The Coop

I laugh as I write this. "The Coop" was once a place where the Frenchman and I (and most of our families and friends) used to go to dance on Saturday nights when we were dating and living in Maine. It was a barn with picnic tables lining the inside and the house band was the Ritcher family who owned the place. Strictly BYOB. They played for our wedding reception. It was quite a party!

The coop that we are installing is not as fun, but it's definately as creative. The Frenchman has built this chicken tractor (movable coop) from recycled PVC pipe and recycled PVC fence material. The only thin we bought was the wire and a few latches. 1/2" wire is suggested to keep snakes and things out, so here we go.

Here it is!

I'm proud that this talented carpenter has always been interested in reusing every scrap and has made some beautiful furniture from it in the past. We rescued a side table today from the landfill. I'll post that project as we get it underway along with the raise beds, and maybe a salad growing table. (He's sucha good sport).

The Dogs approve, too!

Saturday Morning at the Cottage

Ahh, to sleep in one day a week. It's such a guilty pleasure! The dogs and I puttered around all morning; I read and made sandwiches for the event, the dogs napped, and the Frenchman is in the yard working on the new chicken coop. Today I'm preparing to go to the bridal shower of a beautiful young woman, the bride of our young Director of Worship, Tom. The church will overflow with well wishes for them today and I'm excited to go.

Open Face Cucumber Sandwiches

3 small cucumbers (peeled if waxed) and sliced thin
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 package dry Italian dressing mix
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 sour cream
1 loaf rye cocktail bread (or regular loaf cut in half)
dill weed to garnish

Mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayo, and dressing mix together and refrigerate (overnight is best)
Spread each piece of bread with cream cheese mix, place a cucumber slice or two on top and garnish with dill.