Chicken Coop Chatter©
The year we're leaving behind saw the introduction of our hatching service, re-homing unwanted fowl, adding new coops and runs, improving existing structures, setting up a larger, insulated outdoor brooder, stream-lining things to make chores a bit easier and less time intensive and adding new breeds to our existing array of chickens.
We had some fortunate experiences and some not so fortunate moments. Locating a good, reliable source for feed that is delivered, a grain silo that sprung a leak so we were able to gather several tons of grain just for the clean up, a ready source for the agriculture lime we use, a cheaper source for the hay and alfalfa we use in the coops and runs during inclement weather, were all unexpected blessings. Having our chicks represented at the county fair, the acceptance of some chicken related articles by other respected blogs and websites, and a winning photograph for the upcoming year's calendar, that created a lot of interest in our rare breeds but especially our Swedish Flower Hens were such wonderful honors to us here at Just Fowling Around.
Of course we had some unfortunate happenings as well, a wind storm that damaged a newly constructed coop, the inevitable predator attacks, the loss of some special birds that was heartbreaking, a heat wave that was relentless and currently a cold spell that started early in the season and continues, causing frozen pipes and hoses. We learned long ago, to be prepared for anything and everything; that perseverance and determination is tantamount to reaching goals , so we've kept trudging along in spite of the set backs.
This past year we experienced broody hens, mama hens that came wandering in with broods in tow, wild fowl such as turkey and pheasant that visited with our other birds and stuck around for the companionship and a reliable food source. A bounty of local fruit, and breads that were delivered for the chickens to enjoy rather than wasted because they were no longer sellable. A much needed pickup that was acquired in a trade for some time and expertise.
We had the special privilege of introducing our rare breeds to others that may never have seen or heard of the breeds prior to our promotions of them and met many wonderful people over the course of the year with deep interest in our efforts and the chicken breeds we raise. We saw the growth of our business and the growth on our Facebook page that can only happen with the support and encouragement from our faithful customers and fans.
We know in spite of our own hard work, that no one can fully achieve their goals and growth without the help and encouragement from others. No one climbed to the top of a ladder without someone supporting them on the way up. So we owe a great deal to YOU, our followers and customers for being there to give us the boost and encouragement along the way.
Though we reflect on the past, we must always look to the future, continuing our efforts with the same drive and determination that has kept us going in the past. We will continue to strive to improve our methods, increase our flocks, promote our business and provide good common sense information that is tried and true.
We strive to answer your questions to help you achieve your own goals and help in your own endeavors with encouragement and advice. Though we will never consider ourselves experts, we do have many years background and experience in raising chickens and use practical methods, not just the newest fad or fancy because it may sound appealing. We expect to be around a long time and that doesn't happen with the newest fad or inexperience, much less bad advice that runs rampant through the internet sources.
As we look toward the future and plan our next strategic move, we endeavor to forge ahead with your continued support and confidence in us. We humbly thank you all for being here with us as we continue our journey, grow and achieve our New Year goals together.
With the greatest respect for all of you, have a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.
JFA Team~~~or best known as Bro and Sis.
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