After a long winter of squirrels eating our birdseed and scaring off the birds, I think Doc finally solved the problem. For years he purchased a variety of bird feeders with different gimmicks that the squirrels all figured out. He tried greasing the pole and using aluminum pie pans to block their way. Nothing worked.

Finally in desperation he was trying to figure out a way to give the squirrels a little electricity with their meal. For several weeks he searched the Internet, trying to figure out how to build a birdfeeder that gave a little shock the squirrels but not the birds.  Instead of building it himself and perhaps electrocuting the squirrels (Trust me he didn’t want smoked squirrel, he just wanted to send them on their way without supper) he finally found the perfect solution to purchase, a squirrel free bird feeder.

Doc ordered it and we waited several days in anticipation of its delivery. He put it up as soon as it arrived. It was quite entertaining the first week with the squirrels trying to outsmart the feeder but the slight jolt from the 9 volt battery was just enough deterrent to keep them at bay. We have been squirrel free for two weeks now! Now that the problem is solved I guess Doc will just have to look for another project!

I love to eat Chicken Salad in the spring. Here is my Mothers favorite recipe.

Chicken Salad with Almonds and Grapes– 4 servings

2 roasted, bone in chicken breasts (see recipe in index)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
3/4 teaspoon celery salt or 2 1/2 teaspoons tarragon
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
3/4 cup diced celery
1/3 cup grapes, sliced lengthwise
1/4 cup sliced almonds

Roast chicken and shred using two forks. Place chicken and remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Stir to combine. Refrigerate until cold before serving. Enjoy!

Published in The News and Neighbor on April 26, 2014