more photos, chickens, goldfish, horrible dog et al

Skipper carrying some fat old biddy across the county (and hoping to leave her on the other side probably)

Skipper out hacking near home - if you ignore the fact that I am sitting crookedly I would be grateful, its just to show that he can travel the road fearlessly, alone, and with style (though not in this picture)

Skipper illegally using public footpath across field (don't tell the police or he will be arrested)

Skipper illegally crossing public footbridge (for walkers only) this boy only fit for the clink I think

Skipper relaxing in his pied-a-terre bachelor pad complete with all mod cons and fresh, natural decor, and his own walnut trees for shelter. Walnut thieving crows hiding in leaves.

Two new goldfish, in their biube, which is supposed to be self-cleaning, and is a triumph of advertising over reality. The third fish, a goggle eyed black moor, died within the week. He is sadly missed. With his rubbish eyesight, and incredibly slow swimming speed he never stood a chance. It wasn't until it was too late that I discovered that fancy fish can't compete with standard goldfish. His death lies heavy on my conscience.

The appalling state of the back garden, owing to son's committment to poultry breeding and sale of 'farm fresh' eggs - sometimes so fresh they are still warm, and caught like a cricket ball as they emerge from the chicken ...

Results of poultry breeding, and artificial incubation, living in porch of farmhouse until older

Revolting terrier, who never comes when called and pretends she's never seen this family before when we turn up to collect her from wherever she has decided to visit (otherwise called running away). She is slightly smelly, quite awesomely scruffy, and a complete embarrassment as a canine companion. She's a Patterdale (don't ever buy one, not even in a moment of weakness)

STOP PRESS: the ducklings were returned, with some success, to their mother, who quacked her way back to the garden 12 hours later to reclaim them. The ducklings heard her from the kitchen. Isn't mother nature clever?

And finally today, if it uploads, Skipper's first jumping lesson, after about 7 days of trotting poles only. Bringing a new meaning to 'style and confidence over the fences', and that's just me. I'm wondering if Zara Phillips needs to borrow the horse now her own Olympic hope has an injury, obviously my horse is at least as talented as her Toytown - just lacking opportunities.