ago; this one was 2 feet longer. Mike came to my rescue and shot the snake 4 times, my hero.

The End

Those Crazy Cats

2010-07-08T09:27:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T09:40:00.008-05:00

Happy 4th of July everyone. Remember the true meaning of the 4th todayas you celebrate.

I Said Get Down Here RIGHT NOW

2010-06-24T16:01:00.001-05:00

Don't mess with Mama!

I Spy

2010-06-12T20:46:00.003-05:00

I spy something white, (name Spooky)....do you see her?

Vet Trip via Pet Cam

2010-06-07T08:52:00.005-05:00

Saturday morning, Sully (the Great Dane) had his yearly vet appointment. What a great opportunity for Sully to wear the pet cam. He checked out in perfect health and actually has broken the 100 pound mark; he's 107.6lbs.

Us driving to the vet's office

We're at the vet getting out of the truck

There's Kristen's legs and oh look new paint on the walls.

The infamous watching the door for it to open for the doctor....oooohhhh I don't want to get a shot!

Saturday Morning Laughs

2010-06-05T06:51:00.002-05:00

Pet Cam Part Deux

2010-05-26T16:24:00.004-05:00

This time it's the "Goat Cam"! It was a bit hard to get the camera on Nadean's collar, my apologies for having to turn your head slightly to the right to have the images appear straight.

A view from inside the chicken pen. Oh look a chicken!

Nadean's ear

Ground view

Nadean's favorite time, feeding time. An open lid to the feed box!

Babies, Babies Everywhere

2010-05-17T18:06:00.005-05:00

There is a pair of Guineas that have adopted the farm as their home. We noticed that they had a nest on the farm and just this evening going out to check the garden, I wanted to see if maybe the stork brought more babies. Sure enough, I managed to catch a glimpse of a baby guinea. There's a slim chance of the Guinea Family staying on the farm since they usually have their babies off the property of where they belong; once the babies are strong enough, they normally go back home.

Baby Wing at the Farm

2010-05-17T17:19:00.004-05:00

The farm has had its first births today. We have 2 baby chicks that have hatched today and have just moved them from the hen house to the baby wing of the farm, aka the pet taxi with heat lamp. We've had chickens sit on eggs before but haven't had a sucessful hatching. The darker black one was hatched early this morning and the other one hatched out about 2:00pm this afternoon.

Who Wore It Best

2010-05-13T08:03:00.004-05:00

There's times when celebrities have their "oops" moments by wearing an outfit that a celebrity has worn before to some outrageous function. Here on the farm we hardly ever notice those types of things, with all the work there is to be done; however the farm has had the "oops" moment. Everyone is invited to cast their vote as to Who Wore It Best!

First up, Pierre:

Next up, Spooky:

Post your vote in the comment field.

Come Out, Come Out Wherever You Are

2010-04-24T19:57:00.005-05:00

Having livestock means having at times uninvited guests. It's always good to be aware of your surroundings and keep your eyes open. Mike was so happy Friday, because in this time of non-hunting season; he got to do a little hunting.

Notice the tail is still on the boards behind the laying boxes.

North vs South

2010-02-27T11:59:00.004-06:00

I know I'm long over due on this subject of Groundhog Day but I have good reason for it. February 2, was Groundhog Day and to me it means nothing. I don't take it if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow that means 6 more weeks of winter. Why? Because I live in the South.

Northerners have Punxsutawney Phil the Groundhog that determines if there will be 6 more weeks of winter or not. I have to say, if I was yanked out of my bed one morning and thrown onto my front porch with a bunch of flashing cameras, I would go back inside and shut the door just as Phil did this year.

Southerners have a true sign that winter is on it's way out and Spring is just peeking around the corner; the Robins. These brightly red breasted birds have made their way here.

True, the Robins might be here because of the blizzards happening up North but never the less; they're here down South!

Giant George

2010-01-22T14:55:00.002-06:00

I'm pretty much use to hearing the "horse" jokes as I walk my Great Dane, Sully into the vet's office. I'm even used to the throwing the feed bags over my shoulder as I buy 40lbs of dog food at a time for my "horse"; but I'm telling you that Sully is considered small for a Great Dane. We adopted Sully when he was already 3 years old. Having gone through Hurricane Rita in a small pen, outside through the whole time he is so happy to have 1 1 /2 acres to run on now. Sully is only about 95 pounds. He's in perfect health considering what he went through before he became a member of the family. Yes Great Danes are big, huge, giants (gentle giants) and I tell you my story of Sully so you will understand that he's on the mini side of Great Danes.

I bring you the story of Giant George. He's the current record holder for the biggest dog in the world. A Great Dane that puts all Danes in the shadows, check it out for yourself www.giantgeorge.com

Einstein

2010-01-22T12:12:00.001-06:00

New Year Baby!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-14T10:35:00.002-06:00

No matter how badly last year treated you, just walk tall with your head high. This is a brand new year baby!!!

Chicken Cam (take one)

2010-01-04T18:38:00.004-06:00

As all new things, you have to work out the kinks. This too goes for the Pet's Eye View Camera. I have obtained a few pictures from the Chicken Cam and it's not too exciting people so don't start popping pop corn just yet. I now know instead of 15 minute intervals, I need to have the camera set to take pictures every 1 or 5 minutes. I'm sure once I get it all figured out this will be great for everyone, and now ladies and gentlemen, I give you the pictures from the Chicken Cam:

A partial view of our yard with absolutely no other animal in sight!

A close up view of another chicken. Hey, be glad it wasn't a chicken butt!

Stay tune, it's going on the goat next.

Chicken Cam

2010-01-03T13:13:00.004-06:00

The Pet's Eye View Camera has been turned into the Chicken Cam. It's currently around the neck of a chicken taking pictures every 15 minutes.

Cat collar sized to the smallest possible size with camera attached.

Collar around chicken's neck. Notice the look I'm receiving from the chicken!!!!

Chicken Cam at work, staring right into the mud and chicken feed. Stay tune for hopefully interesting pictures of a Chicken's View.

New Year, New Views

2010-01-01T18:54:00.003-06:00

There will be a new view coming this new year to Big Carms Farm's Blog. My parents gave me for Christmas a Pet's Eye View Camera. I'm currently charging the camera and hope to have it on a Great Dane, a Basset Hound, a Goat and I'm even going to figure out how to attach it to a chicken and rabbit, so I can share with everyone the new series of Big Carms Farm -
"The Views Of".

**dog in picture not known to anyone at Carms Farm**

What Goes Around.........

2009-12-15T14:45:00.005-06:00

Ok, Ok, I know I give a certain someone out there a hard time about being a crazy pet owner. I now plead that I can become a member of your group.

I took my 8 1/2 month old Basset, Scarlet to see Santa.

Thought for the Week

2009-11-16T13:19:00.001-06:00

No matter how little you have; having a pet makes you rich

What'ca Watching?

2009-11-16T06:44:00.002-06:00

Toby Comeaux

Beloved Angel

2009-11-05T14:00:00.005-06:00

Beloved Angel Goff has joined the angels in heaven. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Everyone at Big Carms Farm send our deepest sympathy and may memories comfort you at this sad time.

Rub-A-Dub Rabbit's in the Tub

2009-10-30T18:01:00.004-05:00

Who would have guess that last night Mike would be washing Rabbit in the bathtub? This isn't something we normally do; but since Rabbit is having to spend some time in a pet taxi inside the house, she had to get a bath. Rabbit will be fine and soon released back into the wild of Big Carms Farm; but first she is being treated for ear mites (nasty little things). Don't worry the pictures won't be of the ear mites but instead of Rabbit in the tub.

Thought for the Day

2009-10-30T09:50:00.000-05:00

Cats aren't clean, they're covered in cat spit.

Sully & Scarlet

2009-10-27T18:26:00.003-05:00

The cool weather has everyone around Big Carms Farm feeling frisky. I was able to catch Sully & Scarlet playing and this video has better lighting ( I called George Lucas and used his lighting guy for this one).

Scarlet & Pierre

2009-10-17T21:08:00.004-05:00

Ok so the lighting is bad, and it's not George Lucas but in times when it's "quick grab the camera" this will have to do.

That Time Is Just Around The Corner

2009-10-04T14:09:00.003-05:00

I'm sending a challenge out there to anyone who will accept. I want pictures sent to me of your pet dressed in their Halloween costume. I'll gladly post your pet on my blog. I tease all pet owners that dress your pets up but I love it! Send me a comment with your name and email address and I'll contact you for your picture and pet's name.

I just received my first one this month and I'm posting it here.

Princess Roxy Johnson (without her tiara)

This is true patience

2009-10-01T17:39:00.002-05:00

Rescue Ink

2009-09-30T19:18:00.003-05:00

I'm in love, with 7 tattoo up guys from New York! WHAT?!?!?!? I'm a Texas Gal here and I'm in love with someone from where?!?!?!? Wait - - These guys have zero tolerance for animal abuse and they have a show on National Geographic called "Rescued Ink Unleash". Their first show, has these 7 guys that you don't want to mess with ride up on Harley Davidson bikes, chasing down chickens because of the state they're living in. Then it quickly goes to them saving dogs, cats and confronting people who abuse these animals!

Watch the show - don't let this get cancel!!!
Go to their website http://www.rescueink.org/
Support the cause - Stop the abuse!!!!

Laying in the Grass

2009-09-25T09:47:00.003-05:00

I did the responsible thing and had Scarlet spayed this week. When she was picked up, she came home with pain meds and the long list of "Things Not To Do". The first night she slept mostly but by the second day, you couldn't tell she even had surgery. I'm talking radical dog here! My husband and I have tried our best to keep her from running, jumping up in our laps, and even keeping her from going in the backyard with the other critters in order for her not to bust a stitch. By Wednesday she was walking around the house with, if it's possibly a much sadder look on her face. So in between rain showers, I put her leash on and I let her lay in the cool wet grass. I have a happier Basset now.

Printer Problems?

2009-09-10T14:27:00.001-05:00

Volunteer Fire Department

2009-09-10T14:15:00.003-05:00

If you live in a drought area, pray for no fire! I say this because if you live near Edna, Texas this might be your volunteer fire department!

To answer any confusion, yes that's a goat, tied to a fire hydrant! Burn Ban is in effect people!

Anyone Up for a Mani/Pedi

2009-09-10T14:07:00.005-05:00

This is how a Mani/Pedi goes down at the farm:

A.) round up 2 of your BFF's,

B.) approach the animal as if nothing's going on,

C.) whatever you do, DON'T LET GO

Chic Fall Fashions

2009-08-19T20:50:00.006-05:00

As a new owner of a Basset Hound, I'm starting to learn the tricks of the breed. A Basset's ears are something that stands out with this breed and is also the first thing to slap you in the face after getting a drink of water, running through wet grass or even her new favorite thing - the mud puddle in the backyard. Believe me, midnight walks in grass already covered in dew is one thing, but to have those wet ears slapping you in the face as you receive "thank you" licks is something else.

The must have chic fall fashion is the Snood! No, you're not going to see this in the top fashion mags or even on the runway in New York, but trust me Snoods are a must have! I did some searching and found the place to get your all year around Snood fashions. I must give a shout out to Deb and the "Staff", Jingle & Louise (The Howlin Hounds) at http://www.gotsnoods.com/ for the friendly, prompt service and wide selections of snoods. I was able to pick not only the right size, but the fabric of my choice.

Scarlet sporting her "causal" leopard print snood.

This is ideal for everyday wear.

Scarlet with the more "evening or formal" snood.

Yes ladies, those are magenta sequins - eat your heart out.

Reason #1

2009-08-13T11:41:00.003-05:00

Reason #1 to not have a mail slot in your front door if you own pets!

This could be the reason why email was invented.

Paws by the Pool

2009-08-10T20:23:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, my husband and I were invited to join the Galveston Island Humane Society's fundraiser "Paws by the Pool". We had a great time, and we took both of our dogs in a cause to raise money for the new Galveston Island Animal Shelter that was destroyed by Hurricane Ike.

It's hard to get a good picture of our Great Dane, Sully without him looking like Bigfoot (a blur). Somehow we managed to get a great family photo taken.

If you would like to donate to the Galveston Island Humane Society, or see the available pets ready to be adopted, please visit www.galvestonhumane.org

Please support your local animal shelter.

MARCO........

2009-08-10T20:16:00.004-05:00

POLO.....

Marco???????

Polo!!!!

But Miss Scarlet............

2009-07-30T20:26:00.004-05:00

The "Diva" of Carms Farm, Nadean has met her match! That's right, something has knocked Nadean and her head-butting ways down a peg. That something is my new puppy, Scarlet.

A 4 month old Basset Hound has gotten Nadean all confused, and it's a funny sight to watch a short legged dog try her hardest to run after a goat.

Notice the hair, ears and you can almost make out the look on Nadean's face, um no ok try this picture..
Yes, Nadean has the same look on her face as the ladies did in the classic film Gone with the Wind whenever Miss Scarlet walked into a room.

Welcome the newest member of Carms Farm, Miss Scarlet. It's been a long time since I had a puppy, and believe me she's quick to remind me of what I thought I had forgotten.

What A Life

2009-07-26T11:59:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone is having a nice relaxing weekend!!!

**Houdini

Egg Intro 101

2009-07-24T21:34:00.003-05:00

Dear Hen House, just what is going on with the eggs?

Many people have asked me what's the difference between brown eggs and white eggs.

The answer is simple-the breed of the hen determines the color of the egg.

Welcome to "Egg Intro 101"

Color has no relationship to egg quality, flavor, cooking characteristics or nutritive value.

Brown-egg layers are hens derived from the Rhode Island Red, New Hampshire and Plymouth Rock breeds. Since brown-egg layers are slightly larger birds and require more food, brown eggs are usually more expensive than white.

Yolk color depends on the hen’s diet.

CAGE-FREE EGGS: Eggs laid by hens at indoor floor operations, sometimes called free-roaming hens. The hens may roam in a building, room or open area, usually in a barn or poultry house, and have unlimited access to food and water.

FREE-RANGE EGGS: Eggs produced by hens raised outdoors or that have access to the outdoors, as weather allows. In addition to consuming a diet of grains, these hens may forage for wild plants and insects and are sometimes called pasture-fed hens. The insects and other organic matter in the diet of free-range hens may result in such a very small increase in egg protein content that it’s considered insignificant. The nutrient content of eggs from the same breed of hen fed the same diet is not affected by whether hens are raised free-range or in floor or cage operations.

**Big Carms Farm eggs are free-range**

CALORIES: The calorie count for eggs varies with size.

Egg Size Calories

Small 54
Medium 63
Large 72
Extra Large 81
Jumbo 90

For more information, and great cooking recipes on the incredible edible egg visit:

www.incredibleegg.org

Who Ate the Mater Plants?

2009-07-18T17:34:00.002-05:00

Enough Said!

To Make Them Feel At Home

2009-07-07T20:25:00.002-05:00

Do you remember as a kid catching crickets, grasshoppers, or frogs and begging to your mom, aunt or grandma for some sort of jar to put them in. Do you remember going back outside to collect leaves, grass and sticks to bring to your catch as if to make them still feel they're free?

I'm bringing that feeling back to you, because that's exactly what we did with our quail.

Yes, that's a tree branch in with the quail!

Oh By the Way

2009-06-30T19:46:00.003-05:00

It was brought to my attention that our newest members of the farm are not on the blog.

Oh by the way, we have quail.

updated pictures to come later.

Congrats to the Arlington Family

2009-06-29T18:05:00.003-05:00

The Arlington family has increased by 8!

Oreo the Momma Hen was eager to become a momma. She was unsuccessful hatching out her own eggs, but never wanted to give up. Eggs from another hen were placed under her and she hatched out 8 beautiful redheads. Mom and babies are doing just fine!

The Ferocity of a Mother's Love

2009-06-25T09:38:00.006-05:00

Look at the dog's face.... He has to be thinking: What just happened? Did I just get my a** kicked by a squirrel"

Welcome to the Country you City Girl

2009-06-12T19:34:00.008-05:00

Dear Mom & Dad,

I'm doing great out here at Aunt Car and Uncle Mike's. I'm meeting new friends, and playing a lot. At first I was a bit nervous but I'm having fun, it's better than camp! There's so much room to run around and the frisbee goes a long way. I had Aunt Car take pictures for you:

Here's me with real live chickens! I had only seen chickens on TV counting to the number 4! (Coming back from the shore)

Look mom, I'm really far.

They don't have water like at home, their water comes from a well and it's really cold.

This is Nadean, she kept trying to head-butt me, and Aunt Car would yell at her.

After Aunt Car would yell at her, her hair on her back would stick up like a mohawk. It was funny.

Before I went back inside, I went to go say hi to Daisy.

As you can see, I'm having fun. I miss you both and I love you. Tell Devyn and Coral I said hello.

Love,

Roxy Johnson

Memorial Day Weekend 2009

2009-05-26T18:09:00.005-05:00

What a busy Memorial Day Weekend we had. We headed up to the kinfolks at http://www.weepingwillowfarm.blogspot.com/ for many different reasons.

1. Someone was getting married

2. My cousin (HEY GIRL) had surgery and Big Carms Farm was taking her

"Get Well Quail" (because Hallmark just doesn't say enough)

3. The kids wanted to play hide-n-seek

4. Had to get involve in some mouse-bopping. (don't ask, injuries were sustained)

Overall Memorial Day Weekend 2009 was a success and as always had a wonderful time at the Weeping Willow Farm. Thanks Cuz, for the many laughs - You Too!

When Pet Owners Officially Lose Their Minds -part 3

2009-05-17T14:38:00.004-05:00

For those of you that follow my blog, you know how I tease my fellow pet owners about dressing up their pets. I call this group of pet lovers "the pet owners that have officially lost their minds" and I love you all for this because you add excitement to my blog.

I have reson to believe that the current chart topper of Iowa (you know who you are), has been knocked down a peg. I received a photo last night, which I give kudos to this source for sending to me, of a dog that on a normal day would be black and white. Yesterday wasn't a normal day for this dog - it's now pink and black. YES you read correctly.

Congrats to the new pet owner that has officially lost their mind!!!!!!

**no animals were harmed in this bizarre act

That's a Huge Bunny Rabbit

2009-05-10T12:25:00.006-05:00

Bunny has gotten so big that she now has "a little too much fullness on the sides". Watch out Rabbit, this could happen to you. I take it as a sign of happiness!

90 Pound Lap Dog

2009-05-09T09:12:00.003-05:00

Note from Sully,

Who says 90 pounds is too big to be a lap dog? I see room on the couch for me to sit next to and nearly on top of you. You're just sitting there watching TV and not really doing anything. I really think I could fit in that open spot on the couch. Yes, I know I can, look out here I come!

Rub-A-Dub-Kitty-In-Tub

2009-04-28T19:20:00.005-05:00

My deaf cat appeared today after many days of thunderstorms and I wondered what marvelous places she had been since she was no longer white. Look at her head!!!

Not having this, I tried to talk my husband into bathing the cat - not having that, I ended up bathing the cat. Notice the "look to kill" piercing through the camera at me as if to say "You B!&^h".

After much scrubbing, at last a white cat again. Notice the same "look to kill" stare she's giving me.

She'll get over it!

With Love from Burlington, IA

2009-04-23T13:32:00.001-05:00

Peeves that Dogs Have About Humans...

2009-04-23T13:15:00.001-05:00

1 Blaming your farts on me..... not funny... not funny at all !!!
2 Yelling at me for barking. Hello, I'm a DOG!
3 Taking me for a walk, then not letting me check stuff out. Exactly whose walk is this anyway?
4 Any trick that involves balancing food on my nose. Stop it!
5 Any haircut that involves bows or ribbons. Now you know why we chew your stuff up when you're not home.
6 The sleight of hand, fake fetch throw. You fooled a dog! Woooo Hoooooooo what a proud moment for the top of the food chain.
7 Taking me to the vet for 'the big snip', then acting surprised when Ifreak out every time we go back!
8 Getting upset when I sniff your guests. Sorry, but I haven't quite mastered that handshake thing yet.
9 Dog sweaters. Hello ??? Haven't you noticed the fur?
10 How you act disgusted when I lick myself. Look, we both know the truth. You're just jealous. -

Now lay off me on some of these things. We both know who's boss here! You don't see me picking up your poop do you?

Excuse me Ma'am, but is that a goat in your kitchen?

2009-04-09T17:42:00.005-05:00

Why yes it is, thank you for asking

She's hunting for Wheat Thins or her new favorite Tostitos Scoops

Look she can sit pretty for a chip

Don't Mess with this Rabbit!!!!

2009-04-07T10:45:00.001-05:00

Here's Comes the Easter Bunny & Easter Rabbit

2009-04-06T17:35:00.003-05:00

Since it's that time of year where children go sit on a giant Rabbit's lap and the yard has small tidbits of brightly color eggs sort of in hiding, it was time to track the Bunny and Rabbit of the farm. I was happy to get pictures of them during daylight hours, having to sneak up on one and tempt the other with oats.

Blowout the candles and make a wish birthday girl

2009-03-31T18:22:00.003-05:00

Nadean is sporting a new pink collar but I think her favorite present was a box of wheat thins.

Happy 1st Birthday

2009-03-31T09:53:00.007-05:00

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday Nadean

Happy Birthday to you

I can't believe you're 1 - let's look back at the year:

Daisy Doodle 1995-2009

2009-03-21T15:17:00.004-05:00

Today, my beloved cocker spaniel of 14 years, Daisy passed away. It was a hard decision to make but one I know was the best. I will deeply miss Daisy, she was my best friend and soul mate. She knew only unconditional love! I know she's in a much better place without any pain to be able to chase tennis balls once again. Words can't express, how much I will miss her.

Birgus latro

2009-03-19T15:22:00.003-05:00

Birgus what???? ok try this Coconut Crab. The Coconut Crab is the largest terrestrial arthropod in the world. It's known for its ability to crack coconuts with its strong pincers in order to eat the contents. Large edible land crab related to the hermit crab and are found in the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans. We're talking a crab that is more than 3 feet from head to tail and weighs up to 40 pounds (not to mention with a pair of large pincers strong enough to open coconuts)!

Here's a picture to give you a visual, of a Coconut Crab on an average size trash can.

Moving On Up

2009-03-18T19:18:00.002-05:00

The chicks have moved on up - to a one room condo. They started out in the kitchen and then it was into a large rabbit pen to now a huge condo with a limited view.

Pet Owner Officially Lose Their Minds - STRIKES AGAIN

2009-03-12T12:35:00.001-05:00

There's no holiday, they aren't prepared for. It's just too much to handle!!!

**Darby Hellyer