tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50862857453100217322024-03-18T01:28:32.142-06:00Montana Wildlife GardenerLandscaping with Montana native plants for Montana native wildlife, and gardening for a sustainable lifestyleDavidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.comBlogger221125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-77956504784737053462019-05-13T21:04:00.000-06:002019-05-13T21:06:23.841-06:00Off the Air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thanks for visiting. I hope you find some useful information on this blog.Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-18468038587928894372017-12-06T18:20:00.002-07:002017-12-06T18:28:20.288-07:00Game of Cat Thrones: Cast your ballot for the 2017 Cat of the Year<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyo9uCRIEGwej88Gwn_2GIkVRYZuqYDmAi4e1pLmgv6QtteVb7WuOBgmeYEOUZbWSJp20E_ngVu0zo57x7FXPxL2nvTYoHKgSWv9LZMfQJVFx7Ze3A8piMvLnQabfYsFn7O25sSzsr48/s1600/layout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1564" data-original-width="1564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuyo9uCRIEGwej88Gwn_2GIkVRYZuqYDmAi4e1pLmgv6QtteVb7WuOBgmeYEOUZbWSJp20E_ngVu0zo57x7FXPxL2nvTYoHKgSWv9LZMfQJVFx7Ze3A8piMvLnQabfYsFn7O25sSzsr48/s320/layout.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It’s time for the Game of Cat Thrones, where you win or
you’re not Cat of the Year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Loyal
readers may have noticed that the 2016 Elections didn’t happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to cancel it because we couldn't
guarantee sanctity of the election.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There were allegations of Russian meddling, and everyone got really
depressed, and suddenly it's 2017, and Winter is here.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymT8y8uoJIOq0cGf0m6_hPtVljCIOuqWZZtukDzqa_hMqEdrRDd3SbctSH6ipeVw_IskJX0ArUBxP_H12qlpM2EEzuRI27kfCKmTciSG8aFa_8IYi3l5csD8Sch1pibZ8uiXIO8cQe-E/s1600/20171023_184101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymT8y8uoJIOq0cGf0m6_hPtVljCIOuqWZZtukDzqa_hMqEdrRDd3SbctSH6ipeVw_IskJX0ArUBxP_H12qlpM2EEzuRI27kfCKmTciSG8aFa_8IYi3l5csD8Sch1pibZ8uiXIO8cQe-E/s320/20171023_184101.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Game of Cat Thrones</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Warning:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
should watch all 7 Seasons, before participating in the voting of the 2017 Cat
of the Year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Winter is here.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Our House has been in upheaval since Alex the stoic
leader (Ned Stark) died in 2016. He was never drawn to the leadership role; it
was simply his responsibility. So, he performed it nobly and steadfastly until
his death.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
You know what else happened this year?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We tragically lost one of our chickens,
leaving us with only two dragons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our reptile
children. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoy3FRzAij2ZRYpAZxp1vYK8XyyQwUT7H6IKi8Ddd4zE30KzEEcsWEcI6dg3W_UMiaU804Nb83aYkz_BiRX2W_VYCATvbBX91TH9ZIk2hJT46RM9oDo9cQNyZJw-Nz3nn7y7wv2yNjnk/s1600/IMG_20161216_083640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1565" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoy3FRzAij2ZRYpAZxp1vYK8XyyQwUT7H6IKi8Ddd4zE30KzEEcsWEcI6dg3W_UMiaU804Nb83aYkz_BiRX2W_VYCATvbBX91TH9ZIk2hJT46RM9oDo9cQNyZJw-Nz3nn7y7wv2yNjnk/s320/IMG_20161216_083640.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We lost one of our beloved chickens north of the wall. These two will have to do.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We still have our fierce dire wolf, Miles (Ghost), who
remains loyal to Winston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Miles still
isn’t eligible for the Game.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still not a
cat.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUL1SIYMXeY1E95AYByFEIkhwBJqokmHV8xJCsOZNKM7DgA2H2YFhyGE3q5w7gPKemElihQkwMRiUGH6nWk2s8ExHQpyqAhUG-5UV42P1vGLgvTijUJNMu4ddTCCIS87FL-0A2AqRYB5w/s1600/wolf.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUL1SIYMXeY1E95AYByFEIkhwBJqokmHV8xJCsOZNKM7DgA2H2YFhyGE3q5w7gPKemElihQkwMRiUGH6nWk2s8ExHQpyqAhUG-5UV42P1vGLgvTijUJNMu4ddTCCIS87FL-0A2AqRYB5w/s320/wolf.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winston and his loyal Dire Wolf, Miles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Let’s recap the contestants.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispZ4CO3GxMHLWb_WJhc-adV9QEIaahs3S3J2-Ji9CUpW4Fr3G74mFMPMCzG4uePhj7djUJsRz3hUTlruqpKIdHAUVTgInu8LoEZUuMurFxbXPadGmtCoSwIi7GqrefasN0tdASlC_N6A/s1600/winston.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1564" data-original-width="1564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispZ4CO3GxMHLWb_WJhc-adV9QEIaahs3S3J2-Ji9CUpW4Fr3G74mFMPMCzG4uePhj7djUJsRz3hUTlruqpKIdHAUVTgInu8LoEZUuMurFxbXPadGmtCoSwIi7GqrefasN0tdASlC_N6A/s320/winston.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winston</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Winston, aka The Bastard (or is he?) Jon Snow.
This remarkable son of fire and ice came back from the dead after a horrible
eye infection nearly took him from us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
Lord of Light isn't done with him yet. Was it magic that brought him back? Or
was it the visit to the Veterinary Ophthalmology Clinic in Spokane, where he
got eyedrops made of his own plasma? Actually, that sounds like Blood Magic
and we hope it doesn’t turn out to be a huge mistake like it was for <em><span style="font-family: inherit; font-style: normal;">Daenerys Targaryen</span></em>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was a long, slow recovery but he is back from
the dead to fulfill his true purpose. He took over the leadership role in the
house, modeling himself after Alex who was always like a father (but really
more like an uncle) to him.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Accomplishments: Just keeps getting stronger and more
confident</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Cons: Bossy about going outside and also about having
running water in the bath tub. Also demanding about being lifted and settled
into his special sleeping position each night (between our heads). Actually, we
love that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvJ9QncArM7-Wy5VBbCap1D37PAv6T99mNODaA_fjpZfAqV9bkQ1mDokFPAlVWmjAYVAR8izwTvgUdoQHgGhoZscI_URWt9sQoK4M6j2c34Zxeew-qsy_r602hwfDuj7yuMzd3NAspSY/s1600/20171102_174338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvJ9QncArM7-Wy5VBbCap1D37PAv6T99mNODaA_fjpZfAqV9bkQ1mDokFPAlVWmjAYVAR8izwTvgUdoQHgGhoZscI_URWt9sQoK4M6j2c34Zxeew-qsy_r602hwfDuj7yuMzd3NAspSY/s320/20171102_174338.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Eating habits: Winston eats everything; dry kibble, wet
cat food, people food, dog food, old dried dog food that is on the floor that
our dog has rejected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He hardly has any
teeth, and just swallows things whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He
knows nothing, and doesn’t give a fuck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chester</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>Chester, aka Tormund Giantsbane. If you recall
his history, Chester came to us as a stray, a kind of Free Folk if you
will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Looks gruffer and more judgmental
than he is.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But seriously, why is he so angry?</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
His feet are the largest of all the cats, made for winter
and life in the North.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Chester is a fair and formidable warrior and has garnered
respect and admiration of Winston and fear from Miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since joining House Marler-Schmetterling, he
is now Winston’s most trusted lieutentent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He is loyal and brave.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvznH3tAZCEvoW5_v4EXmKkAcfwY2isG16iRQdP4dhvMdxPiIIHbzHMLR5ycU1n94iyB_Fdi_QqTFwDx7eo1CkdoFuQ0pMuVidMtup7oJ9EChjkqEEZb1j0tmGyuySKmWC2rr5qSVDB6Q/s1600/20170308_220003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvznH3tAZCEvoW5_v4EXmKkAcfwY2isG16iRQdP4dhvMdxPiIIHbzHMLR5ycU1n94iyB_Fdi_QqTFwDx7eo1CkdoFuQ0pMuVidMtup7oJ9EChjkqEEZb1j0tmGyuySKmWC2rr5qSVDB6Q/s320/20170308_220003.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once enemies, they are now loyal companions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Pros: Stopped humping the other cats as much. Still looks
good in a lion cut. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXgCp1jx6chHrcaLNI7k3ydzflIh8-sn4ZF-PBWnyVfgGvMivRzOyqWBRlzefmPr1HjTgR_7aGpLFqAKPHWmzN_gIgTDk2e_SZKFIiGvTN6MbGAIPAxRjjmui9_lMon3XN_QmPHBeIKc/s1600/20170717_172538-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1223" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXgCp1jx6chHrcaLNI7k3ydzflIh8-sn4ZF-PBWnyVfgGvMivRzOyqWBRlzefmPr1HjTgR_7aGpLFqAKPHWmzN_gIgTDk2e_SZKFIiGvTN6MbGAIPAxRjjmui9_lMon3XN_QmPHBeIKc/s320/20170717_172538-1.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lion cut suits him, perhaps angers him, too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
He has rock solid, but seldom celebrated, litter box
habits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Uses the catio but doesn't
demand it like a spoiled brat.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Cons/Food: Very picky about his wet food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He will grudgingly eat dry kibble, but prefers
wet food, adjusted for the right moisture content and freshness. The flavors
need to be varied daily.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seriously, how
did he develop such a sensitive palate during his days as a wildling on the
streets on Missoula?</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>Gary, aka Samwell Tarly, joined our family. Gary
is large, jovial and inquisitive. A highborn, growing up in a castle in the
south (Idaho), he was ultimately banished from his home and forced to find a
new family here in the North (Montana), and renounce all of his allegiances and
brithrights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is loyal and sweet and
just didn’t fit his first family’s expectations. We love him dearly, but we
just don't understand his character arc yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crows</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Pros: Part of his exile stemmed from his lack of litterbox
use.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, since being banished to
the North his litterbox use has been exemplary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He has befriended Winston, and we think he is learning from him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An unlikely duo, they even share
litterboxes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gary has had only one accident,
and that involved the mountain lion rug.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We can’t really fault him- we know how he and Alex feel about the
Lannisters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
He absolutely loves the catio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a house full of men, this gives him an
opportunity to see women, the neighbors’ cats like Bonnie (aka, Gilly).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plus, by oath, he is a watcher on the wall.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A watcher on the wall, by oath. He said the words</td></tr>
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<div class="MsoPlainText">
Gary is still adjusting to life in the North, and now he
spends a lot of time in the morning next to the heat register.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Despite his large size, he gets cold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Southerners.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
He used to sleep in the living room, then he joined us on
the family bed, which we initially thought was delightful, but he is a big and
prosperous cat, and takes up a lot of room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We need a bigger bed. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Accomplishments: Improved litterbox habits! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our vet proclaimed that he has good teeth- something
previously unknown to us about any Persian cat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It must be the result of growing up in a highborn family with good
nutrition. Loves to get his belly scratched, and apparently did not come with a
murder button installed on his stomach</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
He’s very good at developing water dragon beard.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Food: Only eats dry kibble, which is surprising given his
privileged upbringing. To look at him, you’d think he ate everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is large.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Cons: He snores to wake the dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, he stands annoyingly close to Winston.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He just really respects Winston but he is
very socially awkward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please vote your choice for the Cat of The Year 2017 and
help determine who will sit on the Iron Throne.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because, the night is dark and full of terrors, and winter has come.<br />
<br />
Please vote on the side bar on the right on this blog, and you may have to enable the desktop versions. These are the rules, because in the Game of Cat Thrones, you win or...</div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-77662246793071476572017-06-02T17:04:00.000-06:002017-06-02T17:04:40.139-06:00Catio<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuubOaTFWgBkzvS5lcdwATGvF0AAwTLE2zPxGYknzNCjjovCvx9g3imYvIuVqE3g9nCyJXJnKBO2x2RNUajq7zm5FjGqKXQO-sV7WRzqTsPitfmrXUBaCVzMQBlFyOOMqAWdlRe-bfiEs/s1600/20170602_161239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuubOaTFWgBkzvS5lcdwATGvF0AAwTLE2zPxGYknzNCjjovCvx9g3imYvIuVqE3g9nCyJXJnKBO2x2RNUajq7zm5FjGqKXQO-sV7WRzqTsPitfmrXUBaCVzMQBlFyOOMqAWdlRe-bfiEs/s320/20170602_161239.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_94389058"></span>If you like your cats and you like wildlife, do them both a favor and <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/02/cats-and-wildlife-gardening.html" target="_blank">keep your cats inside</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cats live longer, healthier
lives as indoor cats, and wildlife and your neighbor’s vegetable beds benefit
from not having your cats roaming the neighborhood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Study after study demonstrates not only the adverse
effect that house cats have on wildlife (from song birds to the endangered
Florida panther), but how far your seemingly lazy, well-fed little friend
actually travels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, study after
study finds how much shorter cats lives are when they are allowed to roam.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<br />
Cats are curious and like to look outside, and watch birds,
people, leaves, whatever, and we try to provide them with ways of doing just
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One minor thing I did was add a window
to one of our storm doors, so they can look out when the door is closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiPnwb9raVKydKvl-ItZroVLLy6qzxlfCKHF80uGHhodk9MojCVujFLA2wtpaPjySSjOrSaNXrf2MNxzQHSOr_x8WqT2lcO2CikOXHqI-lsCYS6ix7IjIYOKBhIpisblBLv5fsI4PIqw/s1600/20160625_192950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuiPnwb9raVKydKvl-ItZroVLLy6qzxlfCKHF80uGHhodk9MojCVujFLA2wtpaPjySSjOrSaNXrf2MNxzQHSOr_x8WqT2lcO2CikOXHqI-lsCYS6ix7IjIYOKBhIpisblBLv5fsI4PIqw/s320/20160625_192950.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chester is dissatisfied with just a window.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They use the window a lot, but they also would like to
spend more time enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7d16kUCDWTQRuqH6ZN3ZG7Zlpo7Mz_nMIV9qR1VTegtI3Lup1vSfgjpoDSKhZxV9eVToMGdOGGZSrFj6o6FmAgp-zcOpmN_NdQ2riVawoOdWchGt_pa2WH_aCEktcM23ka7Ud5JFyDsY/s1600/20170120_155201-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1168" data-original-width="1600" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7d16kUCDWTQRuqH6ZN3ZG7Zlpo7Mz_nMIV9qR1VTegtI3Lup1vSfgjpoDSKhZxV9eVToMGdOGGZSrFj6o6FmAgp-zcOpmN_NdQ2riVawoOdWchGt_pa2WH_aCEktcM23ka7Ud5JFyDsY/s320/20170120_155201-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The window looks both ways and is effective for not just cats, but chickens and Chihuahuas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Winston gets supervised time in the garden
(the only one of our cats that does), but it is seldom and I know he likes to
feel the wind in his hair, so that lead to my recent project- a Catio (“cat” + “patio”
= awesome).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYZfs3VSbPN_Oj2kQdtZ4TXWVPUUwVJiMgKElYDRcRQf83MCF0nHqbXj7y4Xy5Kef_RefQZxyud6UbuzaV-x5q0hZMlCRei0zh1ZGXZEa9k8Egc11uJofxtWqwJsMk8NshyphenhyphenhGbHL3p7k/s1600/20170531_071536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYZfs3VSbPN_Oj2kQdtZ4TXWVPUUwVJiMgKElYDRcRQf83MCF0nHqbXj7y4Xy5Kef_RefQZxyud6UbuzaV-x5q0hZMlCRei0zh1ZGXZEa9k8Egc11uJofxtWqwJsMk8NshyphenhyphenhGbHL3p7k/s320/20170531_071536.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right, Winston, Chester and Gary investigating their new Catio.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I first learned about a Catio a few years ago from an announcement
for a Catio Tour in Portland.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was
intrigued. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The <a href="http://www.oregonlive.com/hg/index.ssf/2017/04/catio_tour_2017_portland.html" target="_blank">fifth annual tour </a>is
scheduled for September 9.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This was a fun project and one that I could get all the
materials from<a href="http://homeresource.org/" target="_blank"> Home ReSource</a> (using reused and repurposed materials is one of
my passions).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This Catio is made from 3
wood frame window screens and these screens are common at Home ReSource.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERAmCE9vfjWeVy0GaVoKOMWlDD-JmBXBuSWpICLKdqJUc8E6LWF-anyzCmZeYEFaWafwAkV3tpm5wrw6q_3w29lMoo5oseKPk1MgaQzw0BYMjZSvRqTxJ-bwq78i-qRsTpxuECvhZvtc/s1600/20170602_161204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiERAmCE9vfjWeVy0GaVoKOMWlDD-JmBXBuSWpICLKdqJUc8E6LWF-anyzCmZeYEFaWafwAkV3tpm5wrw6q_3w29lMoo5oseKPk1MgaQzw0BYMjZSvRqTxJ-bwq78i-qRsTpxuECvhZvtc/s320/20170602_161204.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
These window screens sell for about $3 each and they are a
common byproduct of people upgrading their windows in Missoula. They were really
common on the vast amount of homes built here between the 1910’s and the 50’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is nice to find a use for a common thing
like these (and hollow core doors, but that is another issue).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidK5uaO7v_CJ2Dz1n6a84ky_q58P-R3pDaAGWN1z7ufnqxgNScJ1W9VoseVtGmwPru-mNcgO_sb_XZrs48IKlITeKTRokogmxJOyGDXsuOqIiD2xbZO2a-nwSNRmJAdQ_RPMYpAMp3zHM/s1600/20170602_161257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidK5uaO7v_CJ2Dz1n6a84ky_q58P-R3pDaAGWN1z7ufnqxgNScJ1W9VoseVtGmwPru-mNcgO_sb_XZrs48IKlITeKTRokogmxJOyGDXsuOqIiD2xbZO2a-nwSNRmJAdQ_RPMYpAMp3zHM/s320/20170602_161257.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
The rest of the Catio is constructed from 2x stock reclaimed
from homes), plywood from shipping crates, reused lag bolts, screws, and the
brackets (above) are re-purposed fence posts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
also got laminate flooring, roofing felt, flashing, drip edge, roofing nails,
wood screws, and carpet remnants for the Catio furniture (the scratching post), </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In all this project cost about $35.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is not totally complete, I plan to add a shelf (a second
floor) for the cats to lounge, but I wanted to see how that enjoy and use the
current space. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the nice things about this project is that it is
portable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ultimately, we plan to install
French doors in place of this window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we get around to that project (or “if”), we can move this to another window.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWfjsPmj4hX9AA3UV2d4S40zI8uY-Ds4YciI-bRc-TfkXGnJsRb1WgXH7dFHNCs4vP2qqUE2Ju26ecxvj5a-RHzIdVNoz6aNwshNVatKjBleWOgLReC-nxLHRuHf4CwcSSwdeyBtsjT4/s1600/20170602_161625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHWfjsPmj4hX9AA3UV2d4S40zI8uY-Ds4YciI-bRc-TfkXGnJsRb1WgXH7dFHNCs4vP2qqUE2Ju26ecxvj5a-RHzIdVNoz6aNwshNVatKjBleWOgLReC-nxLHRuHf4CwcSSwdeyBtsjT4/s320/20170602_161625.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Catio installed from our bedroom window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This will allow our cats some time to spend outside but
protects them, and protects our wildlife visitors from them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-66165042021017195582017-03-03T12:36:00.002-07:002017-03-03T12:36:23.490-07:00A new use for this old blog; a reference<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
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<![endif]-->So I haven’t really been keeping up with this blog and frankly I am not sure of its fate. Since I haven’t been updating it regularly like I once did, this blog has turned into more of a static website, and I think that is fine. I think the value of this blog lies in is utility as reference and as a resource to cover topics in depth, but after eight (!) or so years, I find many of the issues with native plants and wildlife gardening keep coming up, so rather than reposting an old article or updating a subject I have written before, I am thinking about turning these posts into a book (though I have been threatening that for a while). <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
When I started this blog in 2009, social media was really (at least to me) in its infancy. Now, platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are a more useful tool for updates and news. As a result, I post garden news and pictures on these platforms, ignoring this blog. But I do think the in depth articles I have posted are a compliment to a nice Instagram photo. Having said that, some of the most commonly requested topics are the following: <br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-remove-lawn.html" target="_blank">How to remove a lawn</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/06/how-to-build-urbanite-path.html" target="_blank">How to build an urbanite path</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2010/06/build-mason-bee-house-in-5-minutes.html" target="_blank">How to build a bee house (in 5 minutes!) </a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/04/build-brush-pile-for-wildlife.html" target="_blank">How to build a brush pile (hint: it is easy!)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/03/mixed-feelings-for-bird-feeders.html" target="_blank">Why not to use bird feeders</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-garden-as-bird-feeder.html" target="_blank">Your garden as a bird feeder</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/02/birdhouse-basics.html" target="_blank">Bird house basics</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/03/my-garden-rant-guest-rant-honey-bees.html" target="_blank">Honey bees suck (yes, you read that correctly)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/05/pollinator-gardens.html" target="_blank">Pollinator (or whatever) garden</a></li>
<li><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/03/dont-plant-seeds.html" target="_blank">Should I start my new garden by seeding (the answer is NO)?</a></li>
</ul>
In general, "why native plants are important" is always a common topic, and the subject of the whole blog!<br />
<br />I still post unique or timely things, like our <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2016/01/for-immediate-release-winston-named.html" target="_blank">Cat of the Year </a>or <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/09/spontaneous-construction-2012-recap.html" target="_blank">SponCon</a> projects, but day to day social media seems to suit the general needs of this one time blogger! <br /><br />So, please follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/montanawildlifegardener/?hl=en" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Montana-Wildlife-Gardener-195888830434082" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!<br />
<br />
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-16648768091341297812016-01-29T08:56:00.001-07:002016-01-29T09:20:13.580-07:00For Immediate release: Winston named 2015 Cat of the Year<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJSI5LVq5WZjFhmeu3bwSTgGWJh9uBI1Otf9NQxAkTGnZINH5TN7JxNtnZZk6eNUZ7kMc3eJCdwHpy-3HnRRq6fzntMEQDYfgOgoQMa-B676QUGbwqkdOSgxJ1f_Y73nrJYIdHs2vQjE/s1600/20160115_190756-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfJSI5LVq5WZjFhmeu3bwSTgGWJh9uBI1Otf9NQxAkTGnZINH5TN7JxNtnZZk6eNUZ7kMc3eJCdwHpy-3HnRRq6fzntMEQDYfgOgoQMa-B676QUGbwqkdOSgxJ1f_Y73nrJYIdHs2vQjE/s320/20160115_190756-1.jpg" width="168" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For Immediate release:</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Winston named 2015
Cat of the Year</b></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">MISSOULA, Mont. January 28, 2016---- In a stunning landslide
victory, Winston has been named the 2015 Cat of the Year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This result was especially surprising to
David, who reports voting Alex “6 or 7 times<span style="font-family: inherit;">."</span> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">“I thought it would have been closer,” a crushed David said.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It was as though voters overlooked diminutive
and unassuming Alex at the polls. That is the story of his life<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">". </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">David went on, despondently, to explai<img height="16" id="wixabmfuwivs" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhEAAQAOUdAOvr69HR0cHBwby8vOzs7PHx8ff397W1tbOzs+Xl5ebm5vDw8PPz88PDw7e3t+3t7dvb2+7u7vX19eTk5OPj4+rq6tbW1unp6bu7u+fn5+jo6N/f3+/v7/7+/ra2ttXV1f39/fz8/Li4uMXFxfb29vLy8vr6+sLCwtPT0/j4+PT09MDAwL+/v7m5ubS0tM7OzsrKytra2tTU1MfHx+Li4tDQ0M/Pz9nZ2b6+vgAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACH/C05FVFNDQVBFMi4wAwEAAAAh+QQFMAA5ACwAAAAAEAAQAAAGg8CcMAcICAY5QsEwHBYPCMQhl6guGM5GNOqgVhMPbA6y5Xq/kZwkN3Fsu98EJcdYKCo5i7kKwCorVRd4GAg5GVgAfBpxaRtsZwkaiwpfD0NxkYl8QngARF8AdhmeDwl4pngUCQsVHDl2m2iveDkXcZ6YTgS3kAS0RKWxVQ+/TqydrE1BACH5BAkwADkALAAAAAAQABAAAAZ+wJwwJ1kQIgNBgDMcdh6KRILgQSAOn46TIJVSrdZGSMjpeqtgREAoYWi6BFF6xCAJS6ZyYhEIUwxNQgYkFxwBByh2gU0kKRVHi4sgOQuRTRJtJgwSBJElihwMQioqGmw5gEMLKk2AEkSBq4ElQmNNoYG2OVpDuE6Lrzmfp0NBACH5BAUwADkALAAAAAAQABAAAAaFwJwwJ1kQCDlCwTAcMh6KhDQnVSwYTkJ1un1gc5wtdxsh5iqaLbVKyVEWigq4ugZgTyiA9CK/JHIZWCsICCxpVWV/EzkHhAgth1UPQ4OOLXpScmebFA6ELHAZclBycXIULi8VZXCZawplFG05flWlakIVWravCgSaZ1CuksBDFQsAcsfFQQAh+QQJMAA5ACwAAAAAEAAQAAAGQcCccEgsGo/IpHLJzDGaOcKCCUgkAEuFNaFRbq1dJCxX2WKRCFdMmJiiEQjRp1BJwu8y5R3RWNsRBx9+SSsxgzlBACH5BAkwADkALAAAAAAQABAAAAaJwJwwJ1kQCDlCwTAcMh6KhDQnVSwYTkJ1un1gc5wtdxsh5iqaLbVKyTEWigq4ugZglRXpRX5J5DJYAFIAaVVlfhNrURqFVQ9DYhqCgzkzCGdnVQBwGRU0LQiXCRUAORQJCwAcOTChoYplBXIKLq6vUXRCCQ22olUEcroJB66KD8FNCjUrlxWpTUEAIfkEBTAAOQAsAAAAABAAEAAABobAnDAnWRAIOULBMBwyHoqENCdVLBhOQnW6fWBznC13G8nZchXNllql5Bg2xA1cZQOwShwCMdDkLgk5GVgAUgAie3syVDkTbFIaiIkIJ0NiGnp7HiNonRVVAHEuFjlQFVQVAI0JCzYjrKCPZQWnf1unYkMVWrFbBLVoUIaPD8C6CwCnAMhNQQA7" width="16" />n, “We had some friends
over the other night and when they saw Alex, they asked if we had a
new cat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said no that is Alex, he has
been living here since 2007.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess
they never noticed him before. They quickly returned to yelling <i>Kitty, Kitty,
Kitty</i> at Winston”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Alex faced an uphill climb especially after all the media
attention Winston had received over the past year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Winston was widely viewed as the inevitable
candidate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Winston has his own Instagram
page, a devoted fan base and support from the establishment, including Miles
and the chickens, <span style="font-family: inherit;">as well as th<span style="font-family: inherit;">e <span style="font-family: inherit;">political</span> mac<span style="font-family: inherit;">hine of the </span></span></span>the non<span style="font-family: inherit;">-</span>partisan Missoula City Council (though not
unanimous, 11-1).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alex tried to start a
grassroots campaign, and was dismissive of support from the Persians, Turkish
Angoras, Cats of the Internet and others. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ultimately that may have proved to be his
undoing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People liked Alex’s message, and
his quirky attitude, but they were concerned about his age, and his advancing
arthritis, and worried about <span style="font-family: inherit;">the <span style="font-family: inherit;">possibility</span> of him<span style="font-family: inherit;"> being an</span></span> effective
leader.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chester backed him, but he is a political
outsider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually, we have no idea who
Chester really is, or where he is from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In the end, the media “blackout” of Alex was ultimately his demise.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fox News calculated that Winston received 63%
of media coverage, Miles (viewed by most pundits as non-competitive) 18%, the
chickens 9%, Chester (like the chickens, ineligible) 8%, and Alex 2%.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The mountain lion rug received <span style="font-family: inherit;">less than 0.05% (though</span> that might have just been <span style="font-family: inherit;">Cryss Anderson)<span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span></span> With
so little media attention it is impressive the race was as close as it was.
Alex garnered 34% of the vote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
were no write-in, third party candidates.</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Despite that the polls closed on January 12, the official
transaction of the award has not taken place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Release of the results and award have been delayed pending approval by
the Republican-dominated Public Service Commission (not that is it the law, apparently their approval isn’t required for anything, really), and for Marilyn
to return from her Vietnam trip<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Marilyn’s steady-handed input was required
because David was ready to award Cat of the Year to Alex.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">####</span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For more information see:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2016/01/2015-cat-of-year-vote-now.html" target="_blank">Voting open for 2015 Cat of the Year</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Winston_is_a_cat<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Instagram)</span></div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-55542506559204748702016-01-03T13:49:00.003-07:002016-01-03T13:49:43.166-07:002015 Cat of the Year, Vote now!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmMvp_lMcUBZOVYnLQvD4pu046CP1hCfzj2HBYMDXyz28n2yBwRZyeFYQyhe5Avp5IGoOeWJjRlpAOGLYYK807umIcV_JiEPy977QTfNZaugfkFaON6fV7tie_FzeITdejaQdpRm7SbE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1451852708827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmMvp_lMcUBZOVYnLQvD4pu046CP1hCfzj2HBYMDXyz28n2yBwRZyeFYQyhe5Avp5IGoOeWJjRlpAOGLYYK807umIcV_JiEPy977QTfNZaugfkFaON6fV7tie_FzeITdejaQdpRm7SbE/s320/PhotoGrid_1451852708827.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It is that time of the year again; time to recognize the contributions of some exceptional individuals. Yes, it’s time to vote for your Cat of the Year.<br />
<br />
Preparation of this year’s Cat of the Year voting has been slowed by the considerable confusion and even outrage expressed by voters in last years’ contest. As a result of bad faith dealings, a drawn out legal battle, frivolous motions (such as the question of who is the owner), attempts by some parties to sway public option though lies and manipulation, the appointment of and ruling by a three member water panel, and review by the official rules committee, the voting has been delayed. But now it’s ready, and we believe that <strike>the City of Missoula will ultimately own the water company </strike> one cat will fulfill its destiny.<br />
<br />
2015 has once again brought change and upheaval in the personnel in the Marler- Schmetterling household, and thus eligibility in the 2015 Cat of the Year. For a brief recap, Natalie, our once big and faithful cat, passed away in July 2014, and since she did complete more .5 of the year, so she (according to the official rules) was eligible for the 2014 competition. However Alex took home the prize for 2014. Good job Alex!<br />
<br />
Winston, who joined us in November 2014 was not eligible to compete last time, but he is in the game this year, big time.<br />
<br />
Chester, our newly added Persian, is not eligible. We got him in November and the rules clearly state a contestant must complete more than six months at our house to be considered on the ballot. Too bad, Chester. But as a means of introduction and in fairness to Winston’s introduction last year, this year we will include him in the overview.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhotNkmCEV0MMp3_Ne_vpiLV4-PMaUC-5fki-oF_sFWHhDTFYliH-QSunuvdIta_uiLn2LVV7HCIy6u_VKiAJPiTJs5_RVM4Uh531EY0VD56fXwEOIOtceFVQc3m4Il_UH2zSG0Cix1vjA/s1600/IMG_7957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhotNkmCEV0MMp3_Ne_vpiLV4-PMaUC-5fki-oF_sFWHhDTFYliH-QSunuvdIta_uiLn2LVV7HCIy6u_VKiAJPiTJs5_RVM4Uh531EY0VD56fXwEOIOtceFVQc3m4Il_UH2zSG0Cix1vjA/s320/IMG_7957.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miles: not a cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Miles</b><br />
As was brought to our attention in 2013, Miles, our wire-haired Chihuahua is not a cat and therefore ineligible. The rules committee convenient and the decision was upheld in a vote, 11-1.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ2rGhlFMDBZlAoZfyaSXw4zOW4Edv5SUj78I0e3pfpwCmbpd3wesE4aMMnd9QK77phpHoduuE2Bq1rusQteWfZl1wlLCPzWFo7ALlo4RsrYHDq2C6d4tBIYDCaXhoO4ujcEWMNMlN2I/s1600/20140819_174536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZQ2rGhlFMDBZlAoZfyaSXw4zOW4Edv5SUj78I0e3pfpwCmbpd3wesE4aMMnd9QK77phpHoduuE2Bq1rusQteWfZl1wlLCPzWFo7ALlo4RsrYHDq2C6d4tBIYDCaXhoO4ujcEWMNMlN2I/s320/20140819_174536.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chickens and Miles: not cats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>The Chickens</b><br />
The chickens (Winnie and the other two) are also not eligible. In addition to not being cats, we can’t tell them apart (in the photo above the chickens are being represented by a single chicken. Don't know who) so they’d only be up for some kind of group award, which Cat of the Year is most certainly not.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXW-BWB4z1NO_ZIQ_5a7BmBUhcs66_UPGTDVIwEIc8ZrkFoU9Qma2w_bInMiLYfadrZHG-ln9BBJvCney5W3XeP2BDiFTa4JIAYSzFbI9vdZpoUcN6FXbE3vIQeCvtr3lSG3u0XzDP2w/s1600/20140313_154256-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXW-BWB4z1NO_ZIQ_5a7BmBUhcs66_UPGTDVIwEIc8ZrkFoU9Qma2w_bInMiLYfadrZHG-ln9BBJvCney5W3XeP2BDiFTa4JIAYSzFbI9vdZpoUcN6FXbE3vIQeCvtr3lSG3u0XzDP2w/s320/20140313_154256-2.jpg" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie's one true friend, the mountain lion rug: ruled not a pet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>The mountain lion rug</b><br />
The lion rug has never been included. However one voter pointed out last year that she is a valued part of our home, providing warmth and companionship (especially to Natalie in her final days), and she spent more than 6 months in our home in 2015. The rules committee had to refer to the dictionary definition of “pet,” which is a “domestic or tamed animal kept for companionship or pleasure and treated with care and affection.” In favor of including the lion: she does provide companionship and pleasure, and we do treat this rug with care and affection (except Miles- he disrespects it and we had to move it). We appreciate that we ate her meat, and we admire her beauty. Against including the lion: Let’s face it, she is neither domestic nor tamed. She could turn on us at any moment. Therefore: ineligible. Sorry Cryss Anderson. However we take reader comments seriously and encourage everyone to send feedback when warranted. We should all question the establishment and feel the Bern.<br />
<br />
So here are this year’s title contenders. Their order has been randomly assigned to avoid bias.<br />
<br />
In a close vote, Alex was your 2014 cat of the year. Whereas the rest of the descriptions will remain the same, e.g., significant accomplishments, background, etc… astute readers may notice we no longer include “Cost per pound” as one of the considerations, because that shit was getting ridiculous.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhyphenhyphenA5eVLZPbThFQwAuG1KY3Z2Mq5auWJzxDVGdvJTK6nRDOd1AhdT3Cywpy-KnFo_HFxjs8K40TzHQ_2ahMXLm69sCUj3QG7kEGt39fTb2x_oKXNo_cSTWEearbF-gHRCui972cYS1bo/s1600/Alex2014COY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhyphenhyphenA5eVLZPbThFQwAuG1KY3Z2Mq5auWJzxDVGdvJTK6nRDOd1AhdT3Cywpy-KnFo_HFxjs8K40TzHQ_2ahMXLm69sCUj3QG7kEGt39fTb2x_oKXNo_cSTWEearbF-gHRCui972cYS1bo/s320/Alex2014COY.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex- he is hard to photograph</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Alex</b><br />
<br />
Alex is the defending 2014 champion as well as the 2013 Cat of the Year and also winner <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/12/2009-cat-of-year.html">by a landslide in 2009</a>, defeating not only Natalie, but Squeak and Junebug (a two time champion herself). He is the reigning champion and the only 3 time winner. It is his title to lose. The prestige and glory of his victory never changed how he goes about his day. He has retained his unassuming nature, almost as if he was unaware of his victories and the dynasty he is establishing.<br />
<br />
Accomplishments:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLFlQpLjQCv8iyEhQ9HhyB9EviYBbVkW5GFwupN5yOBR1nLaEu3s-87i6eXmmgbppDQHDw-qbxSGcVl_LRhf0txC0E4gOWN_e82Kz-WB74UwlHKIuiG7bjQw_sFENDMHQ02rUlKzudpA/s1600/20151125_135448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCLFlQpLjQCv8iyEhQ9HhyB9EviYBbVkW5GFwupN5yOBR1nLaEu3s-87i6eXmmgbppDQHDw-qbxSGcVl_LRhf0txC0E4gOWN_e82Kz-WB74UwlHKIuiG7bjQw_sFENDMHQ02rUlKzudpA/s320/20151125_135448.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He has unusually large paws.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Alex still enjoys playing the classic games like "Hit" and "Bite." Unfortunately his weak, arthritic hips limit his participation in "Chase." He understands that not everything is how it was in youth. He is completely unflappable. He has seen worse, he was hoarded.<br />
<br />
He lost his one white whisker but recently grew it back (coincidental to the Cat of the Year voting).<br />
<br />
He developed a hitch in his giddy-up (from the arthritis) but carried on bravely despite having to crab walk for about a week. He was able to re-arrange his activity schedule so that he could do his things in a clock wise progression (only turning right, and crab walking right). During this time we had to move his litterbox upstairs since he couldn’t use the stairs. Then, because he did not want to inconvenience anyone, he healed.<br />
<br />
He still walks a little stiffly but it’s OK. He’s seen worse; he was hoarded.<br />
<br />
Alex also went through a phase in late summer when he only slept under the bench by the front door and pretty much ignored everyone in the house. Around mid-Autumn he pulled himself together and rejoined us. He’s back to sleeping on our bed and interacting with the other pets a little. He seeks affection and purrs a little louder than last year. Is this a miracle turn around or is it just a ploy to gain votes in the Cat of the Year contest and retain his title? I guess the voters will decide.<br />
<br />
If he is indeed pandering, it might be because he recognizes the formidable opponent that is Winston.<br />
<br />
Age: 16+<br />
<br />
Weight: 6 lbs 11 oz, down 1 oz in a year, and 2 oz in 2 years. Amazing consistency. Way to go Alex. That is so Alex, a rock.<br />
<br />
Background: Innocent victim of a hoarder. We adopted Alex in 2007 from the <a href="http://www.bitterroothumane.org/index.html">Bitterroot Humane Association </a> as a friend for Natalie. He’d been at that shelter for 2 years because no one wanted to adopt an adult black cat. We love him and his giant eyes, soft profile and ¾ length tail. And he loved Natalie. Until her last breath in June 2013, she thought of him as her mortal enemy and nemesis. We are not very good at match making.<br />
<br />
Health: chronic warts (pre-cancer), arthritic hips. His diagnosis at this year’s health checkup: “Aging.”<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcp2QQ107ibDp6groIpvLAp3BIMcOtrt_isA3RcNknDbTd4WoWR-7-oIWFlAHLHRJHmTZ_4lNg98Qx4gDRsN3s3b0M2Uspj-p54rwE_YC_ZiZpDNENDkcyI9tLS3ALGp1gx6rJr2apLQ/s1600/20151216_181055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcp2QQ107ibDp6groIpvLAp3BIMcOtrt_isA3RcNknDbTd4WoWR-7-oIWFlAHLHRJHmTZ_4lNg98Qx4gDRsN3s3b0M2Uspj-p54rwE_YC_ZiZpDNENDkcyI9tLS3ALGp1gx6rJr2apLQ/s320/20151216_181055.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Winston</b><br />
Oh Winston. You may recall that at this time last year, we were just getting to know Winston and his many quirks. He was living under our bed and using the bathtub as his litterbox. That’s right. Poor guy, his inability to use a traditional litterbox was the reason he had been surrendered at the Humane Society by TWO DIFFERENT PEOPLE before he came to live with us.<br />
<br />
Actually Persian cats are known to have this behavioral issue. We have had to deal with worse <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2011/01/2010-cat-of-year-story-of-june-bug.html">(Junebug, the 2010</a> and <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/02/junebug-wins.html">2011 Cat of the Year</a>) She was a two-time champ despite having to overcome her genetic predisposition. So we stuck it out and tried to encourage him to use a litterbox. We eventually guessed that the litter hurt his little paws (all four of which had been declawed by one of the former owners, which is really mean), and we gave him some boxes we line with cloth nappies. It has worked great! He is now pretty dang consistent in using the box, and it is easy to launder the nappies.<br />
<br />
Perhaps this was his plan all along: to rid us of society’s disposable tendencies. Instead of the flushable litter, even though it is made of a waste material (we use a wheat based litter), he turned us on to re-usable cloths. Recycled and re-usable cloths that are available at Home ReSource in Missoula for $10/bag, and your purchase supports diverting waste material from the local landfill and promoting re-use in general.<a href="http://homeresource.org/" target="_blank"> Home ReSource</a>, located at 1515 Wyoming, open 7 days a week. Thanks Winston!<br />
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Weight: ranged from 4.5 pounds to 6 pounds 15 ounces<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhM9KuCqk4cl3UtCLWeQNf1Z3lFdyuKe3jlscORbYQKKJ9CkQYkjvZFWnkxaZSjCehJP1p1eVb16uyheyavWZkfZYnj8zXwsQDSy9i1PLhCwmPOS1V7ageRA_DSvTlSa32MBhURNQGiNQ/s1600/20150816_203617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhM9KuCqk4cl3UtCLWeQNf1Z3lFdyuKe3jlscORbYQKKJ9CkQYkjvZFWnkxaZSjCehJP1p1eVb16uyheyavWZkfZYnj8zXwsQDSy9i1PLhCwmPOS1V7ageRA_DSvTlSa32MBhURNQGiNQ/s320/20150816_203617.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2015 was a hard year for little Winston</td></tr>
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Age: a hard 11<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKTDLfkh7oyQjawSaGwTsVIOnXOA2Wf6nWUK8sCt99Jt4bmdfuUL6Hqdi-L4TNywJz1ONhOLHswuxDX_w2bVk2URAmdp1EwFTmz0R0mM0rm07-73j6qmqT9DghyBhZclsqitazwsOT-w/s1600/20150810_202043-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnKTDLfkh7oyQjawSaGwTsVIOnXOA2Wf6nWUK8sCt99Jt4bmdfuUL6Hqdi-L4TNywJz1ONhOLHswuxDX_w2bVk2URAmdp1EwFTmz0R0mM0rm07-73j6qmqT9DghyBhZclsqitazwsOT-w/s320/20150810_202043-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What could a captiuon possible add to this picture. Vote already.</td></tr>
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Health: Poor little sweetie. You will recall that we were treating him for chronic terrible diarrhea. It was bad. And the flatulence. However in treating that problem, we almost killed the patient. We were giving him prednisone for his chronic diarrhea but unfortunately it had negative side effects. Including (in retrospect) an eye ulcer that refused to heal. We had to take him on an epic quest to Mordor (aka, Spokane Veterinary Eye Clinic) to get it fixed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0gCFEzYlKwI-WtF3wpFEfTIaV7sezN881hP_HWKNhQ3fgcATz8amJGdcCxFKharBhoOxluEw0JHX4jrMJiB-I_E-gzoIpq2TyPNF4YiTiY4Mykoo0HuCbBAs6wUhz39k6C69ncfcgHo/s1600/20150724_123718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0gCFEzYlKwI-WtF3wpFEfTIaV7sezN881hP_HWKNhQ3fgcATz8amJGdcCxFKharBhoOxluEw0JHX4jrMJiB-I_E-gzoIpq2TyPNF4YiTiY4Mykoo0HuCbBAs6wUhz39k6C69ncfcgHo/s320/20150724_123718.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ever watchful eye of Sauron.<br />One does not simply walk into Mordor.</td></tr>
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We spent a three day weekend giving him eye drops every hour and despite the agony it put us and him through he eventually recovered.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately all the eye drops made him sick, and although we had already switched him to a kinder and gentler steroid (budesonide), the lingering side effects of the prednisone were holding him back.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DiQ2_p5uCZH5d6manTvBYfmtqwXxkTe_NHO1UFL9y_AJVbPjlHeMRFxQP4Kbl2YIMlEDVsCs8UrvZelB6i_zyvPhT3i0HDKOnj6SMoURxbN2GPqkr1Fpnt8gJkzLkrJU6JCB9izyleg/s1600/20150823_215215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DiQ2_p5uCZH5d6manTvBYfmtqwXxkTe_NHO1UFL9y_AJVbPjlHeMRFxQP4Kbl2YIMlEDVsCs8UrvZelB6i_zyvPhT3i0HDKOnj6SMoURxbN2GPqkr1Fpnt8gJkzLkrJU6JCB9izyleg/s320/20150823_215215.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sleep, little Winston, gain strength.</td></tr>
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He lost almost 3 pound and about half his hair. It was awful. Eventually he got stronger and he has begun to regain his magnificent coat!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikia1ztxKFEav50B6hm0n5_7uNOw_Mz1H0IJ78DamsIoX_UTfDz8VV8wncSl2iPyA8gZSqZPue2hhfpT7mWvJJbFqJRZnpsXveWuHcRQVyUlxWM6H67Midl81zqENqWlTpcUrhyaJfRs/s1600/20150729_150426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgikia1ztxKFEav50B6hm0n5_7uNOw_Mz1H0IJ78DamsIoX_UTfDz8VV8wncSl2iPyA8gZSqZPue2hhfpT7mWvJJbFqJRZnpsXveWuHcRQVyUlxWM6H67Midl81zqENqWlTpcUrhyaJfRs/s320/20150729_150426.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He lost almost 3 lbs this year, but is on his way to recover</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqShCwNRi_adZ9LZyer5TFp5ETHBVsQtpKxkvJqxeEPNpQSUTzfuCRyswjXmcBNVeVO2RgrGN8Qq72FzRmVZjVSjI_U3dsA-OmCmyxC18SzrBb8MzQ4kFeeft_KXgf65PzvFfBp2GJY8/s1600/20151101_212109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqShCwNRi_adZ9LZyer5TFp5ETHBVsQtpKxkvJqxeEPNpQSUTzfuCRyswjXmcBNVeVO2RgrGN8Qq72FzRmVZjVSjI_U3dsA-OmCmyxC18SzrBb8MzQ4kFeeft_KXgf65PzvFfBp2GJY8/s320/20151101_212109.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting nourishment</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXXt0_-u2jVWGWuU5eMnOuhIILuz4pULjcXUnCrmjXp9QePuNzAS-hpo3KLKYWcymJ3SnlvX6NZGfB-qHbuUEKGd3WP2HwvOBnZohxREqtVPtIDB1sWwvr9uzpUL5HWwSpMLg3GalhT0/s1600/20151113_214449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXXt0_-u2jVWGWuU5eMnOuhIILuz4pULjcXUnCrmjXp9QePuNzAS-hpo3KLKYWcymJ3SnlvX6NZGfB-qHbuUEKGd3WP2HwvOBnZohxREqtVPtIDB1sWwvr9uzpUL5HWwSpMLg3GalhT0/s320/20151113_214449.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
Accomplishments in 2015:<br />
<br />
The cat cheated death.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94asO9M11WGnycm5G5KC7cVAzjyOF4iHUo_0UpYaPVQeGSSMIJ5-FvKdMjyHxutZiQjjllAnMurkFDvXTaITdLLELPzU4mgna01B5lUp2x8HUaiRKwXvcKywQMqu3Q6pu0k-itQhdXBo/s1600/20151115_221346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94asO9M11WGnycm5G5KC7cVAzjyOF4iHUo_0UpYaPVQeGSSMIJ5-FvKdMjyHxutZiQjjllAnMurkFDvXTaITdLLELPzU4mgna01B5lUp2x8HUaiRKwXvcKywQMqu3Q6pu0k-itQhdXBo/s320/20151115_221346.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staggered teeth, like a shark. Prominent human lip</td></tr>
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Though not new for 2015, he has a HUMAN LIP. Not to mention that, his tongue is too long for his face and his little tiny teeth are staggered like those of sharks. This is probably an adaptation to his incredible appetite. He eats everything, and like a little tiny wolverine, he will force a certain terrified chihuahua from his dinner. Now one comes between 6 lbs of whoop-ass and his food. No one.<br />
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Verdict: Winston is a slightly higher functioning Junebug.<br />
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Winston had quite a health struggle this summer. He cheated death, and it was a miracle. But now there is another.<br />
<b></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlMihA1s-Njn63NGCJz-RoxH3O0wSYwBPfNSfwXxmc4rFDiM7iDHgbtUi17tt03nccacyX86AI01ser7YCa7Nn1Nt1n6g16ojPLD6dUnXovwcPAyWlV0GEcSeAXWlfx-FOZgko0GazYM/s1600/20151202_185530-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlMihA1s-Njn63NGCJz-RoxH3O0wSYwBPfNSfwXxmc4rFDiM7iDHgbtUi17tt03nccacyX86AI01ser7YCa7Nn1Nt1n6g16ojPLD6dUnXovwcPAyWlV0GEcSeAXWlfx-FOZgko0GazYM/s320/20151202_185530-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When you look at the dark side..., the dark side looks back.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6LitnYO7Wru_y4z2AN4BcCT5Dxn8EGQ7mY3ns4pRa7NkwgdS0IqKsxENja9ClbNdIs_yYbKSQNuFgv5Kzn5e0aemQ5lFzG_jPgb-wH4T94nKkwtZjOVGo9VxUpRqs-RxCseV0mwDldU/s1600/20151210_203356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6LitnYO7Wru_y4z2AN4BcCT5Dxn8EGQ7mY3ns4pRa7NkwgdS0IqKsxENja9ClbNdIs_yYbKSQNuFgv5Kzn5e0aemQ5lFzG_jPgb-wH4T94nKkwtZjOVGo9VxUpRqs-RxCseV0mwDldU/s320/20151210_203356.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The force is strong with this one.</td></tr>
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<b>Chester</b><br />
<br />
Age: 5 or so.<br />
<br />
Weight: He doesn't want to be weighed.<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5086285745310021732" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5086285745310021732" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5086285745310021732" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5086285745310021732" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5086285745310021732" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Health: Tooth extraction, abscess, both expensive. We also got is nose opened up a bit, so he can now eat and breath at the same time. Again, expensive, a but that is what you get with recycled cats.<br />
<br />
Background: Shrouded in mystery. This fall he allegedly showed up on the doorstep of two college students and demanded room and board. He stayed for a couple of months before they posted him on Craigslist for free. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KKNon4nafOx9juikjS9eCQYI1eoIDDb5tANfk1whMypUaHvcgFD_pFf2kCxtyLyzB2PooFwNaY-kEIg-qLd_Yg5psrSVCWXlKcZTVTVEmp27mehqZOdIgLITQe78XqHtiRxz00X3tHo/s1600/Craigslist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3KKNon4nafOx9juikjS9eCQYI1eoIDDb5tANfk1whMypUaHvcgFD_pFf2kCxtyLyzB2PooFwNaY-kEIg-qLd_Yg5psrSVCWXlKcZTVTVEmp27mehqZOdIgLITQe78XqHtiRxz00X3tHo/s320/Craigslist.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who posted this add?</td></tr>
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This leaves us with so many questions: Where did he come from? Why did he leave? Was he forced to move? Why so angry? What happened to his previous owners?<br />
We may never know.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxpsy-uPMD6nTrJDkwTBk2vfrO-84SHqlmVYGK81QNjC9Ko2wzYPJofmRu-f8HHWel1Erv-kGpjyBZGur5QttDl5UNvIlfGabB0gqcjZD5s8jISlN2tbOXvlRdBh_AfPHLP2ikdUqD2c/s1600/20151124_212553-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJxpsy-uPMD6nTrJDkwTBk2vfrO-84SHqlmVYGK81QNjC9Ko2wzYPJofmRu-f8HHWel1Erv-kGpjyBZGur5QttDl5UNvIlfGabB0gqcjZD5s8jISlN2tbOXvlRdBh_AfPHLP2ikdUqD2c/s320/20151124_212553-1.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chester is not impressed by Miles and Winston.<br />Considers himself "surrounded by idiots".</td></tr>
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Angry. Judgmental. Strong sense of entitlement. He loves Miles and the cats but that love is not reciprocated. This fuels his anger, anger leads to hate, and we all know hate leads to suffering and the inevitable path to the dark side.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibrsKvUgmJ4fFa9P9wqSmIvBooRYwjhaXfOsuw-vWzDR8SevYbrkYMum8BemXRGLi_K5ZjxzBDBeRSGAlp_8M06aIOXxPYsX0kJouhn9IOdURSpMFLeUMc7nh7YEIBxLTtE3UEIDBIPA/s1600/20151231_115331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhibrsKvUgmJ4fFa9P9wqSmIvBooRYwjhaXfOsuw-vWzDR8SevYbrkYMum8BemXRGLi_K5ZjxzBDBeRSGAlp_8M06aIOXxPYsX0kJouhn9IOdURSpMFLeUMc7nh7YEIBxLTtE3UEIDBIPA/s320/20151231_115331.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anger leads to hate</td></tr>
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He has an extraordinary side swipe, when he rubs his hips against everything. He has even knocked Miles off his feet. Yes, the force is strong with this one.<br />
<br />
He apparently likes everyone and everything except Trisha Drobeck.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdbOE4g4X0nQKxY0eVGe85-2w8gZkThXklb3BTGhtKp8W8a2To6N5FGVNDm5c4hnh7sv5OBV-O3h__pkO-cCeZ5GijILkPjjG8AxphCO0LfMwE_zlVXmy1YqsJ_JWmvWwV5qxRM9-9j4/s1600/20151120_180847-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdbOE4g4X0nQKxY0eVGe85-2w8gZkThXklb3BTGhtKp8W8a2To6N5FGVNDm5c4hnh7sv5OBV-O3h__pkO-cCeZ5GijILkPjjG8AxphCO0LfMwE_zlVXmy1YqsJ_JWmvWwV5qxRM9-9j4/s320/20151120_180847-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He will not be mocked.</td></tr>
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We are a little concerned about his past, and that coupled with his silent sneaking around the house, makes us sleep a little less easily. Many times, suddenly he is there. And angry.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6y5kZWaibAvYpRppcSL3QW1zqAGXUr3Q056e94qQUcSqR8QytG9QD64f1-sG0ZEeT2MtT1E2zzp48C9mrtSxc3mcMqwxyWh5kkaE4gIOa3e2uD5me-q_9kWaOmeaW9u4ktgSFOd0vcsU/s1600/20151120_120639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6y5kZWaibAvYpRppcSL3QW1zqAGXUr3Q056e94qQUcSqR8QytG9QD64f1-sG0ZEeT2MtT1E2zzp48C9mrtSxc3mcMqwxyWh5kkaE4gIOa3e2uD5me-q_9kWaOmeaW9u4ktgSFOd0vcsU/s320/20151120_120639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We are a source of disappointment to Chester.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Accomplishments: Has gigantic paws. Looks good in a lion cut (given to him by the women who saved him and looked for his people before finding him a home). Did not complain about having a bad tooth, we discovered that at the vet at his adoption well check. Seems to have adjusted to living with us rather easily, perhaps too easily.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKbZwOtHofHoy-pHG501O2Hv8k9G4s5qKiTjEvs3CpYOMqGHiAoFREhtrJMJO_LXIqkNUc_vp0RNBeZF4flIaIT3FeCcIgQRR_QT48pxO1VYmbzRTlOse9c_QRYE5WO3MTFzECCYLYuo/s1600/20151122_180830-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKbZwOtHofHoy-pHG501O2Hv8k9G4s5qKiTjEvs3CpYOMqGHiAoFREhtrJMJO_LXIqkNUc_vp0RNBeZF4flIaIT3FeCcIgQRR_QT48pxO1VYmbzRTlOse9c_QRYE5WO3MTFzECCYLYuo/s320/20151122_180830-1-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Remember Chester is ineligible this year but look for him again in 2016, when he is sure to be a serious contender, even a phantom menace as Winston is wont to believe. That is, if he chooses to stick with us for the required six months or more, and doesn’t discard us and move new home.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsP2YyyGovFzQsXUgOT3sTMNGKyN81rps-CuWG1KFrZhKO6QFjA4HmdpNprjZZInCzuaAA0lJ33c722lfWF3z9uU9RQKFHRgRrGQKfOULbNijPWOXLPBaiHRqE6cwiGJnNTLj9HryWuA/s1600/20151207_073532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDsP2YyyGovFzQsXUgOT3sTMNGKyN81rps-CuWG1KFrZhKO6QFjA4HmdpNprjZZInCzuaAA0lJ33c722lfWF3z9uU9RQKFHRgRrGQKfOULbNijPWOXLPBaiHRqE6cwiGJnNTLj9HryWuA/s320/20151207_073532.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He took Miles' bed, but later returned it, so he could steal Alex's bed, which he has not relinquished. </td></tr>
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<b>Vote now! Voting is open until January 10, 10:00 pm!</b></div>
<br />If you are using a mobile device, scroll to the bottom and select "View web version" and cast your vote on the right hand tool bar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGXd4CDpXPkSid1jjliSBgnIXjkrlpu8rI8uD9K9eZI5YuS6eUo3nvP69jvZ4bNL-FM-ZmjoYplti3o0yTZ1T-cmsEGB4ayVoTEamtkZ2_KwISNFQYqOQX0Lq9C1Tu0v73D1b49iiSng/s1600/20160101_190921-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGXd4CDpXPkSid1jjliSBgnIXjkrlpu8rI8uD9K9eZI5YuS6eUo3nvP69jvZ4bNL-FM-ZmjoYplti3o0yTZ1T-cmsEGB4ayVoTEamtkZ2_KwISNFQYqOQX0Lq9C1Tu0v73D1b49iiSng/s320/20160101_190921-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Support your local Humane Society, adopt a pet today!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-89386278946905445172015-09-01T10:31:00.000-06:002015-09-01T10:31:22.318-06:00Native Plant and Wildlife Gardening Classes in September!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV4DeBGOYSoxTmvMLHtYqotpFDdpx0kVpE87QxaK8k_6I8wu6leq2M9r8elNQOzPv3awHilTdP6Ej12XgL7YgGHWzKdf89d3D2QiTuk2N171ARIlHg1CdSlcbYXDXhV5jBDP0T-ZWZn9U/s1600/IMG_20150706_082933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV4DeBGOYSoxTmvMLHtYqotpFDdpx0kVpE87QxaK8k_6I8wu6leq2M9r8elNQOzPv3awHilTdP6Ej12XgL7YgGHWzKdf89d3D2QiTuk2N171ARIlHg1CdSlcbYXDXhV5jBDP0T-ZWZn9U/s320/IMG_20150706_082933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This September, my wife and I will each teach a class through the <a href="http://missoulaclasses.com/" target="_blank">Missoula County Public Schools Lifelong Learning Center</a>. We each taught classes last year; Marilyn taught a class on composting, and I taught one <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2015/04/make-bee-house-class-follow-up.html" target="_blank">on native bees and building a native solitary nesting bee box</a>. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A successful class!</td></tr>
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We both enjoyed teaching such wonderful and engaged students so much, we will be back!<br />
This time, on September 15, I will be teaching a one evening class <a href="http://register.asapconnected.com/CourseDetail.aspx?CourseId=81287" target="_blank">on gardening for wildlife</a>, obviously one of my favorite topics!<br />
Here is the description of the class from the Lifelong Learning Center's website:<br />
<ul>
<li>Do you want to create a sustainable landscape that attracts and
encourages wildlife? If so, join David as he teaches you to provide all
the features to draw birds, butterflies and other wildlife to your
garden. This is a one night class where you will discuss the various
components of creating an oasis for you and for wildlife in your garden.
</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9TlJPFjnYhvlzBOk4YOAvF1x_GzQEKFTyphuiinwezckeKrRpOeWixtNUE9NAwxsUCZZZflRIwx3uLUIEHG0z7lobM39rE4ES71lC_KrOSWuEepkk2fOyjmwaU57RxIJrENewKZCxVw/s1600/IMG_20150723_192839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9TlJPFjnYhvlzBOk4YOAvF1x_GzQEKFTyphuiinwezckeKrRpOeWixtNUE9NAwxsUCZZZflRIwx3uLUIEHG0z7lobM39rE4ES71lC_KrOSWuEepkk2fOyjmwaU57RxIJrENewKZCxVw/s320/IMG_20150723_192839.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native plants attract insects!</td></tr>
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Two days later (on September 17), Marilyn, one of the best native plant botanists in the state, will teach about native plants in the fall, how to plant, what to plant and how to identify. What a great native plant and wildlife garden week!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyU7MpTikR-shiJXLK3k8gZLvOri2YltusS-5youQkMCrYGtrEqBbxl5Y-6ssnkG3T4aiOrcM9GTuRAW6lI06ongpUyRd6hpPmozIkC3yIw-i9t8JqVwumbCatz5hTUvwanOrKXN_j8k/s1600/IMG_20150703_202910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMyU7MpTikR-shiJXLK3k8gZLvOri2YltusS-5youQkMCrYGtrEqBbxl5Y-6ssnkG3T4aiOrcM9GTuRAW6lI06ongpUyRd6hpPmozIkC3yIw-i9t8JqVwumbCatz5hTUvwanOrKXN_j8k/s320/IMG_20150703_202910.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall colors in the native plant garden</td></tr>
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Here is a description of her class from the Lifelong Learning Center Website:<br />
<ul>
<li>Who says it’s time to put your garden to rest? With the right plants
and methods, fall is the prime time to create a beautiful color
landscape. By using native plants (perennials, shrubs and trees) your
fall garden will look beautiful for you and for birds getting ready to
spend winter in Montana. We'll discuss plants with late blooms, leaves
of all colors, and which shrubs bear interesting fruits and pods. We'll
also talk about fall planting methods and how much to tidy up the garden
for winter. <br />
</li>
</ul>
To register click<a href="http://register.asapconnected.com/CourseDetail.aspx?CourseId=81286" target="_blank"> here</a>.<br />
<br />
Hope to see you at one of these classes!Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-40881739681182561512015-08-05T07:34:00.002-06:002015-09-01T09:11:19.770-06:00Spontaneous Construction '15 is almost here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiKC36q6CRLaaOm1ayX5wPANbpaHRswe85wv6cMcXu1P7u7lmmAZ2WICku6Pk-8qKv9QlSTfykFTYRfzg0rWfFfdLi_Ds-4Qzer36vgsHsZRdhaezS1ME-PdO1U-7xfUPn0pYgKgU4k8/s1600/PhotoGrid_1438629244919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhiKC36q6CRLaaOm1ayX5wPANbpaHRswe85wv6cMcXu1P7u7lmmAZ2WICku6Pk-8qKv9QlSTfykFTYRfzg0rWfFfdLi_Ds-4Qzer36vgsHsZRdhaezS1ME-PdO1U-7xfUPn0pYgKgU4k8/s320/PhotoGrid_1438629244919.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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SponCon's coming! This year celebrates over ten years of Spontaneous Construction, <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon/" target="_blank">Home ReSource's annual festival of creative reinvention.</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMJHutDmUPEHOVl408R-HAWD8ffaWctdSeqs-CBkssvjjM-mddO7-hypx_0P0F2RsLmNyaq9ZjmffFu2Wis3N9MPpVsU0qiYlHqfOZiXTDSm6zzknb8UUfRROy7bIYvLJtUQ0bYSDQgU/s1600/SponCon-2015-flyer_colorWeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMJHutDmUPEHOVl408R-HAWD8ffaWctdSeqs-CBkssvjjM-mddO7-hypx_0P0F2RsLmNyaq9ZjmffFu2Wis3N9MPpVsU0qiYlHqfOZiXTDSm6zzknb8UUfRROy7bIYvLJtUQ0bYSDQgU/s320/SponCon-2015-flyer_colorWeb.jpg" width="241" /></a></div>
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It is my favorite event of the year- a day devoted to building something with materials found at Home ReSource. A day when all I have on my calendar is to build something with our team. And this year, our team (<a href="http://butterflypropertiesllc.com/Garden_Coaching.html" target="_blank">Butterfly Properties</a>) will have our missing teammate Barry back! We were the first team to register. </div>
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Every year is a struggle to build something in the allotted time; seven hours goes by really quickly. Each year we endeavor to make something smaller and quicker. That never works. Just the other day, Barry and I were discussing a couple of project ideas for SponCon, and he suggested we build both. At first I laughed, but then I said, "sure". We both figure fun is secondary, work comes first.</div>
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It is always a good opportunity to see Barry (he lives in Idaho, and we don't see each other as much as when he lived in Montana). So on September 19, we will get to stand next to each other, and work side by side all day, probably without any breaks, wearing hearing protection and eye protection, and not mutter a single sentence to each other. Then at the end of the day, we will say how exhausted we are and how much fun we had together. WTF? Maybe we need a new hobby.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IKjbf53amh9mYkenRSEuqZkESC3_smiJSRoOIWv6C8fbQCBPJiHmy79lWZ4D2oDzw46If8Yh8Z-o1rkBsvgN1TnT3OfS9LoMrYqx0HaSWu6E2nYhocIe8UfJjaHjfgb_TsoTJDGh1TE/s1600/Team+butterfly+properties.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4IKjbf53amh9mYkenRSEuqZkESC3_smiJSRoOIWv6C8fbQCBPJiHmy79lWZ4D2oDzw46If8Yh8Z-o1rkBsvgN1TnT3OfS9LoMrYqx0HaSWu6E2nYhocIe8UfJjaHjfgb_TsoTJDGh1TE/s320/Team+butterfly+properties.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Butterfly Properties, circa 2011</td></tr>
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<b>Team Butterfly Properties:</b></div>
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<b>Marilyn: </b> Work site custodial engineer, public outreach coordinator, chief information officer, paint application specialist (if necessary)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRhAMBS0xo8GSRH3pMJnL6I6IuLhNaqw9brBB6cJPNeTXM6mokdkz9793mdvn9BHjhvJvrcpL7j4kpVBt675HyJCRRi3v3iv-GyX1UrM5HVme1gH6sygt-8bZTZstdpldX_ICU5d5zR8/s1600/Marilyn+Spon+Con+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxRhAMBS0xo8GSRH3pMJnL6I6IuLhNaqw9brBB6cJPNeTXM6mokdkz9793mdvn9BHjhvJvrcpL7j4kpVBt675HyJCRRi3v3iv-GyX1UrM5HVme1gH6sygt-8bZTZstdpldX_ICU5d5zR8/s1600/Marilyn+Spon+Con+2011.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marilyn, paint application specialist, inspects her work. Acceptable!</td></tr>
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<b>Barry: </b>Chief Welding Operation Officer, Chancellor of Fabrications, Woodworker</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5cR8atp9CLCQtNp_yfp3U4bZ1gFufzsLMnkzSPMsGiVapY8G8KiP9ZZSqs_sapoMWooOb_vFx83noLK8K9Wz79OjMRY3RmPIFi5e2i3Aw6pNm2Yy7g1autZFLDs0GcToGTtOD7GEbFQ/s1600/Barry+grinding+Spon+Con+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5cR8atp9CLCQtNp_yfp3U4bZ1gFufzsLMnkzSPMsGiVapY8G8KiP9ZZSqs_sapoMWooOb_vFx83noLK8K9Wz79OjMRY3RmPIFi5e2i3Aw6pNm2Yy7g1autZFLDs0GcToGTtOD7GEbFQ/s320/Barry+grinding+Spon+Con+2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barry at his happiest. Getting it done.</td></tr>
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<b>David (me):</b> designer, vice welder, woodworker, field marshal, resourcing logistician</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbxNXc_6HRaMcddm0q0v2Ws48_3-3Wf_HKNSoHBZwfCPcffib-EY5WwPfQshvzH9xFe44qSwOatBwZ_gL0tN5mzMOdigONtfr36Q9JhbizKMB5YSRZ5Klv7KzMLwuWNPS6NGV7cyH06s/s1600/david+sponcon+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbxNXc_6HRaMcddm0q0v2Ws48_3-3Wf_HKNSoHBZwfCPcffib-EY5WwPfQshvzH9xFe44qSwOatBwZ_gL0tN5mzMOdigONtfr36Q9JhbizKMB5YSRZ5Klv7KzMLwuWNPS6NGV7cyH06s/s320/david+sponcon+2014.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No time to smile for the camera</td></tr>
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So, what will we build? We don't know yet, but it will be for the garden!</div>
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In the last four years our creations have been finalists, and we were fortunate to take home the grand prize in 2012. All of our projects have used <strike>junk </strike>inventory from Home ReSource, be we especially endeavor to use stuff that otherwise does not sell well or at all.</div>
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We have made, <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/08/spontaneous-construction-2012.html" target="_blank">a mobile garden cloche</a> (<a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/09/spontaneous-construction-2012-recap.html" target="_blank">my favorite project</a>),</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMiKa2m9scLZOBpTxjKB6V5VtMMB7ZI7fPsLYnZSEMdjXeicZncld02hYtZRzkWawfWLzqXwc3w_IAMlaWx_oZTxzKxLoqts-pJeqTzjPDRlcgWA5h89AxRtopt1uGbgSkraGmjG4u58/s1600/SponCon2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMiKa2m9scLZOBpTxjKB6V5VtMMB7ZI7fPsLYnZSEMdjXeicZncld02hYtZRzkWawfWLzqXwc3w_IAMlaWx_oZTxzKxLoqts-pJeqTzjPDRlcgWA5h89AxRtopt1uGbgSkraGmjG4u58/s320/SponCon2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/09/spontaneous-construction-2012-recap.html" target="_blank"> a garden table and chairs made from garden tools, </a><br />
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<a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/09/an-outdoor-garden-shower-for-someone.html" target="_blank">an outdoor garden shower, </a></div>
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and <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2014/09/sponcon-2014-recap.html" target="_blank">last year Marilyn and I made a potting bench.</a></div>
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Come down and see us and the other contestants on September 19, but you will have to talk to Marilyn, the chief information offcer, because Barry and I will be too busy catching up with each other.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barrry and me: 7 hours of building side by side and never said a word to each other.</td></tr>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-90941523415544503202015-06-22T12:00:00.000-06:002015-06-22T17:03:31.586-06:00Little Free Library #12129<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil92lUGZ5JKmAd_xu1B_OTp-8ZeTSvP6Q5aDM7ariofp-7fXa-0K-YxoRkFQOJrs5jP8y5SQDhnzwONAy6KZFd1te62Z_sWMh7GkWGRzMQ4unEpGrHZEVngBcZSFj0NM-MczEGTFAGeE0/s1600/library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil92lUGZ5JKmAd_xu1B_OTp-8ZeTSvP6Q5aDM7ariofp-7fXa-0K-YxoRkFQOJrs5jP8y5SQDhnzwONAy6KZFd1te62Z_sWMh7GkWGRzMQ4unEpGrHZEVngBcZSFj0NM-MczEGTFAGeE0/s320/library.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Little Free Library #12129 is in action! This has been on my project list for over a year, and I am glad to get it crossed off. <br />
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I love the idea of the <a href="http://www.littlefreelibrary.org/" target="_blank">Little Free Library</a>, and I wanted to participate and spread the word, but I have no idea how or of it will get used. But really, I like building things.<br />
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The Little Free Library organization has a wonderful mission: <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul>
<li>"To promote literacy and the love of reading by building free book exchanges worldwide. To build a sense of community as we share skills, creativity and wisdom across generations."</li>
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I also I really like that they encourage reuse in building libraries and initially all the libraries were built with recycled materials.<br />
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Like most of my garden projects, I made this from materials that were reused or re-purposed and all form <a href="http://homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>. Mostly these are leftovers from the chicken coop construction, and it shares a lot of similar style and materials.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYgIQrawfVS9e0ivBOoR2XyG0OiMlEcjWgHcZ7iboxssyYeL9rXrjrpg5eQW1IxyN6XxFbY6fjwP3V1ULyQQWkwcXX1BU58edgyRoo-1xLpYPG_Uv8USUOQWy6XrgFfJlg1hcbQuR4LE/s1600/roof.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYgIQrawfVS9e0ivBOoR2XyG0OiMlEcjWgHcZ7iboxssyYeL9rXrjrpg5eQW1IxyN6XxFbY6fjwP3V1ULyQQWkwcXX1BU58edgyRoo-1xLpYPG_Uv8USUOQWy6XrgFfJlg1hcbQuR4LE/s320/roof.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A unique feature to this little library is the green roof. On it I planted spearleaf sedum (<i>Sedum lanceolatum</i>), yarrow (<i>Achillea millefolium</i>), and pussytoes (<i>Antennaria rosea</i>).</div>
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The library is surrounded by flowers now, but will be a nice bit of structure and a focal point in the garden yearlong. It is perched on a fence post, just across the sidewalk from a bench we installed years ago. This also reminds me that I really need to complete building the fence!<br />
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I love that the Little Free Library package comes with labels reminding people that these books are "always a gift, never for sale"<br />
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I want this library to have a garden and landscaping theme, and these are the books I started with. Books ranging from chicken keeping to western landscaping and butterfly identification (of course).<br />
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Last night, the first night the library was in use, I heard some neighbors checking it out. I was glad for that, but also (I have to admit) a little concerned!<br />
However, I was so excited and delighted to look in the library this morning and see new books! Not only did a neighbor leave new books, but they also fit the theme.<br />
This was so gratifying and it really emphasized to me how a Little Free Library can build a sense of community, just like their mission. I didn't expect to be so excited and surprised that someone would leave books (even though the motto is "Take a book, return a book"). <br />
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Without much of an explanation of a Little Free Library, people get it. It is exciting to be part of this and to see that it's working. <br />
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If you are in the neighborhood, please come by to take a book or leave a book!Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-33860799791625366022015-05-16T18:09:00.001-06:002015-05-16T18:09:08.139-06:00Butterfly Properties Garden Tour!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-2xaj-JdjILShi-gLSg637JVOO5FJ93Kg1JLqvNpUMOEx3C1G-euupQOAg4jFRO7kUKxhEs0hOBigOY906xjcHLqpbgfiGkAcqr-gcHPPmS_PZ-Zb2ZB1FpFapQ-PIqqbn5_ETxy2Oc/s1600/garden_gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-2xaj-JdjILShi-gLSg637JVOO5FJ93Kg1JLqvNpUMOEx3C1G-euupQOAg4jFRO7kUKxhEs0hOBigOY906xjcHLqpbgfiGkAcqr-gcHPPmS_PZ-Zb2ZB1FpFapQ-PIqqbn5_ETxy2Oc/s320/garden_gate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Marilyn and I have been garden coaches in Missoula since about 2009 (<a href="http://butterflypropertiesllc.com/Garden_Coaching.html" target="_blank">Butterfly Properties</a>). Garden coaching is just what it sounds like: helping people identify garden goals and then helping them achieve those goals in a step-wise strategy.<br />
<br />Our favorite part about garden coaching is seeing how excited people get by transforming their yards from something generic to something beautiful that suits their personal vision and needs. It is inspirational to see! And now we want to share the inspiration with you, via the Inaugural Butterfly Properties Native Plant Garden Tour!<br /><br />Four of our clients agreed to open their yards for the tour. We think that if you live in western Montana and are interested in native plant gardening for beauty, personal enjoyment, wildlife habitat and resource reduction, you will enjoy seeing these projects. You’ll probably get some ideas and meet some new friends. <div>
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<b>JOIN US! </b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/485436831621613/" target="_blank">Click here to RSVP on the Facebook event</a>, or contact us by <a href="mailto:info@butterflypropertiesllc.com" target="_blank">email by clicking here</a>.<div>
<br /><b>Inaugural Butterfly Properties Client Native Plant Garden Tour!</b><br /><br /><b>Date: </b>Sunday, June 28, 12-4 pm<br /><br /><b>Location:</b> Begin and end at Butterfly Properties World Headquarters, 1750 South 8th Street <br />West, between Catlin and Garfield on 8th Street<br /><br /><b>Tour Description:</b><br /><br />Join us as we tour four of our clients’ gardens: gardens envisioned and created by people just like you. Each garden is different: different stages of maturity, different goals, and different site considerations. But what do they have in common? Using native plants to create personal, beautiful spaces for people and wildlife to share.<div>
<br />We’ll meet at our house to hand out maps, meet each other and set up carpooling options. We’ll visit each garden as a group, and hear from the gardeners. We hope this tour will become a regular event. It is an opportunity to get ideas, inspiration, and motivation and to meet like-minded gardeners. <br /><br />We will conclude with a social and a recap form at our garden. We will probably have some native plants to give away, too.<br /><br /><b>Tentative Schedule:</b><br /><br />12:00 Meet at 1750 S. 8th St. W. (Butterfly Properties World Headquarters) for map and carpooling<br /><br />12:45- 1:15 “Downtown Secret Sanctuary”<br /><br />1:30- 2:00 “Fun Family Space Garden”<br /><br />2:15- 2:45 “Natural Playground and Family Compound”<br /><br />3:00-3:30 “Bury the Evidence”<br /><br />3:30- Social at Butterfly Properties World Headquarters! <br /><br /><b>Garden Descriptions</b><div>
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<b>12:45- 1:15 Downtown Secret Sanctuary</b><br />Our Front Street yard is our sanctuary in the making, a secret garden in the downtown area. For years it was a blank canvas for which we had no vision. Its evolution has been equal parts planned (thanks to Butterfly Properties) and organic creativity. The yard has some unique features that we have tried to use to the best advantage of the garden and which help make it a fun place to explore. There’s a steep hill with a shady grove at the bottom, a sunny ledge near the house, and some structural elements we’ve tried to connect to the garden. We’ve incorporated pathways, dog friendly spots, vegetables, and low-water areas.We are excited to be a part of the Butterfly Properties garden tour, to share our progress and see the cool ways people are designing their yards.<br /><br /><b>1:30- 2:00 Fun Family Spaces </b><br /><br />A year ago we were stuck on what to do with our large, flat, square backyard that contained a small deck, eight huge vegetable planters and far too much weedy, dry lawn. We had almost no gardening experience, and the little we had was in a tiny yard in England. We wanted to use the space for outdoor eating, for kids to plan and explore, to relax with a book or chat with friends on warm evenings. We also wanted to reduce the time and water inputs required to maintain the vast lawn. Since we met with Marilyn and David last summer, we've planned out spaces for eating, playing, lying in the hammock and socializing. We've removed half the lawn; laid what feels like acres of weed matting and mulch; planted some initial shrubs; built a small sandbox and added a climbing structure; and, most recently, dug a large hole and turned the dirt into a hill. We're very much “in-progress,” but the space has already been transformed – there’s increasing variety and plenty more to come. One real benefit of making drastic changes like removing 1200 sq ft of grass and moving 10 yards of dirt is that it definitely makes the prospect of further changes seem quite manageable.<br /><br /><b>2:15-2:45 Natural Playground and Family Compound</b><br /><br />Our "garden" is actually our entire lot, and now expanding into Lisa's mom's backyard next door. We have a food and cut flower garden and some native plant beds out front but most of our energy and time is spent in our back yard right now. We began working on our landscape plan in 2008! We were initially looking to add some interesting landscape design and start experimenting with natives. At first, we worried if we were keeping enough lawn for our needs, but now we are always thinking about which sections of sod to remove next. The biggest challenge for us is always removing sod--that first sod cutter experience was a marriage test! But with each year we are inspired to keep the project going. Our yard is used for many things including privacy in an urban setting, family gathering space, growing some food, and creating wildlife habitat. Lisa is exploring how the yard can become a testing ground for preschool playground ideas. We want to have a back yard that draws our kids outside and can keep them busy in imaginary play for hours where they can run back and forth between our house and Grandma's. <br /><br /><b>3:00- 3:30 Bury the Evidence</b><br /><br />We wanted a beautiful but low maintenance front yard that let us focus energy on vegetable gardening instead of lawn care. It makes me happy to work in the garden, and it makes me even happier when the garden returns the favor with food. I love vegetable gardening and this is my first stab at working with natives. We started our garden project last June with a visit from David and Marilyn. Their enthusiasm threw us into several weeks of sod cutting, rolling, and Craigslisting. That was followed by mounding loads and load of soil (including our entire compost pile, accidentally stealing rocks from our neighbor, and a deep well I was conveniently digging for our egress window). The project culminated with my mom flying in from Detroit to help me plant all our fresh starts, only to break both of her legs the night we completed the work. We decided that would be a good point to wrap things up for the season. Our favorite thing about the garden is the mounds David suggested. Not only do they make the neighbors think that we're a little off, but they look really cool with snow on them in the winter when you can't see all the plant babies. Countless neighbors and bike commuters have gone by and made a crack about what we're hiding under the mounds. A mother-in-law? The last person who asked? Cats? You name it. Removing the sod was ridiculously hard work, but David's method worked like a charm. Not one blade of grass has sprung up. This season we are finding out who survived the winter, learning to identify the native plants, and probably filling in with some new additions.<br /><br /><b>Finale: Social at the Butterfly Properties World Headquarters</b><br /><br />Our garden goals are to use only Missoula area native plants to create places for wildlife and for us. We also think it is important to only water what we eat. Our yard is arranged into a series of rooms- laundry, cooking, dining, potting, and more.</div>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-71351346605656936102015-04-27T17:26:00.000-06:002015-04-27T17:26:12.398-06:00Make a Bee House Class Follow-Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRhEXk9d-JJMLngTCG2kJT8vINWpBDpzloJstm4fbUUYw_50eXFnI7DUjkZ2GXQC4dvAei710eTxO8zCxySXer6rxZ3IBQNZvCsPBuf9L0usFZbFkcL6SmZ1ePdhabREeA800GjqtIxo/s1600/20150423_203436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRhEXk9d-JJMLngTCG2kJT8vINWpBDpzloJstm4fbUUYw_50eXFnI7DUjkZ2GXQC4dvAei710eTxO8zCxySXer6rxZ3IBQNZvCsPBuf9L0usFZbFkcL6SmZ1ePdhabREeA800GjqtIxo/s1600/20150423_203436.jpg" height="240" width="320" /> </a></div>
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I had a lot of fun talking about native plants, native
insects that use them, and our native pollinators at the Make a Bee House Class
I taught last week through the <a href="http://thelifelonglearningcenter.com/" target="_blank">Missoula County Public Schools Lifelong Learning Center</a>. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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Twelve people participated in the class, some
had never used a drill, others had never really thought there was a difference
between a bald faced hornet, western yellow jacket, European paper wasp, etc… but
all were eager to learn and excited about native bees!</div>
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Everyone had great questions and I think were pretty excited to install their houses and see who shows up. I hope people keep me posted about their boxes. I also know most were eager to build more. Like I mentioned in the class, if nothing else building the bee houses and watching them is a great way to learn about out native bees and other insects. </div>
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Ultimately the class made 14 boxes, and only a little blood was shed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL6EFGYqE_sN5EWuzy0IGEMqdAT-8H_bHaoK-NrHRu3GUIrJn8gdz8InXCL3sx9gCo-RbonG-dWWpTOnqLJmYD8G65O9N4143nIRxeSGHHtpnq9-VaHN0FkN_497l2kuX3aOHTF0jxd8/s1600/20150423_201534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL6EFGYqE_sN5EWuzy0IGEMqdAT-8H_bHaoK-NrHRu3GUIrJn8gdz8InXCL3sx9gCo-RbonG-dWWpTOnqLJmYD8G65O9N4143nIRxeSGHHtpnq9-VaHN0FkN_497l2kuX3aOHTF0jxd8/s1600/20150423_201534.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got all the materials at my favorite building material reuse center, <a href="http://homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>,
including Douglas fir 4x4" and 4x6" for the boxes, cedar shakes and tin ridge cap
for the roofs, cedar fence boards for the backs and a
variety of nails and screws to fasten it all together. Home ReSource has it all.</div>
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This just in....I just got an email from Cate from the class showing where she installed her bee house- right next to her vegetable garden!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beautiful! </div>
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Marilyn, my wife, made a box too (she was a test subject for the class; she survived), and this one will be
installed at the Native Plant Garden at 8<sup>th</sup> and Grant this Thursday when
we do a spring cleaning, and weeding of this neighborhood native plant garden. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> Everyone is welcome to attend, and we will
even be giving out free native plants!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>See I was able to turn this post into a plea for help! Here is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/593252057478003" target="_blank">a link to the event page </a>with more information, but you can just show up at 8th and Grant, at 6pm on Thursday (April 30), ready for an hour or so of light work in this little garden. Bring gloves and your favorite weeding tool if you have one.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYtlb-nMVZb5KCzC0hq6aajuP6lyl5DiTta3euy4-KenqjztRiGbIGIe2mmZeqFOz3j7louB1NMaInjX4nqXNjRpaeonfDCLnvTkevTI7X0JIoRF4647CP5hZrp_cpHOzgHmyRRc0zW4/s1600/20150422_171717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibYtlb-nMVZb5KCzC0hq6aajuP6lyl5DiTta3euy4-KenqjztRiGbIGIe2mmZeqFOz3j7louB1NMaInjX4nqXNjRpaeonfDCLnvTkevTI7X0JIoRF4647CP5hZrp_cpHOzgHmyRRc0zW4/s1600/20150422_171717.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This box is heading to the Native Plant Garden at 8th and Grant!</td></tr>
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The idea of ground nesting
bees interested a lot of people and prompted some discussion of what we can do for them (since they comprise the majority of our native bees), and I thought I would pass a long some timely information. One was <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/47327639" target="_blank">a recent blog post</a> on how to provide habitat for native ground nesting bees from my favorite native plant and insect personality, Heather Holm of <a href="http://www.restoringthelandscape.com/" target="_blank">Restoring the Landscape with Native Plants</a>, and author of <a href="http://www.pollinatorsnativeplants.com/" target="_blank">Pollinators of Native Plants</a>. Be sure to follow her on Facebook, and any other social media you can. And buy her book. She is a wealth of information on native plants and insects, and a fantastic artist, graphic designer, educator and landscape designer! </div>
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The other experience with ground nesting bees came to me yesterday (unexpectedly) when I was hunting in a snow storm in the mountains east of Missoula. As I was sitting under a ponderosa pine escaping the cold and wet snow, a bumblebee came buzzing by me visiting some flowering lupines and other snow covered plants. I immediately thought of how I explained to the class that our native bees will tolerate a much wider range of temperatures and conditions than Eurasian honeybees. So I took out my phone to get a picture of a bumblebee pollinating flowers in the snow. Then the bee landed on a patch of bare ground and started furiously digging, probably a excavating nesting burrow. I captured this action on camera:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biscuitroot (<i>Lomatium ambiguum</i>)</td></tr>
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Follow me on Instagram (montanawildlifegardener) where I am trying to post a picture each day of a species that is flowering in our garden. I say "try" because we have over 100 species of Missoula area native plants and their flowering time has a lot of overlap. It has been easy for the last week or so as things are just getting started. Here are a few examples from this week...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shooting star (<i>Dodecatheon conjugens</i>)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden currant (<i>Ribes aureum</i>)</td></tr>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-79071790732737243152014-12-23T07:53:00.003-07:002014-12-23T07:53:59.274-07:002014 Cat of the Year, Voting is Open!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is that time of the year again, to step away from the garden, from birding, and from re-purposing projects to focus on our family. More importantly, to recognize the contributions of some exceptional individuals.<br />
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2014 has seen a change in personnel in the Marler- Schmetterling household. Natalie, our once big and faithful cat, passed away in July. However, Natalie, the (undeserving) <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/01/natalie-your-2012-cat-of-year_25.html" target="_blank">2012 Cat of the Year </a>did complete more than the requisite .5 of the year, so she (according to the official rules) is eligible this year for competition. Our newest acquisition, Winston, a re-purposed, recycled Persian, will not be eligible for the title this year, but we included his statistics below for consideration for 2015.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWuMw-QT6A5P2G75xZmZuvrjOiSkmEj3S9RU3R54HzgjpvyjZRvdwPrHggixt8yHh7cKFQjZwRr3hhv94dfmTH3woAEFLuJ6tF7hd4iyQNA6VmzeGHu03c3W7AetrdPeRYms7X32pN4Q/s1600/20141220_191627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnWuMw-QT6A5P2G75xZmZuvrjOiSkmEj3S9RU3R54HzgjpvyjZRvdwPrHggixt8yHh7cKFQjZwRr3hhv94dfmTH3woAEFLuJ6tF7hd4iyQNA6VmzeGHu03c3W7AetrdPeRYms7X32pN4Q/s1600/20141220_191627.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ineligible!</td></tr>
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After the voting in 2013, it was brought to our attention, that Miles, our wire-haired chihuahua is not a cat. Following some research, careful observation and consideration, we concurred. Therefore, miles will not be eligible for the title of the 2014 Cat of the Year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8tZ6oDE3e4/U9Vv0pIpuOI/AAAAAAAAMs0/XnofnDGL15E/s1600/20140726_123942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8tZ6oDE3e4/U9Vv0pIpuOI/AAAAAAAAMs0/XnofnDGL15E/s1600/20140726_123942.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't feel too bad for Miles, he had a good year. He has explored a lot of mountain lakes and even met the governor.</td></tr>
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In addition to adopting Winston, in 2013 we were the high bidders at the Missoula County Fair's livestock auction for <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2014/08/chickens.html" target="_blank">these three chickens</a>. Not just any chickens, but the grand champion layers! All three are Rhode Island Reds, and they are named Winnie, and the other two.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verdict: not cats</td></tr>
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So the 2014 Cat of the Year title comes down to a classic showdown between two former champions, two heavyweights: Alex vs Natalie for the crown.<br />
<h2>
Alex</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsO6XNfcRRk36Ez-ws6vM2Ya89eOVFHRMC9oMTYGPgOYAstybYQt8KwXAEHaRxSCYasoVnYIf4vkv_fIsT0RzWjrqesgUjUnnv1qNH_Xq95gA9RPcvMjeXwJ8_dM93jR8QdY4A0HdVew/s1600/20140827_205839-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsO6XNfcRRk36Ez-ws6vM2Ya89eOVFHRMC9oMTYGPgOYAstybYQt8KwXAEHaRxSCYasoVnYIf4vkv_fIsT0RzWjrqesgUjUnnv1qNH_Xq95gA9RPcvMjeXwJ8_dM93jR8QdY4A0HdVew/s1600/20140827_205839-1.jpg" height="270" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He is hard to photograph.</td></tr>
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Alex is the defending 2013 Cat of the Year and also winner <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/12/2009-cat-of-year.html" target="_blank"> by a landslide in 2009</a>, defeating not only Natalie, but Squeak and Junebug (a two time champion herself). The prestige and glory of his victory never changed how he goes about his day. He has retained his unassuming nature, almost as if he was unaware of his victory. <br />
Since Natalie’s passing, Alex, the once aloof weird cat we adopted, has become affectionate and cuddly. It has been quite a transformation. In a strange turn of events, he is the most normal pet we have now. I never would have guessed it. We have long sought a playmate for Alex, especially since Squeak, his only friend, died in 2010. Alex enjoys playing the classic games like "Hit," "Bite" and "Chase." Since Squeak left, no one plays with him. We looked for months for a young male cat with whom he could play and bond. So we got him Winston. (Whoops. More on that later.) But, being his Alex self, he doesn't mind. He is completely unflappable. He has seen worse, he was hoarded.<br />
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<b>Age:</b> 15+<br />
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<b>Weight: </b>6 lbs 12 oz, holding steady (down 1 oz in a year). <br />
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<b>Background: </b>Innocent victim of a hoarder. A Bitterrooter, he was at <a href="http://www.bitterroothumane.org/index.html" target="_blank">Bitterroot Humane Association's </a>Hamilton shelter for 2 years because no one wanted to adopt an adult black cat. We adopted him in summer of 2007 as a friend for Natalie. Until her last breath she thought of him as her mortal enemy and nemesis. Alex loved her. We are not very good at match making.<br />
<b>Health:</b> chronic warts (cancer), good health otherwise, no signs of pain and has never complained.<br />
<br />
On a recent trip to the vet (the amazing Dr. Z at Animal Blessings) his diagnosis was “Aging.”<br />
<br />
<b>Accomplishments in 2014: </b>Sits on my chest while I am reading. Improved cuddly-ness.</div>
<h2>
Natalie</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92UNGUf3Pw0R9yW04aw0JrIS1dQM9BUXtvxulKXGjOVd6VYkjWM80kO4N8Jux_9YIAP9sIptuci7yLvT92n49DklU-qqfS9el_XrvckBEWvAfo-xIV4FBMXNU0j5NSMcFblWJZymS67c/s1600/20140313_154256-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92UNGUf3Pw0R9yW04aw0JrIS1dQM9BUXtvxulKXGjOVd6VYkjWM80kO4N8Jux_9YIAP9sIptuci7yLvT92n49DklU-qqfS9el_XrvckBEWvAfo-xIV4FBMXNU0j5NSMcFblWJZymS67c/s1600/20140313_154256-2.jpg" height="320" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natalie's one true friend, the mountain lion rug.</td></tr>
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Oh Natalie, our once big and faithful cat withered in 2014. Whereas she once possessed great stomp and vigor, her age betrayed her.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNANwDGT6bHVAc3HGSj43BOjDrS9PTUtXbq1YmJDLS-xlcgYLAJKsASUR0aN5K23B2feW0PfLVmkID-vVXq503H2_GtetzMmGAU4C5DZifN8YFAO6PqWqariS5hBHaeQvcDUaOgIscW0/s1600/20140127_200621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNANwDGT6bHVAc3HGSj43BOjDrS9PTUtXbq1YmJDLS-xlcgYLAJKsASUR0aN5K23B2feW0PfLVmkID-vVXq503H2_GtetzMmGAU4C5DZifN8YFAO6PqWqariS5hBHaeQvcDUaOgIscW0/s1600/20140127_200621.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betrayed!</td></tr>
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<b>Age: </b>19<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Weight: </b>She was big boned. In her heyday, she was well over 18 lbs. Through some dieting and excercise (read: mandatory lifestyle change) she maintained her weight around 13 lbs. Sadly, toward the end, she was below 6 lbs. <br />
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<b>Accomplishments:</b> Retained her mighty purr until her final day. Also retained her ill will toward Alex and disdain for <a href="http://www.animalblessingsmt.com/" target="_blank">Dr. Z,</a> her mortal enemy, yet savior. They have a complicated relationship. Good sleeper. Liked to help with crafts, but not new for 2014.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvh4nWSPhMx93MjfRT9urPX9Hag2Xb3r5lySU41u4LOJsTXPQpNNM-5bqbyYHPW3ajGfOUqQ0bHpLKHNmkHft9n62ocE9FXJPEHK-j39cLx2EYL8-E-IgAXXPXda9RxKv2Ao-__qpEA4/s1600/1077075_10201062562398615_798870490_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvh4nWSPhMx93MjfRT9urPX9Hag2Xb3r5lySU41u4LOJsTXPQpNNM-5bqbyYHPW3ajGfOUqQ0bHpLKHNmkHft9n62ocE9FXJPEHK-j39cLx2EYL8-E-IgAXXPXda9RxKv2Ao-__qpEA4/s1600/1077075_10201062562398615_798870490_o.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Though not a new skill in 2014, Natalie liked to help with sewing projects.</td></tr>
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<h2>
Winston</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtekwj4VqEr1iJaVUFkIU-uj6zbIljkYNBqekrDf1PIrMG3SxZtHU34is4Su24ItgHRFa3zSJ4NHq8gdlZjdirACNQmRuUj7InGwdjzkh82mFTkY0Sg6d2HHYvvRVz8-d0Sr_pu9R0OQ/s1600/20141213_092231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtekwj4VqEr1iJaVUFkIU-uj6zbIljkYNBqekrDf1PIrMG3SxZtHU34is4Su24ItgHRFa3zSJ4NHq8gdlZjdirACNQmRuUj7InGwdjzkh82mFTkY0Sg6d2HHYvvRVz8-d0Sr_pu9R0OQ/s1600/20141213_092231.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Good lord. We thought we had seen it all. He is a nice guy, but something is wrong with this cat.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDa1l7SuFmshrNVtzgOH3UPaxdOdyLpNPcLsZUcDdWAajFDH2i-AtTl4AMkCdsQerIpuwl2R6CnRsMKWOv5TxHzNFUYfEFCw4-AtHconeEuE5K1i7-JnIykhGS48Fr6HbFdxYvUdHnKI/s1600/20141211_071440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwDa1l7SuFmshrNVtzgOH3UPaxdOdyLpNPcLsZUcDdWAajFDH2i-AtTl4AMkCdsQerIpuwl2R6CnRsMKWOv5TxHzNFUYfEFCw4-AtHconeEuE5K1i7-JnIykhGS48Fr6HbFdxYvUdHnKI/s1600/20141211_071440.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to inbreeding, his face is too small for his tongue.</td></tr>
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Winston spends all day sleeping on the northwest corner of our bed. That is, until he RUNS into the kitchen and drinks approximately one gallon of water and sits there for about an hour. Then he RUNS to the bathroom, where he, wait for it… pees and poops in the bathtub. Yep. That is how he rolls. </div>
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All things considered, this "litterbox" strategy is pretty good and if nothing else, consistent. We have had to deal with worse <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2011/01/2010-cat-of-year-story-of-june-bug.html" target="_blank">(Junebug, the 2010</a> and <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/02/junebug-wins.html" target="_blank">2011 Cat of the Year</a>). It could be he is very environmentally conscience and eschews clay based cat litter. Kudos to him for that. However, we use a wheat based cat litter and provided him with two boxes for his exclusive use..</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGzA1oyiRjc0Wse9maBAdUvrFk0HEgpML-6mJhm_SZLXHOjEeNPeXGTe8bL06RxqQ7am138U_BRkiv8Y0WJflNWQTVk9WlvrfX6f2FB0S2ouj51_jXGmUvzKTfYNQoAEQaJ7fqnbG8U4/s1600/20141128_203417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihGzA1oyiRjc0Wse9maBAdUvrFk0HEgpML-6mJhm_SZLXHOjEeNPeXGTe8bL06RxqQ7am138U_BRkiv8Y0WJflNWQTVk9WlvrfX6f2FB0S2ouj51_jXGmUvzKTfYNQoAEQaJ7fqnbG8U4/s1600/20141128_203417.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He snores. Loud. Obviously.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0LZTrZPGgjmvAsaqlFJ97KjRttubdjBH-ifpVyRFqAE1h-tXCo0frJr_pYiTzZWZgoIyucotuCpQTCKgZsz823zTh3rsPrhlj3-c3Vf3jCL1c43Gy_RfOsPzre__bO5aZ4a1M4GTxjo/s1600/20141211_071509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0LZTrZPGgjmvAsaqlFJ97KjRttubdjBH-ifpVyRFqAE1h-tXCo0frJr_pYiTzZWZgoIyucotuCpQTCKgZsz823zTh3rsPrhlj3-c3Vf3jCL1c43Gy_RfOsPzre__bO5aZ4a1M4GTxjo/s1600/20141211_071509.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A classic profile.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4w7V3-ZUdgNoh6NQY0L3u1NhUOC6Vzctq4Fh_PUoTjMpEMxjesqFHXd399mTxIXngXThG5CKDQwJokNXdi0UYOyaJH-A18teA-IUXkbCyxx3MIAhmuJza7ZHu9MhNZ_TE0XH7_UmTdI/s1600/20141122_082135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4w7V3-ZUdgNoh6NQY0L3u1NhUOC6Vzctq4Fh_PUoTjMpEMxjesqFHXd399mTxIXngXThG5CKDQwJokNXdi0UYOyaJH-A18teA-IUXkbCyxx3MIAhmuJza7ZHu9MhNZ_TE0XH7_UmTdI/s1600/20141122_082135.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The good news is that he eats dry food. And wet food. And Miles' dog food. And even rejected dog food.</td></tr>
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He doesn't really interact with us or the other pets. He is really lazy and apart from his running to pee, running to drink, and running to eat, all he does is sleep. He only uses the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. He has no interest in visiting the rest of the house, nor greeting us, nor sitting on our lap, nothing. He does spend a lot of time grooming, but I think he is doing it wrong. He gets his fur soaking wet (this is probably where all the water he drinks goes), and then promptly rolls over for a 15 hour nap. A warm, moist, sleep. He is in fact felting his coat.<br />
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<b>Age:</b> 9<br />
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<b>Weight:</b>7 lbs<br />
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<b>Health:</b> treating him for chronic diarrhea. He has some teeth. His tongue sticks out of his mouth all the time. Just plain weird. Seriously, there has got to be something wrong with him.<br />
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<b>Other tidbits:</b> Nothing fazes him. He is he afraid of nothing.<br />
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UPDATE: since I started writing this, Winston has switched from sleeping on the northwest corner of the bed, to underneath the bed on top of a backpack. So basically, what we have now is a cat that lives under our bed and poops in our bathtub. Awesome.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-82814712342006863192014-12-21T08:30:00.003-07:002014-12-21T08:33:04.671-07:00Trailer Mover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvodfbzAXRIpXvBL0a_p9toOzZyCwToyrPrn8VVMMRK7qLfv4gHO4sKQ3A3ldWKghU-rnHle-eOvK2GGRsW3lcNcUWHszBHZ4WaNgnKcGOtF9bIvDL-0cNamNYyc5g9BZKPmsQlijgdwM/s1600/20140628_075701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvodfbzAXRIpXvBL0a_p9toOzZyCwToyrPrn8VVMMRK7qLfv4gHO4sKQ3A3ldWKghU-rnHle-eOvK2GGRsW3lcNcUWHszBHZ4WaNgnKcGOtF9bIvDL-0cNamNYyc5g9BZKPmsQlijgdwM/s1600/20140628_075701.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Beyond plants in the garden we have a lot of structure- trellises, outbuildings (greenhouse, tool closet, chicken coop, grill shed) and even our camper. The camper makes a delightful addition as a little "guest house" in our backyard when we are not in the mountains or prairies camping. People often ask how we get our camper in the garden tongue-first (as opposed to backing it in, the conventional way). </div>
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That is a good question. After some research, I purchased a "heavy duty" trailer dolly Like the one below (I don't have a picture of mine anymore, because I cut it up for scrap and reused some parts of it). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGhqRxTVthfZyjIBRenfOYRy9IoWYDNEAHytBwHxiH86hR9_2_TtnH_8-UqwVbdmbaBYNL2xEgXm3S_PPEf44TqYmg9MQ9taFkZYqaWZ5PFw6CU7sUxA4enc-KL4thE8AmyAG5aCa8Hw/s1600/trailer+dolly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGhqRxTVthfZyjIBRenfOYRy9IoWYDNEAHytBwHxiH86hR9_2_TtnH_8-UqwVbdmbaBYNL2xEgXm3S_PPEf44TqYmg9MQ9taFkZYqaWZ5PFw6CU7sUxA4enc-KL4thE8AmyAG5aCa8Hw/s1600/trailer+dolly.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not my photo, don't buy one of these.</td></tr>
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Not surprisingly these are all made in China, and since <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2012/09/a-new-project-buy-nothing-made-in-china.html" target="_blank">I don't buy anything new from China</a>, (A little sidebar, this reminds me I need to update this buy nothing from China project, it has been almost two years since I began that endeavor, but I digress...) I was able to find one used. I was a little dubious about the quality, but people swore by them. The first time I used it I noticed a lot of flexing, so I strengthened it with some welds and bolstered it in a few places with some steel supports. This seemed to help the rigidity and it seemed to transfer torque and force to the matter at hand.<br />
Nevertheless, I wasn't really satisfied with it. Those trailer dollies probably work really well on a level compacted surface (like a concrete driveway) but going from our alley into our garden was a two or three person job. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately, it was usually me and my wife struggling to move it, which usually lead to the trailer going where it was supposed to, but also involved an argument (probably my fault). So I figured I could find a better way to do this and I could probably build something that would make it a one person job. After some searching online for dolly plans, I found <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/TRAILER-MOVER-PLANS-EMAIL-Heavy-Duty-or-Standard-/231405139563?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35e0d2366b" target="_blank">plans to make a battery powered trailer mover</a>. The plans came in either heavy duty or light duty plans. I went with the heavy duty. <br />
<br />
It turned out to be a really fun project and very enjoyable, and even a little challenging. But best of all, it works! And it looks cool. And it was fun to build. And it helped save our marriage. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICqk-Mz1p2nvtZ19MTLu4NFKuUEzsXHQC4q0XGJyMTk3SG5D2DHxaAkYFzLqYhuO2RHUV6q6ZaYbgH1Q5gSyC742qKV-QwS1nsflvgP1wIN7RblZk-ADqHt8nFx_gMBdTtOyyTDe_1VQ/s1600/20140825_071102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICqk-Mz1p2nvtZ19MTLu4NFKuUEzsXHQC4q0XGJyMTk3SG5D2DHxaAkYFzLqYhuO2RHUV6q6ZaYbgH1Q5gSyC742qKV-QwS1nsflvgP1wIN7RblZk-ADqHt8nFx_gMBdTtOyyTDe_1VQ/s1600/20140825_071102.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The skeleton of the mover.</td></tr>
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<div dir="ltr">
The mover uses a 12V winch you modify to accept a sprocket. The winch turns a HUGE sprocket on the axle connected to the front wheels (those big lawn tractor tires). From a welding and fabrication standpoint, it was a really fun project. Did I mention that already?</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdxJ6qXMdlKZ_7lyjab09lOu0vBe7350QXO1NqFKD9Rcj9Et-p2xvrYhE-FcEP7woAUndftv4aYG644Ecq5LDEEb760o8mTPnbt_X1wfDZEaJmo-sQh_LXdMgt0_WC79rPaaJNGTLpmk/s1600/20140901_082628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEdxJ6qXMdlKZ_7lyjab09lOu0vBe7350QXO1NqFKD9Rcj9Et-p2xvrYhE-FcEP7woAUndftv4aYG644Ecq5LDEEb760o8mTPnbt_X1wfDZEaJmo-sQh_LXdMgt0_WC79rPaaJNGTLpmk/s1600/20140901_082628.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The completed mover.</td></tr>
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<div dir="ltr">
It is slow, but it could probably move a house. In retrospect, I could have probably gotten away with the gearing or the smaller front tires from the lighter duty model. But I would definitely recommend the rear tire configuration of the heavy duty model for traveling over uneven surfaces (the light duty model uses swiveling casters).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiruWc4moKNLIgnjQsQ4-ZuBWCjj5L5q4NRCwOgns2b3sno0Z8SmL_FWuJnAl4A-fdwlyhs30s3p-AfyqMPIuRt9YR4O5_rR4w6qVVB0gWROK7roIJl7OzYIVhe-7yCkdeswXflWkrz0Mc/s1600/20140915_154620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiruWc4moKNLIgnjQsQ4-ZuBWCjj5L5q4NRCwOgns2b3sno0Z8SmL_FWuJnAl4A-fdwlyhs30s3p-AfyqMPIuRt9YR4O5_rR4w6qVVB0gWROK7roIJl7OzYIVhe-7yCkdeswXflWkrz0Mc/s1600/20140915_154620.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hooked up the the trailer- a thing of beauty.</td></tr>
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Here it is hooked up to my trailer before I bring it into the garden through <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/10/garden-project-progress-home-resource.html" target="_blank">the removable fence panel</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3d2wg1cpxUHNC-10p-jRoeqc0jB1-0kuSPn8to3dFx2TGibpIden9LioWws389vFd3xe83vF2jIo5bm4ll_zAc_kHWcpQCFCvExCIlNdozKrWCMYeRd56qnFnvcohDplQiVuJPtRIB_A/s1600/20140915_154733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3d2wg1cpxUHNC-10p-jRoeqc0jB1-0kuSPn8to3dFx2TGibpIden9LioWws389vFd3xe83vF2jIo5bm4ll_zAc_kHWcpQCFCvExCIlNdozKrWCMYeRd56qnFnvcohDplQiVuJPtRIB_A/s1600/20140915_154733.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easily making the 90 degree turn from the alley into our backyard.</td></tr>
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Moving the trailer is now a one person job. It is really easy to maneuver over rough ground, and even in mud. The motor (the winch) is controlled by a remote switch I mounted to the handle, so you can toggle forward and backward with your thumb. Turning the mover (and trailer) is easily done with the long handle.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIZEz0JlhTmXA0YhbUZAA8hRmSGfFsITO5VbUTVNEoAH4lJv3yeOOioWNatiq4bubbWmkqcL9rfWIeKsECatnObDXGbHKEmheW4PY6pxKZS6H8pvXvgjskxpRLf6CEZTCVzNevwjc4rs/s1600/20140915_154847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIZEz0JlhTmXA0YhbUZAA8hRmSGfFsITO5VbUTVNEoAH4lJv3yeOOioWNatiq4bubbWmkqcL9rfWIeKsECatnObDXGbHKEmheW4PY6pxKZS6H8pvXvgjskxpRLf6CEZTCVzNevwjc4rs/s1600/20140915_154847.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now moving the camper is a one person job.</td></tr>
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<div dir="ltr">
I was able to get a lot of the components for it from <a href="http://homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a> (some steel, wheels, and hardware), and used parts (like the winch) online, and even from cutting up the original dolly! I was able to get a pretty big used (made in the USA) gel battery for it from the <a href="http://www.axmen.com/" target="_blank">Axman</a>, for only $45. On a single charge I was able to move the trailer back and forth from the garden to the alley all spring, summer and fall. Since it is a gel battery, I don't have to worry about it in the winter, which is good, because I just wanted to leave it outside.</div>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-12549887116042694492014-09-21T15:41:00.002-06:002014-09-21T15:41:43.783-06:00SponCon 2014 Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKztcMLJRwKOodMEHh9BUrhb3oesLK9_NtQhV027swpyYiqNyGUL4AYSNDoka_jCKHhjM56knX0B0cHLK6YaumrtRC3cXgPSO7AwB0RaNXRis8A0kMahWAQT1aB2h2N6m-aS0BjPUsmU0/s1600/20140920_162339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKztcMLJRwKOodMEHh9BUrhb3oesLK9_NtQhV027swpyYiqNyGUL4AYSNDoka_jCKHhjM56knX0B0cHLK6YaumrtRC3cXgPSO7AwB0RaNXRis8A0kMahWAQT1aB2h2N6m-aS0BjPUsmU0/s1600/20140920_162339.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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When I get asked why I like <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon" target="_blank">Spontaneous Construction</a> (SponCon), I inevitably say because it is such a unique event. It is challenging; it is a difficult test of your skills, creativity, and craftsmanship. It is so different from other Missoula events. Yes it is a building competition (I am not aware of any others), but the competition is not really with the other teams, but with yourself. I love building things and every year I challenge myself to build something and unique out of discarded materials. </div>
What a day. <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon" target="_blank">SponCon 2014</a> is done, and it didn't disappoint. It is always demanding and exhausting. I look forward to it every year. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSaJv-4FnS8nyZ35EKGbe1HH2v3JBvbeUBZacmM9rjg1CMhQTfAvrWj36JcnVRh3FJaYPMy0VZtcXoTX7H-yiqVWN6Dz-F-9G1Pf8vVB6BELUzR2FFH_NoCutq5TK7sIGU5csGF6mYA4/s1600/IMG_20140920_072916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSaJv-4FnS8nyZ35EKGbe1HH2v3JBvbeUBZacmM9rjg1CMhQTfAvrWj36JcnVRh3FJaYPMy0VZtcXoTX7H-yiqVWN6Dz-F-9G1Pf8vVB6BELUzR2FFH_NoCutq5TK7sIGU5csGF6mYA4/s1600/IMG_20140920_072916.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All our tools, supplies, and dreams loaded into the truck on our way to SponCon</td></tr>
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A day devoted to building something- I love it. Every year brings its own set of challenges and this year was no different. We were already down a team member (my good friend and excellent woodworker, and welder, Barry, was on a much deserved vacation this week) so it was just me and my wife, Marilyn. I was concerned about having enough time for building the project I in mind. So concerned, I woke up at 3 am stressed about this. Maybe I was just excited.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8C4JKUOR4lg7xSaTk2-bxJlc2EW8frvuwhRKZzZIG31mrVtnDx4BhfcQeysK6TpxsBcGzOwcSBi7-4kg3OWP7ZNiRvkveNq4b1BC32KqvialrrHAn_CQ1yqYRxnunTBCIC1PgAPh8_To/s1600/IMG_20140920_084454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8C4JKUOR4lg7xSaTk2-bxJlc2EW8frvuwhRKZzZIG31mrVtnDx4BhfcQeysK6TpxsBcGzOwcSBi7-4kg3OWP7ZNiRvkveNq4b1BC32KqvialrrHAn_CQ1yqYRxnunTBCIC1PgAPh8_To/s1600/IMG_20140920_084454.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moments before the competition began- team Butterfly Properties, me and my beautiful wife.</td></tr>
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I quickly cut, grinded, and prepared all the steel stock for assembly (all of the steel in this project was from discarded bed frames- something there are a lot of in the world, and the landfill). I switched over to welding, and that's when the day took a turn for the worse. I turned on my welder, and pulled the gun's trigger, and got nothing. I spent the next one and a half hours trying to figure out what was wrong with my welder, and never could get it to work. It worked the night before- I changed the spool and tip in preparation for the day. <br />
<br />
Around noon, with a non-functioning welder, for what I had planned to be primarily a welding project (!), I came to terms with the fact I wouldn't be able to complete a project. I was incredibly disappointed. I had looked forward to this day for so long, and I was afraid of letting everyone down. In retrospect I realized that there was the challenge this year, and this is why this event is so difficult- one thing goes wrong, and time keeps going by. This is why I enjoy this event so much- you put yourself into a difficult and unique situation, and you just don't know what is going to happen.<br />
<br />
I ended up borrowing a welder from one of the most talented SponCon builders, and former Home ReSource employees, Jimmy Willet (pictured on the left below).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RO1VeFjRMiw0jfDFv1RrPqFvXD0LKRd-bM9LHj0Go44KMYlsT3lTtjcayb4c4nshgMfzzWbC1gyABDl74_2EtbeZNiDdjgcDYwk36ebeuK4Zh8xRrClIxfBRuUS2mb45oJe3raQxbnc/s1600/20140920_113031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_RO1VeFjRMiw0jfDFv1RrPqFvXD0LKRd-bM9LHj0Go44KMYlsT3lTtjcayb4c4nshgMfzzWbC1gyABDl74_2EtbeZNiDdjgcDYwk36ebeuK4Zh8xRrClIxfBRuUS2mb45oJe3raQxbnc/s1600/20140920_113031.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jimmy Willet (on left), the man that saved SponCon for me, and his teammate Josh Decker</td></tr>
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I then spent the rest of the time figuring out how to use his welder! His is actually better than mine, but I was used to using mine. By the time I was done with all the welding, I was finally producing some good welds. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkbM6t7LX4Y29CeE5OXdA43ZXCYrqovBi7X2GxvOHvT23pTp5xeqjmrisGSFFAeHorRKXF98YDaR2zPQAVg_8n9oeX2MkvTMMDePnbPp4LMCmi8My2sU042dUwfwQHdw34LBrcmZU7Fw/s1600/20140920_113009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkbM6t7LX4Y29CeE5OXdA43ZXCYrqovBi7X2GxvOHvT23pTp5xeqjmrisGSFFAeHorRKXF98YDaR2zPQAVg_8n9oeX2MkvTMMDePnbPp4LMCmi8My2sU042dUwfwQHdw34LBrcmZU7Fw/s1600/20140920_113009.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back in the game</td></tr>
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I ended up reevaluating my project and scaling it back. In the end, I am happy with how it turned out, though it was not quite how I envisioned it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKkGBVdoMs9TmeNENyd68UDRuiXFy59KL03ef8V8BGbCqm1qX60v_4ja_DreQDwZKEB3xOUte42DmDDkHkDUXf4D96BSnYSRGJLEg2w6yPqxLq9WjqqXuwuy_2og5kAhP2iGXBOSGuQk/s1600/20140920_162306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKkGBVdoMs9TmeNENyd68UDRuiXFy59KL03ef8V8BGbCqm1qX60v_4ja_DreQDwZKEB3xOUte42DmDDkHkDUXf4D96BSnYSRGJLEg2w6yPqxLq9WjqqXuwuy_2og5kAhP2iGXBOSGuQk/s1600/20140920_162306.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our completed potting bench</td></tr>
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We made a potting bench that has all the features you need: a place to store soil, hooks for hanging tools, a big work surface, large lower shelf, and a grate (made from wrenches) over which you can pot plants or water them and have the soil and water drain to a basin below. But, it also functions as an outdoor side board or buffet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rblmUyNIlwLwADVMUUGMTZqORc_RZ93DbiLBJEv2j504NbgEZqjQEMQX6LXvRHJ77KHM7sZo2UMO1fVeh9NKKMnbsWognqfIEmunUJT2iPsitIQF0OHYk6B44soRsleHMO-2SHuRr3k/s1600/20140920_164133-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rblmUyNIlwLwADVMUUGMTZqORc_RZ93DbiLBJEv2j504NbgEZqjQEMQX6LXvRHJ77KHM7sZo2UMO1fVeh9NKKMnbsWognqfIEmunUJT2iPsitIQF0OHYk6B44soRsleHMO-2SHuRr3k/s1600/20140920_164133-1.jpg" height="320" width="281" /></a></div>
The tool hanger (made from a garden rake) also serves as a wine glass holder, and the soil container could hold ice to cool beverages and the grate works as a trivet for hot serving dishes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRP6hQxF_C_9rw-kN-b9Fh0X3rjXDPadSEAUbTFqLz4e8SsUiCtOwVU7mayJwmXGJC9ay6VVSmZOBG69P2II3AwYbW82TmYhHe6t5I9I4ZOK6wQUpdg2devZ6wluGtDmw1qdG_GGqjZQ/s1600/IMG_20140920_171025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfRP6hQxF_C_9rw-kN-b9Fh0X3rjXDPadSEAUbTFqLz4e8SsUiCtOwVU7mayJwmXGJC9ay6VVSmZOBG69P2II3AwYbW82TmYhHe6t5I9I4ZOK6wQUpdg2devZ6wluGtDmw1qdG_GGqjZQ/s1600/IMG_20140920_171025.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is made for the garden, so appropriately, it is made of garden tools and adorned with a couple of insects, a lady bug (whose feet are also tool hooks) and a long horned beetle, made from various shovels and diggers.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HEOVg5mOLE/VB49tO7NOgI/AAAAAAAAQ9k/0qVVTjeHheA/s1600/IMG_20140920_170749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6HEOVg5mOLE/VB49tO7NOgI/AAAAAAAAQ9k/0qVVTjeHheA/s1600/IMG_20140920_170749.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The frame is made of bed frame steel for long life outdoors and the wood is all 2 x western red cedar from a deck and raised garden beds.<br />
It was a long, exhausting day, and I am already looking forward to next year.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1r87DBbqibho3CMmTzSYbSxmFEOCYCg9-0oDYoRfwjF-QB_mnefBaZcVhqM7un9ZYgTZ4E_NKJmiwka8hgFiX9J7nWn0WJ7meicWYw2GH40smD6C4pGCskLfYrRtjNJnhTUjSID6FPA/s1600/20140920_174623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh1r87DBbqibho3CMmTzSYbSxmFEOCYCg9-0oDYoRfwjF-QB_mnefBaZcVhqM7un9ZYgTZ4E_NKJmiwka8hgFiX9J7nWn0WJ7meicWYw2GH40smD6C4pGCskLfYrRtjNJnhTUjSID6FPA/s1600/20140920_174623.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miles and Marilyn after a long day of SponCon</td></tr>
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Miles was happy to see us when it was all over.<br />
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If you are interested in seeing this and the other creations that are grand prize contenders, from <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon" target="_blank">SponCon 2014</a>, come by Home ReSource where they will be on display. And if you are interested, you can bid on them at the <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/benefit-auction" target="_blank">auction</a> on October 24 at the Doubletree Hotel in Missoula. Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-51332230243427442762014-09-16T22:07:00.000-06:002014-09-16T22:07:01.131-06:00SponCon's Coming...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNe9vgif5rEFH1S39dtt-eSmQDpQEMbaWMEOyHIcDWZZXY3b16VJprMwjWcvZceLgbYqoimOtzX27DatDijcj77PGGkyRlTnEhuopYP3ZlywDQ8Eu4XoMwExwk8-owIUIw21nxyYIcUKI/s1600/IMG_20140916_102545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNe9vgif5rEFH1S39dtt-eSmQDpQEMbaWMEOyHIcDWZZXY3b16VJprMwjWcvZceLgbYqoimOtzX27DatDijcj77PGGkyRlTnEhuopYP3ZlywDQ8Eu4XoMwExwk8-owIUIw21nxyYIcUKI/s1600/IMG_20140916_102545.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />This Saturday (September 20) is our favorite event of the year- <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon" target="_blank">Spontaneous Construction!</a> This is <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource's</a> annual festival of creative reinvention. It is a celebration of reuse and a building competition where teams have 7 hours to build anything they want from stuff found at Home ReSource. I love it! Seven hours of designing and building fun. It is a great event for competitors and spectators alike, including lots of fun activities for kids. <br /><br /> As usual, our garden coaching business (Butterfly Properties) is a proud sponsor of the event and we will also have a team. Though this year our team is smaller - just me and Marilyn. Our friend, expert welder and craftsman , and loyal team member is taking a well deserved elk hunting vacation. So, Marilyn and I will have to pick up his responsibilities the best we can. <div>
<br />It is always helpful to divide up jobs for this sort of project, so here is the division of labor this year:<br /><ul>
<li>David: designer, welder, woodworker</li>
<li>Marilyn: chief information officer, custodial maintenance engineer, and paint application specialist.</li>
</ul>
Each year we build something for the garden. Who knows what we will make this year, but here are a few projects from the last three years:<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7n0d0_Vn_jZ_fB2qTerfTAeYdo7PxFnrzg35tq6ngQwN0MRUOcLKxzW8uY5cP98ebfL4WzCjEJmZz8uxHk8Wxb3qYz6Ge0L-hzlLjblPYJn4n4HM5y2CWg7CMn-OQvYZmYOa3rPQHlw/s1600/SponCon2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK7n0d0_Vn_jZ_fB2qTerfTAeYdo7PxFnrzg35tq6ngQwN0MRUOcLKxzW8uY5cP98ebfL4WzCjEJmZz8uxHk8Wxb3qYz6Ge0L-hzlLjblPYJn4n4HM5y2CWg7CMn-OQvYZmYOa3rPQHlw/s1600/SponCon2011.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2011- a mobile garden cloche (my favorite of our projects)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1TmHzhMCfw4XBlFUlmcxSraDwl4OFXP5yiA_amYmtN8uV7PyIfA5dEOtFkiFz5CxvoVidIRSZjN9k1p8r4lSFxJFu_BQHVRxAeLl03Y8rQtEqtTp3FGJWHdLMfnRaHeR1n__vXGhjKE/s1600/SponCon%202012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1TmHzhMCfw4XBlFUlmcxSraDwl4OFXP5yiA_amYmtN8uV7PyIfA5dEOtFkiFz5CxvoVidIRSZjN9k1p8r4lSFxJFu_BQHVRxAeLl03Y8rQtEqtTp3FGJWHdLMfnRaHeR1n__vXGhjKE/s1600/SponCon%25202012.jpg" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2012- a garden bistro table and chairs, made from garden tools (and the full Butterfly Properties team of Barry, me, and Marilyn)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5JAd8FcblYcmedMjUGdxrt4HsYSGC2FX2-WAP4YROOPq9FGvBAqMhCnMM43kyCiAG-NNbAso9Gjw_XbGTLgN491UjIqnGwACrpFn48yKsC9MvudwLgupn-wQcQNln5g4ULL_ZATovV0/s1600/20130928_172120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii5JAd8FcblYcmedMjUGdxrt4HsYSGC2FX2-WAP4YROOPq9FGvBAqMhCnMM43kyCiAG-NNbAso9Gjw_XbGTLgN491UjIqnGwACrpFn48yKsC9MvudwLgupn-wQcQNln5g4ULL_ZATovV0/s1600/20130928_172120.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013- an outdoor garden shower<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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</div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-86403252118292359872014-08-20T16:00:00.000-06:002014-08-20T16:00:01.107-06:00Bird list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1RNzfAeRAlNtDwd-MWigOgOMLHiKbrreilu42aEhIvbXf13rTZPaGfF7rBPPgMviP9iNcVZPx_GGmxh3i_2SokJ1Yd5a_gZxO59GYzz8rVzNBzQWJ4vFbOduZTet4JX23Wm_otOe0Gwp/s1600/ruby+crowned+kinglet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1RNzfAeRAlNtDwd-MWigOgOMLHiKbrreilu42aEhIvbXf13rTZPaGfF7rBPPgMviP9iNcVZPx_GGmxh3i_2SokJ1Yd5a_gZxO59GYzz8rVzNBzQWJ4vFbOduZTet4JX23Wm_otOe0Gwp/s1600/ruby+crowned+kinglet.jpg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Although I’ve been spending a lot of time posting on this blog about birds, and spending time in the garden watching birds, it has been our new <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2014/08/chickens.html" target="_blank">chickens</a>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4bp0FM0Nzfbwl92zhH9-dE_VLZG4c3mARaE7_hOgck09VWJS3S_DI3FDRhBKzVZ0TRDLz1o9_Mst0trX2EsBULdWizB6DHAngm33EfBro5rdTPgyFgJxxD2v4o5zUuloRGRFyjftS50/s1600/20140815_185030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4bp0FM0Nzfbwl92zhH9-dE_VLZG4c3mARaE7_hOgck09VWJS3S_DI3FDRhBKzVZ0TRDLz1o9_Mst0trX2EsBULdWizB6DHAngm33EfBro5rdTPgyFgJxxD2v4o5zUuloRGRFyjftS50/s1600/20140815_185030.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, after a social at our garden, I was reminded it was time to update my garden bird list. After some investigating, I realized the bird list on my blog had become woefully out dated (and I realized I was not the Montana "Chicken" Gardener, but the Montana "Wildlife" Gardener). I hadn’t formally updated the bird list on my blog since about 2009. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Despite that I spend a lot of my time at work building, maintaining, accessing and editing databases, evidently my bird list is not in one! So, after some copy and pasting, and tediously searching my blog, I have revised my bird list. And <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B747oMtchG6ceUhtMWVmQWtIWEk/edit?usp=sharing">here it is</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />For those interested in exclusively the number, that number is 71.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Some details about my bird list, this list probably under-represents some species (like flycatchers- I don’t even really try with those!), and I only count birds that <i>use</i> the garden. That is, I don’t count fly-over’s, or even birds I can see from my yard- they have to be doing something like scratching on the ground, gleaning insects from leaves, bathing, nesting, <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-garden-as-bird-feeder.html" target="_blank">eating one another</a>, etc… To me flyovers are just happenstance- they do not reflect what I am trying to accomplish in the garden, that is, to create habitat for a variety of wildlife using plants native to the Missoula area.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /> I was struck by several things after reviewing the list.</span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apparently I need to spend some time reading my own blog. This year I remarked that the vesper sparrow as a new arrival in the garden- they same way I made that proclamation in 2010.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Birds that were once annual common like common redpoll and pine siskin in the winter, I haven’t seen in 10 years.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of common, local birds aren’t in the garden, and some uncommon local birds are.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">If I counted fly-over’s, I would have a lot more birds on my list (bald eagles, red tailed hawks, osprey, great blue heron, turkey vultures, red tailed hawks, Canada geese, canvasbacks, blue winged teal, mallards, California gulls, etc…) regularly fly overhead. Even rock doves.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">I grudgingly acknowledged the trash birds- the one’s I try to keep out; house sparrows, Eurasian collard doves, and European starlings in this list </span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In all, it is pretty cool to see this list. I can remember almost every one of these species, and I am really excited about attracting them to our little garden on 8th Street. And it all comes down to the fact that birds eat insects, and insects need our native plants.</span>Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-84396201066485858512014-08-10T12:04:00.001-06:002014-08-10T12:04:13.134-06:00Chickens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PnzwnS8jbPOshpvJxtYamVq-m8LdA4QAWI8uAEyzr0k0AZPUA2RKZXzg0suCMV-utnK4vwJOP5NoFG4PWXdlD9FRW5dn_A9rYTcvvaANK9-tvmsmRHlItoRZu9HaO2wEHjfecC0DPBY/s1600/20140810_090616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PnzwnS8jbPOshpvJxtYamVq-m8LdA4QAWI8uAEyzr0k0AZPUA2RKZXzg0suCMV-utnK4vwJOP5NoFG4PWXdlD9FRW5dn_A9rYTcvvaANK9-tvmsmRHlItoRZu9HaO2wEHjfecC0DPBY/s1600/20140810_090616.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
The coop is complete, and full of chickens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQwjn4J7kUfM6AAovhK1xD96SZjvtsqL1yXFq2CYaK4pj1Xox7rjhitturIlaBR8hifUw1dvWedTpXpHdp5GFibPplFE2z9JH1W3bByLKeGD3Sj8oad4cqg5H2ZEgcS5WqP2WTt6at2Y/s1600/20140810_090607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQwjn4J7kUfM6AAovhK1xD96SZjvtsqL1yXFq2CYaK4pj1Xox7rjhitturIlaBR8hifUw1dvWedTpXpHdp5GFibPplFE2z9JH1W3bByLKeGD3Sj8oad4cqg5H2ZEgcS5WqP2WTt6at2Y/s1600/20140810_090607.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We were the highest bidders at the 4H/ FFA livestock auction on the GRAND CHAMPION layer pen! It was an exciting day. Not only did we get some beautiful Rhode Island Red hens, had fun at the auction, but we got to support 4H and some young livestock producers. My wife was in 4H when she was young (she raised steer) and has a lot of very fond memories of it, so it was really gratifying for us to be on the other end of the auction and be able to buy some animals from kids. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6A1m_hHkW_wN4LxtCtCuVpRwP1snGlUCj0RKqKkEOtYybnLnBPb4jRt3yelutRPl2dtK427GlF2N-hOufLx_o3FWoU8vfBtTmY1QHeWGFobcnPZajtMO8ZbKQjW5ZwzhMouEFtkuEHk/s1600/IMG_20140809_101607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6A1m_hHkW_wN4LxtCtCuVpRwP1snGlUCj0RKqKkEOtYybnLnBPb4jRt3yelutRPl2dtK427GlF2N-hOufLx_o3FWoU8vfBtTmY1QHeWGFobcnPZajtMO8ZbKQjW5ZwzhMouEFtkuEHk/s1600/IMG_20140809_101607.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
If you have never been to a livestock auction, and in particular a 4H/ FFA auction, you are missing out of such an important part of the community. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4KKsEY837ZZB_aFurE6qX1Buyxewcycd33lScJ-XWne6SGcK5ifCkSV36IQMqgOhjJmUPEdXeZplTJ0HoRMfFrd8W9B73lWndWdP7E_1OpA4lV2Uyt5nIpavbirL3xG_Au6j72hHqa4/s1600/IMG_20140809_121700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit4KKsEY837ZZB_aFurE6qX1Buyxewcycd33lScJ-XWne6SGcK5ifCkSV36IQMqgOhjJmUPEdXeZplTJ0HoRMfFrd8W9B73lWndWdP7E_1OpA4lV2Uyt5nIpavbirL3xG_Au6j72hHqa4/s1600/IMG_20140809_121700.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The auction was a lot of fun- it was a great and supportive crowd full of local business people supporting the kids and the organizations, the auctioneer was excellent and the spotters were super engaged. It is wonderful to see the kids with their animals, and the fair and auction represents a culmination of months of work. All, when asked what they were going to do with their money, said "it was going toward savings". It makes you feel good about the world.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3guuwQss5Tx8Y188kBd0FVaJ2wg4KZo4SZ0VX9UwThUhB9C3JIUmSxkwHdWbxn52lmBfwa9yP2t2Ui1u91mDAmwtFFbSA4tbt9Cwx9QwjRD_Tpc35Ha1aK-2kOJa2EJZLSUdPLIeMA4/s1600/20140809_110745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3guuwQss5Tx8Y188kBd0FVaJ2wg4KZo4SZ0VX9UwThUhB9C3JIUmSxkwHdWbxn52lmBfwa9yP2t2Ui1u91mDAmwtFFbSA4tbt9Cwx9QwjRD_Tpc35Ha1aK-2kOJa2EJZLSUdPLIeMA4/s1600/20140809_110745.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We were only looking for two hens (based on space and the number of eggs we eat), but we ended up buying a pen of three, now we have to decide what to do with the third. We asked about donating it back to the auction, but that was forbidden. So I think we are just going to have three hens. Perhaps expanding the run, too.<br />
<br />
So, are these backyard chickens and example of sustainability?<br />
<br />
These chickens will provide us with local eggs, and we can control how they are kept and fed, which is nice, but fiscally, this endeavor is not sustainable. I have enjoyed designing and building the coop, and the opportunity to support 4H has been great. Between the cost of the annual permit, building materials, the Grand Champion layers, it will take us roughly a decade to save money on eggs! We don't even eat many eggs. However, we have met our goals on this one.<br />
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Proudly displaying our framed chicken permit in the coop. It has only been recently (2007) that backyard chickens have been allowed in Missoula, and like most things in Missoula, the passage of an ordinance to allow up to six hens was controversial. Like roundabouts and most things that are proposed, opponents actually said, that if passed, this would kill many children (I am not making this up). Like the roundabouts, and backyard chickens, they passed. My wife was part of the city council then (and now), and a strong supporter of this ordinance when it was adopted. So, when I say the permit is proudly displayed, I am proud as a chicken owner, but really proud of my wife's work on council for so many things, including this ordinance.<br />
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Here are some pictures with some more coop details:<br />
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On top of the run is a green roof where I planted strawberries.<br />
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Miles (our wired-haired Chihuahua) does not know what to make of the new residents.<br />
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A couple of the roosts.<br />
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Yes, I embellished the rafter tails by cutting eggs...</div>
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it only made sense after cutting a hen-shaped vent.Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-8027642609301011992014-07-27T21:57:00.000-06:002014-07-27T21:59:15.387-06:00Progress on the Project List: chicken coop update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have made a lot of progress on the garden project list,<br />
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but the one item I have been spending the most time with recently is the chicken coop and run, and it is nearly done. <br />
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With the exception of some paint, staples and some insulation, everything was reused, re-purposed and reclaimed and everything I purchased for the project (with the exception of the tin roofing- Craigslist) came from <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>. So, like many of these projects I have been accumulated parts and pieces as I find them for some time. That means my little shop has been full of stuff for a while. It is nice to see some space opening up, but that just means I have some room for the next project!<br />
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So, although the chicken coop and outdoor run are not done yet, here are some pictures of the progress and some details...<br />
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The nest box is a re-purposed kitchen cabinet and the perch is an oak towel bar.<br />
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Access to the enclosed run is provided by a little sliding barn door. The hardware is from a sliding closet door.<br />
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Yes, that is a chandelier. The interior paneling, roof sheathing and other interior and exterior details are made from my old cedar fence boards when I replaced some panels last fall (<a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/10/garden-project-progress-home-resource.html" target="_blank">click here</a> for details of that project).<br />
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The exterior (and interior) is made from salvaged tin roofing and cedar shakes.<br />
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The coop fits in nicely in the vegetable garden. </div>
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You can see the repetition of a theme with the divided light door, trellises etc..</div>
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The outdoor run will have a green roof (in progress). The plan changed; originally the run was going to be south-facing and in the native plants, but now it is to the north of the coop and in the vegetable garden. <br />
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So, in keeping with the vegetable theme, I will plant strawberries on it. That means now I will have about 100 potted <i>Sedum lanceolatum, </i>that I have been growing since the winter and babying all summer, to deal with...<br />
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<br />Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-14379200710908086742014-05-20T20:47:00.000-06:002014-05-20T20:47:28.355-06:00A lot going on in the garden...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring is such an exciting and ever changing time in the garden. This year is no exception. <br />
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New birds are arriving daily, others are nesting, including red breasted nuthatches, northern flickers and black capped chickadees. All the nest boxes have cameras, and as the action heats up I will stream live video form each (now we are streaming from inside the nuthatch box <a href="http://www.ustream.tv/channel/red-breasted-nuthatch" target="_blank">http://www.ustream.tv/channel/<wbr></wbr>red-breasted-nuthatch</a>).<br />
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Just yesterday, 3 nuthatches hatched. Here is a short video of them getting one of their first meals.<br />
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And of course, I have been busy with garden projects. Here are some photos of what is happening now and some updates on projects...<br />
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Featured prominantly on the wall of my shop- I keep a list to remind me of the projects I want to complete. </div>
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This floor grate was an early one on the list (I made it this winter from old wrenches) and replaces a dilapdated, temporary wood grate I made several years ago. Beneath the grate is our compost furnace.<br />
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The greenhouse is really filling up. </div>
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And so is my little nursery.<br />
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I have been growing these sedum (Sedum lanceolatum) for a green roof on the chicken coop I will be building...<br />
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The coop will occupy this space- the corner raised bed in the vegetable garden that gets too much shade to be really productive.</div>
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In the meantime, these shovel chickens enjoy the space.</div>
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In what has become a rite of spring, we moved our composter. This change was set into motion by our new back gate, and <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2013/10/garden-project-progress-home-resource.html" target="_blank">fence rearrangement</a>, that was prompted by storing our camper in the garden (click here for my <a href="http://toastercamper.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">wife's blog about our camper</a>- a project in itself)<br />
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It fits right in. <br />
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My plan is to build a pergola over it. On the list.<br />
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New garden furniture has been on the list for some time. And this winter I made a lot of progress. <br />
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Several new shovel chairs and benches replaces our dilapidated bent willow chairs.<br />
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Even the birds got new furniture- a new bird bath to match the chairs and gate.</div>
Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-22570695084295455882014-01-19T14:24:00.000-07:002014-01-19T14:24:00.805-07:00The garden as a bird feeder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In general, our garden is our bird feeder- we planted native plants and created habitat to suit birds' primary food- insects. And it has worked well, though it is not your traditional "birder's garden". I feel like I have written this post before (and probably better), but it is a good reminder this time of the year. For several years I have had <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/03/mixed-feelings-for-bird-feeders.html" target="_blank">mixed feelings for bird feeders</a>, and I have stopped using bird feeders through summer, spring and fall. I have stopped using seed feeders altogether, and occasionally and seasonally use different forms of suet feeders (see below), including native plant suet we prepare ourselves (click <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2011/11/make-your-own-native-plant-suet-for.html" target="_blank">here</a>).<br />
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Our goal is to make our garden our feeder by planting native plants and providing habitat and this sustains a variety of birds, insects and other wildlife. This has been our goal, and even in a small, city lot, you can have success. <br />
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Our giant ant hill in our front yard is a Northern flicker's favorite. Through the winter, flickers dig this up for tasty grubs (and defenseless slow moving adults in the cold).</div>
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In winter, we add some feeders for birds, but not the typical ones people are used to seeing, though non-traditional feeders, yet they are more natural. for example, my favorite, carcasses.<br />
These parts and pieces are left overs from butchering our game meat during hunting season.<br />
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Although the aesthetic might not be for everyone, carcasses (from winterkill, and predator kills) are the original suet feeder (click <a href="http://montanawildlifegardener.blogspot.com/2009/12/winter-in-wildlife-garden.html" target="_blank">here</a> for more information). </div>
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Even a little scapula can be an enticing feeder for chickadees, nuthatches, flickers, and downy woodpeckers.<br />
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In addition to providing housing for native solitary nesting bees, mason bee boxes, aka "larvae feeders" provide food for nuthatches, downy woodpeckers and chickadees that pick the overwintering larvae out. Here a chickadee uses its wings for improved leverage to get one out<br />
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But perhaps more important in our garden are the natural and original nest boxes- snags.<br />
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Birds are a source of food too. With a lot of birds around, come things that eat them.<br />
Here a sharp-shinned hawk eats a cedar waxwing in our garden.<br />
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All that it left was the beak</div>
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So this winter, consider your feeders, and perhaps shift to some natural or unconventional feeders. Feeding birds is a lot more than seed feeders, and it is a lot more effective with non-traditional means.</div>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-45364887761848676122014-01-01T18:32:00.001-07:002014-01-01T18:32:51.493-07:00new heat for my old shop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been spending a lot of time in my shop lately on a variety of projects for our home and garden. Including a bunch of re-purposed garden tool chairs and benches (and things for my Etsy store) but that is for another post. My newest project for the shop is a better heating system- a couple of weeks ago I bought a used pellet stove (a Quadrafire, Mt Vernon). This concludes a 1.5 year search on Craigslist and <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>. I am really excited about heating the shop in a more sustainable way. For about 13 years, I had been heating the shop with a small kerosene heater. That heater works really well, and heats the shop up quickly, but the cost of kerosene has more than tripled over that time. When I first stared heating with it, 5 gallons of kerosene was less than $12; now it is around $45. Plus, it is kerosene, and for all the reasons not to burn petroleum products it is bad. <div>
<br />Pellets are made mostly from wood waste, and there lots of options on wood source and several companies in western Montana produce the pellets. I am really glad about having this sort of locally made option, and especially one that uses waste from other industries. For example, one company is primarily a furniture business, and converts its lumber scraps into pellets. </div>
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Other nice things about pellets are their low emissions, and the abundant, pleasant heat produced- the same kind of heat as from a wood stove. Plus, it is thermostatically controlled. The downside is the high initial cost, but with the low cost of fuel ($4/ 40 lb bag), I will break even pretty soon. Even if it took me much longer to break even, the benefits far outweigh the costs.</div>
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<br />With a kerosene heater, I would use about 20 gallons a year to heat the shop, so at these prices it would be around $200/ year to heat. If the price doesn't go up any more, I figure I will break even in 2-3 years.<br />For those in the city of Missoula or the parts of Missoula County that are in the "air stagnation zone," you can install pellet stoves, but they have to meet the EPA emission particulate guidelines (that is, emit less than 1 gram/hour) be on the approved list.</div>
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<br />As for as the installation, I got nearly everything used, from <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>; including the majority of the venting, electrical and wall materials.</div>
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I decided to tile the surround, but the nice thing with pellet stoves is that they have very low set backs to combustibles. For this stove, and the way I have it oriented, it could be as close as 1.5” to the walls. </div>
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So although I didn't need to surround the stove with a non-flammable material, I thought it would be an opportunity to add a little pizzazz to the shop to break up the monotony of the OSB covered walls. Plus it makes me feel better knowing the stove is surrounded by concrete, ceramic and grout- not OSB and dry wood!</div>
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I found this interesting tile at <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>, so I figured I'd give it a try. It looks like wood, but it is ceramic tile. I thought it would be the perfect tile for a woodworking shop.</div>
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On the same trip, I got all the tile, grout (that I totally over bought), concrete backer board, grout sealer, a GFCI receptacle, outlet box, and thermostat wire, for only, ...wait for it… $36! Thanks <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>!</div>
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I am happy with how it came out, but more importantly I am glad to be heating the shop with a renewable, and locally produced resource. </div>
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-87085505323434475292013-12-29T09:31:00.000-07:002013-12-29T13:10:56.798-07:002013 Cat of the Year; voting is now open<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jemt1waPbYEippSFtgSE5aStdbFrC-YyeMeo0BQpIPg9iocD6jG2Yzj0Rzir4awSfa0sj4-zxmtC9QryP102H59Uozt0Gonuly8O5w1HnteuhKsCoGiHCAryApE2x0c-zefOyLomDNo/s1600/820754_482740358429247_1403274982_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jemt1waPbYEippSFtgSE5aStdbFrC-YyeMeo0BQpIPg9iocD6jG2Yzj0Rzir4awSfa0sj4-zxmtC9QryP102H59Uozt0Gonuly8O5w1HnteuhKsCoGiHCAryApE2x0c-zefOyLomDNo/s320/820754_482740358429247_1403274982_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pictured (from the left) Natalie, Marilyn, Miles, David, Alex </td></tr>
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So, here are the contestants. We will start with the defending champion,<b> Natalie</b>.<br />
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Age: 18<br />
Weight: 10 lbs<br />
Breed: Domestic long hair<br />
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<b>Background:</b> Disemboweled by her previous owners’ dog, historically medically neglected. Borderline diabetic (Type 2 lifestyle diabetes, I'm calling it what is is). She’d prefer to be the only cat in our house.<br />
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Despite not having earned her title last year, 2013 has been an especially good year for our oldest cat. In retrospect, perhaps winning the respect and adoration of internet fans has helped her change her attitude and slim down to 10 lbs. Self respect is a powerful elixir (I hope you are reading this Harley). Because of her weight loss, Natalie has also stopped her incredibly expensive diabetic cat food, which is a plus for our family's fiscal health. At long last, sometime during the past year Natalie has recovered from being angry at her living situation. She is once again affectionate, outgoing, and loving. The Natalie of old. Recently, she even sat on Trisha's (her frenemy care-giver) lap. She has extended the olive branch to even Miles. But not Dr. Z. <br />
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All this "being good" takes it's toll. It is exhausting to her.<br />
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She has also taken an interest in our hobbies. Here she is helping Marilyn sew curtains and an awning for a camper she will never use. <br />
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She doesn't resent that. At all.<br />
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<b>2013 Accomplishments: </b> weight loss, fiscal responsibility, improved self-esteem<br />
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<b>Alex</b><br />
Age: 14- ish<br />
Weight: 7 lbs<br />
Breed: Turkish Angora x Persian<br />
<br />
<b>Background: </b>Innocent victim of a hoarder. He was at the shelter for 2 years because no one wanted to adopt an adult black cat. We adopted him in summer of 2007 as a friend for Natalie. Boy was that a bad idea. Really bad.<br />
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The understated hero in our house. <br />
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This has been an expensive and difficult year for our quiet and brave little guy. He is plagued by small tumors, inside and out. His weight is diminishing, and he had to have one of his canines removed. I think he still expects Junebug (or Squeak) to come back home. Despite all this, he does not complain. <br />
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The other cats look to him as the leader- partly because they are terrified of him.<br />
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It's not that he is mean, he is just socially inept. His favorite games are hit and bite. Since Squeak passed, no one has ascended to the rank of leader. Natalie by all accounts (biggest, oldest, shrewdest and longest tenured 8th Street resident), should have taken the throne, but she lives in fear (and hate) of the other pets (Squeak, Junebug, Alex and Miles).<br />
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Back to Alex. <br />
He is very interested in and tolerant of house guests. He recently learned the word "selfie". Here he is having fun with our friend Andrew from Myanmar.<br />
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He has embraced (to the best of his ability) the arrival of Miles, and tries to play with him. But again, his two games are Hit and Bite, and you never know when he is going to play, so he hasn't won over Miles as a playmate.<br />
<br />
<b>2013 Accomplishments: </b> None, really. He is a rock; he is legend.<br />
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<b>Miles</b><br />
Age: 10<br />
Weight: 7 lbs<br />
Breed: Wire-haired Chihuahua<br />
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<b>Background: </b>Our smallest and youngest cat, Miles is a "California Little"- one of the small dogs sent to <a href="http://www.myhswm.org/" target="_blank">Missoula's Humane Society </a>from an animal shelter in Merced, California. He, like his bother Alex, is the innocent victim of a hoarder. We know very little about his past, but when we adopted him he had sores on his feet and legs from confinement.<br />
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Although Miles came to live with us in 2012, since he did not complete greater than .5 years he was ineligible to complete for the title last year. This year, he is in the running. As a wire-haired Chihuahua, you might be surprised to find him in the competition. Yet we remind you all that Junebug was crowned Cat of the Year, and we are still not sure what kind of creature she was. <br />
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We learned a lot about Miles this year- almost everyday is an exciting adventure for him. <br />
He loves running, and his longest run was 10 miles (no problem). He even competed in his first race and easily took the senior toy breed division.<br />
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He loves ice cream, especially from the Big Dipper<br />
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He loves hiking, and this summer among other things he hiked to 7 mountain lakes.<br />
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He does not like swimming,he won't drink from a lake or stream (we call it wild water), so we carry a bowl for him, and is terrified of toad stools.<br />
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He loves hunting (camp),<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1u0rtZ9CybtsQuD0VhYCZFQxKZCmlaW0zJlZWRuYVL07MVx2QCis_d2cL-2BbdJVWyTAq4FOsPao19nJhSdg07AqNK6pbyUcrLQukyJKeMF6g7i4Mw8Ph8JHhkCdAllTsmdGhgCsLg74/s1600/20131117_180400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1u0rtZ9CybtsQuD0VhYCZFQxKZCmlaW0zJlZWRuYVL07MVx2QCis_d2cL-2BbdJVWyTAq4FOsPao19nJhSdg07AqNK6pbyUcrLQukyJKeMF6g7i4Mw8Ph8JHhkCdAllTsmdGhgCsLg74/s320/20131117_180400.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
camping, sitting by the campfire,<br />
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but most of all he loves Marilyn. As a chihuahua, he is fiercely loyal to one caregiver. And he is also fond of small dogs, especially his breed. Among chihuahuas it is called "clanning" (kind of racist, actually).<br />
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<b>2013 Accomplishments:</b> He learned to jump through a hula hoop on command. He's a good boy! Yes he is!Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-39300660686291942122013-10-21T03:29:00.001-06:002013-10-21T03:29:18.249-06:00Garden project progress- Home ReSource fencing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTOa6Msmdz4ECoCnAJYYzMNo8C0fiSBAPem-Vm1dQ-bTY-_1otvICXJpVvVYopBZG_rY2Fk3HFudYRpyAOL_6UBD_xJV4c-OO2E5mRbMaYBecgvT2iOUTKzz6OPBAc3YkGAI6324vyjw/s1600/20131020_174446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGTOa6Msmdz4ECoCnAJYYzMNo8C0fiSBAPem-Vm1dQ-bTY-_1otvICXJpVvVYopBZG_rY2Fk3HFudYRpyAOL_6UBD_xJV4c-OO2E5mRbMaYBecgvT2iOUTKzz6OPBAc3YkGAI6324vyjw/s320/20131020_174446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Although it is getting late in the gardening year, I am making some progress now on some garden projects- primarily fencing related. <br />
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This fencing project started about 11 years ago. When we first bought our house, the house was surrounded by a dilapidated 4' staggered board fence that provided little privacy. Over the course of a couple of summers, we replaced 2 of the 3 side of the fence as time and money allowed.<br />
The third side (the east), I frankly never thought I would ever complete, though periodically over the years i threatened to finish it. <br />
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Then it happened, while shopping at <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a> one day someone dropped off about 130 lineal feet of 6' privacy fence panels- more than enough to complete our last side. <br />
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I was there on my bike and I didn't want to deal with buying, loading, unloading and storing all those fence panels so I just tried to ignore that it was there. Later that day I returned to get it, because I couldn't stop thinking about how I should get it. When I got back, about half had been sold. <br />
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I bought the rest and for the last few months I have been moving those panels around- each place I put them turns out to be a place where I need something else. <br />
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Over the last two weeks, panel by panel I have been replacing the old fence with the new. I actually just set out to pull out the old fence posts and dig new holes before the ground froze- bargaining. <br />
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One thing lead to another, and I now have two new gates, and 90% of the east fence complete (I ran out of materials!).<br />
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As for the old fence, Marilyn neatly de-nailed, sorted and stacked all the old cedar fence pickets and cedar 2x4 rails.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">I'll eventually reuse all these boards into trellises, garden furniture and other things.</span></div>
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Replacing the east side fence was just the beginning. Having all these fencing materials on hand helped me address some other problems that have developed over the years.<br />
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Over the years, our use of the backyard and our needs have changed. We no longer need a 10' double door to the garage (my shop), and it is saggy and hard to use. Now that we don't even have an overhead door in the garage, we don't need a double gate int he fence to access it.<br />
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So, I replaced that double gate with a single 40" wide gate that opens both into the alley and bakyard. It is much easier to use, takes up less "floor" space,<br />
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And, the feature I like most is that I installed a deadbolt lock (from <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>) as a latch that I can open from the alley (I had it keyed to our house key). <br />
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All the hardware was from <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>, too.<br />
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Plus, this gate incorporates not only parts of our old fence, but our old hammock stand, too, like the curved top and bottom rails.<br />
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Though we don't need a big gate to the garage, we do need a big gate to get the camper in the back yard. You can follow the renovation of our camper on my wife's blog <a href="http://toastercamper.blogspot.com/">http://toastercamper.blogspot.com/</a>.<br />
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I considered a lot of different options for opening and closing this 11' gate from two doors on hinges to an 11' rolling or sliding gate. I eventually settled on the low tech (and cheap) option of just making a removable panel on hangers I got at <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>.</div>
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So, as our use changed, so did the fence, and gates.<br />
It is very gratifying to reuse everything you can. The western red cedar lasts a long time and has a lot of life left in it (both the new fencing and the old), but I reused everything I could from the fence panels and supplies I purchased, including 2x4's, pickets, and screws. The only thing I bought new for this project is pressure treated 4x4's and concrete. <br />
My old gate hardware is going to a friend for his gate project, and anything I don't plan on using is going back to <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/" target="_blank">Home ReSource</a>, where it can be used again.Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5086285745310021732.post-41666682962106539402013-09-29T08:23:00.002-06:002013-09-29T08:48:24.941-06:00An outdoor garden shower- it could be yours on Oct 25!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-V8T89WfXBwc7UC_MEMl2ZThyr92qgGp43Snfn8W8aAY31ofonxvIIT8cYruThyphenhyphen09MyJCiP0zcaFXvTjQPN75XfDvYPLKdhz7UN78IgiaO3SYKC23uDt99JMnvgcBkdnzGN78SVm1gXU/s1600/20130928_172102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-V8T89WfXBwc7UC_MEMl2ZThyr92qgGp43Snfn8W8aAY31ofonxvIIT8cYruThyphenhyphen09MyJCiP0zcaFXvTjQPN75XfDvYPLKdhz7UN78IgiaO3SYKC23uDt99JMnvgcBkdnzGN78SVm1gXU/s320/20130928_172102.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Yesterday, our garden coaching business, <a href="http://butterflypropertiesllc.com/Garden_Coaching.html" target="_blank">Butterfly Properties</a> competed in my favorite Missoula event- <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/sponcon" target="_blank">Home ReSource's Spontaneous Construction </a>(aka SponCon). In this event, contestants have 7 hours to build whatever they want from materials found at home resource. Affectionately known as a festival of creative reinvention, SponCon brings out incredibly creative and talented artists, builders and craftsmen. This is a really unique and inspiring event, and I look forward to it all year. <br />
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However, today I feel like I got run over by a truck! It is exhausting- the planning (though it is spontaneous), loading up all of your shop (and then unloading it at the end of the day!), the 7 straight hours of foot-on-the-gas building and problem solving is really exhausting; and I can't wait to do it all again next year!<br />
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This year, in keeping with our theme of building things for the garden, we built an outdoor shower. At <br />
<a href="http://butterflypropertiesllc.com/Garden_Coaching.html" target="_blank">Butterfly Properties Garden Coaching</a>, we encourage clients to embrace outdoor space as both an extension of your home and a refuge from life’s demands. Bathing outside gives a sense of freedom, a way to connect with the outdoors, and is also practical. Our Garden Shower creates a charming sanctuary for you, and a practical spot to hose down the kids and dogs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWBomT8QXyqtJvY3MvpYvw81hCmZB-iX53wNaHtKWPkwgP6VEsB5RHVLFcUr63YDJrSlF7UVGD1lKpBkt35d9k3Fb8rlmCKmOG4VnaTT-HH2QC2ZT0hhgxiuC2kPhz1FJzoBnH3bKSRo/s1600/IMG_3605508014755-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWBomT8QXyqtJvY3MvpYvw81hCmZB-iX53wNaHtKWPkwgP6VEsB5RHVLFcUr63YDJrSlF7UVGD1lKpBkt35d9k3Fb8rlmCKmOG4VnaTT-HH2QC2ZT0hhgxiuC2kPhz1FJzoBnH3bKSRo/s320/IMG_3605508014755-1.jpg" width="245" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team photo: (from left) Larissa Cummings, Marilyn Marler, David Schmetterling, Brittany Cummings, and Barry Cummings</td></tr>
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The other theme we have been following is repurposing garden tools into things for the garden (seems appropriate). <br />
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In 2011 we built a mobile garden cloche (this is still my favorite project of ours)<br />
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In 2012 we built a table and chairs from garden tools<br />
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This year the garden shower.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0LiUMe4MBJAkYh-G2u2aoZCZMSJ8TMxuwORRTUp11YJDvk9-VaHYbxG12plYX3HaRM0CmloI7mcCgsupFvIbft99AdF-5PjnmHTv-LTHAxh6exXE36fV2LLDhK2qGj5sRY04WUlTtKo/s1600/20130928_172145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ0LiUMe4MBJAkYh-G2u2aoZCZMSJ8TMxuwORRTUp11YJDvk9-VaHYbxG12plYX3HaRM0CmloI7mcCgsupFvIbft99AdF-5PjnmHTv-LTHAxh6exXE36fV2LLDhK2qGj5sRY04WUlTtKo/s320/20130928_172145.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
It is a finalist in the competition, so that means it will be auctioned off at the <a href="http://www.homeresource.org/benefit-auction" target="_blank">Benefit Auction on October 25</a>- so it could be yours!<br />
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The shower features insects made from garden tools that each have a function (I call them shovel bugs).<br />
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The lady bug's leg is a shower valve<br />
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The shield bugs feet are towel and clothes hooks<br />
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And the butterfly (we had to have a butterfly) is the door pull<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uVEcei7sR1Xwt2_r8G66c2_XKLznmCUzegRj41hF1VB5XsTqwEL2zNXnjbdgrgooWQsKhn8sWh4c1PX9fReQWU1thKxxOeW3XqdeaaOET4UmpIdbciA9kq_xRCDeHycyAOKh3i_SYHg/s1600/20130928_172106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uVEcei7sR1Xwt2_r8G66c2_XKLznmCUzegRj41hF1VB5XsTqwEL2zNXnjbdgrgooWQsKhn8sWh4c1PX9fReQWU1thKxxOeW3XqdeaaOET4UmpIdbciA9kq_xRCDeHycyAOKh3i_SYHg/s320/20130928_172106.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Also, the water from a garden hose is all plumbed<br />
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and emerges through a watering can<br />
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that is perched on a snag (we got that from a slash pile).<br />
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It is a lot of fun to see talented builders and architects from around western Montana at this event, including <a href="http://mastandco.com/" target="_blank">Mast and Co.</a>, <a href="http://depuybuilding.com/" target="_blank">DePuy Building</a> and <a href="http://www.adaptdesignbuild.com/" target="_blank">Adapt Design and Build</a>, each of which donates a lot of their time to Home ReSource. <br />
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Also I look forward to this event to see my friend Barry, it is about the only time we see each other anymore (he used to live in Missoula but moved to Idaho). The funny thing is we spend all day together, working a few feet from one another, and don't say a word to each other! Maybe its the ear plugs.<br />
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Davidhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02389771525430735743noreply@blogger.com2