In my next couple of posts, I will tell you of two more Love Led Farm products that will soon be available.  But on a day featuring gloomy, grey skies and heavy rain, how about a farm story?

A She Duck Named Igor

Last year, I introduced you to Igor, our very special Muscovy duck.  Born with a crooked neck (only to be then stepped on by a rooster), Igor certainly differs from the rest of our birds.  To watch her walk, makes one’s neck hurt.

But Igor is not to be pitied.  The girl is a champion!  Our chickens know not to tangle with her, especially at feeding time.  With a fondness for catching rodent snacks and her ability to lay plenty of delicious eggs, Igor has earned her place in our barn and in our hearts.

So yesterday morning, my heart sank when I noticed a motionless heap of dark grey and white feathers in the corner of a goat pen.  It was Igor.

Sadly I thought of how to tell my grandchildren that our favorite duck was gone.  Then deciding that a duck funeral might be in our future, I decided to at least cover her until I could find an appropriate box.  Quietly and reverently, I approached the pile of feathers only to see our friend’s head pop up!

“I’m not dead yet!” she hissed.  “I’m having babies!  Now, leave me alone!”  And sure enough, beneath her was a feather-lined nest full of…one egg.  Okay, only one.  But Igor made it clear that nobody would be bothering her baby.

Our Mother to Be is now is now enjoying a protective luxury suite.  I added a few more fertilized eggs from our other ducks to enlarge Igor’s family (yes, you can do that).  And we, with watchful eyes, will do our part to see Igor through a successful hatching.   Hopefully, in about 30+ days, some tiny heads will peek out from beneath her wings.

In the meantime, I’m adding Igor to my personal mentor list–I learn so much from my animals.   I also think she deserves to be named Mascot of the Farm for a couple of reasons.

First, she reminds me that triumphant living does not depend on a perfectly formed body.  Some of the strongest people I know have modeled this all-important truth for me.  And maybe a successful farm doesn’t have to look like a magazine cover?

And second, on those days when I am tired, overwhelmed, and discouraged, I can think of Igor.   I can open my eyes, raise my head, and keep going.  After all, “I’m not dead yet!”

Enjoy your day.  I heard a rumor that warmer, drier days…and sunshine…lie just ahead!

Warmly,