Kim, in ref. to the persimmon discussion on the Veggie gardening group, your question about how to tell the difference between one sweet and ripe, or grainy and bitter;  the sweeter ones will generally be verrrrry soft and squishy.  It will look 'wet' inside instead of pulpy like a pumpkin does.

Hope you have a great trip to Israel; looking forward to seeing some photos when you return!

Just loved the picture of the real rooster and the ornamental one!!  Very cute!  And what a lucky shot!  I still haven't had a chance to view many photos as I just started working part time.  I'm retired, but need more income!!! 

Tell me about your chickens.......what kind are they and how long have you had chickens?  I used to have them about 30 yrs. ago, many different ornamental ones.  I need to build a coop, but will have to wait for that! 

Kimberly...do you still have your Chow? I read on one of the groups that you 'had' one. We have one now. He is our third. (enjoyed your photos)