For the Love of Babes

 

Babies – all babies – are precious, joyful, and heartwarming. I’ve been blessed with more babies than I’ve had in my life in years. They are curious, needy, loveable, and all they seem to want is my attention and love.

It started when I decided to pick up two baby chickens after my sweet Maggie died.  Not to replace her, mind you, just feeling the need to expand my chicken family.  They are amazing pets, and can brighten a gloomy day.  Then I discovered Mae duck had abandoned her eggs… I was left to incubate and hatch 13 eggs… all of which hatched.  I’m in baby heaven, because just a month ago, Mama Mel showed up with 5 baby ducklings.  Together, there are 18 babies on this property and I love it!

So – the two chicks I chose are Bard Rock’s because that is what breed Maggie was, and I’ve never had a more loving chicken – I named them Mattie and Mosey.

Since they came into my home it has been filled with joy.  They are like little clowns – bouncing around without a care in the world – peeping when I am not in sight, and learning the rules very quickly.  They now step up on command, and follow me around (as they’re supposed to) until it’s time to put them back in their playpen home.

When allowed outside (supervised) they tear it up. They run and jump and fly and spin as if life is the most exhilarating thing imaginable. They soak up and enjoy life more than any human I’ve known – and I believe that is why they are such a joy to be with.  They rub off somehow, eliminating those human thoughts that plague me- and they bring me back to more earthy and loving thoughts, if not a bit more of childish and playful me.

And they are smart as whips.  I’ve had chickens before that didn’t want any part of me, but they were already grown.  Babies rely on you – they desire your attention – and they learn from you. Even though their instincts tell them to eat a bug and scratch in the dirt, there are many things they learn from their caregivers.

It is the most joyful experience to hand raise babies that will eventually jump in your lap – follow you around while doing chores or on the property, and long to be hugged.  This is what I’m building, and what will stay with them as adults.

Chickens are intelligent, bright and loving, and amazing companions.  They can even learn not to poo poo on you! I’m working on it 🙂