Welcome to my "Open Window"...a place of hope, encouragement, and adventure as we journey down the road from "Closed Doors" to the new opportunities God places in our pathway. I hope you will take the time to go back and follow the trail of mixed blessings and fears, failures and triumphs from the past and side-trips in the present. Perhaps it will conjure up some of your own special memories, and be an invitation for you to share with others. I look forward to spending this time with you!
What Do You See Outside YOUR Open Window Today?
Remember: "When God closes a door, He always opens a window!" You never know what might be out there waiting for you!
Saturday, April 5, 2025
Saturday Review...Asking for Wisdom
Y'all do remember that I said my "One Word" for 2025 would be "wisdom", right? Yeah, I remember it too, but who knew it would be all about wisdom concerning what to do with a pregnant cat and her "friend/mate??", and some wild Muscovy Ducks that think they belong on my porch eating the cats' food? Who knew that dealing with such beautiful creatures could just about drive me crazy? LOL. (I'm not kidding!).
So today I was determined to try to keep those ducks off of our back porch so our cats could live and eat in peace (and so could I). I had a hair-brained idea that if I blocked the porch deck, the ducks wouldn't be able to get up there and bother the cats and their food. So here's what I did, since we don't have time or money or energy to screen in the porch, which would solve a lot of problems, but not something we can manage to get done right now...
I moved the wicker chairs over to the railing, and then went and got the folding chairs out of the shed and brought them up to the porch (no easy feat, by the way)...
Looks like we are setting up for a nice porch party, huh? Yeah, Right, I wish!
So here come the ducks. This will be a test to see what they do...
No problemo! Just fly right up there and waddle right around all those chairs as if they weren't even there. No obstacle for them at all!
Thankfully I had removed all traces of cat food on the porch, so there was nothing for them to eat, and so they just waddled on down the line and back off the porch...but they didn't give up...they kept hanging around hoping for something to fall their way until the Geese and the Cranes shooed them away.
Meanwhile, I had stealthily managed to talk the kitties into following me around to the front porch of the house, and there they ate their food in peace. Although Blackie Sue is not eating as much right now I think because of her impending delivery...and Sunshine doesn't seem to have as much appetite either, whether or not from the stress of all this activity with the ducks, or because it's so hot, or because he's old and not that hungry, I don't know. I know I sure need wisdom to stay ahead of these animals, that's for sure!
So now what to do...those people still have not shown up to take the ducks or Blackie Sue. They have not responded to my last night's texts, and I've decided to just leave them alone. If they come, they come, but I'm still not convinced that Blackie Sue should go with them. I have had some other words of "wisdom" from some of our blogging friends who seem to have some reservations about letting her go with strangers. It's given me some things to think about, and I am really praying about it. I truly do need wisdom on this subject!
James 1:5 NKJV
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God,
who gives to all liberally and without reproach,
and it will be given to him."
Even about cats and ducks? Yes, even about cats and ducks and anything at all that is concerning us. God knows the intents of our hearts, and He wants to help us with things that matter to us. So I am praying and asking Him for wisdom in this situation, and I know He will guide me.
Meanwhile, the Sand Hill Crane Colts, "Trumpet" and "Spring", are growing like weeds! Here's the latest pictures of them today:
Yes, they are cute! In a gangly sort of way! LOL.
Speaking of "cute", well, maybe not cute, but unique and interesting...We were visited by a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers!
They were working their way up this pine tree down by Still Waters Pond...you can barely see the head of the one on the bottom of this picture:
The Teapot took center stage on this photo, but you can see the woodpecker in the background:
There! That's more like it!! Isn't that red cockade amazing?
This one is calling to her mate after he flew away and left her there! "Hey! Wait up for me!!!"
Don't they remind you of "Woody Woodpecker"? Here's one to remind us...LOL. I can just hear Woody Woodpecker now...eh eh eh eh, eh eh eh eh, eh eh eh eh eh eh. !!! LOL. (Not sure how else to make the sound.)
Well, that's all folks!
I will keep you posted on this saga.
Psalm 25:1-5
A Psalm of David.
"1 To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, I trust in You;
Let me not be ashamed;
Let not my enemies triumph over me.
3 Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed;
Let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause.
If you keep the ducks from getting the food they will go away.
Feed the cats and stand there while they eat. You can scare the ducks away. (I would pay good money to see that!)
I once fed cats on a walk up balcony. A tiny kitten was trying to eat, but a big cat held his head down with its paw! I kid you not. I was inside but I stared out at the cat and we met eyes. It lifted its paw and just watched me while the kitten ate all it wanted. When it was done I nodded and the big cat started to eat. What a weird few moments that was... OH, also, I was praying. So it was the Lord, but I sure felt like I had superpowers.
I should have my hubby take a video of me scaring the ducks away, but it almost scared HIM away! I kid you not! And it also scares the kitties when I start shouting and swinging brooms at those ducks. And I don't feel very nice about it, but they have pretty much gotten on my last nerve. I think the fact that I was on that strong antibiotic all last week didn't help my feelings much either, and hubby said I had a complete personality change. (not for the better). SO, now that I am off the medicine (Praise God!), hopefully I will be able to deal with this problem a little more rationally. And with everyone praying it will definitely help! And yes, you DO have superpowers when God is in control!!! Amen!
First - the colts really are cute! And I love the bird pics too. As for the ducks and the cats, this makes me think of the verse in Matthew 6 that5 speaks of God feeding the birds of the air. That tells me he cares about the animals, including your ducks and cats. I'm praying for wisdom for you in handling this situation!
Thank you, Mari. I need all the wisdom that God can give in this issue. Obviously I would not make a very good farmer! But I'm trying hard to do the right thing. I appreciate everyone's prayers and words of wisdom!!
Make sure to feed the cats at the same time each day, and don’t forget to pick up their bowls once they're finished. To keep the birds away, you could try using wind chimes or wind socks – it might deter them. You could even create a scarecrow to sit in one of your porch chairs. And if your grand dogs can come over once in a while to chase the ducks away, that might help too!
These ducks are so determined, they will fly right up into my face when I am standing there shooing at them and yelling at them. It's quite a scene, let me tell you, and not a pretty one. And yes, I am trying to do all of the above regarding feeding, but what I've had to do lately is feed the cats when I don't think the ducks are where they can see us, but unfortunately they have radar and can tell from way across the pond when the the cats are being fed. So I have moved the feeding to the front porch. However, we did notice the ducks peeking around the corner of the house last evening after I had finished feeding the cats. So that secret may be out also. And sadly when the dogs come, it only scares the cats away. These ducks don't seem to scare very well. I think they are the most determined creatures I've ever known. LOL.
If you get to see Joey and Darlene, just tell Darlene you have three ducks for her to take back to their pond on the ranch!! She is raising NINE ducks at their house that she wants to put on their pond soon. You were brilliant in leading the cats to the front porch. That might solve the feeding problem until the ducks decide to find another place to eat. Keep us posted and don't doubt yourself. You have wisdom to spare, dear friend!! xo
I don't think even Joey and Darlene would want THESE ducks! I would not wish them on anyone! LOL. They may have the nice kind of ducks at their pond. These are invasive and will take over and I would not recommend them to them as they would probably end up not liking me very much after that! LOL. Here's hoping the ducks don't discover me feeding the cats on the front porch today...they were already sneaking around the corner of the house last evening...Oh yes! They are determined for sure!
You certainly made a valiant effort to keep the ducks at bay, Pamela. Would it be possible for you to purchase some screening and have Benton and Rose put it up for you? At least on the bottom part of your porch. As I said before, I think keeping Blackie Sue with you right now at this important time in her life is the right choice. And it never ceases to amaze me how quickly those colts grow and change. Isn't God's creation simply amazing? Blessings!
We actually do have plans to do some type of "screening" on the bottom half of the porch very soon, especially once the kittens are born. We've had the materials waiting in the shed for a while, but everyone has been too busy and we all forgot about it until now...so hopefully we will get that done this week. Yes, God's creation is simply amazing...and these ducks definitely deserve a prize for persistence! LOL.
I think Blackie Sue came to you for a reason and she needs a little safety and protection right now, She knows she's having babies soon. I think her and Sunshine are 100% bonded and no, I wouldn't split them up, they obviously like each other and feel safe together. I think it would be cruel to take them apart. I sure hope she uses the box you made her! Too many predators out in the woods. I think they'll be safer on your porch. Yes I think feeding on the front porch is a good idea!!-- eventually the ducks will give up when their food supply stops. Me, I would allow the cats to stay, they seem very content there and no trouble----but I wouldn't want the ducks up on the porch. Hugs!! Debbi at debbisfrontporch
Oh Debbi, I agree with you 100%, but I'm just so frustrated with these ducks. I'm trying really hard to keep them away, but they are so smart in a dumb way! LOL. I wish you lived closer so you could help me know what to do with the kittens when they come...I have NO experience in these matters. But we are trying to figure out a way to screen the bottom half of the porch at least so the kittens will be safe when they get here, or at least safe from falling off the porch! Still can't control things that fly in over the screening, and we really can't afford to screen the whole porch right now. I wish we could. I'm praying about all of this. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Oh girl, (save prayers) I'm at a total loss. No matter their species, I've a soft spot in my heart for God's creatures. Love or loathe them, I just wish they might communicate more effectively and stop being so selfish. Because of your tender heart, I know instinctively you're going above and beyond. The only suggestion I can think of is to research (Google) natural repellents. I recently had to do that with a feral cat. Who knew Tom's pipe tobacco was one of the top choices? Following!
Well....I think Blackie Sue needs you. and I think that maybe finding another place to feed the cats might help. As long as the ducks can smell the cat food (even the odor from it being there after the cats have eaten) they are going to be on that porch exploring. Our hardware store sells an orange plastic fence that will keep them away. I don't think it is very expensive. Just wrap it around the bottom portion of the back porch. I love seeing the pictures of the pond and the lily pads. Beautiful around your place.
Love this post today, the colts are so darn cute, woody woodpecker I heard just right :) Mama kitty will take care of her babies when time comes, you might want to get a box with some old clothes or towels for her nesting. When time comes you will know she will start pruning *cleaning* her self multiple times a day, she will look like a cantaloupe when it gets close to time, I think she came to you for a reason and needs to stay with you. It is so cool to watch baby kitties being born. I appreciate you stopping by my place, have a new post up
Wisdom..yes we all need more of it. Praying your wildlife will get a new home (ducks I mean) and that you will find the right answer to the Kitty issue. Hope the lady will come and pick up those pesky ducks for you. Love the photos of the woodpeckers too. (((hugs))) Sue
I read your story with a smile. For a moment I hoped your chairs would keep the ducks out — but no such luck! And that woodpecker is truly beautiful. Thank you for all the photos! 🦆📷💛
Gently spray some water if they come back (preferably with a garden hose on jet setting) — not to be mean, but just to let them know: this is no longer a cozy hangout.
Thank you for visiting here today. I would love for you to sign my guestbook and let me know you stopped by. I always enjoy reading your comments and words of encouragement! May you be blessed as you go on your way. Please come back and visit again soon.
You should keep Blackie Sue! Definitely don't separate her from her mate. 🩵
ReplyDeleteI agree...and I pray God will help me to do this the right way.
DeleteIf you keep the ducks from getting the food they will go away.
ReplyDeleteFeed the cats and stand there while they eat. You can scare the ducks away. (I would pay good money to see that!)
I once fed cats on a walk up balcony. A tiny kitten was trying to eat, but a big cat held his head down with its paw! I kid you not. I was inside but I stared out at the cat and we met eyes. It lifted its paw and just watched me while the kitten ate all it wanted. When it was done I nodded and the big cat started to eat. What a weird few moments that was... OH, also, I was praying. So it was the Lord, but I sure felt like I had superpowers.
I should have my hubby take a video of me scaring the ducks away, but it almost scared HIM away! I kid you not! And it also scares the kitties when I start shouting and swinging brooms at those ducks. And I don't feel very nice about it, but they have pretty much gotten on my last nerve. I think the fact that I was on that strong antibiotic all last week didn't help my feelings much either, and hubby said I had a complete personality change. (not for the better). SO, now that I am off the medicine (Praise God!), hopefully I will be able to deal with this problem a little more rationally. And with everyone praying it will definitely help! And yes, you DO have superpowers when God is in control!!! Amen!
DeleteFirst - the colts really are cute! And I love the bird pics too.
ReplyDeleteAs for the ducks and the cats, this makes me think of the verse in Matthew 6 that5 speaks of God feeding the birds of the air. That tells me he cares about the animals, including your ducks and cats. I'm praying for wisdom for you in handling this situation!
Thank you, Mari. I need all the wisdom that God can give in this issue. Obviously I would not make a very good farmer! But I'm trying hard to do the right thing. I appreciate everyone's prayers and words of wisdom!!
DeleteOkay how about this:
ReplyDeleteMake sure to feed the cats at the same time each day, and don’t forget to pick up their bowls once they're finished. To keep the birds away, you could try using wind chimes or wind socks – it might deter them. You could even create a scarecrow to sit in one of your porch chairs. And if your grand dogs can come over once in a while to chase the ducks away, that might help too!
These ducks are so determined, they will fly right up into my face when I am standing there shooing at them and yelling at them. It's quite a scene, let me tell you, and not a pretty one. And yes, I am trying to do all of the above regarding feeding, but what I've had to do lately is feed the cats when I don't think the ducks are where they can see us, but unfortunately they have radar and can tell from way across the pond when the the cats are being fed. So I have moved the feeding to the front porch. However, we did notice the ducks peeking around the corner of the house last evening after I had finished feeding the cats. So that secret may be out also. And sadly when the dogs come, it only scares the cats away. These ducks don't seem to scare very well. I think they are the most determined creatures I've ever known. LOL.
DeleteWhat about your local wildlife authorities? Nuisance animals can be relocated. I know they come out here and will remove wild animals etc.
DeleteIf you get to see Joey and Darlene, just tell Darlene you have three ducks for her to take back to their pond on the ranch!! She is raising NINE ducks at their house that she wants to put on their pond soon. You were brilliant in leading the cats to the front porch. That might solve the feeding problem until the ducks decide to find another place to eat. Keep us posted and don't doubt yourself. You have wisdom to spare, dear friend!! xo
ReplyDeleteI don't think even Joey and Darlene would want THESE ducks! I would not wish them on anyone! LOL. They may have the nice kind of ducks at their pond. These are invasive and will take over and I would not recommend them to them as they would probably end up not liking me very much after that! LOL. Here's hoping the ducks don't discover me feeding the cats on the front porch today...they were already sneaking around the corner of the house last evening...Oh yes! They are determined for sure!
DeleteYou certainly made a valiant effort to keep the ducks at bay, Pamela. Would it be possible for you to purchase some screening and have Benton and Rose put it up for you? At least on the bottom part of your porch. As I said before, I think keeping Blackie Sue with you right now at this important time in her life is the right choice. And it never ceases to amaze me how quickly those colts grow and change. Isn't God's creation simply amazing? Blessings!
ReplyDeleteWe actually do have plans to do some type of "screening" on the bottom half of the porch very soon, especially once the kittens are born. We've had the materials waiting in the shed for a while, but everyone has been too busy and we all forgot about it until now...so hopefully we will get that done this week. Yes, God's creation is simply amazing...and these ducks definitely deserve a prize for persistence! LOL.
DeleteI think Blackie Sue came to you for a reason and she needs a little safety and protection right now, She knows she's having babies soon. I think her and Sunshine are 100% bonded and no, I wouldn't split them up, they obviously like each other and feel safe together. I think it would be cruel to take them apart. I sure hope she uses the box you made her! Too many predators out in the woods. I think they'll be safer on your porch. Yes I think feeding on the front porch is a good idea!!-- eventually the ducks will give up when their food supply stops. Me, I would allow the cats to stay, they seem very content there and no trouble----but I wouldn't want the ducks up on the porch. Hugs!! Debbi at debbisfrontporch
ReplyDeleteOh Debbi, I agree with you 100%, but I'm just so frustrated with these ducks. I'm trying really hard to keep them away, but they are so smart in a dumb way! LOL. I wish you lived closer so you could help me know what to do with the kittens when they come...I have NO experience in these matters. But we are trying to figure out a way to screen the bottom half of the porch at least so the kittens will be safe when they get here, or at least safe from falling off the porch! Still can't control things that fly in over the screening, and we really can't afford to screen the whole porch right now. I wish we could. I'm praying about all of this. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
DeleteHmm...I got nothing, I do agree with your other comments...I will hopefully think of something, sigh.
ReplyDeleteOh girl, (save prayers) I'm at a total loss. No matter their species, I've a soft spot in my heart for God's creatures. Love or loathe them, I just wish they might communicate more effectively and stop being so selfish. Because of your tender heart, I know instinctively you're going above and beyond. The only suggestion I can think of is to research (Google) natural repellents. I recently had to do that with a feral cat. Who knew Tom's pipe tobacco was one of the top choices?
ReplyDeleteFollowing!
Well....I think Blackie Sue needs you. and I think that maybe finding another place to feed the cats might help. As long as the ducks can smell the cat food (even the odor from it being there after the cats have eaten) they are going to be on that porch exploring. Our hardware store sells an orange plastic fence that will keep them away. I don't think it is very expensive. Just wrap it around the bottom portion of the back porch. I love seeing the pictures of the pond and the lily pads. Beautiful around your place.
ReplyDeleteGreat blog
ReplyDeletePlease read my post
ReplyDeleteYour woodpecker call was perfect! I heard Woody exactly the way he sounded! :)
ReplyDeleteLove this post today, the colts are so darn cute, woody woodpecker I heard just right :) Mama kitty will take care of her babies when time comes, you might want to get a box with some old clothes or towels for her nesting. When time comes you will know she will start pruning *cleaning* her self multiple times a day, she will look like a cantaloupe when it gets close to time, I think she came to you for a reason and needs to stay with you. It is so cool to watch baby kitties being born. I appreciate you stopping by my place, have a new post up
ReplyDeleteWisdom..yes we all need more of it. Praying your wildlife will get a new home (ducks I mean) and that you will find the right answer to the Kitty issue. Hope the lady will come and pick up those pesky ducks for you.
ReplyDeleteLove the photos of the woodpeckers too.
(((hugs)))
Sue
Thank you for your support and prayers. Thank you.
ReplyDeletewww.rsrue.blogspot.com
I read your story with a smile. For a moment I hoped your chairs would keep the ducks out — but no such luck! And that woodpecker is truly beautiful. Thank you for all the photos! 🦆📷💛
ReplyDeleteGently spray some water if they come back (preferably with a garden hose on jet setting) — not to be mean, but just to let them know: this is no longer a cozy hangout.