They flew the coop...

After spending the first three weeks of their lives in the brooder, which is a substitution for a warm nest that provides shelter, warmth and plenty of food, the chicks are now ready for greener pastures.

They are able to leave the wood chip bedding, that they once needed, and live on lush green grass. It is a good graduation, but it requires a little bit of travel.

In preparation for their short journey, they board these plastic crates. There is only economy class available, so the seating is a little snug. I understand because it feels the same way when we fly anywhere with our 3 small children!

Fortunately, some kind attendants came by with some snacks. Not peanuts, but still satisfying and it helped to pass the time.

Brent skipped the safety instructions and just fastened their seat belts for them. Then they were on their way.

As we made our final approach, they could see their destination in the distance. See the thick grass, the safe shelters and the rows of honeysuckle nearby? It looked even better than the brochure.

Bye, Bye...thank you for traveling with us today. Bye, Bye!
After finding their lodgings, they were so excited to see an all-you-can-eat-buffet!

Don't they look so much happier? Makes me want to take a summer vacation.

When we were trying to decide what niche of agriculture that we wanted to work in, this is what appealed to our hearts. It is family friendly, so we can all work together. The animals are raised with a respect for the way that God made them. It produces healthy food and rich soil.

As we progress in this business, we plan to stack enterprises. Cows will be able to graze next to the pins, free range layers will follow the cow rotations and pigs may be rooting in nearby woods. For now though, this is a good start and we are thankful.