We had to wander through several livestock barns and a few craft areas, but we did eventually find the poultry barn. Yes, only one barn of chickens and ducks. Can you believe it? (I guess it was a smallish fair. I'm sure the Iowa State Fair has several large barns full of chickens.) I was absurdly excited to check out the 4-H chickens. I guess I really am chicken-obsessed.
They had quite a few Aracaunas, although almost all were white, which I hadn't seen before. They had a really nice big Rhode Island Red, and some other classic breeds. There were also a lot of English Game Birds, which were so pretty and really small. They were cute but regal, I'd say. And there were lots of Silkies, including this fluffy lady. So cute!
Anyway, it was fun to see some fancy chickens in person. I wonder if I would have raised a chicken for 4-H if I'd grown up in the country. I think my future kids will probably really like our chickens. Dakota had a few chickens growing up, before he moved into town.
While at the fair, we also saw some prize-winning vegetables. Look at these zucchini! I wish I could grow squash that big.
Dakota's uncle, Tim, who lives in Des Moines, was growing some huge zucchini in his back yard. They were over a foot long and really thick. I think it's the super-rich Iowa soil, and all the rain they get. Plus, I think Tim is a pretty good gardener.
I do finally have a zucchini growing on one of my plants, though. I just hope it grows to a normal size. No blue ribbon necessary.
That silkie is quite the lady, isn't she? I came over from your page on BYC - you have a great blog!
Good Afternoon,
I myself am Chicken obsessed as well… We also have a cocker spaniel and many times we refer to ourselves as “Cocker-Stockers” . But any who I was wondering if it would be possible for you to post recent full picture of Lisa? I am afraid that we may have purchased a roster… We did buy the sexed ones, but they were a day old and as the girls get older there is one who looks much different. I understand everyone looks different, but…. Yea not so much in this case. My husband and I felt complete relief when we say your recent picture of Lisa, but I would feel 100% relief if I could see her back feathers.
Thank you,
Sarah
I'm not sure it's good soil or gardening expertise--everyone in Tuba City grew ENORMOUS zucchini with very little effort and kept trying to give them to each other or new people. It think it's just conditions. And big ones are not all that flavorful...best for zucchini bread! And what a cut silkie! Though not as cute as your chickens, of course.
Iowa has the most amazing soil! You can basically throw a seed in and it grows.