Day 1132 Dirty Eggs & Curfews

 

Collecting Eggs Isn’t Always Pretty!

When Tim (my daily egg collector) told me our egg numbers were down, I went out to take a look. Lo and behold, under a flap door, I found about half a dozen eggs. One had broken, and the rest were covered in dirt, feathers, and just looked like a mess. I collected them and did my best to block off their newly discovered nesting spot.

Chickens are funny creatures—when one lays in a particular spot, the rest tend to follow. That’s why it’s important to guide them to lay in the right place. So, what’s the “right” spot? For me, it’s anywhere I can open the door and reach right in to collect the eggs. Typically, they have two go-to spots that work well for everyone, but this new location just won’t cut it for us egg collectors.

These dirty eggs can be washed, refrigerated, and used without issue, they’re just a little ugly before they get cleaned up. I’m sure before long the hens will slow down on their egg production and settle into a more relaxed winter routine, but for now, they’re still going strong!

On another note, Tim and I went to GHBC for dinner last night. We had a delicious meal, enjoyed the company of good friends, and even brought home a giant pot filled with scraps for the chickens. The night was almost perfect—until we were told to wrap it up and leave by 8 p.m., despite a 6 p.m. dinner. Good lord! We were all sitting there, sipping after-dinner drinks and enjoying ourselves when the “you don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here” message came.

We looked at each other and laughed—what are we, 90? Even giving us until 9:00 on a Saturday night would have helped!

Life on the homestead is always a mix of the messy and the meaningful. Whether it's muddy eggs or early curfews, there’s always something to laugh about—and that’s what makes it all worthwhile.