Back Woods Farm

This morning I awoke to a 'meep' out in the field. This sound always puts a smile on my face because it is funny sounding and the bird is also awesome. Do you know what bird I am talking about? An American Woodcock . I love this birds cheerful disposition about life and have spent many spring evenings chasing them into the dusk.  So let's talk about birds. If you have stepped outside in the morning you know spring is coming because of all the singing that is happening outside. Another way to tell that the seasons are changing is that the Dark-Eyed Juncos are back. These small dark birds are a sure sign of season change at my house because they only stop at my feeders on their spring and fall migration before continuing on.  But how else are the birds telling us winter is over? Many know of the American Robin  being a sign of spring when we start to see them in March. Yes, it is always exciting to see the robins back on that bare patch of grass, but it isn't that they ...

      I am not perfect and even though I think these dog items are a must have and must use, I don't use them all, all the time. But listed below are things that should become common practice in all our lives. Don't worry they are easy! A 5ft leash - There are plenty of leashes to choose from in this category, but my favorite is this thick kind with some foam on the handle to help with human hand pain. I also like leashes that have an extra loop closer to the dog. I use that extra loop kind when I have to walk my dog through crowds, otherwise I use the other kind.  A Long Leash - There are times when you have to follow a leash law but you want your dog to have some freedom. A long leash (15ft- 21ft) is also a great tool to have when you are working on recall with your dog.  Teach your Dog to Come- Speaking of recall teach your dog to come! I can't stress this enough. Your dog knowing the command come can save their life, keep them from running off, and make you...

  As a dog owner, walker, and sitter, I deal with a lot of dogs, doggy products,  and doggy ideas and there are some products and ideas out there that just shouldn't be. Retractable Leashes- In theory these seem like a great idea but the number of injuries to humans and dogs from these make them a no go for me. Also you have no control over your dog when using them. Greenies- I know these are popular treats for dogs, but after almost having to hospitalize my Shepard due to a severe allergic reaction to these. Then I learned that it is fairly common for dogs to react this way to greenies.  Prong Collars- These collars have their time and place in training but for the common man these collars should not be used. The injuries I have seen due to the misuse of these collars is just sad.  Children Stuffed Toys- This one is a no brainer, if the toy isn't made for dogs, don't give it to them. The small glass eyes on children's toys can be hazardous to dogs and result in a tr...

 Weekend getaway anyone? Even though spring is around the corner winter still feels in very much here as we shoveled more snow this last week and maybe that has you thinking it is time for a vacation! How about Hampton Beach? I know the beach in the winter time? I'm not crazy it is actually really nice and where I went to escape my winter realities.  So first things first, you can find some really nice places right on the water for a fraction of the price right now. The airbnb I chose to stay in came with everything I needed and was only steps from the beach, would have costed me at least $299 a night in the summer but instead was just around $100 a night. It was awesome! Next, what about food? All the restaurants are going to be closed in the winter! Don't worry the Flamingo Coffee Bar was open for breakfast and lunch. This place was adorable and had some amazing looking doughnuts. For dinner the Ashworth Hotel   has a restaurant and bar inside for anyone to enjo...

 Ten Hangover Cures Number one cure for a hangover is to drink fluids . You get to choose if you want water or gatorade but start hydrating. Coconut Water is extremely hydrating. Did you forget to eat while you were drinking last night? Some hangovers are caused by your brain working without fuel. Try eating some carbohydrates. Your best option would be some toast and some juice. Eat slow if you are feeling nausea. Take a pain reliever. But avoid Tylenol! Aspirin and Ibuprofen are going to be your friend. Take one of these to help relieve the headache and other body aches. But don't take Tylenol as that will react with the alcohol and could cause liver damage.  Find yourself some Dunkins! Although there is no proven fact that caffeine will cure a hangover but the caffeine will help with the grogginess. Try some ginger tea for the nausea Find yourself some B Vitamin and Zinc Foods. The consumption of foods containing B vitamins and zinc have shown to reduce the severity of a...

      It is finally time to dust off the green! St. Patricks Day is right around the corner, the stores are filling with green like things and Salt Hill Pub is preparing for their all day feast. Let's see what all the options are for next week.      With St Patricks Day on a Friday this year why not look to get away for the  weekend! No need to go too far away, the Inn at Long Trail in Killington is the perfect St Patricks getaway. Here you can enjoy traditional Irish fare in a traditional Irish Pub. McGraths Irish Pub is run like a true pub in Ireland welcoming to everyone. Being the first pub to sell a Guinness pint in Vermont, they still continue to sell the most. If Guinness isn't your thing don't worry McGraths also has a large selection of Irish Whiskies to enjoy.     I understand maybe getting away for the weekend isn't possible, we all have those weekend obligations. Don't worry there is still plenty to do right here. On Friday Salt...