Jesse's Update

I finally talked to the vet.  The mass that was removed from Jesse's foot was cellulitus.  This is caused by a previous puncture to the area. 

We knew that there were two puncture marks, but could not come to a conclusion until the vet and I talked - a possible snake bite.  Which makes complete sense.

Thankfully, Jesse does not have cancer, but is going back to the vet today for removal of his stitches and medication.

(see blog post : Another Snake Came to Visit)

From what we've see around here, it could have been a nasty bite from a black water snake.  They are very aggressive snakes, and we have them in the creek, and the ditch that drains between the creek and the farm fields.   We've even seen them in our septic lines that feed to the cap area.    

From the Homesteading Journal . . .

. . . planted two types of potatoes, lettuce, red and yellow onions, spinach, arugula, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower and broccoli.  I picked some asparagus too.  We used the rain barrel water to water the vegetable plants we planted, and love it.  The rain barrel saves us water, and electricity (so we don't have to run the water pump to do it).  We definitely want two more barrels this year.

. . . weeded out the raised beds of strawberries.

. . . planted a rosemary plant and some organic basil seeds.

. . . planted organic sunflower seeds and two varieties of Shasta Daisies. 
  
 . . . dehyrdrated organic baby kale for dog treats (could not find organic, regular kale).

. . .made more homemade dog treats in the dehydrator.

. . . my 16 year-old made another batch of goat's milk soap.

. . . picked up a truck load of mulch for the flower beds.  I need another load.

. . .divided my Thyme and planted some around the front porch to ward of mosquitoes this year.  One of my "farm" books suggested this.  I will see if it helps this year.  If anything, I will have more to dry for winter tea and cooking.

. . .started crocheting washcloths for selling at the Farmer's Market.