The Miracle of Birth!

On the way to Chicago, we stopped for a tour of the Fair Oaks Dairy in northern Indiana, a set-up specifically designed to make cows less stressed and more comfortable. They certainly seemed to be quite happy and well-adjusted, but it can be hard to tell; they tend to keep their feelings to themselves. Stoic creatures they are. Among the attractions was the birthing barn. Several pregnant cows are brought in daily to deliver before the audience, and I must admit, it was fascinating. Bossie did, however, need a little assistance due to the size of the calf. Behold:
Curiously, from what I've seen on TV and high-school hygiene movies, the process with cows appears much tidier than it is for humans -- well, except for the straps maybe.

With this enlightening and appropriate post, we also say:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
MR. WOODCHUCK!!!

(Bet they had to use the straps for you too...)

A Teaser

There's something about tomorrow that makes woodchucks stand up and take notice. . . .

Know Your Poultry!

The chicken goes: "Cluck, cluck."

The dodo goes: "¿Dónde está la fiesta?"

¡Hola!

¿Dónde está la fiesta?
I hear there's gonna be big doin's next week in the great northwest. So I'm trying to impress Hamster with my knowledge of Mexican culture, hoping he'll send me as his official representative

Pase el tequila, por favor.

Due to fatigue...

and a certain flagship state university not willing to release me from its clutches even though the semester is over, We are prevented from updating this blog at the present time. In the meanwhile, please enjoy this closely related post at another blog. Thank you for your attention and patience.

-- by Decree of The Hamster

It's Derby Day!

A very big and very fun day here in our all-glorious Commonwealth! Even I'll admit it almost makes living here worthwhile. Though I have the feeling the Imperial Hamster Steed & Jockey this year might not have been a good investment...
"And theeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey're off!!!"

Finals Week

The blood-curdling screams and soul-wrenching sighs you've probably been hearing from Iowa to Washington is just me grading papers and exams. Which also explains why there hasn't been a post in a while. Pity me...

Odds 'n Ends

Domestic Bliss!

We commissioned the Imperial Hamster Court Painter to render the new Mommy happily ensconced at home with her bundle of joy! Squirrel couldn't make it to pose since he was up to his ears in dirty diapers. Love ya, Mom!

Latest News!

Mrs. Squirrel and Baby Squirrel return home. Baby slept well first night. Film at 11:00. . .

It happened!!!

There's a new little rodent at Rogue Squirrel!!! Woohoo!!!

A new courtier

We have a new arrival at court! A charming and courteous marmot apparently from somewhere out west, eager to be of service to Our Imperial Rodentine Person.
I'm certain he's of sterling character and will prove loyal and devoted. Still, where he actually came from and how he came here appears to be a bit of a mystery. Likely I'm just a little paranoid. Most despots are, ya know...

Planning

"Oh great. Time to plan the company picnic again. I hate doing this. I just know they're going to complain that the nachos were cold last year..."

Rodent Global Influence

"Yeah, we told Squirrel we'd hide some nuts for him over the winter. I'm pretty sure we put 'em here, but heck, who knows? You wouldn't happen to have any krill on ya, huh???"

Easter Chills!

Yes, it's allegedly Spring and all, but the temps here this weekend are only going to be in the 40's. Hence the Easter Bunny decided to dress for the weather this year.Happy Easter to all! -- By Decree of the Hamster

Laid Low!

For those who are getting restive for a new post from your Beloved Despot, allow me to plead illness. A week ago (right as Spring Break started - damned karma!) we were struck with a very unpleasant little bug and ended up in bed for 3 days.
We have recovered now, but many a HamsterTask must be attended to (among other things, the Scottish railroads need some attention). We will be posting again soon!

Yours tyrannically - WH

"Come Saturday Morning..."

Ah! Another brisk Spring morning here in the all-glorious Commonwealth!
Here, the intrepid DG dusts off the driveway before making a quick run to Fresh Market (like for bottled water, canned goods, kindling, signal flares...). Excuse the quality of the pic; it was shot through a window. I sure ain't goin' out in this crap!

On the bright side, the house was filled with the pitter-patter of little webbed feet as the birds rushed excitedly to press their little beaks against the windows. How cute!
Even Butterball was excited.
No you know why it's no accident that this is the place they invented bourbon. We need it!

Blessed Squirrel Event-Salute #2

Ya know, with our particular breed of house birds, this ISN'T supposed to happen!

A little something...

in honor of the upcoming blessed squirrel event.

TR's cousin

"No! We don't ALL like cold weather, THANK YOU! Sheesh! Always the same stupid questions, even on vacation! Can't a bird get any peace???"