No turning back now

The coop is ordered... and will be here by month's end!  A skilled Amish family is constructing our new hen house.  We have requested our colors, our design "musts", and even our flooring. The coop will be delivered and placed in the yard exactly where we would like it.  Once here, Mike will construct the run so they may forage safely.  We have many hawks circle the back lot and therefore, we need to keep our feathered friends safe!


The chicks are ordered and will be picked up on March 21st.  We placed our order through a hatchery that is in driving distance. Fearful of a getting a rooster, we were certain to order through a hatchery with sexers on staff so that we will be certain we get our female flock.    We will have quite the diversified backyard, since we are equal opportunity farmers.  Uniformity is boring and bland - we opted of one of each breed that met our specifications.  We steered clear of broody hens (ones that like to sit on their eggs, and will peck at those trying gather them each morning) and we opted for friendly, calm, docile breeds. Some are even known as "perfect pets."  Time will tell as to whether this statement is true!  LOL


Our next step is to locate the feed mill that we have been told about.  It is there we will need to get our organic feeds, and our bedding materials.  We have some time yet, as the hatchery will get us set up with our brooder equipment and supplies.  The chicks will be on starter feed first, so we have a couple of weeks to continue to prepare, even after their arrival.


We have decided to go organic with our flock.  After all - what we put into their bodies is nourishment we will then put into our bodies. The cost difference is not much, so we will provide the best we can for them, so that they provide the best they can for us!


We are placing our puzzle together, piece by piece.... and with anything new - there is anxiety, but the excitement is helping to keep the anxiety in check!  Ella is even beginning to stray from our name list with a persistent request that one MUST be named "Sparkle Glitter!"  When Ella sets her mind to an idea, odds are we will have to give in, for the good of the order.  Besides, with a name like Sparkle Glitter - that hen will be destined for greatness!