Day 1144 Grounded

 

Not much makes a chicken happier than a good spot for a dust bath — they love it! Watching my hens cover themselves in dirt, shake it off happily, and repeat the process is genuinely entertaining. Dust bathing is important for their self-grooming; it helps remove parasites, excess oils from their feathers, and keeps them clean and fresh. Evening dust baths made for a flock of content, relaxed hens.

My own bedtime came extra early. I had to pick up my son from the airport just before midnight, and I knew there was no way I’d stay awake that late without a nap. So, with the sun still shining, I tucked myself into bed by 6 p.m., snuggled in, and slept until 11. I wanted to be wide awake for the airport run — and I was. I’m thrilled to have him home for the weekend, his last weekend of being 38 years old… yikes!

Our plans? Lounging around, playing board games, taking long walks, and doing whatever else strikes our fancy — the world is our oyster. The house always feels more complete when the kids (yes, I'll still call him a kid) are home. It's a bit shocking how quiet it gets when it’s just Tim and me... though I’ll admit, we do enjoy the peace too.

On the drive home from the airport, we talked about how strange the house feels without our sweet Peps. The big question of when we’ll get another cat is on everyone’s mind. I still check the door each morning, half expecting to see her waiting to be let in. I’m not sure I’m ready just yet… I imagine it’ll happen impulsively, when the time feels right.

Just like my chickens, shaking off the excess dirt in a cloud of contentment, maybe I need to shake off the lingering sadness before I’m ready to open my heart to another kitty.

For now, I’m simply soaking in the joy of having my son home and letting the weekend unfold at its own pace. Sometimes, the best moments come when you’re not in a rush — just present, grateful, and grounded.