This blog is one is an occasional series by Harford Magazine Editor Jennifer K. Dansicker:

Well, the Dansicker chickens have finally moved from their cozy little garage cage to the backyard chicken coop. Ally, Bella and Strike are growing strong and beautifully. At just seven weeks old, these little feathery friends look like full grown chickens with just a hint of their yellow peach fuzz around the top of their heads. It’s truly amazing to watch how quickly they grow.

I have to be honest, and I can’t believe I am about to say this, but, these chicks have been one of the best pet experiences of my life. These cute little lovable chicks grow from week to week without much incident or chaos. We keep their bedding neat and clean and we change their food and water once a week. Other than happily chasing them around the yard for an hour or so a day, there isn’t much more you have to do to keep them thriving.

Chickens work for me, I think, because they have been surprisingly so low maintenance. They give me and my family great joy at the same time, whether it is seeing them fly from the top of the coop to a branch in our backyard tree or pecking away at a slice of watermelon, they have provided such wonderment to our daily lives….it’s refreshing.

So, now the chickens will remain in their backyard coop for the rest of their days. In the fall, when they have matured to several months old, they will begin to lay eggs every day. Based on an average account, egg laying chickens will provide freshly laid eggs for approximately two years. I cannot wait to see the look on my little Henry’s face when he sees that first egg.

I am looking forward to the new and exciting developments, and I hope you don’t mind me bringing you along for the ride!