I am now the proud owner of chickens. I bought them from a livestock auction in York three weeks ago - two 22 week old warrens (hybrids), and three 12 week old pure breed Cuckoo Marans. Unfortunately we lost one of the Marans eight days ago. It was very sad, but she obviously wasn't right.

My Dad came over that day and took us to the Rare Breeds auction, where he persuaded me that I NEEDED two black Silkies. They are pure comedy value!

Decided to start the leeks off a few days ago. I've realised I have more ideas than garden. Dear Santa, can I please have an allotment for Christmas?

My Phalaenopsis orchid came into bloom again today!! Maybe I'm a better gardener than I thought.

Decided today was the day to dig over the raised beds. I noticed that the Brussels sprout plants in the large raised bed had mostly blown sprouts. Very sad, as these were going to be part of Christmas Dinner. Will remove the blown ones, and see if the plants produce more.

Even though it may be too late, I planted the Tulip bulbs. They went in the small raised bed with the rest of the Garlic cloves. Will see what happens.