Jolene and I have a large evergreen tree in our backyard that has seen better days. As we ponder about when to put it to rest and what to put in its place, we have contemplated about installing a chicken coop and raising a few hens. Some people think it’s a great idea. Most think it’s insane. Those closest to us say we are, well, chicken. Like most things in life, talking about doing this is easy. Doing it is another thing.
We have some friends who thoroughly enjoy their feathered friends — and their tasty eggs. Todd and Kris Miler find great peace with their chickens in rural Madison County, and Dan and Laura Juffer’s flock brings them a bit of urban farming to their home in Adel. Time will tell for us, as I struggle to get past all those Foghorn Leghorn quips. Meanwhile, I came across an insightful piece about what we can learn from chickens from www.urbanoveralls.net that you might enjoy. Here are a few of the lessons shared there:
1. Get out and enjoy the outdoors on nice days. Snow, cold, and rain may limit outdoor adventures.
2. Eat your vegetables when they are in season. Nothing tastes better than when they are at the peak of ripeness (or when you snitch them out of the garden when you think no one is looking).
3. Don’t be afraid to wander away from the flock. You just may find the biggest grubs by yourself.
4. Even if you can’t fly, don’t be afraid to stretch your wings. You just may get off the ground after all.
5. Hold your ground. Stake your claim in your favorite nest box and don’t leave until you're ready regardless of how many others try to force you out.
6. Listen to the squawk of others. There really may be a hawk flying overhead.
7. Share your spa time with others. A good dust bath is really more fun with the rest of the flock.
8. Let folks know when you are happy and content. It’s OK to trill out loud.
9. You don’t have to have a large McMansion to be happy. Your small, urban coop is adorable, comfortable, and it is a wonderful home.
10. Be proud of your achievements. Go ahead and sing that egg song nice and loud.
Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
