Simple Things

     “IN EVERY WALK WITH NATURE man receives far more than he seeks” (John Muir)

     When we bought our chickens, we requested 5 hens, as our goal was to have fresh eggs right in our own backyard.  I proudly named them: Abby, Betty, Cindy, Darlene and Ellen.  As they grew, Abby, who was the bolder and more outgoing chicken in the group, suspiciously became much bigger than the other girls.  Yes, “Abby” became “Andy” and has ruled the roost ever since. 

     Though it was not our intent to have a rooster, he’s a beautiful Rhode Island Red, and takes good care of his little flock.  He struts his stuff, making sure the dogs and cats know that he’s the boss in the chicken pen.

     I don’t even mind that Andy learned to crow very loudly, but he seems to have no concept of the time of day (or night).  Roosters crow for various reasons, but Andy seems to have a bad case of insomnia and thinks that if he’s awake, we all should be awake.  I have opened the window on many occasions to yell “shut up, Andy”, but that only lets him know that he has succeeded in getting me up, and he cheerfully talks back to me.  I’ve reminded him that one o’clock in the morning is not appropriate for crowing, even if he does see the moon.  Yes, he takes credit for that too (just like a man).

     If he was not so gorgeous and the potential father of some beautiful chicks in the spring, he might be invited to dinner.  But I’ve already discussed my cooking talents (or lack of) and we know that chicken-n-dumplins will not be on the menu.

     I do think I could manage a chicken pot pie, however, so Andy may have to learn a little self restraint.

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