I never thought I would be living life in a small town, raising a small farm. There are days where I think, "Is this real life?". Something about this house and this land is very relaxing to me. For those of you who know me, you know that I have always been a people person. However, lately I have become more of a homebody. I just really love my home: the decor, the good smelling candles, and you can't forget the handsome husband of mine! I love it here, I really do. Being a newly married woman and a young adult has not always been easy, but man, it has brought some of the best memories. Anyway, enough of the mushy stuff. I want to tell you all about one of our newest adventures here on the farm: raising chickens! This is something I have absolutely ZERO experience in so bear with me.
Well folks, these are our girls! We have four White Wyandottes (born this last May), a White Leghorn, and a beautiful Rhode Island Red. The Wyandottes won't be laying for at least 5 more months but the other two are consistent layers! We get one a day from each and I will tell ya, they are rewarded for their good deeds. I've learned much about what chickens can and cannot eat and I'll tell ya, chickens will eat just about anything and if they don't like it, they won't eat it! It's as easy as that!
One important note for anyone who is new at something... use your resources! I have researched countless blogs, books and websites to make sure that my chickens are as happy and healthy as possible. One book that has truly inspired my passion for raising hens is "Welcome to the Farm" by Shaye Elliott. As a newbie, I wanted to know as much as I could about raising chickens and this book was a huge help.
At the end of the day, no matter what anyone else says about farming and raising animals, you have to do what feels most comfortable for you. I read that chicks aren't suppose to leave the brooder until 8 weeks and well, we put ours outside around 6 weeks old. Also, when introducing new chickens to each other, I read all about the process to ensure that fighting doesn't happen and guess what, we didn't follow those instructions either. The girls have all done very well socially! Part of me believes that the distraction of treats helps them get along. I'm happy to spoil them! I'd like to say that we just played it smart but honestly, I think someone knew better than us.
I love having two farm fresh eggs in the coop every morning. I'm not sure what I am going to do when all six ladies are laying everyday but i'll soak up every minute of fresh eggs, for soon winter will be here and i'll be eager for my hens to lay. Each season will continue to bring new adventures on this farm.
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