For years, my wife and I dreamed about collecting fresh eggs from our own backyard. This year, we finally took the leap and started our very first flock of hens. It’s the beginning of a new adventure in self-sufficiency, and we couldn’t be more excited to share why we chose to raise chickens, the breeds we picked, and how we’re setting them up for a healthy, happy life.

Right now, we have nine pullets: six Amberlink and three Olive Eggers. We picked them up about a month ago from Tractor Supply, sexed as female, and they’ve quickly become part of our daily routine. We’ve just finished building their outdoor run, and now we’re starting on their coop. While we’re still beginners, every step of the process has been a lesson in patience, planning, and joy.