The new dishwasher arrived (yes, we have only just bought a dishwasher) and Joe was busy plumbing that in, plus re-plumbing the washing machine. He also, whilst waiting for delivery, was able to cut the paving slabs in two, thanks to Bill from Cambridge Coachworks lending us some form of tool (can't remember the name) that could cut paving slabs. We only had to do four in the end, so the spare ones found a new home with one of the neighbours.
So whilst this was going on, I was getting the run ready with help from Chloe, the daughter of one of the neighbours. All the straw was scraped back into the corner, the soil wet (to give some pliability) and I tried as much as possible to level out the soil. Once level (ish), Joe brought the cut slabs through. They were put on the inside, against the edge of the run. I personally wanted them on the outside, as i think it will be harder, but Joe thought inside would be better, so that's what we did!
[Joe here: They're on the inside because we've destroyed enough grass with the coop, adding an extra foot around the edge would lead to even less grass on our lawn!]
Once in place, the 'run inside the run' was put back in and the straw moved back. We then cleaned out the inside of the coop, plus hosed down the outside and the patio, scattered some feed (they seem to keep more occupied in the run if the pellets are scattered rather than in a dish) and the girls came running back in.
Joe also bought some plywood to go on the top of the run to provide a little more shelter from rain and sun. It's been all change here today!
They seemed to like it, which is good. It was very hot again today so they had another dunking tray with strawberries and sweetcorn. Also as an extra treat, we gave them some natural yogurt - they LOVED it, although poor Mabel didn't pay much attention and therefore didn't get any. Some days I wonder if she can see properly as she just seems to not notice food - unless that's another part of broodiness?
Only 3 eggs today (Myrtle, Doris and Bessy) but seeing as Mabel laid yesterday I wasn't expecting anything from her today. I think as a little treat tomorrow I may try them on some cooked spaghetti - see if that convinces Mabel to try to lay again!
And now, some photos of the updated run!!
As you can see, after being in it for 5 minutes the straw was everywhere!
The 'run inside the run' - hoping they may use this bit of soil as a dust bath area.
Leaving the roof of the run open to help dry it all out! Doris and Bessy having a good old scratch around.
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