#royal palm turkey

[omies-odd-writing-spot]

His name is Jasper. The devourer of noodles.

Guess what?!

[delopsia]

Soft! Rhett thoughts:

Rhett has seen you around town a few times and thinks you’re beautiful, he bumps into you at the local diner and stutters his way through an introduction. Rhett feels so out of his element all the sudden ,he doesn’t know why he’s done things a lot scarier and stupider than asking a stranger out on a date but with sweaty palms and shaky hands he manages to ask you out (if mentioned later he’ll deny how he anxious he was). Since he doesn’t have much money it’s a picnic but since he burns anything he cooks he just prepares fruit, chips and sandwiches lol. You watch the sunset together and once night falls you ask him to name the stars and constellations for you, (at this point he’s pretty sure he’d do anything you ask). The two of you are laying in the bed of his truck with several blankets to lay on and to cover with, you fall asleep with your head on his chest as he quietly points out the stars whilst rubbing his hand against your back. (In the morning you’re both woken up by the sun and royal chews into rhett for being an hour late to work but rhett can’t seem to find it in himself to care)

Btw I am by no means a writer but I hope this thought made you feel better 🩷

Rhett being absolutely smitten and losing all of his usual confidence is so precious to me 😭 Why is hopping onto the back of a bull a million times easier than asking to get a coffee with you? Big dummy is so stressed about the question itself that he entirely forgets one crucial detail. The only place in town that serves coffee is closed due to a recent fire. Worse, you two are standing directly across the street from it, and the fire damage is ✨painfully obvious✨

"I! Uhm, sorry I forgot about...lunch? No—!" Because the coffee shop is also the only restaurant in town. Twenty something years in this town and he's blubbering like a damn tourist, ears red as can be, and heavily considering if he should just flee the country at this point. But then you suggest a late lunch in the park, and just like that, you've got him hook, line, and sinker. He's nodding his head without a second thought, like an obedient little puppy, entirely forgetting how far his wallet is stretched right now.

Rhett can make a decent sandwich, but he's fortunate enough that his amused mom hangs around in the kitchen to supervise and give him pointers, lest he drown that poor turkey sandwich in mayonnaise again. Perry makes like a vulture and lingers around for the inevitable mess-ups and extra fruits that are left over, and he's the only reason why Rhett doesn't walk out and forget the damn sandwiches on the counter 😭

Sitting on a blanket in the grass is cute for a little while, but the bugs arrive before the sandwich bags open. And somehow, you two find yourselves sitting on opposite sides of his truck bed, legs tangled and laughing about how Rhett nearly spilled the blueberries when a crane fly tried to land on him. Rhett's trying to save face, but it's hard to feel embarrassed when your laughter sounds like a melody sent straight from the heavens.

There's a selfish part of him that is absolutely thrilled when he realizes it's a chillier night than what he initially expected. You're scooting closer to him, muttering about the cold, and he's wrapping an arm around you, and you're cuddling into him like a cute little bug and, and

he's going to die.

The only thing that slows his racing heart is you asking about the constellations, and well, he can't help but tell you everything he knows. His deep voice is so soothing that at some point, he puts you to sleep, and :( he just melts. There's no way that he's comfortable in this truck bed, but somehow he falls asleep with his cheek resting against your forehead. You haven't the slightest clue about it, but come morning, you've got a cowboy wrapped around your finger 💕

[buttonbuckfarm]

Which heritage breeds are you raising on your farm?

so there’s not really distinct breeds of domestic turkeys, but there are named color varieties! all domestic turkeys are bred from North American wild turkeys and are genetically the same (and can breed back to wild turkeys). I talked about broad breasted turkeys in that previous ask, but the difference between broad breasted vs. heritage is not genetic but just a matter of selective breeding for different traits (like chard and beets!). like I mentioned in that post, I only raise heritage turkeys, which are longer lived and healthier overall.

I’m going to pull most photos here all from this website, which is like my bible: https://turkey-color-genetics.com/varieties-phenotypes/

as far as more common varieties go, I have bourbon buff (usually sold as bourbon red from hatcheries, but they’re not! Reds are much more… red!) , royal palm, and bronze (your “wild type” coloring).

My more unique varieties (these are my photos) are chocolate (I don’t have a good adult pic oops), calico, sweetgrass, what I thought was blue red bronze but I’m now thinking is blue Cornish palm, blue sweetgrass, and tri color mottled black (their mottling comes out more with every molt, so he only has a sparse few non black feathers atm!)

I’m limited in the photos I can add, so I’m gonna reblog with some genes I’m hoping to bring in as well, but I hope you appreciated this lil demonstration of the beautiful variety of turkey colors 🦃 ✨

[saritawolf]

Domestic Turkey (Royal Palm) (male) (Meleagris gallopavo domesticus) - (c) SaritaWolf - please do not repost

[magnetothemagnificent]

I am on Spring break so I finally get to focus on birding again! Today's birds:

Little blue heron

Black vulture

Great egret

Sandhill crane

Mourning dove

Cattle egret

Great blue heron

Anhinga

Double crested cormorant

Red winged Blackbird

Limpkin

Wood stork

White ibis

Muskovy duck

Boat-tailed grackle

American crow

American coot

Common gallinule

Common grackle

Glossy ibis

Palm warbler

Common grackle

Osprey

American purple gallinule

Wood duck

Red shouldered hawk

Pied billed grebe

Royal tern

Eastern Phoebe

Roseate spoonbill

Black-bellied Whistling duck

Tricolor heron

Northern harrier

Yellow rumped warbler

Tree swallow

Swallow tailed kite

Ring billed gull

Turkey vulture

Little blue heron

Mallard

White pelican

Red eyed vireo

Mulard

Pekin x Mallard Hybrid (there was this fascinating flock of ducks consisting of mallards, feral pekins, muskovy ducks, mulards (muskovy x mallard hybrid), and Pekin/mallard hybrids)

Feral American pekin

[aestheticcore]

For the Love of my Cottagecore

Yes, I am very much a heterosexual guy that gets moved by cottagecore stuff. Most people think it’s just for girls, but I refuse to believe that. I am sure there are other heterosexual cottagecore guys out there as well, more than scared to come out an admit it. For me, cottagecore represents a sense of peace, simplicity, and connection to nature that goes beyond gender stereotypes. It’s about finding comfort and joy in the small things— wicker work, wood work, strumming guitars on a boat on a lake, flower gardens, herb beds, and vegetable patches that make me feel grounded and content. The rustic charm of cottages and cabins surrounded by stone laid walls resonates deeply with my love for a cozy, uncomplicated life, where everything is in its place and within easy reach. An old wood tool box in the corner of my work shop and a heavy leather apron ready to be warn. A grinding stone and a wall lined with tools. It’s a lifestyle that invites me to slow down, savor the moment, and enjoy the natural rhythms of the world around me.

Living on a small 50-acre farm in Chehalis, I experienced this lifestyle firsthand and it shaped my love for cottagecore even more. The warmth of the land, the smell of fresh earth, and the simple pleasures of rural life filled me with a profound sense of fulfillment. Mornings spent tending to flower beds and herb gardens, afternoons working in the vegetable patches, and evenings cuddled up in a cozy cabin or cottage—these are the moments that truly nourish my soul. I miss the quiet serenity of watching the sun set over fields of tall grasses, the gentle hum of bees in the blooms, and the feeling of the sun on my skin as I work in the garden.

My days on the farm were filled with a variety of animals—goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese, and even 2 sheep. My best friend was a royal palm turkey named Huck, who used to follow me everywhere and we would play tag. I miss him. And Buster the Highland Sheep became the "guard dog" of my goat heard. I loved caring for them all, seeing them thrive, and sharing my space with these creatures that brought so much life and joy to my environment. Raising animals gave me a sense of purpose and connection to nature that’s hard to find elsewhere. I enjoyed collecting fresh eggs, Making Feta Cheese, making wine from the concord grape orchard , baking tons of apple cakes and pies, the cakes and breads I baked with duck eggs, watching the goats play in the fields, and listening to the peaceful sounds of the farm at night. It was a life of hard work, but also one of deep reward and simple happiness. Wood carving and leather tooling till the sun went down. And all that mint tea I used to make (I had tons of mint everywhere)

One of my favorite memories is harvesting sunflowers and eating green beans right off the vine. There’s something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food and enjoying it in its freshest state. I also loved making wine from blackberries—an activity that combines patience, craftsmanship, and a touch of real magic. These small, tangible experiences—caring for plants, harvesting produce, creating something from nature—are what make cottagecore so meaningful to me. It’s about reconnecting with the earth and appreciating the cycles of growth, harvest, and renewal. Ever sit and watch chipmunks scamper on a pile of firewood? Its so therapeutic.

Star gazing at night was another favorite pastime. Lying under a vast, clear sky, I would marvel at the constellations and feel a sense of awe and humility. It’s a moment of quiet reflection, a reminder of how small we are in the grand scheme of things but also how beautifully interconnected everything is. That sense of wonder, the peacefulness of the night, and the simple pleasure of being present with the universe is something I cherish deeply. It’s these experiences that make cottagecore so appealing to me—they evoke a feeling of harmony with the natural world that’s rare in today’s fast-paced life.

Ultimately, my love for cottagecore isn’t about stereotypes or fitting into a mold; it’s about finding joy and meaning in a lifestyle that emphasizes authenticity, tranquility, and a deep bond with nature. It’s about creating a space where I can feel at peace, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world, and reconnecting with the simple pleasures of rural life. Whether I has tending my garden, caring for animals, building something or simply gazing at the stars, cottagecore offered me a sense of fulfillment and belonging that I wouldn’t trade for anything. And I would do it all again in a flash and dash if given the chance

[austinslounge]

I've said this before, but I truly believe Austin and Kaia are not in a good place right now in their relationship. Austin didn't go to the Gerber family wedding in Montana. He didn't go to Canada with the Gerber clan either for their family vacation. Kaia brought her friend Travis instead. I know Austin is prepping for his movie, but he could've taken a weekend off, if he wanted.

It's a huge red flag that Kaia's serious boyfriend of two years misses family events like that. Especially when Presley brought his girlfriend of only 6 months. To me, that seems like Austin is purposely trying to distance himself from her family. By not participating in intimate family events/vacations.

I personally don't think anything will happen on Austin's birthday. His JFK merch walk isn't anything I took seriously in regards to their status. He was doing Kaia a favor by helping promote her merch. It doesn't mean they will stay together.

Thank you Anon for mentioning this.

You know what, I'm going to have to see what happens after Austin is done filming "Caught Stealing", because I get the feeling that once he is in "work mode", he doesn't like to come out of it lol. 😅 Just little things I've picked up on about him based on what he and others have said about him over the years.

So I'll need to see how he behaves with the Gerbers after he's done with all this work he's got going on for this film. 😊

With that said, I totally agree with you that something definitely seems very off about them this year, and we haven't even seen him with her family since Cabo if I'm not mistaken (I'm not counting Presley's post of them together at Kaia's "Palm Royale" premiere), whereas last year, they were seen together with him a lot (family out to lunch, Kaia's fashion show, the Casamigos Halloween party, Rande hugging Austin from a private jet tarmac, the Casamigos event at Kaia's house, etc.)

This year it's been eerily silent. 👀

I've even noticed that Kaia herself must not be calling the paps much on herself or on her and Austin when they're in LA together anymore. We used to get tons of pap photos of them in LA together, but ever since Jan 2024 that stopped cold turkey it seems. 👀 Maybe he told her to tone it down in LA lol 😆

Anyway, yea just because a couple wears each other's merchandise, or even each other's actual clothes, it doesn't mean they can't still break up lol. 😅

[skyloftian-nutcase]

Actually, actually, actually! Idea! (But only if you like it.)

In HoS, it has literally been 10,000 years since all 3 died.

What if Shadow wasn't supposed to be all-the-way back? And the only reason he is is due to being the Hero?

What about Hemisi & Nabooru?

Who's to say Gdorf's magic would've even worked on them? What if they were already reincarnated by that point?

What if, even reviving their bodies would've resulted in little more than mindless puppets? (Honestly, I kinda wanna read about the shear horror on both their faces. Like, horror & panic on Gdorf's end & horror, but slight relief on Shadow's. Because he can only hope that whatever's keeping Nabooru from suffering the same fate as himself means that she's free.)

What if the only way to get them back fully was to do some pretty dark, nasty stuff? Like, legit bad, horrible stuff? What if Gdorf has to sacrifice their new incarnations to do so?

What if, in order to even bring Shadow back, he'd already done something bad? Though, due to the Hero's Spirit, he was able to get away with just the sacrifice of someone who'd been related to Shadow? Like a great x1000 times grandnephew or something?

What if Shadow learned of this? The betrayal.

Like, massive dark spell stuff. Which, I've always found it weird that he & the Twinrova were the legit only Gerudo with that shading, yet each of them used black magic.

So, that's what I think causes it. Black magic. Like, legit evil deeds.

Who knows, maybe that stuff actually corrupts the mind the more you use it? What if you have to stop cold turkey to stop the process?

What if Gdorf had stopped doing that stuff, but the Secret Stone tapped into that source & now it's sort of rotting his brain away?

Also, what's the deal with the Twinrova here? They evil witches? No?

Sorry, when I get started, my braims refuse to shut up. 😓

Don't be sorry, you're fine! ;D It's fun to talk theories and ideas!

Ganondorf would be so devastated if Nabooru and Hemisi were just mindless puppets, I think. But I also think he wouldn't give up. He'd just be like "Well, this is a setback, but at least they'll listen to me until I can figure this out better." I don't know if Link would feel much relief from it or just be plain horrified, it would feel like such a desecration to him.

If they'd actually reincarnated, though, and if Ganondorf needed to sacrifice them to revive them, I wonder whose Nabooru would be? The best person I can think of is Urbosa, which, uh, makes things difficult. Should've thought that one through, Gan, before your stupid Calamity wrecked teh place! >:|

But anyway, Ganondorf isn't using black magic - Urbosa and Riju have lightning magic, which Gdorf also has in OoT, so honestly it seems very much like the Hyurle Royal Family - they just have a high affinity for it. (also, not gonna lie, Twinrova plays absolutely no part in this storyline because I don't know what to do with those two, honestly)

What Ganondorf does have, though, which is unusual for his people, is healing magic. I thought it would be interesting to give him this gift, it would add another layer to him as a character, especially since he actually cultivated it a little. Here's a snippet from a draft I have tucked away (I have been writing entirely too much for this AU LOL I am gonna have to make a word document to organize it, honestly):

“Here, let me see your hands,” Ganondorf said, pushing Link away enough to gently grab at his wrists. He flipped the teenager’s palms up, thumbs brushing against them as Link hissed in pain. His skin was blistered angry red from burns, standing out easily against his all-too-pale, practically grayish complexion, and he knew his face probably was too. Ganondorf swiped at his hands again with his thumbs, and Link felt a tingling, warm sensation on them. The pain numbed into nothingness, and he glanced down, confused. The burns were gone. “How—you know healing magic?” He whispered, looking up at the man. “Is it the stone?” Ganondorf smiled a little, brushing hair out of his face to examine a burn on his nose. “Secret stones only amplify one’s power, Link. Of course I know healing magic. You thought I didn’t?” Link hesitated a moment before just saying what was on his mind, looking down and muttering, “I thought all you knew how to do was destroy.” “One has to burn the forest to make way for new growth,” Ganondorf replied simply, easily, as if it were just like gardening, as if people’s lives weren’t at stake. “A good king must know how to rebuild as well as how to destroy.” “You’re just full of idioms, aren’t you?” Link sighed. It was almost funny, having this conversation. Almost. “Because I’m right,” Ganondorf said firmly. “Nabooru and Hemisi didn’t seem to think so.”

[riddles-n-games]

Hawthorne Poultry: The Specialties

Welcome to part four aka part two of part three of the poultry headcanon! Once again, thank you to the lovely @hathorneheiress for sharing her expertise on chickens in her posts of this headcanon series and her contributions to this collaboration. It's been lovely working with you and tossing ideas back and forth.

Nash: Given that he's a bit of an old fashioned guy, this man really just opted for turkeys. He used to raise Bourbon Red but then turned his efforts to the Royal Palm breed. Some are still around in a small flock, his old show birds, but it was getting to the point the workload was too much and he didn't want to be in that anymore. However, because he is still most comfortable with chickens, he has been experimenting with raising the ancestral species they come from; the Red Junglefowl. Nash wanted to give them more of the natural habitat they'd be used to so he set up an area of the greenhouse where they could in a humid environment with plants and food that they would normally encounter. So far, they have been doing well and he's been a successful breeder with every generation further along. One time, when he was ten, in a rare, once-in-a-lifetime moment in the documented history of the Hawthorne family did the old man and him have a genuine bonding time when his grandfather planned a surprise for Nan and Zara by unveiling a new section in the garden from his annual additions to the estate with a gorgeous pond with aquatic plants and light up fountains. He wanted to add some nice birds and to help with that, Nash suggested swans and so Tobias bought a pair of Mute Swans. Zara and Nan were delighted. The swans regularly have cygnets that can be seen on the property roaming during spring and summer. In recent times, now that Nash got engaged to Libby, he wanted to get something special for her and Avery told him that she loves birds, peacocks being near and dear to her. So, some new additions to the estate include Green Peafowl, Spalding (Indian x Green Peafowl), and Congo Peafowl. With their beautiful plumage, they're quite the sight to see when strolling in the gardens and are great companions when one has ice cream in hand. Libby loves them and Nash got her peachicks to raise herself as well.

Grayson: He prefers pheasants and raises three species; the Ring-Necked, Golden, and Lady Amhurst's. That is, until he fell in love with Silver Pheasants which are just as majestic. Gray always loved their colorful feathers as a child, collecting them and making feather crowns. He'd run around and play King of the Forest with Jameson and Xander sometimes. The Lady Amhurst's Pheasant is his favorite and at times, when he needed a distraction or a time out from everything, he would take one of the birds and just pet them. Somehow, he never had strugglers, they always liked sitting on his lap and would peck at him if he stopped petting them so of course he would have to start again.

Jameson: His biggest investment and love of birds lies with ducks. His grandfather got him his first set of Indian Runners when he was a kid and the ducklings loved following him around. Eventually, his collection of ducks grew when Nash found an old Muscovy female with a bad leg abandoned at a rundown poultry farm. Strangely enough since Xander was the one who usually connected with the rescues most, it was rather odd when it was Jameson instead that became attached to the duck. She loved him too and would happily vocalize whenever she heard his voice or saw him coming. He named her Martha but he likes to call her Smarties or Marty. Dramatic Xan likes calling her Martine in a ridiculous French accent or Martini. After that, their grandfather got a few additional ones to stay on the property. To this day, she’s still around with the Muscovy Bunch as the brothers call them and Avery loves her, too. Jameson also shares a Chinese goose pair with his younger brother that are the first attempt at Hawthorne guard geese. He owns the male that he named Boris and though the male goose didn’t respond to his mate at first because he was a bit shy, he soon became really protective of her and their goslings. One of Jameson’s newer projects, inspired by Nash, is owning Ocellated Turkeys, very brightly colored birds. He and Avery are teaming up to explore this uncommon choice of poultry for raising alternatives to see if there are any advantages and unexplored benefits compared to the industry's current standards. It is one of their newest exploits in the agriculture expanse of research they're funding under Avery. He also personally owns a few emus as pets. When he was a toddler, one of his favorite shows was Elmo's World so when he got his first and his aunt tried to get him to say emu, he said Elmo instead. Elmo is his oldest male in the flock and still running the joint. Also, he loves Australia and so after one visit there, he wanted a part of it to always be with him because he couldn't live there since everybody forbade him (he and Max are basically besties because they have no self preservation since who the heck wants to live in one of the SCARIEST places on Earth where there are literally some of most venomous species of spiders and snakes, the largest crocs, and sharks???????????????; they probably went on vacay together at one point and Avery and Xander were praying for them every other moment they were there). He also hates ostriches with a passion. Probably from that one time where he got chased as a kid and one singled him out constantly.

Xander: He has the best of them all; an ostrich! There's one female that he accidentally imprinted on when she was hatching and of course, he was given the very hard task of being a single father at the very young, unfortunate age of five. Day one, he came back to his room sweating and fell asleep on the floor with a very happy ostrich chick running around him. It was a great day in memories for the photo albums. Xan named her Shea Butter because, of course, five-year-olds think everything is a great name. She is now a third time parent but even though she is still a part of the bigger flock belonging to his grandfather, Shea is considered a pet. She acts like a very big dog that sometimes has to be reprimanded (the Cowpalooza of 2010 is a testament to that but more on that later). Xander decided that one ostrich is already enough work but enjoys their smaller distant cousins known as rheas. He has a trio and yes, they all are named after Pokémon counterparts (it wasn't just a phase, he said, and still stands by them); Dodrio, Doduo, and Staraptor (that last one is debatable). Two are females and one is a male. They are also pets but Xander does love a good rhea egg salad (surprising, I know) occasionally. As said before, he and Jameson share a goose pair and he has ownership of the female who he calls Honkette (not his best naming according to Jamie). She is the fiercer of the two and scares away anything and anyone (even Xander at times if she accidentally mistakes him for another; he cries in his room after these great betrayals). The only person she does trust around the babies is Xan, though. Now, Xander is the pigeon expert in the family and the only one that tolerates the cooing buggers (Nash and Jameson both have... grudges to say the least; that trip to Venice was not a good one). Grayson is the only one that has expressed interest in breeding them and he loves the ones with feathered legs (Xander is surprised it took him so long but it finally happened). He breeds Indian Fantails-they were his introductory birds to fancy pigeon breeding-Oriental and Parlor Rollers, and his absolute favorite; Homing Pigeons! He mostly got into these guys because he loves the history surrounding them: espionage, mail and wartime message carriers, and their cool ability of being able to find home with a magnetic component in their beaks that gives them this capability. He has been trying to use them here and there to spy on his brothers from the outside; his brothers sometimes have said they felt eyes on them from somewhere outside and a curious cooing of a pigeon.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 2.28

202 BC – Liu Bang is enthroned as the Emperor of China, beginning four centuries of rule by the Han dynasty. 870 – The Fourth Council of Constantinople closes. 1525 – Aztec king Cuauhtémoc is executed on the order of conquistador Hernán Cortés. 1638 – The Scottish National Covenant is signed in Edinburgh. 1835 – Elias Lönnrot signed and dated the first version of the Kalevala, the so-called foreword to the Old Kalevala. 1844 – A gun explodes on board the steam warship USS Princeton during a pleasure cruise down the Potomac River, killing six, including Secretary of State Abel Upshur. President John Tyler, who was also on board, was not injured from the blast. 1922 – The United Kingdom ends its protectorate over Egypt through a Unilateral Declaration of Independence. 1925 – The Charlevoix-Kamouraska earthquake strikes northeastern North America. 1947 – February 28 Incident: In Taiwan, civil disorder is put down with the death of an estimated 28,000 civilians. 1958 – A school bus in Floyd County, Kentucky hits a wrecker truck and plunges down an embankment into the rain-swollen Levisa Fork river. The driver and 26 children die in one of the worst school bus accidents in U.S. history. 1959 – Discoverer 1, an American spy satellite that is the first object intended to achieve a polar orbit, is launched but fails to achieve orbit. 1966 – A NASA T-38 Talon crashes into the McDonnell Aircraft factory while attempting a poor-visibility landing at Lambert Field, St. Louis, killing astronauts Elliot See and Charles Bassett. 1969 – The 1969 Portugal earthquake hits Portugal, Spain and Morocco. 1974 – The British election ended in a hung parliament after the Jeremy Thorpe-led Liberal Party achieved their biggest vote. 1975 – In London, an underground train fails to stop at Moorgate terminus station and crashes into the end of the tunnel, killing 43 people. 1983 – The final episode of MAS*H airs, with almost 110 million viewers. 1985 – The Provisional Irish Republican Army carries out a mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary police station at Newry, killing nine officers. 1986 – Olof Palme, 26th Prime Minister of Sweden, is assassinated in Stockholm. 1993 – Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) agents raid the Branch Davidian church in Waco, Texas with a warrant to arrest the group's leader David Koresh starting a 51-day standoff. 1997 – An earthquake in northern Iran is responsible for about 1,100 deaths. 1997 – A Turkish military memorandum resulted with collapse of the government in Turkey. 2001 – The 2001 Nisqually earthquake, having a moment magnitude of 6.8, with epicenter in the southern Puget Sound, damages Seattle metropolitan area. 2002 – During the religious violence in Gujarat, 97 people are killed in the Naroda Patiya massacre and 69 in the Gulbarg Society massacre. 2013 – Pope Benedict XVI resigns as the pope of the Catholic Church, becoming the first pope to do so since Pope Gregory XII, in 1415. 2023 – Two trains collide south of the Vale of Tempe in Greece, leading to the deaths of at least 57 people and leaving 58 missing and 85 injured.

[luasworkshop]

Evander’s Peacocks

Evander is fond of, but not sentimental about his peacocks.  He finds their care and breeding to be interesting and entertaining, and working on developing new colors and lines suits his disposition with hobbies.  He is intent on their good care, and they are given much space and enrichment to just be peacocks.  While he has no hangups about some of them finding their way to the dinner table (an inevitability of breeding fowl) some do end up with names, and their personalities become clear among those that frequent his gardens.  A few birds of current note are:

Barnaby (India Blue - Blue): A stunning, albeit straightforward example of his species, he is notable for being extremely personable and friendly.  He will seek out attention and can be somewhat belligerent about it.  Evander is charmed by his brashness, although he can be a little aggressive about getting what he wants.  He is a lap-sitter and loves head scritches.  He is also an escape artist - though he’s terrible at getting back IN where he’s supposed to be, so he usually gives himself up by screaming to be let back in.

Heron Jr. (AKA Heron II, Junior) (India Blue - Charcoal Black Shoulder): The very first chick hatched in the marvelous incubator Evander had commissioned from Heron @victoryinsolace​ (a thing full of magic and gears that turns, candles, and maintains appropriate temperature all on it’s own.)  The name was something of an accident but it stuck.  He is a handsome bird almost too good to be true, and has proven to have a gentle and curious disposition.  He is not as outgoing as Barnaby, but likes attention when it is given to him.

Bunny (India Blue - Peach):  The favorite bird of the magician couple that live on Evander’s property - she is most often seen around their place, hoping for a treat.  She is very bold and unafraid, and a very nimble girl.  While not too inclined to escape, she does like to get herself in tight spaces and lay in the most inconvenient places possible.  Still - she produces beautiful offspring and the hassle of tracking her down once she’s broody is well worth it.

Gaspar (India Blue - Albino): A recent addition and a refugee from Lucio’s menagerie (likely acquired around the same time as Yeshe @the-iron-orchid​ met Arjun), this bird is notable among Evander’s other white peacocks for being a true albino - most white peacocks are, in fact, Leucistic with normal colored eyes and skin, just white feathers (as is the case for all of Evander’s white birds - and several others that had previously belonged to Lucio.)  He’s quite the personality, but Evander is curious about his true albinism, and if he can produce healthy chicks.  He doesn’t quite seem to know how to behave, and he varies between sweet and entreating to feisty and aggressive.  He is currently being treated with a gentle hand to see if it is simply a result of having been previously poorly socialized,  He has, at least, turned into a reasonable member of the flock, even if his behavior with humans can be less than ideal.

Helen (Heritage Turkey - Royal Palm) and Medea (India Blue - Purple): Helen was a gift from a well-meaning relative who thought Evander’s flock could use some variety.  She ended up pair bonding with Medea and the two are usually found picking around together.  Interestingly, both are older birds who have gone through what has colloquially been called “hennopause” where female birds take on more male characteristics due to shifting hormones or other physiological change.  Each bird seems to think she is the more dominant partner, and busies herself picking out treats and sunning spots and dust baths for the other.  Medea was an important breeder for her color, although with her changes, she no longer lays, she is still an interesting looking bird as she takes on the more vibrant male plumage.

[delopsia]

The first thing you and Bob learn about Rhett is that he's a fancy dress and a fairy Godmother away from being a damn Disney Princess.

And the night that you met him and Bob was your first warning sign.

The three of you were curled into the back of his truck, sipping on drinks and fighting through a bout of uncomfortable silence, when all of a sudden, a bird landed on Rhett's boot. A little house finch, eyeing up the handful of sunflower seeds in his hand.

And out went Rhett's big hand, dirty palm full of more seeds than that little finch could possibly need. "D'ya think I can convince 'em to come home with me?"

Your head cocked to the side as you watched the bird hop right into his hand. Fearless. "That might cost you a lot of seeds."

"Are birds your favorite animal?" Bob had hummed. Some deep rumbling of words that had no right to sound as wonderful as they did.

"Nah," Rhett's head shook a little too fast, sending the bird fleeing to the safety of the roof of his truck. "don't think I got a favorite, actually."

For the longest time, you couldn't wrap your mind around why that was.

He's late to your second date because he's chased a stray kitten up a tree. Walks in the front door with his hair sticking out in every direction; doesn't realize that he's lost his hat because he's too busy apologizing for being so late. Midway through your meal, a little orange head pops out the neck of his shirt, defiantly yelling for a bite of Bob's raisin bread.

And that is how you meet Raisin.

Short for Raisin' Hell.

Raisin' Hell gets up on the kitchen counter two nights later and knocks several of Cecelia's beloved fine china onto the floor.

You'll never forget how Cecelia's voice traveled through the phone. "If y'dont get rid of that damn cat, then I will!"

Fortunately, Bob's friend Natasha is so enthralled with the story that she makes a pitstop in Wyoming to pick up the little ball of fluff. Justifying the adoption with a, "What can I say? The kitten has good taste!"

Coincidentally, a week later, Bob mentions his buddy Jake sneezing and complaining of a cat allergy.

Then, one day, Rhett drops off the face of the Earth shortly after telling you that he's heading to a livestock auction. You and Bob already know that he's out to fetch a pair of donkeys because they've recently developed a hell of a coyote problem. Yet, you're already making bets on what extra animal is going to come with the donkeys.

He wakes you both up the next morning, begging you to join the video call the second you get the chance.

"Look!" Giddy, as he triumphantly points to the little figure in the pasture, "I found a mini version of my horse!"

And it's a little black Shetland pony, a senior who has been retired to the pasture life. Affectionately named Fred by the previous owner. He came as a package deal with two donkeys, Zig and Zag. Royal is livid about the extra mouth to feed, but Amy is already attached.

Fred lives a good two years out in the pasture before old age takes him on a cozy autumn afternoon. He's buried out by an Oak tree in the South pasture, and a lock of his mane forever rests in Rhett's old wooden chest. Right next to the urn of a childhood dog named Rascal and the manes of his first two horses, Winnie and Coal.

Rhett's buddy Archie wakes you with a text one summer night, demanding that you get a handle on your cowboy. And you don't know why until Bob calls later that morning, asking if you've heard about the turkey.

How Rhett got shitfaced and acquired a whole, live turkey is anyone's guess.

Teddy the Turkey doesn't ever really leave the ranch. Maybe out of fear of Thanksgiving, being wrangled by another drunk cowboy, or just plain acceptance of his situation. Hell, it could be all of the above.

It must be a drunk thing because Cecelia tells you that he's come home with all sorts of things, from a family of bunnies to countless opossums. Every dog on the ranch has made its way there due to Rhett.

Then comes the move, and for the longest time, you expect for Rhett to come in with an armload of puppies and kittens. If he's even so much as a minute late, you're suspicious until he rolls in the front door, certain that some little critter is going to be in tow.

But he doesn't bring home a damn thing.

One afternoon, your phone lights up with a black-and-white photo. An ultrasound of...something.

Bob's name flashes across the screen next. Who's ultrasound pictures did you steal?

Then comes Rhett one more time. Someone's gelding wasn't a fucking gelding.

Rhett's mare being pregnant was not on anyone's bucket list for the year. But he loves that horse to absolute pieces, and it comes as no surprise that he's already looking forward to having a second pair of legs running around.

Archie offers to buy the little foal off of him.

Rhett almost eats him alive.

You suppose you shouldn't be surprised about that, either.

The vet says that Isabela can be ridden for a few more months, but Rhett's so concerned about accidentally hurting her and her baby that rides stop the same day. For the foreseeable future, Isabela's adventures are limited to long walks through the trails on the ranch he works on.

But having his only horse out of commission means that Rhett's cowboy career just got a little tougher.

Enter Sparrow, a bay quarter horse whom Rhett leases from a friend.

At least he leases Sparrow for the first month and then decides that Sparrow is the new member of the family. Which works out better than planned because on the months that he's off from a deployment, Bob loves to spend Sunday afternoons taking Sparrow out on trail rides.

Maeve is born a little under nine and a half months later. A black filly with a white blaze running down her forehead and an attitude bigger than she is. From the moment she's up on her feet, she's trying to buck and kick Bob, furious that he's trying to scratch her little hip. It'll be a few years before she can be ridden, but you already know that Rhett will have his hands full.

Maeve gets everything. Blankets, custom halters, handmade treats, morning and afternoon pets, hell, Rhett even figures out Instagram for her. You name it, she gets it. And not only is she the diva of the town, but when she gets older, she's one of the best horses in the area.

Never quite loses the attitude, though.

The first spring after Bob officially leaves the Navy, he decides to get chickens. Builds the coop himself and all. It's been on his bucket list for the better half of a decade now, and he's finally got the time to take care of them. He buys four Buff Orpingtons, but the girl at the feed store must have gotten confused because he comes home to find that he has three Orpingtons and a Silkie.

He goes back to get an extra Silkie so that the little dude doesn't feel like an outcast.

Rhett hates them.

"All those fuckers do is peck the shit outta me!"

"Because they're chickens, Rhett! They're gonna peck things!"

You fully expect him to come around and warm up to them eventually, but it never happens. A year passes, and Rhett's still side-eyeing the collection of poultry on the side of the house. Entering the coop only when you politely ask him to fetch you a few eggs, and even then, he furrows his eyebrows and grumbles beneath his breath.

Then there's one afternoon when Bob comes home from a meeting to a suspicious bowl on the counter.

A chirping bowl.

A bowl of newly hatched button quail.

"Yeah, I stuck 'em in there 'till I could find a place to put 'em," Rhett says when he meanders back into the kitchen, slightly larger box in hand.

You're the next to stumble into this situation, sleepy-eyed and rubbing at your cheek, halfway down the stairs. Aren't quite sure what is going on; all you know is that you've walked into a standoff, and something is wandering around by the sofa.

Something yellow.

A...tiny chicken?

Even as you scoop it up, it doesn't seem real. So incredibly small that it's closer to a toy than a living, breathing animal.

"What's this?" You yawn, holding your hand out, tiny bird on full display.

Little do you know, in your halfawake state, that some new members have joined your busy little family. Even if those family members were found at a gas station for twenty-five cents per dozen.

The coffee maker has just finished bubbling when it hits you.

Rhett doesn't have a favorite animal because every animal is his favorite animal, and he wants to take them all home with him.

Except for chickens. 

[buttonbuckfarm]

I am SO excited about my new turkey(s)

the darker one is a sweetgrass, the lighter one is either a blue sweetgrass or a recessive blue sweetgrass (maybe blue calico, but I don’t think the coloring is quite right for that). regardless, I don’t see any of those varieties for sale ever, so I’m unbelievably excited. I’ll be able to narrow down what he might be more if he produces with my royal palm hen (fingers crossed!!!)

they’re so beautiful, I love them so much. I love uncommon color varieties, seeing them in person is such a thrill to me.

[dont-eat-the-algae]

I got a turkey tom today. I named him Marsh. He's as magnificent as Death himself.

He's a royal palm and his black spots make it look like he's got spikes everywhere <3

[janatours]

Middle East Tours  

 Middle East Tours  is home to many captivating destinations, such as the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, known for its stunning rock-cut architecture. The bustling city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates offers a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets. Additionally, the historical city of Jerusalem in Israel holds significant religious sites and rich cultural heritage.

 dubai Tours Packages is home to several iconic attractions that draw tourists from around the world. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, offers breathtaking views from its observation deck. Another must-visit is the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago that boasts luxury resorts and entertainment venues.

turkey offers a variety of day tours to suit different interests and preferences. Visitors can explore historical sites like the ancient city of Ephesus, enjoy cultural experiences with a guided tour of Istanbul's bustling markets, or relax on a scenic cruise along the Bosphorus. Nature lovers might opt for a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.

morocco tours packages  offer unique cultural experiences such as exploring the vibrant souks of Marrakech and Fez, where traditional crafts and spices abound. Travelers can also enjoy a night under the stars in the Sahara Desert, complete with camel rides and traditional Berber music. Additionally, visits to historic sites like the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis provide a glimpse into the country's rich history.

One Of Our Middle East Tours

13 Nights -14 Days Egypt & Jordan Holiday Packages

Explore the splendors of 13 Nights / 14 Days Egypt & Jordan Holiday Packages, Experience the rich cultural heritage with Jordan Travel Package, Try Egypt and Jordan Combined Travel Package, Enjoy a tour from Cairo to Petra Jordan, scout Cairo attractions, Live a different atmosphere with amazing Nile view Between Luxor & Aswan, Explore the beauty of nature with Egypt to Petra, Embark on a fantastic trip visiting the highlights of Jordan. Explore Mount Nebo, Madaba, and the Dead Sea.

Day 1:

Upon arrival at Cairo airport, you will find our representative waiting for you with a sign with your name after that you will visit the most famous Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Valley temple then transfer to the hotel for check-in and overnight.

Day 2:

Pick up from the hotel and start a full-day tour to visit Memphis the first capital in ancient Egypt to visit the open air Museum and the colossal statue of king Ramses II after that drive to Sakkara to visit the first Pyramid built in history the Step Pyramid then visit the private tombs of the high officials to see the daily life scenes after that drive back to the hotel and overnight.

Day 3:

Pick up from the hotel to visit the Egyptian Museum to see the famous collection of king Tutankhamen and the other collections then drive to Old Cairo to visit Islamic and Coptic Cairo, the Hanging church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Amr Ibn El Aas Mosque after that drive to Khan El Khalili the famous bazaar after that drive back to the hotel.

Day 4:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and transfer to Cairo airport to take the Domestic flight to Luxor, arrive in Luxor and meet our guide then start a full-day tour to visit the West bank, Valley of the Kings “we will Enter3 royal tombs” then visit the temple of Queen Hatshepsut temple at Dier El Bahari and the colossi of Memnon then transfer to the valley of the Queens to visit the famous tomb of the Queen Nefertari  the most beloved wife from King Ramses II then transfer back to the cruise ship for embarkation, lunch, and dinner at the cruise ship and overnight.

Day 5:

Pick up from the cruise ship by our guide and start a full-day tour to visit the most famous Karnak temple the largest temple in the World after that transfer to visit Luxor temple then transfer back to the cruise ship,  after lunch the cruise ship start to sail toward Esna, reach Esna and cross the famous Esna Lock then sail again toward Edfu, reach Edfu, and overnight in Edfu.

Day 6:

Pick up from the cruise ship and visit the Edfu temple of God Horus after that back to the cruise ship, sail toward Kom Ombo, and reach Kom Ombo to visit the temple shared between the 2 Gods Sobek and Haroris after that transfer to the cruise ship, sail again toward Aswan, reach Aswan and overnight.

Day 7:

Pick up from the cruise ship and start a full-day tour to visit the famous Aswan High Dam, and Philae temple of Goddess Isis then drive to visit the unfinished obelisk after that drive back to the cruise ship and overnight.

Day 8:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and transfer to Abu Simbel to visit the great temple of King Ramses II and the small temple of his beloved queen Nefertiti after that  drive back to Aswan, arrive in Aswan, And transfer to the hotel in Aswan for check-in and overnight.

Day 9:

Pick up from the hotel and start a full-day tour to visit the famous Nubian Village to see the real Nubian Lifestyle then visit the Botanical garden to see a very famous collection of rare birds and plants after that transfer to Aswan airport to take the domestic flight back to Cairo, arrive at Cairo airport then transfer to the hotel in Cairo and overnight.

Day 10:

Pick up from the hotel early morning and drive to the second capital of modern Egypt Alexandria to visit the Great-Roman monuments, the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa,Pompey’s pillar then visit Montazah gardens And King Farouk palace after that transfer to the library of Alexandria which contains more than 8 Million books After that visit Citadel of Qaitbay and the Mosque of Abu El Abbas after that drive back to Cairo,arrive in Cairo and transfer to the hotel overnight.

Day 11:

Pick up from the hotel and transfer to Cairo airport to take an international flight to Amman-Jordan, Arrival at  Queen Alia International airport, where you will be met by our representative to help you through formalities, then transfer to Amman for a City Tour of Amman, which includes Amman Citadel, the Roman Theatre, and Grand Husseini Mosque, and King Abdullah Mosque & Folklore Museum. Proceed to Jerash one of the best preserved roman outposts in the world, known as the Pompeii of the East for its extraordinary state,  Visit Umm Qais, then head back to your hotel in Amman for a drop-off.

Day 12:

Pick up from your hotel in Amman and depart to get some free time on the Dead Sea Shore the Public beach. Then onto Mukawir for a visit following the road to Mount Nebo where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land. Afterward, head to Wadi Jadid for an overview and then to Madaba where you will visit Saint George’s church and see the incredible mosaic of the Holy Land. Transfer to your hotel in Madaba for a drop-off.

Day 13:

Pick up from Madaba Hotel and head to The “Red-Rose” City Petra. The world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction. It is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans. The entrance to the city is through the Siq, a narrow gorge, over 1km in length, After the Siq, you will be facing the Treasury, and then proceed to the Roman-style theatre. Get into your private car and around the city of Petra to see the Bedouin lifestyle there and then see the overviews of Wadi Musa.

Day 14:

Check out from Petra Hotel then transfer to Queen Alia International Airport by our representative to help you with the final airport formalities.

The mentioned tour itinerary include the following:

Private English-speaking Egyptologist tour guide.

Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.

Transportation with private A/C van to all the mentioned sites.

The service of meet and assist at the airports.

5 Nights hotel accommodation with B/B bases.

4 Nights accommodation Nile view cabin at a 5-star deluxe cruise ship with full board bases.

1 Night hotel accommodation at Aswan with B/B bases.

3 Nights hotel accommodation at Amman with B/B bases.

Domestic flight tickets Cairo / Luxor – Aswan / Cairo.

International flight tickets Cairo / Amman one way.

Service charge and tax.

The tour itinerary not include the following:

Visa Entry to Egypt.

Optional tours

Any other items not mentioned.

Tipping Kitty.

 For more

·        Middle East Tours: https://bit.ly/3DRteL1

·        Egypt Packages: https://bit.ly/3TgGpvV

·        WhatsApp: https://wa.me/201143320224

         Email: info@janatoursegypt.com

[magnetothemagnificent]

I guess it's time I share my list of birds from this past Jewish year (I've been keeping two Big Year lists, Jewish year and secular year). All are from the US, except the last few which are indicated.

1. Ruby-crowned kinglet

2. American Robin

* Leucistic American Robin

3. Song sparrow

4. Rock pigeon

* Melanistic rock pigeon

5. Chipping sparrow

6. Hairy woodpecker

7. Mourning dove

8. Northern flicker

9. Eastern towhee

10. White crowned sparrow

11. White-throated sparrow

12 Savannah sparrow

13. House sparrow

14. European starling

15. American Crow

16. Common Raven

17. Gray catbird

18. Northern mockingbird

19. Canada Goose

20. Spotted Sandpiper

21. American herring gull

22. Marsh wren

23. Limpkin

24. Great white heron

25. Cattle egret

26. Anhinga

27. Snowy egret

28. Great blue heron

29. Black-crowned night heron

30. Wood stork

31. Common gallinule

32. Blue-gray gnatcatcher

33. Turkey vulture

34. Black vulture

35. Yellow rumped warbler

36. Tufted titmouse

37. Little blue heron

38. White ibis

39. Cooper's hawk

40. Cardinal

41. Green heron

42. Carolina wren

43. Palm warbler

44. Pine warbler

45. Sandhill crane

46. Carolina chickadee

47. Bluejay

48. Osprey

49. Chimney swift

50. Red-tailed hawk

51. Prairie warbler

52. American kestrel

53. Glossy ibis

54. Pied-billed grebe

55. Double-crested cormorant

56. Grey kingbird

57. Brown pelican

58. Fish crow

59. Royal tern

60. Bald eagle

61. Painted bunting

62. American white pelican

63. Common grackle

64. Boat-tailed grackle

65. Great-tailed grackle

66. American purple gallinule

67. American coot

68. Brown-headed cowbird

69. Tricolored heron

70. Mallard

71. Black-bellied whistling duck

72. Eastern kingbird

73. Yellow-billed cuckoo

74. Muscovy duck

75. American bittern

76. Ring-billed gull

77. American Pekin

78. Mallard-Pekin hybrid

79. Eastern bluebird

80. Yellow-bellied sapsucker

81. Red-winged blackbird

82. White-eyed vireo

83. Mottled duck

84. Broad-winged hawk

85. Dark-eyed junco

86. Brown thrasher

87. Sharp-shinned hawk

88. House finch

89. Eastern Phoebe

90. Downy woodpecker

91. Fox sparrow

92. Loggerhead Shrike!!!!

93. White breasted nuthatch

94. Red-bellied woodpecker

95. Brown creeper

96. Pileated woodpecker

97. American goldfinch

98. House wren

99. Barn swallow

100. Tree swallow

101. Black and white warbler

102. Red eyed vireo

103. Yellow warbler

104. Mute swan

105. Rusty blackbird

106. Common yellowthroat

107. Warbling vireo

108. Northern waterthrush

109. Veery

110. Swamp sparrow

111. Wood duck

112. American redstart

113. Orchard oriole

114. Greater Yellowlegs

115. Lesser Yellowlegs

116. Baltimore oriole

117. Hermit thrush

118. Wood thrush

119. Ovenbird

120. Indigo bunting

121. Black-throated blue warbler

122. Scarlet tanager

123. Worm-eating warbler

124. Northern rough-winged swallow

125. Blue-headed vireo

126. Northern parula

127. Prothonotary warbler

128. Philadelphia vireo

129. Blackburnian warbler

130. Magnolia warbler

131. Cedar waxwing

132. Blackpoll warbler

133. Yellow-throated vireo

134. Eastern wood pewee

135. Acadian flycatcher

136. Tennessee warbler

137. Caspian tern

138. Laughing gull

139. Forster's tern

140. American oystercatcher

141. Green-winged teal

142. Purple Martin

143. Least tern

144. Field sparrow

145. Killdeer

146. Grey-cheeked thrush

147. Rose-breasted grosbeak

148. Great-crested flycatcher

149. Swainson's thrush

150. Bay-breasted warbler

151. Chestnut-sided warbler

152. Willow flycatcher

153. Ruby-throated hummingbird

154. Peregrine falcon

155. Hooded crow IL

156. Laughing dove IL

157. Eurasian collared dove IL

158. Eurasian jackdaw IL

159. Common myna IL

160. Rose-ringed parakeet IL

161. White spectacled bulbul IL

162. European bee eater IL

163. Chukar IL

164. Short toed snake eagle IL

165. White stork IL

166. Little egret IL

167. Pygmy cormorant IL

168. Eurasian hoopoe IL

169. Alpine swift IL

170. Graceful pinia IL

171. Eastern Olivaceous Warbler IL

172. Tristan's Starling IL

173. Fan tailed raven IL

174. Eurasian black cap IL

Here's to at least 200 next year!